Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

Early registration nearing for F.I.S.H. race, concert

By STAFF REPORT trepecki@breezenewspapers

com

T

he deadline to sign up early for F I S H of

S

approaching

Runner registration and concert ticket sales for this year's annual race and music concert opened

City

in June Scheduled for Dec 7 on the islands, JOG N JAM will raise funds to support F I S H 's programs and services and will celebrate and recognize the city of Sanibel's 50th anniversary set for this year. In addition, this year's JOG N JAM is being

, page 22

working to optimize stormwater system performance

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

With a record-breaking 58 55 inches of rain so far this year, many islanders have been inquiring about the standing water on the roadways and Shared Use Path system on Sanibel

“We are getting rainfall totals we have not been seeing for a very long time,” Public Works Assistant City Engineer Oisin Dolley said “The vast majority of the areas I have looked at are saturated from record rainfalls ”

According to city staff, it is the h i g h

Sanibel in 20 years even with 8 more inches over the next four months, Sanibel will set a 10-year record for the year

There are several areas that have localized drainage and do not have design overflow The areas were

major impacts

Fire board OKs budget, millage rate

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District's commission recently adopted the final millage rate and budget for fiscal year 2024-25 at its second and final budget hearing, as well as held its monthly meeting.

On Sept 18, the commissioners voted unanimously 3-0 to approve an operating rate of 1 3915 mills, which is equal to the rolled-back rate and does not exceed it, meaning no tax increase for residents

Lee schools see bump but student proficiency numbers still low

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspa

Numbers are imp but the School Distri Lee County is still l ging behind the sta average in terms o s t u d e n t p r o f i c i e n c y in core subjects

“We are keeping pace with some of t h e g a i n s a n d

o

s

l W e a making strides We going to have to do a bit of work to keep peers,” Chief Academ

Dr Nathan Shaker said at the school board meeting on Sept 17

According to the presentation given, English Language Arts for grades 3 to 5 had student proficiency at 47% in 2024 a level three or above compared to last year’s 45%. For grades sixth through eighth the proficiency rate was 47%, compared to 2023’s 46%, and for ninth and 10th grade the proficiency rose to 48% from 44%

Proficiency is defined as working at grade level

Students statewide achieved 54% proficiency for 2024 for third through fifth g r a d e ; 5 2 % f o r g r a d e s s i x t h t h r o u g h

i hth d inth and 10th udents had a roficiency for 4

In math, stuents in grades 3 - 5 h a d a 5 3 % p r o f iciency rate in 2 0 2 4 , t h e s a m e a s

previous year

ghth had 56% 2 0 2 4 a

for 2023 e w i d e s a w a ciency rate in grades third through fifth in 2024 and 59% for grades 6-8 all mathematics

For algebra, grades eight and lower, 81% of students achieved proficiency in 2024, compared to 82% in 2023 For algebra 1 EOC for ninth through 12th grade there was 19% proficiency for 2024, compared to 17% in 2023

Statewide students achieved 83% proficiency for grades 8 and lower algebra and 33% for grades ninth through 12th in 2024

Science for grade five saw student proficiency at 51% for 2024, compared to 50% in 2023 For grade eight, all science,

41% of students achieved proficiency, compared to 44% in 2023 For biology 1 EOC, there was a 49% proficiency in 2024, compared to 50% in 2023

Statewide, proficiency was at 49% for grade eight all science, and 66% for biology 1 EOC

For civics, the district had saw 58% proficiency for 2024, compared to 59% in 2023 and U S history had a 55% proficiency for 2024, compared to 53% in 2023

The state’s civics and U S history proficiency was 67%

This comparable raw data was presented to the board, as part of a school grade data presentation

Shaker said F.A.S.T. has three separate assessments, with students already taking the first round, which acts as a baseline

Correction

In the Sept 18, 2024, issue of the Island Reporter, an article on the Sanibel Planning Commission's recent meeting incorrectly attributed the following to Commissioner Lyman Welch:

“ 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

assessment from which they grow In December, when students have half a year of learning under their belts, the district gets a good idea of the progress they have made

“PM3 (progress monitoring) summative score measures the student’s mastery of the B E S T Standards,” he said

The presentation also highlighted how schools achieve their school grade which now includes third grade achievement as an individual item in the school grade component for elementary schools Both middle and high schools that are a c

points, a 2% increase

Nineteen schools earned an A grade and 30 earned a B.

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

process '

Welch said the setback should go to 10 feet and the coverage of open body of 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 ”

The above should have been attributed to Commissioner Ken Colter

OPINIONS

Web Poll

Previous Question

Did you vote in the Primary Election?

∫ Yes, by mail, 43 48% (10)

∫ Yes, early, 0% (0)

∫ Yes, day of, 26.09% (6)

∫ No, I did not, 30 43% (7)

Current Question

Who do you think won the second presidential debate held on Sept 10?

∫ Kamala Harris

∫ Donald Trump

∫ Did not watch it

Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer

O v a r i a n c a n c e r i s t h e s e c -

o n d m o s t c o m m o n g y n e c o -

l o g i c c a n c e r i n t h e U n i t e d

S t a t e s , a n d i t c a u s e s m o r e

d e a t h s t h a n a n y o t h e r c a n c e r

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

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

C e n t e r s f o r D i s e a s e C o n t r o l & P r e v e n t i o n T h e r e a r e n o s c r e e n i n g t e s t s a v a i l a b l e a n d

s y m p t o m s c a n b e n o n s p e c i fi c o r n o t p r e s e n t a t a l l , r e s u l ti n g i n t h e c a n c e r o f t e n g o i n g u n d e t e c t e d u n t i l a d v a n c e d

s t a g e s I n r e c o g n i t i o n o f O v a r i a n

C a n c e r A w a r e n e s s M o n t h i n

Dr Edward Grendys Guest Commentary

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

a b n o r m a l

O v a r i e s a n d o v a r i a n c a n c e r

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

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

c a n c e r c a n b e c a u s e d i n t h r e e w a y s :

∫ O v a r i a n e p i t h e l i a l c a n c e r f o r m s i n t h e

t i s s u e c o v e r i n g t h e o v a r y , i n t h e p e r it o n e u m ( a t h i n , s m o o t h t i s s u e m e m b r a n e

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

m o s t o f t h e o r g a n s i n t h e a b d o m e n ) o r i n

t h e l i n i n g o f t h e f a l l o p i a n t u b e , w h i c h

d e l i v e r s e g g s f r o m t h e

o v a r i e s t o t h e u t e r u s ∫ O v a r i a n g e r m c e l l t u m o r s b e g i n i n t h e e g g s , w h i c h a r e a l s o k n o w n a s

g e r m c e l l s o r r e p r o d u c t i v e

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

A b n o r m a l c e l l s m a y b e p r e s -

e n t t h a t c o u l d b e c o m e c a n -

c e r , b u t t h i s i s u s u a l l y n o t t h e

c a s e

A l l t y p e s o f

o v a r i a n c a n c e r a r e t r e a t e d t h e s a m e w a y O v a r i a n c a n -

c e r c a n c a u s e n o n -

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

c a n b e d i f f i c u l t t o d i a g n o s e a n d

s y m p t o m s c a n s e e m v a g u e o r

s i m i l a r t o c o m m o n i s s u e s , i t ’ s

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

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

b o d y , m a k i n g i t m u c h m o r e d i f -

f i c u l t t o t r e a t T o m a k e a n a p p o i n t m

Letters to the Editor

Using roundabouts as par t of the solution

To the editor:

I am 100% confident based on years o f p e r s o n a l e x p e r i e n c e t

abouts as part of an engineered solution without politics involved will solve many of the traffic issues

T

Boulevard corner is a constant congestion point bottleneck, meaning the traffic flow is not continuous Additionally any suggestion any roundabout creates more accidents is not proven by the assimilation of data any professional traffic engineer will know and can verify

Also as far as the bridge spans, many may not know this but it is technically wide enough as I recall from the drawings to be striped for three lanes by eliminating the bicycle striping In addition to the roundabout, the third lane when there are three lanes could be for bikes only at certain times and a light system would change the flow of

traffic to two lanes off at certain times; at that time bikes would not be allowed The roundabout keeps the traffic moving, the extra lane doubles the capacity The lane flow is controlled by red and green lights. This type of lane change by time of day function has been done successfully in locations around the world

The bottleneck stopping traffic at the intersection is eliminated with a roundabout, plus increasing egress capacity literally with some traffic paint and lane flow changes based on time of day with lights directing solves movement of all traffic at peak times No more cars standing idling fumes in traffic an environmental and health detriment and day workers can get home faster, encouraging more to want to work on Sanibel and the islands

There is also enough land at the intersection with eminent domain to build a functioning roundabout inclusive of creating a five-point roundSee LETTERS, page 7

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

P o

See OVARIAN CANCER, page 7

A clear example of the prescient nature of the political cartoons created in the early 20th century by Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling, this one, titled “Our Engineers Plan Water Uses for Everything Except Nature’s Objectives,” foretold the reality of losing water resources Like many of Darling’s Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoons, in its complexity it pokes fun at a number of political blunders from the dikes of New Orleans to draining important wetlands As water woes continue to plague Florida and the nation, the quality and quantity of water remains an environmental issue of highest concern The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge owns the copyright of the “Ding” Darling cartoons REFUGE/DDWS

CEPD appoints applicant to vacated board seat

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

During the Captiva Erosion Prevention District's meeting on

S e p t 9 , M

remaining term of vacant Seat 5

The commissioners approved

lution that “waived under emer-

Operating Procedure requirement to advertise in the newspaper to appoint a commissioner ”

aid they are very lucky to have o candidates

“This is exciting for me,” he said. Two individuals applied for the opening, Lanigan and Timothy McGowan “I think I can help,” Lanigan wrote in his application “I take my roles in community service very seriously and prepare vigorously The challenges in regard to preserving and strengthening our shore-

T

Captiva library, county system offer programs

which includes the Captiva Memorial Library, is offering the following free virtual programming:

Adult programs

∫ O c t 1 : O n l i n e O v e r c o m i n g Brickwalls, Research Challenges, and Dead Ends from 10 a m to noon

D e a d - e n d s , a l s o k n o w n a s b r i c k w a

genealogists These challenges are an i n

a b l e p a

h e g e n e a l o g i c a l research process The good news is that many dead-ends can be overcome with patience and good detective work. Most genealogists usually find methods or strategies to overcome these roadblocks The seminar will discuss the most successful techniques to overcome these

c h a l l e n

before Sept 30 at 8 p m

∫ Oct 2: Online Author Event with Smithsonian Scientists from 2 to 3 p m

Three Smithsonian-affiliated scientists will teach about the world of tropical bats For decades, scientists at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute have studied the biodiversity of bats on Barro Colorado Island in Panama, where 76 species coexist Their expertise pairs w i t h t h e p h o t o g r a p h y o f N a t i o n a l

Geographic contributor Christian Ziegler for a visual journey into the world of the creatures with the book “Bat Island: A Rare Journey into the Hidden World of Tropical Bats ” The event is part of the O n l i n e A u

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 T h e C a p t i v a M e m o r i a l L i b r a r y i s o p e n o n M o n d a y s , W e d n e s d a y s a n d

Fridays from 10 a m to 12:30 p m and 1 to 4 p m For more information, call 239-533-4890

The library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva

lines for pleasure and property protection are daunting Scale and costs will continue to grow The CEPD commissioners must be thought leaders in addressing these challenges ” Lanigan previously served as a commissioner from 2018 to 2020

CCP hears update on beach safety talks

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

Conversations among officials continue about enhancing safety on the beaches of Captiva Captiva Island Fire Control District Fire Chief Jeff Pawul provided a followu p f r o m t w o m o n t h s a g o d u r i n g t h e Captiva Community Panel's meeting on Sept 9, which touched upon beach safety and Blind Pass He said he had a meeting with the city of Sanibel where suggestions were presented “ T h e y a r e t r y i n g t o e x p l o r e w h a t options they can and cannot do for the area,” Pawul said.

There was discussion of more signage, but Pawul said most people do not really read signs, nor care what they say He said they are working on a few safety measures and programs they can possibly implement, but due to them being public Lee County beaches, they must work with the county on any specifics

“As it develops further with the county, will share,” Pawul said

He also talked about the drowning following Tropical Storm Debbie, where the conditions were not conducive to swimming Pawul said the following day, a family of three a father and two daughters who got pulled out to the surf were all saved due to early notification

“We don’t have as many issues as Blind Pass,” he said “The beaches alone, we have had incidents happen, yes ” Lee County Sheriff’s Office Sgt Rich Zeltman said he was there when Pawul and his crew rescued the family of three.

“It was a tremendous rescue I was extremely impressed with the response to that rescue,” he said

Pawul said LCSO Sheriff Carmine Marceno donated a drone to the fire district to help with finding people in the water, as well as surveying the area after a storm

“He donated the drone to us and provided training to us, as well,” he said, adding that everyone needs to be trained before it is used in the field. “It will definitely be a positive addition to our fleet, especially after large events when you might not be able to drive down the road, but survey ”

LEE COUNTY

R i s k f a c t o r s f o r o v a r i a n c a n c e r I t ’ s i m p o r t a n t t o l e t y o u r d o c t o r k n o w a b o u t a

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

a n y i n h e r i t e d g e n e m u t a t i o n s , s u c h a s B R C A 1 a n d

B R C A 2

From page 4

about, which would include a new Bailey Road intersection as well to/from The Dunes as part of the traffic movement solution This will work; it will solve a lot of the current issues.

Vincent M Wolanin Sanibel

County/South Seas: More questionable behavior

To the editor: Island Reporter readers will know that l a s

s adopted a brazen project: furthering the b u s i n

n Captiva, at everyone else’s expense They passed special legislation granting the resort unique development privileges u n l i m i t e d d e n s

e d building heights that violate the interests of every property owner, resident and guest of Captiva and Sanibel Since then, they’ve lavished the public’s hard-earned t

y defending the privileges of a single property owner they now treat as their special client

adding hundreds of new condos and hotel rooms at the resort would not erase its mandated historic low-rise, low-density character

They also argued that all those units at the end of an 18-mile-long two-lane culd

impacts on travel and evacuation times would be negligible, they say The very same day county attorneys were peddling

h a t f i c t i o n , C o m m i s s i o n e r M i k e Greenwell wrote a guest commentary for this newspaper titled “Public Safety Is Top Priority in Lee County ” Really? Everybody knows the roadway is already dangerously overburdened with traffic, and that significant increases in usage will multiply the risks to human life during a disaster

In circuit court, the county and South Seas are attempting to worm out of a plain-English settlement agreement they previously concluded with the Captiva Civic Association, limiting the resort’s buildout potential to its historic numbers Decisions from circuit court, as well as state administrative court, are due in the

O t h e r r i s k f a c t o r s i n c l u d e o b e s i t y , e n d o m e t r i o s i s , a n d t h e u s e o f h o r m o n e r e p l a c e m e n t t h e r a p y A g e n e t i c b l o o d t e s t c a l l e d t h e B R C A g e n e t e s t c a n h e l p d e t e r m i n e i f a p a t i e n t h a s a n i n h e r i t e d m u t a -

t i o n W h e n m u t a t i o n s i n t h o s e g e n e s d e v e l o p , t h e r e ’ s a n i n c r e a s e d r i s k o f b r e a s t , o v a r i a n , a n d o t h e r c a nc e r s B R C A s t a n d s f o r B R e a s t C A n c e r g e n e A b o u t

3 % o f b r e a s t a n d 1 0 % o f o v a r i a n c a n c e r s r e s u l t f r o m i n h e r i t e d m u t a t i o n s i n t h e B R C A 1 a n d B R C A 2 g e n e s A p o s i t i v e o r n e g a t i v e r e s u l t c a n h e l p d e t e r m i n e a p a t i e n t ’ s n e e d s a n d h e a l t h m a n a g e m e n t T h e B R C A

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

t h e i r h e a l t h A p o s i t i v e r e s u l t d o e s n o t d i a g n o s e a n y d i s e a s e ; i t t e l l s y o u i f y o u c a r r y t h e g e n e m u t a t i o n t h a t i n c r e a s e s y o u r r i s k A n e g a t i v e B R C A t e s t d o e sn ' t g u a r a n t e e y o u w i l l n o t g e t c a n c e r I t m e a n s y o u r r i s k i s l i k e l y t h e s a m e a s t h e g e n e r a l p o p u l a t i o n I f y o u t h i n k y o u ’ r e a c a n d i d a t e f o r t h e B R C A t e s t o r w o u l d l i k e m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , m a k e a n a p p o i n tm e n t w i t h y o u r p h y s i c i a n b y v i s

coming weeks

Meanwhile, owners and residents at the resort have been subjected to a series of questionable behaviors from the county and South Seas management.

∫ The various South Seas property associations (condos, timeshares, duplexes, single family dwellings) share a 30foot-wide crushed-shell roadway easement from the main resort road out to Sunset Beach It was established and recorded in 1960, to guarantee owners, residents and their guests vehicular use and parking within the easement, in order to access the beach and Gulf

In violation of these easement rights, resort management has erected signage blocking the entrance to the roadway that s t a t e s : “ P E D E S T R I A N & B I C Y C L E S

ONLY NO CARS OR GOLF CARTS

BEYOND THIS POINT ” It is over 300 feet from the blocked easement entrance to the beach, longer than a football field Without vehicular access, anyone who is elderly, or infirm, or has ambulatory disabilities, cannot get to the beach

∫ Not only has vehicular access been blocked, the county approved a large new beachfront restaurant currently under construction that building plans, photos and a recent survey indicate would encroach on the easement Plans show the staircase to the main entrance of the restaurant immediately abutting the easem e n t , w i t

patrons would necessarily use the easement for vehicular approach and pedestria

t “Borrowing” the 30-foot-wide corridor for restaurant purposes would obviously create congestion within the easement, compromising the easement holders’ historic rights to vehicular use and parking space

Structure setbacks from the easement should be generous enough to accommodate all restaurant vehicular and foot traffic, provide enough space for police, fire and EMT vehicles to safely access the facility, and ensure that easement holders’ usage rights are not eroded or encroached upon in any way It is difficult to comprehend how county planners could blindly permit construction of a large building a

y

recorded access easement without any setbacks whatever

∫ The timeshare associations have filed a lawsuit for injunctive relief, asking

circuit court to require the resort to stop encroaching on the easement and allow vehicular access and parking, uses that the easement language specifically grants It is clear that South Seas does not acknowle d g e t h e e

vehicular access Its building plans for the restaurant describe the easement as a “beach walkway,” while its FAQ information sheet for timeshare owners calls it a “pedestrian path ”

∫ The other historic beach access for owners, residents and their guests has been the path at Redfish Pass, leading out to the point at land’s end The path is now blocked off from golf cart use, meaning that for any person who cannot walk a fair distance over uneven terrain, there is no way to access the beach anywhere within the resort

∫ Another access easement all the associations share is unfettered use of the main road through South Seas, from its gated entrance at the south end as it winds some miles north along the length of the resort Owners, residents, their guests, contractors and employees have experie n c e d s u c h a v a r i e t y o f h a r a s s m e n t s attempting to pass through the front gate to their properties, association lawyers recently sent a cease-and-desist letter to South Seas It reminds the resort of its easement rights and insists on unfettered, unharassed access to their properties and residences at all times

∫ South Seas Club, one of the resort’s t i m e s h a r e a s s o c i a t i o n s , i n i t s o r i g i n a l 1988 developer prospectus granted owners a “full family membership,” with access “at no cost” to the resort’s pools, shops, restaurants, beach equipment and other amenities In addition, “this membership will allow the Owner to use the golf and tennis facilities of South Seas P

” T h e prospectus emphasized that its contents describe the entirety of the agreement between the developer and buyers of the timeshares Since 1988, South Seas Club owners and their guests have enjoyed a no-cost “full family membership” at the resort

That all changed with the new management, which now refuses South Seas Club owners access to any resort facilities Its reasoning? Through a clerical error, the prospectus language quoted above did not make it into the transfer deed language Previous resort management recognized

that it was merely an oversight and honored the original grant The newbies have taken a hard line, requiring South Seas Club owners to purchase a pricey resort membership with numerous undesirable provisos This issue may soon land in court along with the others

∫ Another way South Seas is attempting to arm-twist owners and residents into buying resort memberships is through a new restrictive golf cart policy Without a resort membership, one cannot rent a resort-owned golf cart And any golf cart that is not resort-owned cannot be parked anywhere on resort property Since the golf cart cannot access the beach or park anywhere in the resort, it’s practically useless One can joyride around, but don’t think about parking anywhere

∫ Readers will recall that the new South Seas management demolished the resort’s historic golf course and replaced it with an embarrassing 12-hole pitchand-putt It's now constructing a clubhouse for a “golf course” that can be played with two clubs Next door, within t h e

homeowner associations, it's erecting a large featureless maintenance building with less architectural interest than a Quonset hut

The old maintenance building was hidden, as it should be, behind bushes along the main road, obstructing no views One must question the competence of county planners who could permit the unnecessary high-visibility siting of a blockish eyesore in the middle of what was once an expanse of Gulf-view greensward

n through the courts, the county and South Seas are wasting no time alienating the affections of hundreds of resort property o

building tasteless, wrongly sited construction; cutting off beach access for the nonambulatory; arm-twisting owners and residents into buying expensive resort memberships these actions serve no good purpose The county needs to stop treating the resort like a favored client And the resort owners, who advertise themselves as leaders in the hospitality business, need to actually practice hospitality toward their neighbors

Don Bacon Montara,

California

BUSINESS

Business Notes

CEPD office temporarily closed

The Captiva Erosion Prevention District reported that its office is closed for renovations due to damages caused by Hurricane Ian.

Until the work is completed, it will hold office hours on Mondays through Fridays from 10 a m to 2 p m at the Sunshine Seafood Cafe and Wine Bar, at 11508 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

The CEPD office is at 11513 Andy Rosse Lane, Unit 4, Captiva

REFUGE/DDWS

Nature Store temporarily closed

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS) reported that to accommodate completing the annual inventory, the Refuge Nature Store will be closed now through Sept 30

It will reopen on Oct 1 at 9 a m

In the meantime, the public can shop the online store at https://shopdingdarling com/

Kaduk selected for 40 Under 40

S a n i b e l C a p t i v a C o m m u n i t y B a n k announced that residential loan officer Rachel Kaduk has been named a 2 0 2 4 G u l f s h o r e Business 40 Under 40 honoree

T h e a w a r d r e c o gnizes Southwest Florida

r i s i n g s t a r s w h o h a v e made a unique contribu-

t i o n t h r o u g h t h e i r careers and in their communities, as well as a commitment to enriching the areas where they live and work

Kaduk joined the bank in 2020 as an interim loan operations specialist to assist with the Small Business Administration Payroll Protection Program and was instrumental in helping to administer the program

She quickly earned a permanent position as a residential loan coordinator responsible for reviewing loan applications and preparing mortgage files for delivery to underwriting

In April, Kaduk was promoted to residential loan officer at the Bridge Branch in Fort Myers

She has been heavily involved in the community for many years, dedicating countless hours to several l o c a l , n o n p r o f i t o r g a n i z a t i o n s s e r v i n g S o u t h w e s t Florida, such as the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral, Guardian Angels for Special Populations, Southwest Florida Symphony, Chamber of Southwest Florida, Lee County Republican Liberty Caucus and Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast

See BUSINESS NOTES,

The SanCap Chamber, Sanibel City Council members and island residents celebrate with CVS staff for a ribbon-cutting at the Sanibel store on Sept 7

Chamber ribbon-cutting hails the return of CVS

The SanCap Chamber celebrated a landmark postHurricane Ian grand reopening on Sep 7 at CVS Pharmacy on Sanibel with one of its famous ribbon-cuttings

“As one of the islands’ retail cornerstones since 2004, CVS, welcome back,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said “Islanders and visitors, too, have anxiously awaited news of the reopening, a major achievement in Sanibel’s recovery I think we all feel more secure having our pharmacy back on-island.”

The new store includes an expanded pharmacy and private vaccination area, improved in-store delivery pick-

up area and updated layout and decor The pharmacy offers thousands of products, including over-the-counter medications, beauty items, gifts, office supplies and better-for-you food options Artwork by Sanibel artist Rachel Pierce brightens the exterior with portrayals of the island’s natural beauty

“We appreciate and value the chamber of commerce’s support of Sanibel’s residents and businesses,” CVS District Leader Eric Dent said “In the years since Ian, the chamber has been an important partner in the island’s recovery ”

CVS Pharmacy is at 2331 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel

City, island entities receive CDBG-DR recovery funds

By STAFF REPORT

trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The city of Sanibel reported that on Sept 3, the Lee County Board of C o u n t

grant funding for three projects on the island in the approximate amount of $28 5 million

The funds are part of $229 million in grants awarded for about 20

Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Community D

Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) allocation to the county

The funded projects on the island include:

∫ City of Sanibel: Road reconstruction, $12 5 million

∫ F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva: Elevation, hardening and associated site improvements for the Periwinkle Way building, $6 9 million

∫ S a n i b e l F i r e a n d R

u e District: Reconstruction of Station 171 on Palm Ridge Road, $9 1 mil-

lion

The city added that it will be the recipient for all three grants F I S H and the fire district will be sub-recipients to the city

The county reported that the other p r o j e c t s a w

mended by the Public Facilities and C r i t i c a l I n f r a

Committee, include: ∫ P

2 (county)

∫ North Island Water Tower and Facility Project (Fort Myers Beach)

∫ S

C

Hope Campus (city of Fort Myers)

∫ Community Recreation Center and Disaster Shelter (Cape Coral) ∫ R

C

m u n i c a t i o n s Towers (county)

∫ P a r k s & R e c r e a t i o n Revitalization (Fort Myers Beach)

∫ S T A R S E x p a n s i o n a n d Category 3 Hurricane Shelter (city of Fort Myers)

∫ Wellfield Expansion (city of Fort Myers)

∫ LCEC Cherry Estates (county)

∫ Cape Coral EMS Base/Safe Room (county)

∫ Ragsdale/Pennsylvania/Arroyal Corridor Street Improvements (Bonita Springs)

∫ Moss Marina Booster Pump Station Relocation LCU (Fort Myers Beach)

∫ Weir Rehabilitation Upgrade or Replacement Project (Cape Coral)

∫ B r o a d w a y A v e n u e W e s t Improvements (Estero)

∫ C o u n t y - w i d e D r a i n a g e Improvements (county)

∫ Satellite Shop replacement and underground fuel tank replacement (county)

∫ S h e l t e r H a r d e n i n g a n d G e n e r a t o r I n s t a l l a t i o n ( S c h o o l District of Lee County)

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

https://cdbgdr leegov com

Hurricane Ian made landfall in Lee County on Sept 28, 2022 In

See RECOVERY FUNDS, page 9

Rachel Kaduk

SANCAP CHAMBER

F.I.S.H. receives CDBG-DR funds for storm recovery

F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva was recently awarded $6,990,194 in Community

D

Recovery (CDBG-DR) grant funding, in cooperation with the city of Sanibel

F I S H reported that the federal capital funding will cover much of the costs required to repair and rebuild its facilities, which sustained significant damage during Hurricane Ian in 2022 It will allow it to continue providing essential services to the Sanibel and Captiva communities, while building back better to ensure future resilience

F I S H expressed its gratitude for the partnership with the city and the support of the Lee County commissioners, who

recognized the critical needs of the local community through the award

“We are overwhelmingly thankful for this funding, which allows us to address the damage to our facilities and enhance our ability to serve our neighbors Our heartfelt thanks go out to the city of Sanibel, Lee County commissioners and everyone involved in recognizing and supporting our community’s recovery needs,”

Executive Director Maria Espinoza said.

“We are excited to begin our repairs and remain committed to serving our community today and in the future ”

F I S H plans to reveal plans for the repair and rebuilding process to stakeholders in the near future

Rotary accepting applications for grants

The Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club is currently taking applications from qualified non-profit organizations for its 2024 fall grants

July was the beginning of the Rotary year Locally, the island club supports the Children's Education Center of the Islands, Sanibel School

F u n d , S a n i b e l S e a S c h o o l a n d Trailways Camps It also supports the De La Salle Academy in Fort M y e r s ; D i s t r i c t L i t e r a c y P r o j e c t , which delivers dictionaries to local fourth-grade classes; and FK U Corp, which donates back to Foster Kids and Our Mother's Home

The deadline to apply is Sept 30

The club added that July was also the month when Rotary focused on maternal and child health Worldwide, Rotary programs aim to improve women's access to skilled health personnel The club also provides education, immuniza-

tions, birth kits and mobile health clinics

For more information about the grants or to apply, visit sanibelrotary org and click on “Trust & Grant Documents” under the “Trust Fund” drop-down menu

Recovery funds

2023, HUD announced the $1 1 billion allocation of CDBG-DR funds to support the county’s long-term recovery efforts

The county reported that the funds may be spent on a limited number of eligible activities related to impacts from Ian that include housing, infrastructure, economic

From page 8

revitalization, public services and planning At least 70% of the grant must be used for projects that benefit low-to-moderate income households, which HUD defines as a family at or below 80% of Area Median Income.

Pfeifer Realty presents top producers for month

The Pfeifer Realty Group recently named its top prod u c e r s f o r t h e m o n t h o

August.

Jennifer McSorley was the top volume sales consultant and top listing agent A fulltime Realtor and Sanibel res-

Pfeifer Realty since 2008

S

&

Association of Realtors and

Island Specialist designation

Kerri Maw Jennifer McSorley

Kerri Maw was the top selling agent A full-time, real estate pro-

Sanibel Captiva Island Specialist designation in 2017, and she has closed over $6

American Legion Post 123 reported that it is open on Mondays and Fridays from 4 to 8 p m and on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 6 p m It serves b u r g e

million in residential properties For more information, call 239-4720004 or visit www mysanibelrealestate com

The Pfeifer Realty Group is at 1630 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

There are TVs available for sports. The Post is open to the public Membership applications are available Post 123 is at 4249 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel

Business Notes

From page 8

'Ding' represented at E-Awards

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS) reported that staff and volunteers from it, the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and Tarpon Bay Explorers (TBE) were honored at the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau's E-Awards breakfast on Aug 23

The nominees for the 24th annual award recognizing standouts in the local tourism industry were:

∫ DDWS: April Boehnen, Melissa Maher, Ashley McGovern, Joy Robertson and Chelle Walton

∫ Refuge: Ranger Jessica Barry, volunteer Ruth Brooks, Ranger Yvette Carrasco and volunteer Karl Werner

∫ TBE: Charlie Frese, Wendy Schnapp and Adam Sauerland

CHR final apar tment completed

COMMUNITY HOUSING & RESOURCES

Community Housing & Resources recently announced the reopening of all its apartments

Its final unit has been completed following the damage from Hurricane Ian in 2022

“We are thrilled to welcome our newest resident home,” Executive Director Nicole Decker-McHale said “This is a testament to the resilience of our community and the unwavering support from the city of Sanibel, our dedicated board of directors, amazing volunteers and exceptional staff Together, we have made it possible for our residents to have a safe and welcoming place to call home.”

CHR reported that it is committed to providing affordable housing solutions and resources to support individuals and families on Sanibel

For more information about CHR, visit sancapchr org

South Seas welcomes executive chef

South Seas on Captiva announced Chef Thomas Cook as executive chef

He will oversee the resort's culinary program, while opening new and re-concepted restaurants Cook's oversight will include the current Island Tacos and Shell City Burgers food trucks, along with Scoops & Slices, Harborside, the Redfish Grill and Beach House

He joins the resort with a background that includes executive chef positions at The Boca Raton Resort & Club, Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, T

Collection, Hilton Downtown Nashville and King and Prince Beach & Golf

Thomas Cook

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 2 5 , 2 0 2 4 ■ P a g e 1 2

PRESERVING PARADISE

Learning more about sand cordgrass

A m e r i c a n C o n s e r v a t i o n E x p e r i e n c e w i l d l i f e

m o n i t o r i n g m e m b e r J a c o b B a k e r , w h o i s w o r k i n g w i t h J N “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g N a t i o n a l W i l d l i f e R e f u g e b i o l o g i c a l s c i e n c e t e c h n i c i a n A v e r y R e n s h a w , r e c e n t l y r e p o r t e d o n s a n d c o r d g r a s s . S a n d c o r d g r a s s ( S p a r t i n a b a k e r i ) i s t h e p r i m a r y

v e g e t a t i o n f o u n d i n S a n i b e l ' s i n t e r i o r f r e s h w a t e r m a r s h e s Y o u h a v e p r o b a b l y s e e n i t w i t h o u t e v e n r e a l i z i n g i t O n e c a n e a s i l y s e e s a n d c o r d g r a s s a t

t h e B a i l e y T r a c t o r w h i l e v i e w i n g t h e m a r s h n o r t h

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

For the fourth session of Preserving Paradise, participants headed out on the water to enjoy a fishing day on the Caloosahatchee River and in the Pine Island Sound

Next sessions held for Preserving Paradise program

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that for the fourth session of Preserving Paradise a water quality education program for regional business leaders participants headed out on the water to enjoy a fishing day on the Caloosahatchee River and in the Pine Island Sound

The SanCap Chamber, SCCF, Captains for Clean Water and The Everglades Foundation have partnered to lead the program, which launched in early August

I s l a n d R e p o r t e r

o f S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a R o a d ( T h i s a r e a o f t h e r e f u g e i s c l o s e d t o p u b l i c a c c e s s , b u t i t c a n b e a d m i r e d

f r o m t h e c i t y ' s S h a r e d U s e P a t h )

S a n d c o r d g r a s s g r o w s i n d e n s e c l u m p s a b o u t 4

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

s p r o u t i n g f r o m a c e n t r a l p o i n t Y o u c a n u s u a l l y f i n d i t g r o w i n g i n l a r g e c l u m p s o f 2 0 - 3 0 i n d i v i d u a l

p l a n t s I t g r o w s l i k e t h i s b y s p r e a d i n g r h i z o m e s

p a r t o f i t s r o o t s y s t e m w h i c h f a n o u t i n a l l d i r e ct i o n s N e w p l a n t s c a n s p r o u t f r o m t h e r h i z o m e s

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

t h e r e h a s b e e n l i t t l e r e s e a r c h o n t h e S p a r t i n a b a k e r i

s p e c i e s s p e c i f i c a l l y , w e c a n i n f e r o t h e r l i k e l y

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

g r a s s s p e c i e s O n e s t u d y e x a m i n e d a s u i t e o f b e n e -

f i t s s a l t m a r s h c o r d g r a s s ( S p a r t i n a a l t e r n i f l o r a ) p r ov i d e s i n e s t u a r i n e w e t l a n d h a b i t a t s , i n c l u d i n g s o i l s t a b i l i z a t i o n , e r o s i o n p r e v e n t i o n a n d m i t i g a t i o n o f n e g a t i v e i m p a c t s o f u r b a n i z a t i o n O u r S p a r t i n a s p e c i e s l i k e l y p l a y s s i m i l a r r o l e s i n S a n i b e l ’ s m a r s h e s S a n i b e l ’ s s a n d c o r d g r a s s i s s t i l l r e c o v e r i n g a f t e r

H u r r i c a n e I a n i n m a n y a r e a s o f t h e m a r s h e s

T h o u g h t h e y a r e a s a l t t o l e r a n t s p e c i e s , c o r d g r a s se s b e c o m e s t r e s s e d w h e n i n u n d a t e d b y b r a c k i s h o r s a l t y w a t e r W h i l e n o r e s e a r c h h a s b e e n c o n d u c t e d r e g a r d i n g t h e c a u s e s o f t h i s a p p a r e n t s t r e s s , o n e h y p o t h e s i s i s t h a t t h e b a s i n t o p o g r a p h y o f t h e c e nt r a l m a r s h c a u s e d s a l t y s t o r m s u r g e w a t e r s f r o m I a n t o s i t o n t h e l a n d s c a p e f o r a l o n g p e r i o d o f t i m e w i t h o u t f r e s h w a t e r f l u s h i n g c a u s i n g m a r s h s o i l s t o b e c o m e m o r e s a l i n e O t h e r f a c t o r s m a y b e a t p l a y w h e n a s s e s s i n g e c o s y s t e m h e a l t h L o c a l c o n s e r v a t i o n p a r t n e r s , i n c l u

On Sept 17, the group met at the Sanibel Marina before splitting up with local fishing guides Experts from the leading organizations joined each boat to provide teaching moments, such as the diverse species of fish found in the estuary, their habitat requirements and the environmental threats that face maintaining clean water and sustainable fisheries

Exploring oysters, seagrass

On Sept 3, the leading organizations hosted the third session of the program.

Following a tour of the SCCF’s Marine Lab at Tarpon B

Adventures in Paradise vessel, participants enjoyed the morning on the water learning about the SCCF’s River, Estuary, and Coastal Observing Network (RECON), visiting a restored oyster reef, and trawling for fish within

Milbrandt was alongside guiding the group on the R/V Norma Campbell Participants then spent the afternoon at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille discussing legislative advocacy as it pertains to Everglades restoration and water quality in the region They heard presentations from The Everglades Foundation Director of Engagement & Outreach Keely Weyker, SCCF Chief Executive Officer James Evans, SCCF Policy Associate Allie Pecenka and Captains for Clean Water Director of Policy Jessica Pinsky Weyker discussed the ongoing need to advocate for

Restoration Plan Evans and Pecenka focused on agency advocacy for the Everglades and regional water quality, while Pinsky explored how businesses can be instrumental players in getting legislators to support environmental causes

SCCF: No snowy plovers fledge, but least terns do

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that the 2024 shorebird nesting season began unlike any other, with the first island-wide sand placement project in Sanibel’s history

The project initially sought to fill in the large gullies and areas of standing water created by the storm surge of

Hurricane Ian in 2022 It also included the placement of sand and construction of a berm across much of the island

“This sand placement seaward of the dune vegetation covered the natural sand, leading to drastic changes in the habitat for coastal wildlife, especially beach-nesting birds like the snowy plover,” SCCF shorebird technician Aaron White said

The city deemed the project necessary after Ian's landfall flattened the beach and dune areas

Zero snowy plover successes

The SCCF reported that there were only two snowy plover nest attempts on Sanibel, both by a well-known banded individual White/Blue, nicknamed “super dad” for his consistent ability to fledge chicks every year since his banding in 2019 In 2023, he was able to fledge a total of six chicks from his two broods, likely due to reduced disturbance on the beach and increased foraging habitat in the gullies formed by Ian.

“White/Blue’s first nest in 2024 was on the seaward side of the berm in an old wrack line, however it was exposed to repeated wash overs, and only one egg hatched Unfortunately, the chick disappeared shortly after hatching,” White said “After this failed nest attempt, he moved to Fort Myers Beach where he was

See SNOWY PLOVERS, page 25

CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

SCCF provides update on turtle nests, hatchlings

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that since April 24, it had documented 840 sea turtle nests and 15,685 emerged hatchlings on Sanibel and Captiva as of Sept 18, including:

∫ 836 loggerhead nests and 15,611 emerged loggerhead hatchlings

∫ Three green turtle nests and 34 emerged green turtle hatchlings

∫ One leatherback nest and 40 emerged leatherback hatchlings

The SCCF noted that sea turtle nesting season lasts through the month of October

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

Coastal Watch to hold mangrove adoption event

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's Coastal Watch will host an Adopt-A-Mangrove Adoption Day on Sept 26 from 9 to 11 a m at the Bailey Homestead Preserve, at 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel The program invites local community members to “adopt” mangrove seedlings to nurture at home Those interested can pick up their seedlings and all needed supplies at the event Adopted plants will eventually be returned and planted at an SCCF restoration site To RSVP for the event, visit https://www.facebook.com/sancapcoastalwatch/events For more information, visit

https://sccf org/adoptamangrove/

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

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

∫ Vinicio Cruz Candelario, 44, of 5467 5th Ave , Fort Myers, was charged on Sept. 11 with one count of operate motor vehicle without valid license first conviction

∫ John William Sohner, 23, of 16520 San Carlos Blvd , Apt 113, Fort Myers, was charged on Sept 16 with one count of drive while license suspended revoked or revocation equivalent status

Other enforcement actions

∫ On Sept 12, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for unlawful speed (66 mph in a 35 mph zone)

∫ On Sept 16, 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

Enforcement operations statistics

From Sept 10-16

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 15

∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 17

∫ Traffic crashes: 0

∫ Radar details: 60

∫ Traffic stops: 43

Citations issued: 12

Written warnings issued: 2

Verbal warnings issued: 29

∫ Residential area checks: 326

∫ Business area checks: 226

∫ Total area checks: 930

∫ Reported burglaries: 0

∫ Reported thefts: 0

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,167 September 2024 to date:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 23

∫ Non-emergency calls: 43

∫ Traffic crashes: 1

∫ Radar details: 109

∫ Traffic stops: 120

Citations issued: 43

Written warnings issued: 5

Verbal warnings issued: 74

∫ Residential area checks: 690

∫ Business area checks: 451

∫ Total area checks: 2,008

∫ Reported burglaries: 1

∫ Reported thefts: 0

∫ Total CAD calls: 2,580

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 vehicles driving through residential neighborhoods and increase traffic flow, priority is being given to vehicles eastbound on Periwinkle Motorists using Bailey Road southbound, Lindgren

See BLOTTER, page 15

Sanibel library offers range of programs and topics

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 Oct. 2 at 2 p.m. with Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute scientists Drs Rachel A Page, Dina K N Dechmann and M Teague O’Mara They will teach about the world of tropical bats

For decades, institute scientists have studied the biodiversity of bats on Barro Colorado Island in Panama, where 76 species coexist Their expertise pairs with the p h

Christian Ziegler for a visual journey into the world of the creatures with the book “Bat Island: A Rare Journey into the Hidden World of Tropical Bats ” Bats are unique among mammals: they have acquired true flight, provide ecosystem services and represent the ecologically most diverse group worldwide Synthesizing decades of study, Page, Dechmann, O’Mara and Marco Tschapka provide insight alongside 150 photos showcasing bats' environmental adaptations and natural history

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's Wildlife & Habitat Management team is still noticing changes and effects on flora and fauna on Sanibel due to Hurricane Ian from September of 2022

The SCCF reported that not only are some wildlife species absent from areas they were pre-storm, such as the lack of gopher tortoises on the Dayton Tract, but other species have spread around the island, like the exotic invasive Peter’s rock agama

Plants have also been moved around the island from storm surge seed dispersal Cattails have been popping all over the island in wetlands that never had them These are being treated in some areas, so they do not dominate wetlands with rare wildlife species that need open bodies of water

Invasive buttonwoods

Buttonwood, a Sanibel native tree, has become invasive in many areas due to the lack of natural fire regimes and changed ground hydrology

“These were one of the first trees to experience high mortality shortly after the hurricane from the storm surge,” Wildlife & Habitat Management

Director Chris Lechowicz said “They grow in wetlands and transitional wetlands the area between uplands and wetlands that took on and held a lot of saltwater from Ian ”

There were so many areas on the island dominated by buttonwood that the damage was very noticeable However, some tree species take

h e f o l l o w i n g p u b l i c meetings/hearings are scheduled:

Oct 1: Sanibel City Council

The Sanibel Public Library will host a virtual author talk on Oct 2 with Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute scientists Drs Rachel A Page, Dina K. N. Dechmann and M. Teague O’Mara.

The presentation will cover topics from the book, such as the sensory abilities of bats and their foraging strategies, roosting ecologies and social systems “Bat Island”

See LIBRARY, page 15

longer to show the effects One of the more common and truly native trees the gumbo limbo is the latest to show post-Ian issues around the island

Gumbo limbos

“In the past few months, we’ve noticed that they are falling over, especially during heavy storm events,” Lechowicz said “A closer look at the fallen ones shows that the root systems and base of the trees have rotted out due to prolonged saltwater intrusion ”

The high winds this summer during storms pushed the trees hard enough that the rot gave away The species

tends to grow in uplands but is also found in transitional wetlands that took on excessive salt water

“So far, gumbo limbos seem to be the most affected tree species currently, nearly two years after the hurricane,” he said “It’s possible that other tree species might have similar damage but could take longer to show effects ”

The impact of saltwater intrusion on trees is part of the reason why Sanibel was mostly a grassland historically Periodic storm surge events would cull many of the trees that survived natural fire events Salt-tolerant grasses would quickly recover after these events

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

presents decades of study of the hyper diverse bat population on Barro, in addition to the most comprehensive and long-term datasets on tropical bats. The book and presentation will highlight how bats are threatened by habitat fragmentation and land degradation, and communicate the initiatives needed to ensure the survival of the animals, which are critical to maintaining healthy, balanced ecosystems

Page is a staff scientist at the institute in Panama, where she leads the Smithsonian Bat Lab Dechmann is a group leader at the Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior and a research associate at the institute O’Mara is director of conservation evidence at Bat Conservation International and a research associate at the institute and Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior.

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

T o r e g i s t e r f o r t h e a u t h o r t a l k , v i s i t https://libraryc org/sanlib/upcoming

Additionally, the library has the following programs scheduled:

Crafternoon will be held today, 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

On Sept. 26, Teen Talk: Pop Culture, Current Events,

Blotter

From page 14

northbound and Periwinkle westbound may experience additional delays as traffic flows are adjusted for efficiency

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

I

Ramp:

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

Crafternoon will be held today, Sept 25, and on Oct 2 at the Sanibel Public Library

and Library Picks will take place from 3 to 4 p m Teens can take part in a relaxed hangout and freely chat about pop culture, current events, personal experiences and explore the services that the library offers

Family Storytime for ages 5 and under will be held on Sept 27 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

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

weekends and holidays is with AC/BC permit only

∫ Commercial use is prohibited

∫ Fines for violations at the boat ramp are $500 Solicitation is not allowed on Sanibel.

On Sept 27, Learn Hoopla Open Workshop will take place from 11 a m to noon IT librarian Andrew Dyen-Shapiro will answer questions and help navigate the Hoopla App Attendees will need to bring their library card and a device that they would like to view content on that can download apps

Baby & Toddler Storytime and Playdate will be held on Oct 1 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

On Oct 2, Crafternoon will take place from 3 to 4:30 p m The project will be “Clay Trinket Dishes ” 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

The library is open on Mondays and 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/

The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, 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

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

https://www facebook com/SanibelPolice

SPORTS

4.1K shorebirds seen during global counts

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reported that the first week of September marks the beginning of Global Shorebird Counts and World Shorebirds Day (Sept 6)

Every year, scientists and community members combine efforts to participate in the global event to contribute to shorebird research and conservation The SCCF has been taking part since 2016

With help from partners and volunteers, the SCCF shorebird team surveyed Sanibel, Captiva, North Captiva, Cayo Costa, Estero Bay Preserve State Park and the SCCF’s McGregor Preserve. It counted a total of 4,096 individual shorebirds, seabirds and wading birds from 48 different species All six species of plovers that can be found in Southwest Florida were observed, as well

The most abundant species included:

∫ Royal tern (Thalasseus maximus)

∫ Sanderling (Calidris alba)

∫ Willet (Tringa semipalmata)

∫ Laughing gull (Leucophaeus atricilla)

∫ Ruddy turnstone (Arenaria interpres)

“These counts provide population data on shorebird species from around the world and can help scientists determine where they should focus their conservation efforts,” SCCF shorebird technician Aaron White said

Of the birds observed, several banded individuals traveling from their breeding grounds were re-sighted during the count window, including royal tern CN1 from Georgia and black skimmer 7U CN1 was bande d a s a c h i c k d u r i n g t h e s u m m e r o f 2 0 1 9 b y researchers from Virginia Tech University and spent the first 3 5 years of its life on Sanibel and the surrounding area

“We were thrilled to find CN1 alive and well foll o w i n g H u r r i c a n e I a n , ” W h i t e s a i d “ W e f i r s t observed it in breeding plumage in May 2023, and it continues to return to us in the non-breeding seasons ”

Black skimmer 7U had not been seen since it was banded on St Pete Beach in 2022 until last month on Lover’s Key, and then once again near South Seas during Global Shorebird Counts

“Reporting banded birds can inform conservationists on movement patterns, survival rates, and population status, among other insights,” he said

This year’s count was slightly lower than last year’s, during which the SCCF recorded 4,918 birds.

New hours for refuge’s Wildlife Drive

reported that the gate times for Wildlife Drive will change on Oct. 1 to 7:30 a.m. through 5:30 p m It is open every day except for Fridays, regardless of holidays Admission is $10 for vehicles and $1 for hikers and bicyclists The refuge is at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel REFUGE/DDWS

Sanibel FlyFishers to hold event

The Sanibel FlyFishers will hold a Fly Tying Night today, Sept 25, from 6 to 8 p m at Sanibel Fly Outfitters, at 2240 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel There will be a guest tier demonstrate a fly and newer tiers can

get personalized instruction from old hands Experienced tiers are asked to bring their vises, tools and materials; the club will provide equipment for those who do not have their own Pizza and drinks will be available

Karate club wins at regional competition

The Sanibel Shotokan Karate Club competed in the 12th Annual Southwest Florida Martial Arts Open on Sept 7 in Punta Gorda Led by Sensei Gary Thomas, it competed in several categories, including forms, paired forms and sparring The club members brought home several

Competing were: Cecilio Gonzalez, 6; David Kopp; Kelly Kopp; Nolan Kopp, 9; Norah Kopp, 7; Bronco McNeilus, 8; Liam Nucholls, 16; Lyman Welch, all of Sanibel

SANIBEL SHOTOKAN KARATE CLUB

SANIBEL FLYFISHERS

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

A former Lee County Sheriff’s Office employee running against Sheriff Carmine Marceno as a write-in candidate in the November election is accusing Marceno of having hired a “ghost employee” as a consultant and then asking him to help pay for a luxury vehicle for Marceno’s father

Mike Hollow first posted the allegations on the Facebook page of his election campaign earlier this month He posted audio, which has been edited, from a telephone call he said was made between himself and the former LCSO consultant Ken Romano, in which Romano alleges that he made the payments to Marceno’s father to help pay for a Mercedes

The story was first reported by the Florida Trident, a news site published by the Florida Center by Government Accountability

Romano, a Bonita Springs jewelry store owner, had a consulting contract with the LCSO in 2022 to assist with communications and social media According to LCSO records, the contract was terminated that same year after the office said it found out Romano was under investigation by another law enforcement agency

Lee sheriff faces accusation of hiring ‘ghost employee’ School board approves Civil Rights and Equity Guide

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The Lee County School Board approved the new Civil Rights and Equity Guide at its Sept 17 meeting

Board Members Debbie Jordan and Cathleen Morgan voted against the measure

“We are making sure we are taking care of each and every child and our teachers,”

Jordan said “This needs to stay a guide I cannot vote on this ”

Interim Superintendent Dr Ken Savage said the goal is to create a neutral environment for all students District staff also recognizes that all employees have individual

Romano did not respond to messages seeking comment, and Hollow said he did not know which agency is said to be investigating Romano at the time

Marceno called the allegations against him “politicallymotivated and baseless from a disgruntled employee ”

Hollow worked for the LCSO for 17 years in various law enforcement capacities Hollow said he did not like the direction the organization was taking and said he had a different mindset

“I didn’t want to work for a corrupt individual any longer,” Hollow said

In a statement issued through the LCSO in response to Hollow’s allegations, Marceno said “It’s unfortunate that politics have reached this level These politically-motivated and baseless claims from a disgruntled former employee are obviously untrue. It’s sad that some people would engage in such vicious personal attacks for political purposes I’m proud to be the sheriff of Lee County We provide an outstanding level of service to the great residents of the county and will continue to do so ”

The consulting contract the LCSO formerly had with Romano ran from January of 2022 to August of that year,

viewpoints and different ideas

“For us, our priority is to serve our entire community It is to try to allow the standards that we teach, our compulsory education services that we are obligated to provide, to find a way to do it in such a way that all of our students can come and learn, and that we aren’t adding to any type of divisiveness or anything along those lines knowing that many of these issues are very passionate. We value all students, and value our teachers and individual viewpoints,” he said

The district tries to create, as a government employer, an opportunity for all students and families to feel comfortable send-

according to records provided by the LCSO The contract initially called for Romano to be paid $4,000 a month and was amended in March of that year to pay Romano $5,700 a month. The contract was slated to run one year until it was terminated early

Hollow is alleging that Romano said $1,700 of the increased amount was being paid monthly to Marceno’s father for the vehicle

“He misappropriated tax dollars,” Hollow alleged of Marceno

According to the contract provided by the LCSO, Romano was brought on as a consultant after Marceno determined “a need exists for a consultant to assist the sheriff’s personnel by providing guidance regarding public relations including but not limited to social media presence and strategic communications.”

The contract further stated that Romano had “the ability, certifications and experience to perform the services ”

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

ing their children to the schools each day and for employees to work in those environments while working on their core mission

“With this Civil Rights and Equity Guide, you see our best attempt to try to stay in line with the laws of our land,” Savage said

He would also encourage folks that anytime they have an issue from a policy standpoint that they are passed by a governmental entity which usually reflects the voters’ will

“You continue to be active members of our democracy Just recognize that is a critical way in voting different elective bodies, whether they are legislators or school board

members, elective superintendents, any of the positions that you choose to vote for that those things are often reflective of the different policies and so forth that are set as government attempts to balance all those aspects,” Savage said

The philosophy behind the guide is to ensure the district is communicating with students, teachers, and parents The updates to the guide included Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, and ADA updates

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

Rec center provides update on activities, events

The Sanibel Recreation Center reported on upcoming programs and activities

A Fun Day will take place on Oct 3 from 8 a m to 5:30 p m It will offer a variety of fun craft activities, games and swim time Enrollment is open to kindergarten through eighth grade Each child will need to bring a lunch, water, swimsuit, goggles, towel and sunscreen Cost is $30 for members and $40 for non-members.

The Sanibel Co-Ed Adult Softball League is taking registrations Running from Oct 16 to Dec 18, the games will be held on Wednesdays with the first game starting at 6:15 p m , weather permitting T-shirts and t e a m t r o p h i e s w i l l b e a w a r d e d t o t h e t o p t e a m s Registration is open to ages 18 and older Team fee is $650; minimum of nine players and maximum of 15 players A mandatory coaches meeting will be held on Oct 4 at 6 p m Going into season, Sanibel Adult PickUp Softball will only be available on Mondays from 6 to 8 p m

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

ed on the application To access the residential applicat

load/32319/file/2024%20Application%20Residential

application, along with the required documentation, to hurricanepass@mysanibel com and the permit will be

Applications can also be dropped off at the center. New and current members can call 239-472-0345 or stop by the front desk for assistance with setting up their CivicRec account

A variety of memberships, passes and punch cards are available

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

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

For questions, call 239-472-0345

The Sanibel Recreation Center is at 3880 SanibelCaptiva Road, Sanibel

Shell museum, Sanibel library partner on project

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium's partnership with the Sanibel Public Library continues as library staff are reorganizing the books in its Margaret Thorsen Library

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Sherman and Shelby Stuebner are working on its library, which includes a collection of scientific and popular books, scientific journals and shell club newsletters from around the world Most of the holdings are available for inter-library loan through the OCLS WorldCat system and the Sanibel library, which hosts the holdings online.

“The Sanibel Public Library enjoys assisting the shell museum in providing accessibility to all who are interested in the study, research and understanding of the seashells of Sanibel and the world,” Sherman, circulation & interlibrary loan services coordinator, said “We are proud to be part of the effort to reopen this vital resource for our community ”

The museum reported that the support provided by the library goes back a long way In the 1990s, the library assumed the task of updating the museum's library catalog, which was created thanks to a grant from the Southwest Florida Library Network For many years, reference librarian Candy Heise was one of the most active museum library volunteers, working on one of her free days with Sanibelian Cindy Timm to update, organize and catalog the museum holdings

“The museum is so appreciative of the Sanibel Public Library staff’s work and collaboration,” museum Executive Director Sam Ankerson said “They are getting a valuable public resource back in shape at the museum, and we are glad to help as we can with their beautiful shell exhibits ”

Museum members receive in-person access to its Margaret Thorsen Library

For more information, visit ShellMuseum org/membership

From page 1

held in cooperation with the Lee County

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o u r i s t D e v e l o p m e n t C o u n c i l , w h i c h awarded grant funds to help support marketing for the event

“JOG N JAM is quickly becoming a favorite island event,” Executive Director Maria Espinoza said “Our event brings the community together for a weekend of fun, fitness and festivity, all while supporting the vital programs that help so many of our neighbors ”

JOG N JAM will begin with 10K and 5K races at The Community House on Sanibel, followed by a Kids Fun Run at the Sanibel Community Park Later that afternoon, a concert featuring the band Funk You will be held at the 'Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa on Captiva, plus fireworks on the beach

The 10K will begin at 7 a m and the 5K will start at 7:15 a m Both races will be timed by Lin-Mark Sports using the Chronotrack Timing System Lastly, the

From

Kids Fun Run will take place at 9 a m

Each runner will receive a finisher's

include top female and male overall, first place female and male, and age groups

awards

Fees for runner registration are tiered, starting at $45 through Sept 30 The fees will increase through December. Open to ages 10 and under, the Kids Fun Run is free, but participants must still sign up

A virtual option for the 10K and 5K are also available The cost is $50 through Dec 7

For the concert, shuttle transportation is included in the ticket price and will begin at 5:30 p m Food, drinks and alcohol will be available for purchase; no outside alcohol and food will be permitted

The ticket cost is tiered, starting at $75 through Sept. 30. It will increase through December

“We encourage everyone to sign up, join the fun and be our guests for a great cause,” Espinoza said

In addition to JOG N JAM on Dec 7, the following will take place:

∫ Dec 6: Join F I S H at the Sanibel Luminary, where it will have a special presence to engage with the community and collect holiday items for its Adopt-aFamily and Adopt-a-Senior programs.

∫ Dec 8: Wrap up the weekend at the Sanibel Island Farmers Market, where F I S H will have a table to meet with community members, share information and continue celebrating the spirit of the islands

T h e i s l a n d s ' o n l y h u m a n s e r v i c e s o r g a n i z a t i o n , F I S H ' s m i s s i o n i s t o enrich the lives of all people on Sanibel and Captiva by “neighbors helping neighbors” with social services, education and assistance.

All proceeds from JOG N JAM will

benefit its core pillars Food Programs, I s l a n d -

Senior Services, and Helping Hands as well as ongoing Hurricane Ian recovery efforts

“This exciting weekend is not only a chance to join in the fun, celebrate the beautiful islands of Sanibel and Captiva, and enjoy some great music, it's also an opportunity to support a good cause,” Espinoza said

To register or to purchase tickets or merchandise, visit https://www fishofsancap org/jog-n-jam/

For information about sponsorships, visit online or email events@fishofsancap org

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

BAILEY-MATTHEWS NATIONAL SHELL MUSEUM & AQUARIUM

left, Sanibel Public Library staffer Matt Gindling, Circulation & Interlibrary Loan Services Coordinator Eden Sherman and staffer Shelby Stuebner with Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium curator and Science Director Dr. José H. Leal and Executive Director Sam Ankerson.

$6,485,116 in ad valorem revenue for the district

The board also voted 3-0 to approve a final budget of $27,582,065 for fiscal year 2024-25

The Lee County Property Appraiser’s Office has certified that the gross taxable value for operating purposes not exempt from taxation in Lee County to the district as $4,660,521,567

Prior to the voting, Fire Chief Kevin Barbot reiterated that the proposed millage rate was the same as the rolled-back rate and it, as well as the proposed budget, were as agreed upon at the first hearing

Fire

Chief Kevin Barbot

C o m m i s s i o n e r B r u c e C o c h r a n e explained that the district was able to go with the rolledback rate thanks to state and federal funds that the district received for some of its biggest expenses, including the rebuilding of Station 172 on Sanibel-Captiva Road and the

Obituaries

revenue losses from Hurricane Ian.

“Without their help, it would have been a completely different situation,” he said Cochrane added that using the rolledback will ease the burden on taxpayers as recovery continues

“We're very lucky to be able to do this and very happy to be able to do it,” he said

Monthly meeting

Before the final budget hearing, the commission held its monthly meeting

The commissioners voted 3-0 to approve a resolution entering into a funding agreement with the state for the $2 1 million in appropriations that the district received for the reconstruction of Station 172

Also at the meeting, the commission voted 3-0 on a resolution to purchase a Can AM Defender Max HD-10 for about $33,735 to replace the current utility vehicle a 2015 John Deere Gator HPX

Prior to the vote, Barbot explained that staff received three quotes and is proposing approval of the lowest bid He noted that the district has wanted to replace the utility vehicle for the last decade

“ W

cues,” Barbot said, adding that it is a necessary asset

Also at the meeting, the

commissioners voted 3-0 to approve a resolution entering into an interlocal agreement with the city of Sanibel to waive certain fees relating to the new construction, reconstruction, repair and demolition of buildings and facilities

In other meeting news

∫ Barbot reported that Lee County awarded the district $9 1 million through the U S Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program for the rebuilding and elevation of Station 171 on Palm Ridge Road

He expects the funding agreement to be in place by December

∫ Assistant Fire Chief Chris Jackson provided an update on the reconstruction of Station 172

He reported that the contractor recently formed the first floor, which is elevated 6 feet off of the ground On Sept 20, it was scheduled to start pouring the floors, weather permitting Once the floors are done, the contractor will begin to build up vertically with the walls and such going in

∫ Jackson provided an update on the replacement brush truck Warrior Manufacturing recently received the chassis It already completed the body, but there is still some work to do, such as the suspension

“Their contact says 90 days,” he said of delivery “They're hoping for less 60 days or less ”

∫ The district responded to 125 calls in July and 99 calls in August

“We are approximately 27% from where we were last year,” Deputy Fire Chief John DiMaria said

∫ The following staff were recognized for their years of service: Lt Brian Howell for 23 years

Stormwater system

Dolley said the roadside swales on West Gulf Drive have certain amounts of storage and are designed to a certain point, but when full they are not designed for excess water to be released

“Most areas where necessary, we put out warning signs to make sure drivers were aware,” he said of standing water

The stormwater infrastructures are also monitored and evaluated to ensure there are no clogs, as well as maximizing the storage as much as possible Dolley said there are areas under a lot of stress.

The weir structures for the Sanibel Slough are a major stormwater infrastructure for the island There are also hundreds of culverts, catch basins, roadside s w a l e s a n d r e t e n t i o n a r e a

stormwater infrastructure

“Our staff has been monitoring those areas to ensure things are open and not clogged and nothing is contributing to more issues than the record rainfall we have had,” he said, adding that it is an ongoing effort as they check as often as possible.

A large portion of the island uses the Sanibel Slough system, as there is a west and east basin for the stormwater infrastructure Tarpon Bay Road operates as the dividing line The freshwater environment is the large part that makes the island a sanctuary

The slough operates as an avenue for excess stormwater and freshwater hold-

ing, which maintains the environment through the dry season

“There are water control structures that do overflow naturally on its own, and water control gates to lower the levels when needed to reduce flooding through t h o s e

y dependent on tides when we can and cannot open (the gates) ”

Dolley said they started working on updating the stormwater master plan at the beginning of the summer and anticipate working on it through late spring of next year The process will include public input, which will most likely occur after the holidays

He said they are evaluating Hurricane Ian impacts, as well as looking at how Sanibel manages stormwater in balance between flood protection and the environment In addition, they will look at how sea level rise and resiliency measures can be looked at to modernize the system when possible

An engineering firm is also evaluating issues and collecting data from ground level and slough levels

“

issues we identified couldn’t wait, but also have a larger repair project that involves going through and addressing issues that maybe came from Hurricane Ian regarding swales, unclogging catch basins and culverts,” Dolley said

Lumen continues installation of fiber internet

Fiber's fiber internet is underway

Construction began in August and the project is currently in Phase 2.

Phase 2 will include the following areas:

∫ Aerial work: Donax Street, Junonia Street, Oliva Street, West Gulf Dive, Middle Gulf Drive and Par View Drive

S

∫ Underground work: Center

h Street, Sand Castle Road, Bailey

Drive, Marthas Lane, Farm Trail and Middle Gulf 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

For more information or quest

tiesone com

From page 12 Lumen Technologies reported t

Snowy plovers

able to hatch chicks, however they too disappeared shortly after hatching ”

White/Blue returned to Sanibel for a third and final nesting attempt in the natural sand on the dune side of the berm, with both the berm and dune vegetation blocki n g s i

snowy plovers typically favor nesting in areas with open sight lines for easy detection of predators Unfortunately, the nest was depredated by a coyote shortly after the Fourth of July holiday weekend.

The 2024 season marks the lowest number of snowy plover nest attempts on record, and the first time that zero chicks have fledged since the SCCF began consistently monitoring in 2002

Shorebird impacts of renourishment

The SCCF reported that the effects of renourishment projects on snowy plovers and their habitats have been studied in the past, to include:

∫ Research published in 2011, using data along the Florida Gulf Coast, found that it was 2 5 times more likely that a region was not a breeding ground (defined as 10 or more nesting sites) following a renourishment event

∫ Snowy plovers prefer beaches with

natural debris and organic material that provides food and camouflage for them-

Renourished beaches cover this natural habitat and as a result may negatively impact chick survival by reducing options to conceal themselves from predators

∫ Prey availability is also impacted in that it tends to decline temporarily following renourishment

“Not only were the natural wrack lines covered by placed sand, but ephemeral pools created by Hurricane Ian were also filled in with new sand Ephemeral pools positively impact chick survival, and nesting adults choose to nest near ephemeral pools because of their prey availability,” White said “We observed this trend last season from our Sanibel snowy plovers

w

ephemeral pools, seven of nine chicks fledging, and six of seven in record time for chicks fledged on island ”

human activity following the storm may have also played a role

Least ter ns fledge on Causeway

The SCCF reported that least terns attempted to nest across multiple loca-

tions in the region

For the second year in a row after a 30year absence, least terns nested on the Sanibel Causeway Since the causeway is an active construction site, the SCCF, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Florida Department of T

with the contractors to get the site monitored to ensure the safety of the birds

According to the most recent data, l e a s t t e r n s o n t h e C a u s e w a y f l e d g e d young for the first time in at least 30 years

Off-island at Bunche Beach, least terns had a small colony that did well considering its size At least five chicks fledged from five total nests On Sanibel, least terns attempted to nest twice but both attempts failed quickly as they were not able to grow the colony large enough to adequately defend their nests from predators

Off-island shorebird monitoring

s h o r e b i r d s p e c i e s n e s t , i n c l u d i n g

k i l l d e e r , W i l s o n ’ s p l o v e r s

s v e r y c a r e f u l t o m i n i m i z e d i s t u r b a n c e w h i l e m o n i t o r i n g , ” W h i t e s a i d “ W h i l e t h e r e w a s a b u n d a n t n e s t i n g a c t i v i t y o n t h e p r e s e r v e , v e r y f e w c h i c k s , i f a n y , s u rv i v e d t o f l e d g i n g a f t e r a m a s s i v e r a i n e v e n t f l o o d e d t h e n e s t i n g a r e a s ” W i l s o n ’ s p l o v e r s w e r e o n c e a g a i n s u c c e s s f u l a t B u n c h e B e a c h , w h e r e t h e S C C F ’ s s h o r e b i r d t e a m c o l l a b o r a t e s w i t h p a r t n e r s f r o m t h e J N “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g N a t i o n a l W i l d l i f e R e f u g e t o m o n i t o r a n d p r o t e c t b e a c h - n e s t i n g b i r d s A t l e a s t s i x W i l s o n ’ s p l o v e r s c h i c k s f l e d g e d b e f o r e T r o p i c a l S t o r m D e b b y w a s h e d o v e r t h e a r e a W i l s o n ’ s p l o v e r s h a v e n o t n e s t e d o n S a n i b e l s i n c e 2 0 2 1 “ T h i s s e a s o n p r o v i d e d S C C F w i t h v a l u a b l e d a t a a b o u t s p e c i f i c h a b i t a t r e q u i r e m e n t s f o r n e s t i n g s n o w y p l o v e r s A d d i t i o n a l l y , o u

Coffee, tea or milk Community gathering to focus on love for Sanibel, each other

My wife is a former airline flight attendant and although she hasn’t flown for a number of years, she can’t get out of the habit

Whenever we have a dinner party, she insists on giving our guests seat

n u m b e r s w h e n t h e y arrive

She always overbooks dinner parties and bumps those who are the last to arrive But she does it graciously She offers them the choice between com-

i n g b a c k t h e f o l l o w i n g week or a free dinner at a nearby Sanibel restaurant When I complain to her that we can’t do that to friends she maintains that

s h e ’ s s i m p l y f o l l o w i n g

a i r l i n e r e g u l a t i o n s . A n d then she announces that there will be a one-hour delay until the start of dinner due to microwave mechanical difficulties

But what really gets me is when she escorts some of our guests into a “first class” section in our dining room and all the others are invited to sit on the floor in the living room the penalty they pay for coach class accommodations

I catch her in the kitchen and tell her she’s got to remember that she’s no longer a flight attendant and can’t treat our guests this way. She gazes at me steadily, and then blinks her eyes as though coming out of a deep trance

“Oh, my God Am I doing it again? I just can’t get out of the habit But I’ll try I’ll really try ”

Then for a half hour or so, all is well She serves dinner and mingles with the guests Then it starts to rain outside and my wife is at it again She calls for everyone’s attention and says:

“The captain has asked me to remind our passengers that due to unexpected turbulence, you are requested to keep your seat belts securely fastened If you move about the cabin, please fasten your seat belts when you return to your seats ”

Our guests begin to murmur They’re used to my wife’s unusual dinner party behavior Everyone, including me, humors her and simply goes with the flow

The next night she charges me two dollars for a set of ear phones when I turn on the TV set to watch a movie She also shows me where she keeps the life jackets and oxygen masks in the event we have to evacuate our home or there’s a sudden drop in cabin pressure

She’s put signs on the bathroom doors saying “vacant” and “occupied ”

And she insists on describing our home to me in detail every night during dinner saying I should learn every feature of our wide body model for my personal comfort

“Honey,” I say “Enough Can’t we be just like everyone else and call a home a home, not a wide body model?”

She looks at me apologetically and says, “I just want to make your flight as comfortable as possible Can I get you a blanket or a pillow? Delta’s ready when you are. Would you like chicken or fish for dinner? (Yes, even she remembers when airlines actually served food ) Coffee, tea or milk?”

I tried being patient and gentle with her, but one night when I arrived home she had chained the door from the inside I rang the bell No response I pounded on the door Nothing I shouted

Finally, my wife sweetly told me from behind closed doors that I was on standby and that she would do whatever she could to get me on board

The situation was becoming alarming Friends refused our dinner invitations They told us they’d rather collect shells. My relationship with my wife was getting desperate I decided I would try to reason with her one more time

COFFEE, page 29

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

A culmination of the recent Love Sanibel Businesses Back initiative, an upcoming event will offer the community the chance to come together to celebrate the islands and recovery since Hurricane Ian.

Hosted by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, the Love Sanibel Community Gathering will take place on Sept 28 from noon to 3 p m at The Community House on Sanibel Free and open to the public, it aims to recognize the love for each other and for the island that has seen the community through the last two years post-storm

The Rev William “Bill” Van Oss, rector for Saint Michael, explained that the church organized a commemorative service last year to mark Ian's anniversary and this year's event is a follow-up

“On the second anniversary, I think it's important for us to celebrate the progress that's been made,” he said “Celebrate our coming together as a community in our rebuilding and putting our lives back together ”

Saint Michael Director of Digital Communications & Christian Formation Sue Van Oss added that many are still traumatized by what occurred in September of 2022 and that is understandable

“We want people to realize this is going to be very joyful and uplifting,” she said of the event planned for this year and what it will entail “This isn't going to be reliving the memories of two years ago ”

Sue Van Oss continued that it will serve as the culmination of the church's Love Sanibel Businesses Back launched earlier this year, which encouraged the community to patronize recovering venues

“That's really what the theme is, love for our island and for our community,” she said “Love is a powerful thing, and it has helped our island heal and has helped our island recover ”

From 1 to 1:45 p m , a program will be held featuring city and community leaders, live music and more, which will be emceed by Bill Van Oss Sanibel Mayor Richard Johnson will open the program with a few remarks, followed by a performance from the Steel Drum Band at The Sanibel School

Next, Saint Michael Assisting Priest the Rev Suzy Post and Director Of Music Erik Entwistle will perform a song, followed by additional remarks from Sanibel City Councilmember Holly Smith The school's Elementary Choir will then take center stage, with a storytelling video to end the program

“There's a special video we're calling 'Love Letters to Sanibel,'” Sue Van Oss said “It's snippets of people sharing what they love about Sanibel and where they have seen love the past two years ”

The event will also feature activities.

“We'll have several tables of craft activities for kids, as well as adults,” she said, adding that the Shellcrafters from The Community House will show adults how to make flowers from shells

Attendees will have the opportunity to create a new memory of Sept 28

Junonia, horse conch found on Sanibel

Jackson Haynes, of Gainesville, found a junonia and John Haynes, of Jacksonville Beach, found a horse conch on Sept 7 at Tarpon Bay Beach on Sanibel. Vanessa Haynes reported that both her son and husband found the shells in about chest-deep water The family has been visiting the island since 2009 “My son is in college at UF (University of Florida) and came down for just the weekend God blessed him is such a short amount of time!” she said “We are so thankful to God for finding these amazing shells!” To report a shell find, contact 239-472-1587 or trepecki@breezenewspapers com PHOTO PROVIDED

Community Gathering When Sept 28 from noon to 3 p m

Where The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Details Free and open to the public

“We're having a professional photo booth, where people can take fun selfies and take home a photo strip and digital images,” Sue Van Oss said

About three dozen island-based entities will be represented with booths

“They're all island organizations,” she said “Everyone f r

(Community Housing & Resources), to the Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club and Santiva Islanders ”

Sue Van Oss added that the church has encouraged the organizations to make their booths interactive For example, the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is planning to offer up a quiz, with prizes.

The Island Store will provide free hot dogs for hungry attendees, and Pinocchio's Original Italian Ice Cream will serve up free ice cream In addition, the church will provide free chips and beverages

“Rotary has volunteered to serve the hot dogs,” she said

Several businesses and organizations have donated items for door prizes

“Everyone will get a ticket,” Sue Van Oss said “We'll be drawing prizes like every 15 minutes ”

Some of the prizes include Rachel Pierce gift bags, merchandise for the city's 50th anniversary, a private session with the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, Jerry's Foods gift cards and more

“They've just been really responsive,” she said of everyone who donated

Event supporters include the city, The Community House, The Island Store and Pinocchio's

The community is encouraged to come out

“This is an opportunity for us to come together to celebrate the progress that's been made,” Bill Van Oss said “This is the spirit of Sanibel It's people coming together and supporting each other and wanting to come together to celebrate the love that we have for each other and for our island, and this will be an opportunity to do that ” F

michaels-sanibel org/ or call 239-472-2173

The Community House is at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Shell Find

Art Stevens Shell Shocked

Exhibit on display at BIG ARTS

BIG ARTS is hosting “The Heights Center at BIG ARTS” from now through O

Sanibel BIG ARTS reported that each summer, its Outreach Program includes field trips with The Heights Center in Fort Myers The collaboration between its arts education and fine arts departments provides engaging, hands-on art projects for the youths. The exhibit features their artwork The BIG ARTS Fine Arts Series is sponsored by Jim and Gaye Pigott The galleries are open Monday through Friday from 9 a m to 3 p m For more information, visit https://bigarts org/ or call 239395-0900 BIG ARTS is at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

BIG ARTS

cheek humor is always offered with a smile Coffee From page 28

“Sweetheart, we can’t go on like this. This is not a plane It’s our home There’s no need for me to eat off a tray We have a beautiful dining room table There’s no reason to put seat belts on We’re on the

ground and nothing will cause me to fall. Can you understand all that?” I think I was beginning to get through to her because her eyes began to focus more sharply Just then our house was

swept up in a tornado and began flying over Sanibel I obediently fastened my seat belt and never questioned my wife again after that

Art Stevens is a long-time columnist for the

ISL AND HOME islander

Staghorn fern is vegetated art

The staghorn fern is a tropical plant native to the Philippines, Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Australia, Madagascar, Africa and America Mainly known for their growth in northern F

Florida, with the most common type for our area

b e i n g t h e P l a t y c e r i u m superbum

They are known for their artistic look with

fronds (fertile fronds) and the basil fronds (sterile fronds). The foliar fronds are the brownish fronds that are erect or pendantshaped and have spores on the underside called sporangia that, when germinated, form new plants The basil fronds are the most apparent fronds that have rounded, thick overlapping layers with an upper portion that resembles the horns on male deer This is where it gets its staghorn name

It thrives in a tropical environment with filtered light where it is off the ground and can naturally gather rainwater It gathers its nutrients by trapping debris within its rounded fronds and from the fronds that slowly decay in the inner core or “nest” of the plants. The ferns like a slightly acidic environment, so to encourage growth in propagated plants, some growers recommend adding used tea leaves or banana peels directly to the plant's nest This slow-growing plant can live for decades in the ideal environment and can eventually grow to as much as a meter in width and height and weigh more than 100 pounds

Staghorn ferns can be artistically grown on a small piece of driftwood when it is small to serve as a piece of art on an accent wall, tree or column But keep in mind that it will continue to grow around the driftwood and eventually need to be moved into a more supportive wooden or wire structure to allow it to have something to grow around Ideally, it will need to be hung up in a large tree or from a very sturdy frame structure

If you are looking for a unique focal point in your landscape that needs very little care, a couple of properly placed staghorn ferns might be just what you are looking for

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

F.I.S.H. to recognize National Good Neighbor Day

On Sept 28, F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva will join communities across the nation in celebrating National Good Neighbor Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the importance of being a good neighbor and encouraging a spirit of kindness and support within the community

For over 40 years, F I S H has been committed to enriching the lives of all who live and work on the islands through an array of senior services, education and assistance programs. As the only wrap-around social service agency in the community, it provides essential support through food programs, island-based education, senior services and emergency financial assistance

F I S H reported that its programs are made possible by the dedication of more than 200 volunteers who represent good neighbors every day Throughout the year, they contribute countless hours to make a difference in the lives of their neighbors Volunteers deliver hot meals to seniors and others, assist with transportation needs, pick up supplies and stock the food pantry, facilitate phone call wellness checks, organize activities, assist with youth food backpack assembly and more.

“National Good Neighbor Day is a wonderful opportunity to recognize and celebrate the spirit of generosity, support, and connection that defines our community At F I S H , we embrace our 'Neighbors Helping Neighbors' motto every day, a legacy driven by the incredible dedic

Executive Officer Maggi Feiner,” Executive Director Maria Espinoza said “Maggi has devoted herself to this organization as a volunteer, taking no salary, and committing countless hours each month to build advocacy for F I S H , create essential connections and engage donors Her unwavering commitment exemplifies the spirit of our organization and community We are deeply grateful to her, and to all our volunteers and supporters, who make it possible for us to fulfill our mission and positively impact so many lives year-round ”

In recognition of National Good Neighbor Day, F I S H encourages the public to take a moment to connect with others, lend a helping hand and get involved in their community For more information about volunteering with F I S H , contact Espinoza at 239-472-4775 or visit www.fishofsancap.org.

FEMA extends housing program for Ian survivors

because of a shortage of affordable rental housing and delays in repair contractor availability, it has approved the state of Florida's request to extend the federal direct housing program by six months

Survivors temporarily living in FEMA-provided manufactured hous-

DeSoto, Hardee, Lee, Sarasota and V

March 29 to complete their permanent housing plan, if they remain eli-

gible

Those continuing to live in FEMA temporary housing units after Sept 29 must:

∫ Make timely rent payments

∫ Document their progress toward a permanent housing plan

∫ Work with their housing advisor for recertification at least every two weeks

∫ Follow health, safety and other terms and conditions in the licensing agreement

Survivors will receive a letter from

FEMA about their individual situation and can contact their housing advisor with any questions Disaster case managers are also working one-onone with survivors to support permanent housing plan completion

Since Hurricane Ian, FEMA has provided temporary housing units for more than 1,300 displaced families in the state Working with the Florida Division of Emergency Management and local partners, more than 80% of

home

Volunteers spruce up proper ties on Sanibel

recently partnered with Florida Gulf C

United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties and local organizations to help Sanibel residents who are still recovering from Hurricane Ian beautify their properties in preparation for the city of Sanibel's 50th anniversary Over the Labor Day weekend, 50 volunteers from the FGCU Pike Fraternity worked on various projects, including painting houses, rearranging furniture, maintaining yards and landscaping “We are incredibly grateful to these hardworking volunteers who chose to spend their holiday weekend serving our community,” F I S H Disaster

A d m i n i s t

a Martinez said “Their dedication to helping our neighbors recover and prepare for the city's milestone cele-

I S H OF

Gulf Coast University volunteers recently assisted island residents with cleaning up their properties in advance of the city of Sanibel's 50th anniversary celebration.

bration reflects their true willingness to help others ” F I S H coordinated the effort by surveying residents on its long-term recovery waiting list and collaborating with the city to communicate the availability of volunteer assistance Additional partners included Landgraphics, which loaned tools and equipment to facili-

tate the projects, and Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, which provided a resting space for volunteers “It's wonderful to see so many hands come together to help our neighbors,” she added “Our collaboration with FGCU and our many partners shows that together, we can achieve great things ”

IN THE GARDEN

Staghorn fern

F I S H OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

Cheryl Biltgen is one of the volunteers with F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva

F

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

Florida

Recipe of the Week: Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

This is my version of the red velvet cake of the famous Bubble Room restaurant on Captiva People from all over the world have enjoyed this wonderful cake while vacationing there Makes two dozen cupcakes (Chef tip: Not all cocoa powder is the same. Dutch process is cocoa powder that has been washed in a potassium solution that neutralizes its acidity This gives the cocoa powder a darker color This cocoa in baking is paired with baking powder Natural is cocoa that has not had its acid stripped Lighter in color, it is paired with baking soda )

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, plus more for dusting the pans

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup buttermilk

2 teaspoons white vinegar

2 teaspoons red liquid food coloring

2 teaspoon vanilla paste

1 1/3 cups dark brown sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

4 eggs, room temperature

CROW Calendar

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

∫ Wednesday, Sept 2 5

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be “One World One Health ”

∫ Thursday, Sept. 2 6

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The presentation will be “Ecosystems Of Florida ”

∫ Friday, Sept. 2 7

Program of the Week at 11 a m

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

∫ Monday, Sept 3 0

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be the presenter’s choice

∫ Tuesday, Oct. 1

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

∫ Wednesday, Oct. 2

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be “Ecosystems Of Florida ”

Admission is $12 for ages 13 and older, $7 for ages 4-12 and free for ages 3 and under.

In addition, CROW offers a Wildlife Walk Hospital Tour on Mondays through

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

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

The spirituality of an upgrade

A c o u p l e o f w e e k s a g o ,

J u d y a n d I t h o u g h t i t m i g h t b e t i m e t o u p g r a d e o u r w i r e l e s s d e v i c e s a n d s o w e r o l l e d i n t o o u r l o c a l c e l l p h o n e p r o v i d e r t o c h e c k o u t t h e l a t e s t o f f e ri n g s N o w , I a m t h e l a s t p e r s o n t o b e c o n s i d e r e d a “ t e c h i e , ” w h i c h i s w h y e v e r y t i m e I f a c e t h i s d e c is i o n t o u p g r a d e a d e v i c e , I f i n d m y s e l f c o n f l i c t e d a s t o w h e t h e r I s h o u l d d o s o o r n o t O n t h e o n e h a n d , I c a n b e a r w i t n e s s t o h o w m u c h m o r e p r o d u c t i v e I h a v e b e c o m e b e c a u s e o f s o m a n y o f t h e d e v i c e s t h a t h a v e b e e n i n t r o d u c e d i n r e c e n t y e a r s I ’ m s u r e y o u c a n a s w e l l . C a n y o u i m a g i n e w h a t y o u r l i f e w a s l i k e b e f o r e c o m p u t e r s a n d c e l l p h o n e s ? I t m a y e v e n b e t h a t s o m e o f y o u r e a d i n g t h i s c o l u m n h a v e n e v e r k n o w n a d a y w i t h o u t s u c h d e v i c e s ! S o , I

Dr.

Faith

Cream cheese frosting:

12 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

3 cups powdered sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Pinch salt

Set a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 350°F Line two muffin tins with paper liners Whisk the flours, cocoa, baking soda and salt together in a bowl and set aside Whisk the buttermilk, food coloring, vinegar and vanilla together in a small bowl and set aside

Combine the brown sugar and butter in the bowl of a stand-up mixer with the paddle attachment and cream on medium speed until lightened in color, about five minutes Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula Slowly add the eggs and beat until they are fully incorporated

With the mixer on low, add the flour mixture, alternating with the buttermilk mixture Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl between each addition

Scoop batter into cupcake liners Bake until set, about 20-25 minutes Cool completely, before frosting

Combine the cream cheese and butter on medium speed, just until blended, in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl Add the vanilla and salt and beat until combined With the speed on low, add the powdered sugar in four batches, beating until smooth between each addition

Island Worship

∫ Bat Yam Temple of the Islands 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel (Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ), https://www batyam org/, https://www facebook com/batyamsanibel/ Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

s l a n d e r

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

o f h o w m u c h m o r e I m i g h t b e a b l e t o d o

T h e f o r m e r m o t i v a t i o n i s a b o u t

“ e x p a n d i n g m y s e r v e , ” a s a n o l d c h u r c h l e a d e r s h i p s a y i n g w e n t T h e l a t t e r i s

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

w i t h n e w t e c h n o l o g y i n h a n d o r o n m y w r i s t ( a n d i n l e s s t i m e ! ) , t h o u g h t h e r e i s a n o t h e r p a r t o f m e t h a t w o n d e r s i f t h e s e u p g r a d e s a r e r e a l l y n o t h i n g m o r e t h a n a t w e a k h e r e a n d t h e r e i n t e n d e d t o a p p e a l t o m y d e s i r e t o o w n t h e “ l a t e s t a n d g r e a te s t ” I t ’ s t h a t l a s t c o n s i d e r at i o n t h a t u l t i m a t e l y b e c o m e s t h e d e c i d i n g f a ct o r f o r m e , n o t o n l y w i t h r e s p e c t t o t e c h n o l o g i c a l u p g r a d e s b u t a l s o w h e n i t c o m e s t o p r e t t y m u c h e v e r y t h i n g e l s e i n l i f e I s m y m o t i v a t i o n t o b e c o m e m o r e p r o d u c t i v e o r i s i t s i m p l y t o f e e l m o r e s p ec i a l b e c a u s e I h a v e t h e n e w e s t m o d e l i n m y p o s s e s s i o n , e v e n i f I d o n ’ t f u l l y u n d e r s t a n d h o w t o u s e i t i n w a y s t h a t m a k e m e m o r e p r o d u c t i v e ?

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

Senior Minister Rev Dr Mark Boyea

Sunday service at 10 a.m. in the Sanctuary.

∫ Saint Isabel Catholic Church 3559 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, 239-472-2763, https://www saintisabel org/, https://www facebook com/stisabelcatholicchurch/ Father Edward Martin

Friday Mass at 9 a m Saturday Vigil Mass at 5 p m Sunday Mass at 10 a m

∫ Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-2173, https://www saintmichaelssanibel org/, https://www facebook com/saintmichaelssanibel/ Rev William “Bill” Van Oss

Saturday service at 5 p m in the Sanctuary, with a social to follow Sunday service at 9:30 a m , with a coffee hour to follow; service is available via livestream and the link on the website.

T h a t ’ s w h y a s I b e c a m e m o r e a w a r e

o f w h a t s o m e o f t h e n e w t e c h n o l o g y

m i g h t m e a n t o m y c a p a c i t y f o r g r e a t e r e f f e c t i v e n e s s , I d e c i d e d t o b i t e t h e b u l l e t a n d b e a r t h e a d d i t i o n a l e x p e n s e f o r b o t h J u d y a n d m e . M a y b e y o u ’ v e b e e n m u l l i n g t h e s a m e d e c i s i o n P e r h a p s y o u m i g h t f i n d m y r e a s o n i n g h e l p f u l a s y o u m a k e y o u r d e c i s i o n , p a r t i c u l a r l y i f y o u a r e a p e r s o n o f f a i t h A f t e r a l l , m o s t t o o l s o f t h i s t y p e a r e m o r a l l y n e u t r a l ; i t ’ s t h e p e o p l e w h o a r e u s i n g t h e m w h o t u r n t h e m f o r g o o d o r e v i l , a n d w h o a r e t u r n e d b y t h e m i n t h e s a m e w a y s S o , I i n v i t e y o u t o c h e c k y o u r h e a r t a s y o u c h e c k y o u r d e v i c e Y o u m a y a c t u a ll y d i s c o v e r t h a t y o u r h e a r t i s t h e r e a l p l a c e t o b e g i n , f o r i t s p u r i t y d

Loretta Paganini

Rev.

Doug Dortch Faces on

Cheeburger

Cheeburger, 1975 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

MudBugs

Cajun Kitchen, 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

islandBEAT islander

The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

Cardio & Strength

Santiva Islanders Calendar

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength today, 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

Gentle Yoga

Lynn Young will host Gentle Yoga on Sept 26 from 10:30 to 11:30 a m at the Sanibel Congregational

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 27 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 The winners last week were: Jim Marianski and Julie Tobias, tied for first place; and Jim Liichow and Peg Marianski, tied for second place

Shellcrafters

The Shellcrafters will meet on Sept 30 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

info@sanibelcommunityhouse net

United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring a towel and ample water and wear comfortable clothing; bring a mat, if needed Cost is $10 per class For more information, contact Susan Talmage at 214-206-6822 or drsusantalmage@gmail com

Social Mahjong

Social Mahjong will be held on Sept 26 from 1 to 3:30 p m in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel C o s t i s $ 5 F o r m o

Funderburg at bfundy4648@gmail.com.

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on Sept 27 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

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on Sept 30 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 30 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 Oct 2 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

Evan duPont, of Sanibel, found a junonia on July 27 while shelling on Cayo Costa State Park Calli Johnson reported that it was his first one and duPont feels very lucky because he just became a serious sheller “The spot we found, it had been washed out by Hurricane Debby since, so it would have been swept away if he hadn't picked it up!” she added To report a shell find, contact 239-472-1587 or trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Mucky Duck, 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

Traders, 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Rosalita's Cantina, 975 Rabbit Road, Sanibel

Tutti Pazzi

Kitchen, 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Bat Yam announces High Holidays schedule

Bat Yam Temple of the Islands on

h

Holidays services

The schedule will include:

∫ Sept 28: Selichot at 6 p m

∫ Oct 2: Rosh Hashanah evening at 7 p m

∫ Oct 3: Rosh Hashanah morning at 10 p m

∫ Oct 3: Tashlich on the Beach at 12:45 p.m.

∫ Oct 11: Kol Nidre at 7 p m

∫ Oct 12: Yom Kippur morning at 10

a m

∫ Oct 12: Yizkor and Neilah with

rabbi discussion at 3:30 p m

∫ Oct 12: Break-The-Fast at 7 p m

All services will be led by Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer With the exception of Tashlich on the Beach, they will be held at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

In addition, the services will be offered virtually via Zoom, with the links sent out via email Newcomers can request the links by sending their email to batyamsanibel@gmail com

All are welcome to attend for free

www batyam org

N o a h ' s A

Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church on Sanibel, will not reopen to customers on Oct 1 as previously announced due to unexpected delays Officials reported that the new reopening date will be publicized as soon as possible. They added that store

Author to release new ‘Alleluia’ book

volunteers regret the delay and look forward to welcoming customers in the near

sanibel org/noahs-ark Noah’s Ark Thrift Shop is at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

‘Don’t Pat Me Down’

(To the tune of “Don’t Fence Me In”)

Oh give me miles, frequent miles, Let me fly the skies above Don’t pat me down,

Let me wander over yonder

Just to see the ones I love Don’t pat me down

I won’t mind being compacted Into rows of threes

With the back of a front seat

To crush my knees, I can fly like this forever

But I ask you please, Don’t pat me down

Unloose my shoes, You can throttle My water bottle

As a dangerous device; But I refuse

To let you grope

Or even scope me

Just to fly your friendly skies

I want to ride on a plane

Where they won’t inspect me, And scan my private parts In order to protect me, I don’t look Muslim

So how dare they suspect me Don’t pat me down

No, no, Security, Don’t you pat me down

S

“Alleluia: Stories of an Island and a Church ”

Featuring previously unpublished interviews and photographs, it is a compilation of remarkable stories of how residents of Sanibel and members of Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church took unprecedented actions to emerge as leaders in environmental conservation and racial integration. A book launch and book signing with Adams will t a k

Gathering on Sept 28 from noon to 3 p m at The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel The book costs $10 Starting on Sept 29,

authored four books, including “Collecting and Restoring Antique Bicycles” and “My Adventures With People, Places and The Past ”

Joe Pacheco

Reopening of Noah’s Ark delayed

PHOTO PROVIDED

Exhibitions open at Alliance for the Arts

The Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers is displaying “Allegories & Illusions” by Kathleen Kinkopf in the main gallery and “ P i e r c i n g t h e V e i l ” b y D a n i e l l e Branchuad in the Foulds Theatre Gallery Kinkopf has been creating since she can remember She grew up in rural Ohio, immersed in nature where she spent many hours creating imaginary worlds of her own Kinkopf earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Miami University of Ohio, which led to a career as a graphic designer and

art director in Dallas It eventually led to illustration working with clients across t h e c o u n t r y K i n k o p f l a t e r o p e n e d a gallery in Colorado before settling in Sante Fe, New Mexico, where she committed to painting full time.

Her work has been exhibited in solo and group gallery exhibitions nationally and internationally, from Santa Fe to South Korea, and recognized and awarded by numerous organizations After living and working in New Mexico for nearly

two decades, fate brought Kinkopf to Southwest Florida where she has found new inspiration for her work in a world of water, giant birds, thunderstorms, reptiles and the magic and mystery of sea life Canadian-born artist Branchaud has lived and worked in Southwest Florida for over 15 years She specializes in the efficient and intimate use of acrylics, creating conceptual series work and portraits The works of Branchaud are notorious in their depth and intensity when it comes to fac-

ing those dimensions She has exhibited work throughout the region and her working studio can be visited at the Union A

presently working as the curator of exhibitions at Arts Bonita in Bonita Springs

The exhibits are on display from now through Sept 28

For more information or tickets, visit https://www artinlee org/

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

Animal Services pets can help to fill empty nest

Services can help families avoid that empty-nest feeling now that children have gone back to school

From now through Sept 30, adoption fees for cats and kittens and dogs older than 6 months will be reduced to $25 In addition, cats and kittens are two-for-one; adopt one and take home a second feline friend at no additional charge

The adoption package includes spay or neuter, microchip, up-to-date vaccinations, a county license and a 10-day health check a package valued at $600

Located at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers, the adoption center is open on Mondays through Fridays from 10:30 a m to 3:30 p m

533-7387 (LEE-PETS)

Refuge’s WoW team visits local school

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge reported that the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife on Wheels (WoW) team

a t t e n d e d P e l i c a n E l e m e n t a r y ' s S T E M

Night on Sept 3 in Cape Coral It interacted with 325 individuals focusing on a butterfly theme Students were able to view a proboscis under a microscope They also acted as pollinators by “flying” a butterfly on a string around to different flowers while spreading “pollen” (paint) After learning about butterflies and pollination, students received a butterfly mask to take home In addition, the DDWS reported that several Title I schools have c o m m i t t e d t o v i s i t s f o r t h e 2 0 2 4 - 2 5 school year amounting to a reach of an estimated 8,000 to 9,000 students. To date, the tentative WoW schedule is as follows:

∫ O c t 1 5 t h r o u g h N o v 1 : T i c e

Elementary in Fort Myers

∫ Nov 4-22: Lehigh Elementary in Lehigh Acres

∫ Dec 2-20: Varsity Lakes Middle School in Lehigh Acres

∫ J a n 6 - 1 7 : G W e a v e r H i p p s Elementary in Lehigh Acres

Hammock Middle School in Fort Myers

∫ Feb 13-28: Manatee Elementary in Fort Myers

KATHLEEN KINKOPF

DANIELLE BRANCHAUD