Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

Historical village to reopen with celebration

B y T I F FA N Y R E P E C K I

t r e p e c k i @ b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s c o m

Th e S a n i b e l H i s t o r i c a l M u s e u m & V i l l a g e i s r e o p e n i n g i t s d o o r s i n t h e a f t e r m a t h o f H u r r i c a n e I a n T h e c o m m u n i t y i s w e l c o m e t o c e l e b r a t e t h e m o m e n t d u ri n g a f r e e e v e n t o n M a r c h 2 8 f r o m 3 t o 5 p m T h e r e w i l l b e t o u r s o f s o m e b u i l d i n g s , t w o e x h i b i t s t o s e e , a r i b b o n - c u tt i n g , r e f r e s h m e n t s , a n d m o r e

“ T h o u g h a l l b u i l d i n g s s u f f e r e d v a r y i n g d e g r e e s o f d a m -

See HISTORICAL VILLAGE CELEBRATION, page 3

The Sanibel Historical Museum & Village will celebrate its post-hurricane reopening with a free community event on March 28 from 3 to 5 p m on its grounds, at 950 Dunlop Road, Sanibel SANIBEL HISTORICAL MUSEUM AND VILLAGE

Sanibel educator named as one Golden Apple winner

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

On March 16, The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools surprised the 2023 Golden Apple Teachers in their classrooms with their award, including one educator from the island school

For the 36th consecutive year, program sponsors, foundation officials, business leaders, and the selection committee participated in the surprise day festivities At The Sanibel School, middle-school math teacher Stephanie Yanik a first-time finalist for the recognition was named a winner.

“I was simply elated to be one of the six winners this year It's truly an honor,” she said

“The whole process has been joyful and exciting,” Yanik added

The 2022-23 school year is her first one working at the Sanibel school. Yanik

On th e Tab le SWFL set fo r commu nity

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The community has an opportunity to engage in conversations with others to generate ideas to create a more sustaina b l e a n d v i b r a n t S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a through On the Table SWFL

The regional civic engagement conversations will be held on March 30 C o l l a b o r a t o r y s p o k e s p e r s o n N o e l l e Casagrande said On the Table has been done nationally before, with the first On the Table SWFL held in 2019 with more than 1,500 participants This year, given the regional scope, they wanted to partner w i t h t h e C o m m u n i t y F o u n d a t i o n o f Collier County and Charlotte Community Foundation to drive the strategic work

“It’s super simple The concept is very interesting,” she said. “It’s a one-day r e g i o n a l c o n v e r s a t i o n w i t h n e i g h b o r s , friends, coworkers and volunteers getting together over a meal, or a cup of coffee to share what matters most to them ”

They are encouraging table hosts to have anywhere from eight to 15 people, at such places as churches, community centers, restaurants and at Collaboratory “ T h e t h e m e i s u p t o e a c h h o s t , ” Casagrande said “The idea is transforming Southwest Florida, reimagining new possibilities for our region.”

I n d i v i d u a l s c a n a l s o v i s i t o n t h e t ableswfl com/join to attend tables at such

See ON THE TABLE, page 3

THE SANIBEL SCHOOL

From left, Darrel Lieze-Adams of sponsor NBC2, The Sanibel School

Principal Jamie Reid, Golden Apple Teacher Stephanie Yanik, The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools President and Chief Executive Officer Marshall T Bower, and Assistant Principal Jennifer Lusk See GOLDEN APPLE, page 5

Sanibel fire assists with rescue after boating collision

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

Island fire crews recently aided in the rescue of seven people following a two-vessel collision.

On March 12 at about 10 p m , the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District received a call about a boating accident between the island and Fort Myers Beach Its Marine Emergency Response Team was dispatched to the area, about a half-mile away from Bunche Beach, between the beach and A Span

“When our crews arrived on scene, they saw that two boats were involved,” Capt John DiMaria said

He reported that there was a 50-foot sailboat anchored outside of the channel, and the second boat involved was an approximate 30-foot fishing boat that had already begun to sink and overturn.

“We learned that there were seven individuals on the fishing vessel,” DiMaria said

The sailboat involved was unoccupied at the time of the crash

He reported that because the fishing boat was sinking, the seven people on it were in the process of trying to escape to the sailboat when they and a crew from U S Coast Guard Station Fort Myers Beach arrived The Sanibel crew assisted the U S Coast Guard with evacuating the people off of the boats

“The U S Coast Guard took all seven to Moss Marina on Fort Myers Beach for medical evaluation,” DiMaria said, noting that the district did not know the extent of the injuries or treatment required

“There were minor injuries sustained,” he said

The cause of the accident is unknown and under investigation

“We do not know any further information on the cause,” DiMaria said

He added that the sailboat remains where it is

“We don't know who owns it,” DiMaria said, noting that the vessel could be abandoned or derelict “We turned everything over to the Lee County Sheriff's Office.”

With the amount of debris that remains in local waterways in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, the district emphasized the importance of boaters remaining vigilant

and careful when out on the water

“Everything needs to be handled with caution and safe boating,” he said

Expo to focus on volunteer opportunities for aiding islands

T h e C h a r i t a b l e F o u n d a t i o n o f t h e I s l a n d s w i l l h o s t t h e i n a u g u r a l “ G e t Inspired! SanCap Volunteer Expo” on March 30 from 4 to 7:30 p m at BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

The event is designed for Southwest Florida residents who want information o n h o w t h e y c a n a s s i s t S a n i b e l a n d C a p t i v a r e c o v e r a n d r e b u i l d f r o m Hurricane Ian It was the idea of CFI's L e a d e r s h i p S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a C l a s s o f 2022 after it was forced to cancel the 2023 program because of the storm.

“The 2022 Class wanted to help our community reimagine our future,” class member and Chair Jane Majeski said “Come see how you can help shape the islands as we rebuild from Hurricane Ian T h e r e h a s n o t b e e n a t i m e i n m a n y decades that has a greater need for its people to be involved, nor a time when those people can have a bigger impact on the future of the islands ”

Over 15 nonprofit organizations from Sanibel and Captiva, serving those who live and work on the islands and nearby, will participate in the event Attendees will receive a directory with an overview of the participating nonprofits and will learn about volunteer opportunities available Organization representatives will answer questions and sign up volunteers from 4 to 5 p m and 6:15 to 7:30 p m

The event will include an inspirational discussion at 5 p m led by Sanibel resid e n t s P o r t e r G o s s a n d s o n C h a u n c e y Goss. Porter Goss was the first mayor of Sanibel in 1975, represented Southwest F l o r i d a i n t h e U S H o u s e o f Representatives for 16 years and served a s d i r e c t o r o f t h e C I A u n d e r f o r m e r

C h a u n c e y G o s s g r e w u p o n S a n i b e l , served on Capitol Hill in Washington, D C , was a candidate for the House of Representatives, sits on many area boards and has been highly involved with water quality issues and the South Florida Water Management District T h e y w i l l b e j o i n e d b y C a p t i v a Community Panel Vice President David Mintz

“The evening will surely leave you inspired and prepared to get engaged,” CFI Executive Director Dolly Farrell said “Join us on March 30 to see how you can make a difference ”

The event is being underwritten by The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company

“It is an honor sponsoring an event like this,” founder and Chairman S. Albert D. Hanser said “There has never been a

Hosted by the Charitable Foundation of the Islands, the “Get Inspired! SanCap Volunteer Expo” on March 30 on Sanibel is being underwritten by The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company From left, CFI Board Member and Leadership Sanibel-Captiva Program Chair Jane Majeski with Sanibel Market President Jeffrey A. Muddell, Senior Vice President of Wealth Services Megan Marquardt and founder and Chairman S Albert D Hanser, of the trust company, and CFI Executive Director Dolly Farrell.

CHARITABLE FOUNDATION OF THE ISLANDS

more important time for our community to come together to ensure the future sanctity of our islands ”

Advance registration is required as space is limited

To register, visit www mycfi org

For more information, contact Farrell at 239-355-8614 or dfarrell@sancapcfi.org.

SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District's Marine Emergency Response Team responded to a collision on March 12 that involved a sailboat and a fishing vessel between the island and Fort Myers Beach

Storm recovery aid available for seniors

T h e A r e a A g e n c y o n A g i n g f o r S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a r e p o r t e d t h a t H u r r i c a n e I a n s u r v i v o r s a g e 6 0 a n d o l d e r m a y b e e l i g i b l e f o r h u r r i c a n e r e c o v e r y a s s i s t a n c e I t c u r r e n t l y h a s I a n f u n d s a v a i l a b l e w i t h i n t h e A g n e s L a i t i n e n U n m e t N e e d s C r i s i s F u n d T h e f u n d i s u s e d t o a s s i s t e l d e r s a n d a d u l t s w i t h d i s a b i l i t i e s i n c r i s i s w h e n n o o t h e r r e s o u r c e s a r e a v a i l a b l e T h e f u n d s a r e o n l y a v a i l a b l e u n t i l M a r c h 3 1 F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o r t o a p p l y , c a l l 8 6 6 - 4 1 35 3 3 7

T h e A r e a A g e n c y o n A g i n g f o r S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a i s a n o n p r o f i t o r g a n i z a t i o n s e r v i n g C h a r l o t t e , C o l l i e r , D e S o t o , G l a d e s , H e n d r y , L e e , a n d S a r a s o t a C o u n t i e s I t i s t h e s t a t e ' s d e s i g n a t e d A g i n g a n d D i s a b i l i t y R e s o u r c e C e n t e r f o r S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a T h e o r g a n i z a t i o n i s c o mm i t t e d t o c o n n e c t i n g o l d e r a d u l t s a n d a d u l t s w i t h d i sa b i l i t i e s t o r e s o u r c e s a n d a s s i s t a n c e f o r l i v i n g s a f e l y w i t h i n d e p e n d e n c e a n d d i g n i t y F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t h t t p s : / / a a a s w f l o r g / a b o u t - a a a s w f l /

Interactive guide to open island businesses

The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce has a list a v a i l a b l e o f b u s i n e s s e s b a c k i n operation after Hurricane Ian on Wander: Maps & Navigation The

GPS-enabled interactive map also pinpoints beach accesses that have opened, bike parking areas and the user's relative location Points of interest can be filtered by seven cat-

egories Users can download the app from the Apple App Store and Google Play They can also access the map online at tinyurl com/sancapwandermap

Historical village celebration

a g e , w i t h t h e h e l p o f t h e c i t y , t h e h i s t o ri c a l m u s e u m a n d v i l l a g e b u i l d i n g s w e r e c l e a n e d , a n d w e c a n r e p o r t t h a t w e w i l l o p e n , ” E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r E m i l i e

A l f i n o s a i d , e x p l a i n i n g t h a t t h e y a r e e x c i t e d a n d t h e y h a v e w o r k e d h a r d t o g e t t o t h i s p o i n t “ W e w a n t t h e c o m m u n i t y t o k n o w w e ' r e h e r e , w e ' r e c o m i n g b a c k , ” s h e s a i d O u t o f t h e n i n e s t r u c t u r e s a t t h e v i l -

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

A l f i n o s a i d

A t t e n d e e s c a n v i s i t S h o r e H a v e n , w h i c h a l s o s e r v e s a s t h e a d m i n i s t r a t i v e b u i l d i n g a n d h o u s e s t h e S a n i b e l L i g h t h o u s e E x h i b i t a n d g i f t s h o p M o r n i n g G l o r i e s a f a v o r i t e w i l l b e o p e n , a s w e l l a s t h e C a r e t a k e r s ' C o t t a g e , w h i c h h a s t h e B l a c k H i s t o r y E x h i b i t T h e o l d B a i l e y G e n e r a l S t o r e i s t h e l a s t “ T h e r e ' s s t i l l r e p a i r s t h a t n e e d t o b e m a d e , ” s h e s a i d o f t h e f o u r b u i l d i n g s s c h e d u l e d f o r r e o p e n i n g , e x p l a i n i n g t h a t t h e w o r k i n v o l v e s c o s m e t i c p r o j -

Lee County Clerk: Over $362k waiting to be claimed

T h e L e e C o u n t y C l e r k ’ s o f f i c e h a s $ 3 6 2 , 4 4 1 w a i t i n g t o b e c l a i m e d b y c i t i z e n s a n d b u s i n e s s e s , a c c o r d i n g t o a r e p o r t r e l e a s e d b y C l e r k K e v i n K a r n e s T h e y h a v e u n t i l M a r c h 2 4 t o c l a i m t h e f u n d s M o r e t h a n 1 , 0 0 0 i n d i v i d u a l s a n d b u s i n e s s e s w h o a r e o w e d m o n e y c a n v i s i t w w w l e e c l e r k o r g / t r e a s u r e h u n t t o s e a r c h f o r t h e i r n a m e s o r d o w n l o a d t h e f u l l l i s t “ T h e a v e r a g e c l a i m i s $ 2 4 8 , w i t h t h e l a r g e s t a m o u n t b e i n g $ 5 6 , 0 0 0 , ” K a r n e s s a i d “ I f y o u ’ v e d o n e b u s i n e s s w i t h L e e C o u n t y o r t h e C l e r k ’ s o f f i c e , o r i f y o u h a d a c o u r t c a s e i n r e c e n t y e a r s , I e n c o u r a g e y o u t o v i s i t l e e c l e r k . o r g t o s e e i f y o u o r y o u r c o m p a n y i s o w e d m o n e y ”

T h e r e p o r t i n c l u d e s u n c a s h e d c h e c k s f o r c o u n t y a n d C l e r k v e n d o r s , t a x d e e d p a y m e n t s a n d f o r e c l os u r e a u c t i o n t r a n s a c t i o n s C o u r t r e g i s t r y p a y m e n t s a n d o v e r p a y m e n t s f o r r e c o r d e d d o c u m e n t s , s u c h a s m o r t g a g e s o r d e e d s , a r e a l s o i n c l u d e d I n s t r u c t i o n s o n h o w t o c l a i m t h e f u n d s a r e a v a i la b l e o n t h e C l e r k ’ s w e b s i t e C o m p l e t e d a n d n o t ar i z e d u n c l a i m e d m o n i e s f o r m s m a y b e d r o p p e d o f f a t t h e C l e r k ’ s F i n a n c e D e p a r t m e n t , 2 1 1 5 S e c o n d S t , 3 r d F l o o r , F o r t M y e r s T h e o f f i c e i s o p e n M o n d a y t h r o u g h F r i d a y f r o m 8 : 3 0 p . m . t o 5 p . m . . F o r m s c a n a l s o b e m a i l e d t o L e e C o u n t y C l e r k o f t h e C o u r t & C o m p t r o l l e r , A t t n : U n c l a i m e d M o n e y , P O B o x 2 3 9 6 , F o r t M y e r s , F L 3 3 9 0 2 - 2 3 9 6 A c o p y o f a v a l i d W - 9 f o r b u s i n e s s e s o r a v a l i d p h o t o I D w i t h a d d r e s s f o r i n d i v i d u a l s m u s t b e p r ov i d e d w i t h t h e m a i l e d f o r m M a i l e d f o r m s m u s t b e p o s t m a r k e d b y M a r c h 2 4 I f n o t c l a i m e d b y t h e M a r c h 2 4 d e a d l i n e , a p p r o x i m a t e l y $ 1 6 0 , 0 0 0 w i l l b e f o r f e i t e d t o t h e s t a t e

From page 1

e c t s , s u c h a s r e f u r b i s h i n g f l o o r s o r r e p l a c i n g s c r e e n s A s f o r t h e r e m a i n i n g f i v e s t r u c t u r e s , t h e y w e r e h e a v i l y d a m a g e d i n t h e s t o r m A l f i n o r e p o r t e d t h a t M i s s C h a r l o t t a ' s T e a R o o m h a d s e v e r e d a m a g e , a s p a r t o f t h e r o o f w a s t o r n o f f a n d t h e r e w a s w a t e r i n t r u s i o n I t w i l l r e q u i r e d e m o l it i o n a n d r e s t o r a t i o n T h e B u r n a p C o t t a g e , w h i c h h o l d s t h e F r e s n e l l e n s , h a d r o o f d a m a g e a n d w a t e r i n t r u s i o n a n d w i l l l i k e l y n e e d d e m o w o r k a n d s t ab i l i z a t i o n “ T h e s c h o o l h o u s e i s t h e m o s t s e v e r el y d a m a g e d , ” s h e s a i d , a d d i n g t h a t i t h a d t o b e s h o r e d u p o n o n e s i d e b y a w o o d e n f r a m e a n d t h e f o u n d a t i o n a p p e a r s t o h a v e s u n k e n d e e p e r i n t o t h e s a n d y g r o u n d T h e R u t l a n d H o u s e a l s o h a d s u b s t a nt i a l d a m a g e , m o s t l y t o t h e f l o o r s A l f i n o n o t e d t h a t t h e f i n a l b u i l d i n g t h e p o s t o f f i c e i s n o t i n b a d s h a p e a n d c o u l d p r o b a b l y b e o p e n e d , b u t i t i s t i n y

A t 3 : 3 0 p m , t h e S a n i b e l & C a p t i v a

I s l a n d s C h a m b e r o f C o m m e r c e w i l l

On the Table From page 1

places as Patty’s Place Concierge Youth Mental Health Care in Cape Coral

“This is where we are populating all of the public tables that the general community can join,” she said “Patty’s Place just had their grand opening They are hosting a public table for 20 people in the community that day If you are interested in joining that conversation, you can click on location, or

search by ZIP code and join that table ”

Some of the starter questions include what brought you to the table, what are your hopes for the community now and in the long term, as well as what are some potential solutions to the problems being identified today

Casagrande said with what the community has experienced with Hurricanes Ian

h o l d a r i b b o n - c u t t i n g e v e n t A s f o r t h e e x h i b i t i o n s , t h e S a n i b e l L i g h t h o u s e E x h i b i t f e a t u r e s i n f o r m a t i v e p o s t e r s a b o u t t h e b e l o v e d i s l a n d i c o n . P a r t o f t h e s t o r m - d a m a g e d l e n s w i l l a l s o b e p r e s e n t e d a t t h e e v e n t t o b e p u t o n d i s p l a y T h e B l a c k H i s t o r y E x h i b i t o f f e r s p h o t o s a n d m e m o r a b i l i a f r o m t h e G a v i n , W a l k e r a n d J o r d a n f a m i l i e s

“ A n d w e h a v e a v i d e o i n t h e r e a b o u t B l a c k h i s t o r y o n S a n i b e l , ” s h e s a i d

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

T h e p u b l i c i s i n v i t e d t o c o m e o u t a n d c e l e b r a t e . “ W e ' r e j u s t d e l i g h t e d t o s h a r e o u r v i l l a g e w i t h t h e c o m m u n i t y a g a i n , a n d i t ' s w o n d e r f u l t o s e e t h e c o m m u n i t y g e tt i n g t o g e t h e r a t v a r i o u s v e n u e s a f t e r a l l t h a t w e ' v e b e e n t h r o u g h , ” A l f i n o s a i d

“ W e b e l i e v e t h a t t h e h i s t o r y i s i m p o r t a n t , a n d w e w a n t t o s h a r e t h a t W e h a v e a l o t o f n e w h i s t o r y w i t h H u r r i c a n e I a n , ” s h e a d d e d “ B u t w e m o s t l y w a n t t o s h a r e o u r h a p p i n e s s a t h a v i n g r e a c h e d t h i s p o i n t ”

S t a r t i n g o n M a r c h 2 9 , t h e v i l l a g e w i l l h a v e l i m i t e d h o u r s o f o p e r a t i o n I t w i l l b e o p e n o n T u e s d a y s t h r o u g h

T h u r s d a y s f r o m 1 0 a . m . t o 1 p . m . , w i t h g u i d e d t o u r s p r o v i d e d e a c h d a y a t

1 0 : 3 0 a m

A d m i s s i o n i s a s u g g e s t e d d o n a t i o n o f $ 5 p e r p e r s o n T h e m o n i e s w i l l c o n t r i b u t e t o o p e r at i o n s , r e - l a n d s c a p i n g , a n d i n t e r i o r e x h i b i t r e h a b i l i t a t i o n w o r k t h a t w i l l b e r e q u i r e d o n c e t h e r e s t o r a t i o n r e p a i r s t o t h e e x t e r i o r o f t h e b u i l d i n g s a r e s u bs t a n t i a l l y c o m p l e t e d T h e v i l l a g e w i l l r e m a i n o p e n t h r o u g h M a y , c l o s i n g f o r t h e s e a s o n o n M a y 3 1 . F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t w w w s a n i b e l m u s e u m o r g o r e m a i l i n f o @ s a n i b e l m u s e u m o r g

T o s u p p o r t t h e v i l l a g e ' s p o s t - s t o r m r e c o v e r y , v i s i t h t t p s : / / d o n a t e s a n i b e lm u s e u m o r g /

T h e S a n i b e l H i s t o r i c a l M u s e u m a n d V i l l a g e i s a t 9 5 0 D u n l o p R o a d , S a n i b e l

■ W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , M a r c h 2 2 , 2 0 2 3 b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s . c o m I s l a n d R e p o r t e r

and Irma and COVID, these conversations are more important than ever to have regarding recovery and rebuilding

“Every voice matters This is regional

Charlotte, Lee, Collier, Hendry and Glades counties Coastal community or inland community, we want those voices at the table to be heard,” she said

Once the conversations are completed,

Florida Gulf Coast University will survey the participants

“They are working with us on the survey questions and coordinating all of that for the community impact report at the end,” Casagrande said, which will be given to everyone who participated

For more information, visit onthetableswfl com

OPInIOns

SCCF provides legislative update on Week 1

By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

The 2023 Florida Legislative Session formally began last week with the governor proposing a $114 8 billion budget along with close to $2 billion in tax cuts for fiscal year 2023-24 The governor has also a proposed $3.5 billion investment over four years for Everglades restoration and protection of our water resources Legislators have identified nearly $5 billion in requests for hurricane recovery

Legislators have been busy filing legislation and discussed several bills in committee during the pre-session interim committee weeks that ran from December to February

As of March 10, the House had filed 1,723 bills and the Senate had filed 871 A record number of those bills seek to limit local government’s authority over its land development process Smart growth advocates are concerned that the one party supermajority formed by the 2022 elections will make it that much harder to stop or even amend these bad bills that promote urban sprawl. The imbalance of a supermajority means that the party in charge can strictly limit debate and procedurally block amendments to bills further limiting the voices of Floridians concerned about growth and its direct impact on our environment and water quality

Prior to the opening of session, Gov. Ron DeSantis presented Executive Order 23-06 Achieving Even More Now for Florida’s Environment, which contains several pro-

Stor m recover y must include all of us

To the editor:

Like most of us, I fell in love with Sanibel’s natural beauty the spectacular beaches, the spellbinding sunsets, the vast swaths of undeveloped land The Sanibel Plan, drafted so many years ago, has presciently protected us from the high-rises and chain stores that could have spoiled the island

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Guest Commentary

posed funding projects designed to preserve and protect the state’s natural environment

Many bills that were already moving in the first week of session run counter to the environmental mandate of the governor’s order Growth Management House Bill 359

Local Government Comprehensive Plans is one of those bills that runs contrary to the governor’s order commitment to “improve local governments long-term comprehensive planning that ensures sustainable growth while protecting natural resources ” HB 359 sailed through its first two of three committee stops the first committee stop was scheduled during interim committee week and the second committee hearing occurred on the first Thursday of session This bill tacks on the payment of prevailing party attorney’s fees to citizen’s challenges of local c o m p r e h e n s i v e p l a n a m e n d m e n t s I f t h i s wasn’t chilling enough, citizens that lose a challenge must also pay “intervening parties legal fees” which include developers and their attorneys sometimes charging as much as $600-plus per hour Growth management advocates argue that protections against frivolous lawsuits already exist in statue and that this added punishment only serves to block citizen involvement This action, coupled with the 2019 bad growth management bill, HB 7103, that served to add prevailing party attorney’s fees to comprehensive plan chal-

Letter to the Editor

lenges, risks the end to citizen involvement in planning for their communities Jane West, policy and planning director for the growth m a n a g e m e n t a d v o c a c y n o n - p r o f i t 1 0 0 0 Friends of Florida, offered two fixes to the bill which garnered some interest from two committee members Until any amendments a r e f i l e d , t h e S C C F r e m a i n s a d a m a n t l y opposed to this bill. This bill has one more stop in the House State Affairs Committee The similar Senate bill, SB 540, has not yet been heard in its first committee

Florida Wildlife Corridor SB 106 Florida Shared Nonmotorized Trail Network: One of Senate leadership’s priorities is a focus on the increased public access and protection of the Florida Wildlife Corridor SB 106 and the identical House version HB 871 passed their first two committee stops last week These bills seek to fund improvements to the existing corridor's public access netw o r k t h r o u g h a d e d i c a t e d n o n - r e c u r r i n g investment of $200 million

Visit the 2023 SCCF Legislative Tracker a t h t t p s : / / w w w s c c f o r g / o u r - w o r k / e n v i r o n -

mental-policy

Founded in 1967, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's mission is to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal e c o s y s t e m s F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t www sccf org

But another equally compelling reason I fell hard for this place is that it is economically diverse No doubt about it, there is a lot of wealth here A lot But it is also a “real” city, with a school, small, locally-owned shops and fixed-income retirees It

As we recover from Hurricane Ian, I have not heard anyone in a leadership position talk about protecting the island’s more vulnerable population Rich people can afford to get their houses fixed, can find a way to make them as storm-resistant as possible, can opt to self insure But what about those who live in ( r e l a t i v e l y ) i n e x p e n s i v e h o m e s , o r Periwinkle Park Can the city do anything to help these people, the ones who can’t immediately afford to remodel according to newer, more stringent building codes?

A n d w h a t a b o u t p l a n s t o r e p l a c e t h e a f f o r d a b l e u n i t s o p e r a t e d b y C o m m u n i t y H o u s i n g R e s o u r c e s ( C H R ) , w h i c h w e r e

d e v a s t a t e d b y I a n ? I ’ v e a l s o h e a r d f r o m s e ve r a l s h o p o w n e r s w h o w a n t t o r e o p e n , b u t h a v e b e e n s t y m i e d b y l a n d l o r d s , w h o h a v e t h e i r o w n s t o r m - r e l a t e d h e a d a c h e s t o n e g ot i a t e I f t h e s e e n t r e p r e n e u r s d o n ’ t g e t h e l p s o o n , t h e y w i l l b e f o r c e d t o r e l o c a t e o f f t h e i s l a n d

Perhaps I am being naive Maybe there isn’t a viable way to nurture economic diversity post-Ian But as we forge a hurricane recovery plan, we need to at least consider all of our residents the rich and the “regular ” We must acknowledge the very real threat of becoming an island inhabited exclusively by the staggeringly wealthy.

Mary Garner Ganske Sanibel

Guest Commentary

Fraud alert: The never-ending ‘Grandparent Scam’

By LEE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

I t a p p e a r s t h a t t h e r e g r e t t a b l e s u c c e s s o f t h e

“Grandparent Scam” has prompted scammers to continue their criminal assault on senior citizens

An 82-year-old New Jersey woman received a call from a person that she believed to be her grandson The caller stated “I was in a car accident. I broke my nose and split my lip ”

The phone was immediately handed to an individual claiming to be her grandson’s public defender The victim was told that her grandson was in custody, having caused the accident, and that he needed her to send $8,000 to facilitate his release

Aware of the protective nature of grandparents, the most common method generally involves a telephone call indicating that the victim’s grandchild is in some sort of trouble As in this case, the call sounds urgent and asks the victim to send money immediately in order to resolve a legal or medical issue.

On occasion, the victim may receive a text message requesting assistance

The victim is told to wire money or to buy gift cards or that someone will stop by to pick up cash

The 82-year-old rushed to the bank and withdrew the funds

“My hand was shaking when I went to get the money out of the bank My whole body was shaking ”

Shortly after she arrived home, an individual arrived at her door to pick up the cash

Reported losses have reached tens of millions of dollars annually; some of the crimes are not reported due to embarrassment

What to do should you receive such a call

Take a deep breath and avoid panicking Before taking any action, terminate the call Immediately call the family member or friend who is in trouble using the phone number that you always use to contact them If they are unavailable, contact a close family member or

friend who would have knowledge of the situation

Never never wire money, buy gift cards or surrender cash!

If all efforts to verify the incident fail, contact local law enforcement for assistance.

If scammed, immediately contact your payment company and report the suspected fraud

Contact the Federal Trade Commission, as soon as possible, at https://reportfraud ftc gov/

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office is a multi-faceted law e n f o r c e m e n t a g e n c y p r i m a r i l y r e s p o n s i b l e f o r l a w enforcement services in unincorporated Lee County, plus the city of Bonita Springs, village of Estero, and town of Fort Myers Beach Deputies have countywide jurisdiction and also provide secondary law enforcement services within the city limits of Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and Sanibel For more information, visit https://www sheriffleefl org/

Lee Health seeks blood donations to replenish supply levels

Lee Health is seeking blood donations to help replenish supply levels

Blood and blood products are not only used in the trauma center, but also to treat cancer patients, premature babies, anemia and a variety of other conditions

Lee Health’s blood centers are the sole supplier of all products for the health system About 800 units of blood are needed per week, and the blood centers rely on life to saving donations from the community to maintain inventory levels

The Lee Health Blood Mobile will be at the following locations:

∫ Today, March 22: Lee County

Golden Apple

previously taught math for three years at Lexington Middle School in Fort Myers

It was her first time teaching the subject

Prior to teaching in Florida, Yanik taught art for about six years in Honolulu, Hawaii.

She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from W a y n e S t a t e U n i v e r s i t y , i n D e t r o i t , M i c h i g a n , a l o n g w i t h a M a s t e r ' s o f Education, with a concentration in mathem a t i c s , f r o m W e s t e r n G o v e r n o r s University

Yanik's students, who were in the middle of their classroom instruction when the group arrived to surprise Yanik and present her with the award, were just as excited about the announcement

“It was like 40 people coming into my classroom my coworkers and people from the foundation and people from the district,” she said “It was really awesome because they could share in the moment ”

D a r r e l L i e z e - A d a m s , w i t h p r o g r a m s p o n s o r N B C 2 , r e a d w h a t a f o r m e r coworker said about Yanik

“She is what every teacher should strive to be She's engaging, she's caring, and she goes above and beyond for her coworkers, her students and the parents She is the reason students will one day want to be teachers or will go after their own dreams,” he shared with the room " S h e i s t h e m o s t o u t s t a n d i n g t e a c h e r because she makes an impact in every life she touches and makes you want to be a better person ”

Made up of community and business leaders, the foundation's Golden Apple Selection Committee is charged with the task of reviewing and ranking the applica-

S h e r i f f ’ s O f f i c e , a t 1 4 7 5 0 S i x M i l e Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers, from noon to 5 p.m.

∫ March 23: AAA, at 2516 Colonial Blvd , Fort Myers, from 8:30 a m to noon

∫ M a r c h 2 3 : F o r t M y e r s P o l i c e Department, at 2210 Widman Way, Fort Myers, from 1 to 4 p m

∫ March 27: Florida SouthWestern State College, Behind the S Building in Lot #12, at 8099 College Parkway SW, Fort Myers, from 10 a m to 3 p m

∫ March 27: Lee Health Coconut Point, at 23450 Via Coconut Point,

From page 1

Estero, from 10 a m to 3 p m

All blood donated at Lee Health stays within the system to care for patients in Southwest Florida If unable to attend a

2023 Golden Apple Teachers

∫ Luis Fisher, of Gateway High

∫ Tamara Hunter, of Franklin Park Elementary

∫ Laura Jordan, of Caloosa Elementary

∫ Lindsey Maxwell, of Bayshore Elementary

∫ Joni Pelletier, of Treeline Elementary

∫ Stephanie Yanik, of The Sanibel School

Source: The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools

tions to select 30 finalists One step in narrowing down the applications is picki n g 1 0 0 e d u c a t o r s f o r r e c o g n i t i o n a s Teachers of Distinction

In the weeks after the 30 finalists are a n n o u n c e d , t h e y a r e p e r s o n a l l y i n t e rviewed and observed in their classrooms by the selection committee Six are then s e l e c t e d a s t h e G o l d e n A p p l e A w a r d recipients

Yanik reported that for the classroom observation step, the committee sat and watched her work

“I enjoyed sharing my classroom with the judges and being able to give them a little glimpse into my day-to-day and what's going on in my classroom,” she said

Asked what may have set her apart from the other finalists, Yanik said her enthusiasm and passion

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

E x e c u t i v e O f f i c e r M a r s h a l l T B o w e r echoed that

“Stephanie is a perfect example of an excellent teacher: smart, caring, and filled with enthusiasm and love for her students,” he said “The Sanibel School is

also led by a previous Golden Apple recipient Principal Jamie Reid as well as having fifth-grade teacher Joe Camputaro, another former Golden Apple recipient With both of these former recipients, along with this year's Stephanie Yanik, there are many representatives of a l l o f t h e w o n d e r f u l t e a c h e r s a t T h e Sanibel School ”

R e i d , w h o w a s p r e s e n t f o r t h e announcement, explained that the school is “absolutely thrilled ”

“We needed this It's just so uplifting after having such a challenging and wild school year,” she said. “It's just a real boost for The Sanibel School and the community ”

Reid added that she is not surprised by Yanik winning the award

“ S h e ' s n o t o n l y a n e x c e l l e n t m a t h t e a c h e r , ” s h e s a i d , n o t i n g t h a t Y a n i k

teaches four classes sixth, seventh and eighth grade, as well as algebra honors “She's also very enthusiastic, very positive ”

“And she's not only positive with the students and teachers, she's also positive with the staff,” Reid added, explaining

drive, donations can also be made at one of Lee Health’s blood centers

For more information on how and where to donate, visit https://www lee-

that Yanik is the director of the school's social committee and she plans fun activities and social events for the faculty to enjoy “Always a smile on her face, very uplifting, team player ”

She noted that there are many excellent, outstanding teachers at the school

“She's one of many,” Reid said “This is a team, and I'm proud of all of our teachers ”

Each winner was presented with a $3,000 check In addition, each principal was presented with a $500 check Reid reported that she will work with Yanik to decide how best to use the $500 at the school

Also, the Golden Apple recipients will be honored at a black-tie affair on April 14 at 5:30 p m at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center in Fort Myers Tickets are $175 and can be purchased by contacting the foundation at 239-337-0433 The banquet will also be broadcasted on NBC2 on April 22 at 8 p m

“I'm very much so looking forward to it,” Yanik said “It is such a big honor ”

T h e G o l d e n A p p l e T e a c h e r Recognition Program was the first major project founded and developed by the foundation. Since its inception as a way to enhance public education by recognizing and rewarding excellence in teaching, the program has awarded 195 educators with the Golden Apple Teacher Award

“I'd like to say thank you to the foundation and the administration, particularly the foundation,” she said “For bringing teachers into such a positive light and spotlighting all the positivity in education for the community and the public ”

CCP updated on causeway, South Seas and more

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

T

i b e l Causeway and South Seas Island Resort at its recent meeting, as well heard about a wastewater plan for the Rauschenberg Residency

On March 14, a consultant with the F l o r i d a D e p a r t m e n t o f T r a n s p o r t a t i o n gave an update on the causeway project,

including the concept plans for Islands A and B and proposed resiliency measures

With emergency repairs finished in midOctober following Hurricane Ian, Jennifer Dorning reported that the construction will start in the summer, with an expected completion date set for late 2023

She explained that the Lee County Commission approved proposed resiliency measures and recreational amenities for the causeway last month Previously

Fire board receives updates on post-storm recovery

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Captiva Island Fire Control District's commission was updated on the FEMA reimbursement process and Community Disaster Loan during its recent meeting, along with district operations

On March 14, Fire Chief Jeff Pawul reported that the initial reimbursement of $90,841 for the emergency measures undertaken by the district and its crews in response to Hurricane Ian has been reduced to about $89,500 However, the reimbursement for those expenses are in final review

He explained that there is a separate review being conducted by FEMA for expenses related to the station, the storm damage that it sustained and such That review is not as far along as the other

As for the Community Disaster Loan Program, Pawul explained that FEMA reviews the district's current budget and the budgets for the past couple of years. If approved, the borrow amount typically totals about 25 percent of the operating cost, which equates up to $750,000 or $800,000 possibly

He added that it depends on what FEMA approves though and the process is lengthy, taking several months The loan can be paid back over five years, and the interest rate was

3.1% one month ago.

“It's a better rate than we're going to get out of a line of credit,” Pawul said Also at the meeting, he mentioned a medical emergency that the crews responded to A man was rescued from a sailboat and transported to the mainland, where he was evaluated and cleared

On March 3 at about 6 a m , the call came in as a disabled vessel with rescue needed Pawul reported that the boat was located just off of Sanibel, about a mile or so toward the lighthouse. There was a man and a dog on the sailboat in “pretty rough conditions,” and he lost connect with the U S Coast Guard “That was when our guys made the decision to go, because they couldn't make communication anymore,” he said, explaining that the Lee County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the call with its helicopter and was able to locate the sailboat from the air and direct the Captiva crew over to it

“They evacuated him and his dog from the vessel and took him to the city dock on Sanibel for evaluation,” Pawul said, adding that he was OK and the USCG had been monitoring the situation.

designed amenities from 2022 included a bicycle lane, turn lanes, design a t e d p a r k i n g a n d o t h e r r e c r e a t i o n a l

improvements

A s f o r t h e c a u s e w a y ' s c o n c e p t u a l design, the permanent repairs entail a 2foot raised roadway, bike lanes on Islands A and B, structures resiliency (gabion baskets, rip/rap large boulders, sheet pile w a l l ) , a n d s e a g r a s s / e n c o u r a g i n g m a n -

See CCP, page 7

CEPD hears of park reopening, impact of storm

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

T h e C a p t i v a E r o s i o n P r e v e n t i o n District's commission heard about the reopening of the Alison Hagerup Beach

P a r k a n d w h a t t h e island experien in Hurricane Ia a t i t s r e c e n meeting

O n M a r c h 13, Executive D i r e c t o r

D a n i e l M u n reported that L

C o u n t y r e o p the park over the weekend The parking lot had 24 vehicles on March 11, and there were 32 vehicles on March 12

“We are actively looking to staff the parking lot,” he said

Munt added that the portable restrooms have been reinstalled and are open

The CEPD recently reminded beachgoers to follow county laws and guidance when visiting the beaches on Captiva The normal parking rates of $25 for two hours and $40 for all day apply

The proceeds support beach nourishment and the enhancement of wildlife habitat

The CEPD also outlined the following on beach etiquette:

∫ No live shelling

∫ A valid Florida fishing license is required to fish

∫ Poles must be attended at all times.

∫ Dogs are not allowed on Captiva beaches

∫ Stay off dune vegetation and avoid nesting shorebirds and sea turtles

∫ Recycle and dispose of trash and fishing line properly

∫ Alcoholic beverages are prohibited

∫ No open fires

∫ R e s p e c t y o u r n e i g h b o r s a n d wildlife Play music at a low volume No nude sunbathing allowed

∫ Leave nothing on the beach but your footprints

For more information about the parking lot, beach park rules, and beach conditions, visit:

Fire Chief Jeff Pawul

grove growth Dorning cited the benefits of mangroves for resiliency

“We are trying to promote mangrove growth in everything we're doing,” she said

Dorning outlined the following current activities:

Construction (under emergency permit)

∫ Crews continue to work to “armor” the bridge

∫ Sheet pile installation

∫ Armor stone installation Design (permanent repairs)

∫ Permit plans and application submitted

∫ Detailed design meetings

∫ Coordinating with local landscape architects and coastal engineers

As for the approximate cost of the project, she reported that it is anticipated to be $ 2 8 5 m i l l i o n , o f w h i c h t h e F e d e r a l Highway Administration is scheduled to reimburse $239 million Lee County is set to cover the remaining $46 1 million, with $5 6 million from the county for recreational amenities.

South Seas Island Resor t

A l s o d u r i n g t h e m e e t i n g , P a n e l

Member Bob Walter provided an update on the South Seas Island Resort's posthurricane recovery Regional managing director for the resort, he reported that revetment work has begun along Redfish Pass and he shared the following planned openings as of March 10:

∫ Late April: Yacht Harbor Marina

∫ Mid-May: Food trucks to service main beach area

∫ Early summer: Provisions company

∫ Late summer: Bayview fishing pier (T dock), with construction to begin on March 30; South Seas Vacation Rentals; and Bayview north pool, including slide pool and Tarpon Bar Club Captiva Beach (Sunset Beach)

∫ November: Newly designed familyfriendly golf course

∫ Late 2023: Harborside Bar and Grill; and Red Fish Grill

∫ Early 2024: Bayview pavilion and event lawn; and Harborside Hotel guest rooms and suites

Walter also provided an overview of Captiva Landing, a new water feature planned for the southern end of the property, adjacent to South Seas Village, that will be open to guests and Club Captiva members

The new amenity complex will feature: G u l f S t r e a m , l a z y r i v e r f o r a l l a g e s ; Camp-tiva, kids-only activity club with n a t u r e - f o c u s e d e x p e r i e n c e s ; B o t t l e n o s e Bay, water play area for all ages; The Cove, resort pool; Flippers, arcade and r e s o r t c a s u a l r e s t a u r a n t ; a n d B a y s i d e Marina, an improved South Marina and l a u n c h i n g p o i n t f o r e c o - f o c u s e d t o u r , watersport and fishing experiences

He explained that the $20-plus million investment will provide needed activities on the south end, which is expected to reduce overall traffic and may offer more success for the south end rentals

Taking questions from the CCP and meeting attendees, Walter reported that

Fire board

In other news

the resort is considering pickleball options because it believes there is a need The new water feature will be gated and not open late, so there should not be a noise issue for close units The resort is planning to bring back the shops and amenities at Chadwick's Square, and golf carts will not be allowed on the new, walkable course

Rauschenber g Residency

Also at the meeting, Panel Member

A n n B r a d y d i r e c t o r o f t h e Rauschenberg Residency introduced K e n d a l l B a l d w i n , s e n i o r a s s o c i a t e a t WXY Studio She explained that Baldwin would be presenting a wastewater plan for the property, a community requirement for obtain permitting

Kendall reported that one of the infrastructure initiatives the firm has been working on at the Rauschenberg campus is converting septic systems to a central wastewater network Only serving the campus, seven houses on the central and east portions will get connected to the FGUA plant

“It's been almost three years' worth of work,” she said “So we're really excited to finally reach the culmination and get started on it in the next few months ”

Taking questions from the CCP and meeting attendees, Kendall reported that a lift station will be located past the main gate, off the driveway It will be visible until the new plantings grow in Also, the design was planned for flexibility for possible future connection to an island-wide central system

In other news

∫ Vice President David Mintz reported that the CCP's proposed ordinances fertilizer, golf carts, noise and parking were recently presented to the Executive Regulatory Oversight Committee for the Lee County Commission and the committee members unanimously approved proceeding on them

He added that the committee did recommend two changes to the golf cart ordinance The CCP had initially wanted language prohibiting open alcohol containers on carts, which was removed However, the Lee County Sheriff's Office thought it will be helpful and the language has been added back in

As for the second, the proposed ordinance calls for rental companies to provide written notice to customers about the rules for operating carts on Captiva The committee wanted the language for the notice to be approved by the county, so a document will be drafted for county staff to sign off on

Mintz reported that the ordinances will go before the county commission in April for final approval.

∫ Mintz reported that the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission h a s a p p r o v e d t h e c o u n t y ' s y e a r - r o u n d manatee zone for the Roosevelt Channel, so the county will replace the signs

∫ Captiva Erosion Prevention District Executive Director Daniel Munt reported that Lee County is monitoring the situation with the dead fish on the beach and

From page 6

∫ The district responded to 13 incidents in the month of February

∫ Pawul reported that the district's annual financial audit process will begin in April.

∫ Pawul reported that the district has received its insurance renewal notice from VFIS, which covers everything from the station and vehicles to liability, except for workers' compensation and health care

CAPTIVA CHAPEL BY THE SEA Chapel to host Food Pantr y Sunday

The Captiva Chapel by the Sea reported that during its Sunday service on March 26, it will collect donations of nonperishable food and paper goods at the Greeters Table The donated items will

will rake once it hits a certain threshold

∫ Fire Chief Jeff Pawul reported that the Captiva Island Fire Control District has seen an increase in marine-related emergency calls He advised people not to call the station or his cell phone for aid.

“I can't stress the importance of calling 911 in any emergency,” Pawul said He added that people are welcome to call him or the station for non-emergencies, however

Pawul also reported that his crews are having to dig out fire hydrants on a daily basis He reminded property owners to not allow their contractors to pile storm debris and sand around the hydrants

“It's going to take that much longer to get a water source established,” Pawul said of if there is a fire and crews have to first dig out the hydrant because they cannot access it when minutes matter

∫ The CCP voted unanimously to join the new SanCap Citizens for a Resilient Future and for Panel Member Linda Laird to represent it, which she will also be doing for the CEPD as its secretary

∫ President Jay Brown reported that as of the meeting, about 120 people had contributed to the campaign to benefit Pawul

“It's about an 8 percent increase,” he said “I'm perfectly happy with it ”

∫ Pawul reported that a bill brought forward as part of the Florida Legislative Session proposes postponing the deadline

and his displaced family with their recovery and rebuilding post-storm The contributions received total over $130,000 The CCP is collecting the donations until March 31

“I think that speaks volumes about the kind of community Captiva is,” Brown said Checks can be made payable to Jeff Pawul and mailed to Captiva Community Panel, P O Box 72, Captiva, FL 33924 Because he is a public employee, state law requires that donors submit a waiver with their contribution The CCP asks that donors submit their completed waiver with their check

T o d o w n l o a d t h e w a i v e r , v i s i t h t t p s : / / c a p t i v a c o m m u n i t y p a n e l . u s 6 . l i s tmanage com/track/click?u=656168b945 160d61770bf02f5&id=228dd3e024&e =8d4baae3d0 Those unable to download the waiver can still send a check; the CCP will then email them the waiver to complete and return

For more information, contact CCP Administrator Ken Gooderham at captivac o m m u n i t y p a n e l @ g m a i l c o m o r 2 3 9489-2616

for the new state-mandated Performance Review for a few months because of the hurricane However, the district already budgeted the $50,000 and is proceeding as planned

∫ CEPD at https://www mycepd com/alison-hagerup-parking-lot

∫ L e e C o u n t y a t https://www leegov com/parks/resources/faq

∫ SCCF at https://www sccf org/water-quality/red-tide-resources

A l s o d u r i n g t h e m e e t i n g , C o m m i s s i o n e r

Linda Laird gave a “Captiva Resiliency” presentation She explained that it compares the impact of Hurricanes Ian and Charley on the island and what was experienced The SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation and Captiva Community Panel helped

During Charley, the winds had a 30-mile radius and the eye of the storm was 5 miles wide It had a speed of 20-25 miles per hour and crossed the state in seven to eight hours

Charley was the fifth worst hurricane in U.S. history In comparison, Ian's winds had a 75mile radius and the eye was 40 miles wide It had a speed of 8-9 mph and crossed the state in about 24 hours It was the fourth worst storm

Laird provided clear definitions for storm surge, storm tide and inundation because there has been confusion She explained that storm surge is the additional height of water a storm introduces above what is “typical,” and storm tide is the height of tide which includes normal water levels plus storm surge Inundation is the water level above the normally dry ground that results from the storm tide

As for the physical conditions experienced, there was storm surge, waves and inundation for both Sanibel and Captiva as detected by the SCCF's wave buoy The waves originated from the southeast and traveled toward northwest It is easier to characterize the inundation than it is the storm surge

The general pattern of inundation was 0-4 feet for Captiva and 0-10 feet for Sanibel L a i r d r e p o r t e d t h a t t h e S C C F ' s R i v e r , E s t u a r y , a n d C o a s t a l O b s e r v i n g N e t w o r k

(RECON) recorded sustained wind speeds and wind gusts during Ian until all of the senors were lost In Redfish Pass, the sustained wind speed peaked at 94 mph, with the peak wind gust at 126 mph, according to the data

She also reviewed what worked and did not work in Ian, which will be updated with more input

To view the presentation, visit this article o n l i n e f o r f r e e a t http://www captivasanibel com/

In other news

∫ Nicole Sharp, with consultant APTIM, reported that she is working with CEPD staff to finalize the post-hurricane report The firm also continues to seek rehabilitation funds from the state or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. She added that it looks like template volumes may be considered, which is great

APTIM also submitted another draft of the vulnerability assessment, which staff is reviewing

∫ The commission voted 3-0 to appoint Munt as the voting member for the CEPD on the Lee County Commission's Coastal Advisory C o u n c i l , a s w e l l a s D e p u t y D i r e c t o r J o h n Riegert as the alternate

Prior to the vote, Munt explained that the c o u n c i l r e v i e w s L e e C o u n t y T o u r i s t Development Council grant requests, determining the feasibility of projects and making recommendations to the county

∫ Munt reported that the purchase order for the replacement beach vehicle was submitted

However, the vehicle will not arrive until mid-April

∫ The commission will hold a workshop on March 23 at 1 p m Staff will cover the CEPD's legal authority to provide oversight to erosionrelated projects, plus there will be an update from APTIM

Commissioner Linda Laird gave a presentation on “Captiva Resiliency” at the Captiva Erosion Prevention District board's monthly meeting on March 13

CAPTIVA EROSION PREVENTION DISTRICT

Deadline approaching for DDWS scholarship applications

T h e a p p l i c a t i o n d e a d l i n e f o r s c h o l a r s h i p s f r o m t h e “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g W i l d l i f e S o c i e t y - F r i e n d s o f t h e R e f u g e r a n g i n g f r o m $ 1 , 0 0 0 t o $ 5 , 0 0 0 e a c h a n d t o t a l i n g o v e r $ 2 0 , 0 0 0 i s s e t f o r M a r c h 3 1 H i g h s c h o o l s e n i o r s , c o l l e g e s t u d e n t s a n d g r a du a t e s t u d e n t s i n o r f r o m L e e , C o l l i e r , C h a r l o t t e , H e n d r y a n d G l a d e s c o u n t i e s w h o a r e p u r s u i n g d e g r e e s i n e n v i r o n m e n t a l - r e l a t e d s t u d i e s c a n a p p l y

T h i s y e a r ' s n a m e d s c h o l a r s h i p s i n c l u d e t h e f o ll o w i n g :

∫ R i c h a r d B a i l e y S c h o l a r s h i p

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C o n s e r v a t i o n a n d E n v i r o n m e n t a l S t u d i e s

∫ “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g C o n s e r v a t i o n S c h o l a r s h i p

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∫ T h e M a r y E l a i n e J a c o b s o n M e m o r i a l

S c h o l a r s h i p

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∫ T a r p o n B a y E x p l o r e r s S c h o l a r s h i p

∫ J a n e W e r n e r E n v i r o n m e n t a l S c h o l a r s h i p s

( t w o s c h o l a r s h i p s ) T h e D D W S w i l l a w a r d t h e s c h o l a r s h i p s a t a s p ec i a l c e r e m o n y a t t h e J . N . “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g N a t i o n a l W i l d l i f e R e f u g e o n S a n i b e l i n J u n e , i f h u r r i c a n e r e c o v e r y e f f o r t s a l l o w f o r i t I n i t s 1 7 t h y e a r , t h e s c h o l a r s h i p p r o g r a m p r es e n t e d i t s f i r s t a w a r d s i n 2 0 0 6 , d o n a t e d f r o m T a r p o n B a y E x p l o r e r s t h e r e f u g e ' s o f f i c i a l r e c r e a t i o n c o n c e s s i o n T o d a t e , i t h a s a w a r d e d o v e r $ 2 3 3 , 0 0 0 F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n a n d t o a p p l y , v i s i t d i n gd a r l i n g s o c i e t y o r g / a r t i c l e s / s t u d e n t - s c h o l a r s h i p s T o l e a r n m o r e a b o u t t h e s c h o l a r s h i p p r o g r a m a n d e s t a b l i s h i n g a p e r m a n e n t l y e n d o w e d s c h o l a rs h i p , c o n t a c t D D W S E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r B i r g i

SWFL Solar Co-op selects company for installation

O rganized through nonprofit group S olar U nited Neighbors, the Southwest Florida 2023 Solar Co-op recently selected the Florida Solar Design Group to install solar panels for the 63-member group

SUN reported that the co-op members selected the company through a competitive bidding process over seven other firms The ability of Florida Solar Design Group's equipment to withstand hurricane-force winds was top of mind for the committee members following the devastation of Hurricane Ian

In addition, the co-op members selected the Fort Myers-based installer because of the quality of equipment offerings wind ratings and efficiency along with local experience and price

SUN expands access to solar by educating Lee and Collier county residents and businesses about the benefits of distributed solar energy, helping them organize group solar installations, and strengthening local solar policies and its community of solar supporters Co-op member-

ship will close on April 30

The co-op is free to join and joining is not a commitment to purchase solar equipment

SUN will host a free information session about solar energy and the co-op, “Florida Solar 101,” virtually on April 6 from 6 to 7:30 p m To register, visit solarunitedneighbors.org/swfl.

SUN has hosted 78 co-ops in Florida since 2015

According to its estimates, the 2,373 homes and businesses that now have solar panels because of co-ops represent: 23 5 thousand kW of solar power, $56 million in local solar spending, and more than 709 8 million pounds of lifetime carbon offsets

kiwanis Club still taking scholarship applications

The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club is accepting scholarship applications for the 2023-24 school year

Scholarships in varying amounts are available

Eligible applicants of any age must be a Sanibel-Captiva resident, employed full-time on the islands, or a family member of such and attending a college for an undergraduate degree or attending a vocational school Considerations will be given to the unique circumstances due to Hurricane Ian

The club collects the applications and an independent committee makes the selection

Applications must be submitted by March 31

They can be obtained at SanibelKiwanis org or by contacting M J Hays at 239-579-0660 or mj@sanibelinsurance com, Bill Traum at 239-671-0155 or billtraum@me com, Chris Heidrick at 239-579-0660 or chris@sanibelinsurance com or Emily Ankerson at 802598-5194 or emily ankerson@ccaptiva org

Coastline Cottage

Home Watch ear ns

accreditation

Coastline Cottage Home

W a t c h r e c e n t l y e a r n e d a c c r e d i t a t i o n f r o m t h e N a t i o n a l H o m e W a t c h

A s s o c i a t i o n f o r t h e s i x t h

year

Business Notes Kiwanis

T

a n i b e l - C a p t i v a K i w a n i s C l u b r e c e n t l y announced its newest member

Emily Ankerson has been sponsored by Angi SemlerWelch

For more information, visit www sanibelkiwanis org

Rec center adds to Hall of Sponsors

M c C a l l i o n & M c C a l l i o n h a s j o i n e d t h e S a n i b e l

Recreation Center's Hall of Sponsors as sponsors

Proceeds from sponsor signs financially assist parents, grandparents and legal custodians who qualify for their children to attend the: after-school program; summer day, winter and spring break camps; fun days; babysitter traini n g c a m p ; b a s k e t b a l l l e a g u e ; v o l l e y b a l l c a m p ; a n d

Counselor In Training (C I T ) programs at the center

A printout of all the sponsors can also be obtained at t h e c e n t e r ' s r e c e p t i o n c o u n t e r o r b y v i s i t i n g

https://files.constantcontact.com/97af97e6001/51af58d 4-47d6-4372-932a-fc131961dce7 pdf

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , c a l l v o l u n t e e r s p o n s o r

Chairperson Barry Alan Roth at 239-313-9591

T h e a s s o c i a t i o n w a s formed in 2009 in order to establish and maintain the highest industry standards for Home Watch and absent e e h o m e o w n e r s e r v i c e s throughout the United States and Canada

Coastline Cottage Home Watch owner Karen Curtin has earned the designation of Certified Home Watch Professional, and she is a graduate of the association's Home Watch Boot Camp

Coastline Cottage Home Watch serves Sanibel and Fort Myers

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t w w w f a c e b o o k com/cchomewatcher or contact Curtin at 239-771-3125 or at cchomewatcher@gmail.com.

Trust Company to present final speaker

The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company will host the final event of its 2023 Fort Myers Speaker Series on April 4 at 10 a m at the Event Center, at 1901 Brantley Road, Suite 7, Fort Myers.

Led by Aysegul Timur, vice president and vice provost for strategy and program innovation at Florida Gulf Coast University, the program is “The Past, Present and Future of Southwest Florida ” Also a member of

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA KIWANIS CLUB karen Curtin

SANIBEL & CAPTIVA ISLANDS ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS

SCIAR releases monthly repor t

The Sanibel and Captiva Islands Association of Realtors released its market report for the islands for February. The figures are based on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) as of March 10.

Business Notes

From page 9

FGCU’s Regional Economic Research Institute, she will cover Southwest Florida from the perspectives of demographics, economics, employment and economic opportunities, education and more

The complimentary event will include a continental breakfast at 9:30 a m

Seating is limited, and reservations are required

The program is designed for people with $2 million and higher in investable assets

For more information, contact Frances Steger at fsteger@sancaptrustco com or 239-472-8300.

San Cap Community Bank hires Torres

Gelsie Torres has joined S a n i b e l C a p t i v a Community Bank as a customer service representative at the College Branch in Fort Myers

She is responsible for a s s i s t i n g c u s t o m e r s w i t h p e r s o n a l a n d b u s i n e s s banking transactions

Torres is an experienced banker with over 25 years of experience working at various credit unions and regional banks

Aysegul Timur

Gelsie Torres

PreserVInG ParadIse

SCCF, Ever glades Foundation to host annual update

FWC: Tips to safely co-exist with alligators

u p d a t e - s u n s e tc r u i s e - t i c k e t s585929098707

FWC statewide snook workshops planned

T h e F l o r i d a F i s h a n d W i l d l i f e C o n s e r v a t i o n Commission reported that it is adopting a h o l i s t i c m a n a g e m e n t a p p r o a c h f o r s n o o k that includes a review o f s e v e r a l e n v i r o nm e n t a l a n d h u m a n factors including habitat, fishing effort and stakeholder feedback to evaluate the fishery at a more local scale.

FWC staff is proposing to establish 10 n e w m a n a g e m e n t r e g i o n s w i t h s n o o k regulations based on the status of the fishe r y i n e a c h r e g i o n

The public is encouraged to attend one of the FWC's inperson workshops that are being held throughout the state The workshops closest to the islands will include:

∫ March 28 from 6 to 8 p m at the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center Auditorium, 300 Tower Road, Naples

∫ March 29 from 6 to 8 p m at the Charlotte County Administration Center, Room 119, at 18500 Murdock Circle, Port Charlotte

∫ March 30 from 6 to 8 p m at the Bayfront

FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Community Center, at 803 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

∫ March 30 from 6 to 8 p m at the Joseph P D’Alessandro Office Complex, at 2295 Victoria Ave , Fort Myers

I f y o u a r e u n a b l e t o a t t e n d a w o r k s h o p , v i s i t

M y F W C c o m / S a l t w a t e r C o m m e n t s a n d c l i c k o n

“Workshops” to watch a recorded presentation or find recordings on the FWC Saltwater YouTube channel C o m m e n t s c a n b e s u b m i t t e d a t MyFWC com/SaltwaterComments

Signs of spring balmy weather, blooming flowers and nesting birds are occurring throughout Florida Warmer temperatures also mean alligators are more active and visible. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recommends taking precautions when in and around the water

While serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida, the FWC offers the following tips about how to safely co-exist with them:

∫ Keep a safe distance if you see an alligator and never feed one When fed, alligators can lose their natural wariness and instead learn to associate people with the availability of food

∫ Swim only in designated swimming areas during daylight hours Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn.

∫ Keep pets on a leash and away from the water’s edge and never let them swim in fresh or brackish water Pets often resemble alligators’ natural prey

∫ Call the FWC’s Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286) if you believe an alligator poses a threat to people, pets or property and the FWC will dispatch a contracted nuisance alligator trapper to resolve the situation The FWC places the highest priority on public safety and administers a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program (SNAP) to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while conserving alligators in areas where they naturally occur

∫ Find more resources about living with alligators a n d S p a n i s h t r a n s l a t i o n i n f o r m a t i o n t o o l s a t MyFWC com/Alligator

Florida’s state reptile, the American alligator is a conservation success story Florida has a healthy and stable population, which is estimated at 1 3 million alligators of every size They are found in freshwater lakes, ponds, swamps and slow-moving rivers in all 67 counties in Florida

Lee County LWV to present Climate Change Program

The League of Women Voters of Lee County will host a free Climate Change Program on April 1 at 9:30 a.m. at Collaboratory, at 2031 Jackson St , Fort

Myers, as well as virtually via Zoom The speaker will be Diz Swift, co-chair of the LWV National Climate Interest Group. The program will feature a PowerPoint

presentation, followed by a Q&A session Check-in will begin at 9 a m For more

change-tickets-583848004097 or

278-1032.

FLORIDA

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

FLORIDA

CROW thanks cleanup crews

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife thanked all of the volunteers who recently worked cleaning up the Sanibel campus In preparation for CROW's full return to the islands, they have been removing debris and doing touch-ups around the grounds For more information a b o u t b e c o m i n g a v o l u n t e e r , v i s i t h t t p s : / / c r o w c l i n i c o r g / g e t - i n v o l v e d / v o l u n t e e r / C u r r e n t volunteers who want information about the Campus Clean Ups on Tuesdays and Saturdays can email volunteers@crowclinic org

CLINIC FOR THE REHABILITATION OF WILDLIFE

Isl and lIVInG

Report your news to CAPTIVASANIBEL COM

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

∫ Brennen Keith Melvin, 32, of 3663 Lake St , Fort Myers, was charged on March 12 with DUI unlawful blood alcohol DUI influence of alcohol or drugs

Other enforcement actions

∫ On March 7, a vehicle was stopped after radar confirmed a speed of 94 miles per hour. The offender was issued two criminal citations

∫ On March 11, an alligator charged workers as they were removing debris from a waterway The trapper was notified and removed the aggressive alligator

∫ On March 13, a traffic stop resulted in the driver being issued two criminal citations: knowingly operating a vehicle while license suspended and attached tag not assigned The vehicle was towed from the scene

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

Sanibel library to present next lecture in virtual series

W i t h s u p p o r t f r o m t h e S a n i b e l P u b l i c L i b r a r y Foundation, the Sanibel Public Library has launched a series of virtual author talks to include bestselling authors and thought leaders

The next lecture will be held on March 28 at 7 p m and will feature Pam Jenoff, New York Times bestselling historical fiction author of “The Orphan’s Tale” and “The Lost Girls of Paris ” She will talk about her newest book,

March

“Code Name Sapphire ” Jenoff also authored “The Woman With The Blue S t a r , ” “ T h e K o m m a n d a n t ’ s G i r l , ” “ T h e D i p l o m a t ’ s W i f e , ” “ T h e A m b a s s a d o r ’ s D a u g h t e r , ” “ T h e L a s t Summer at Chelsea Beach,” “The Winter Guest,” “The Things We Cherished,” “Almost Home,” and “A Hidden Affair ” In addition, she wrote a short story in the anthol-

Rec center to host complimentary screening

Flynt selected as annual Carson Scholar

Alexandra Flynt, a fifth-grader at The Sanibel School, was honored as a 2023 Carson Scholar

The Carson Scholars Fund awards

Sanibel Public Meetings

The following public meetings/hearings are scheduled: ∫ M a r c h 2 8 : S a n i b e l Planning Commission meeting at 9 a m at BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, and via Facebook Live For more inform a t i o n o r t h e a g e n d a , v i s i t www mysanibel com

Education Note

$1,000 college scholarships to students in grades 4-11 who excel academically and are dedicated to serving their communities Each school can nominate one student to apply. Carson Scholars must have a mini-

m u m G P A o f 3 7 5 a n d d i s p l a y humanitarian qualities through community service There were 35 scholars and 64 recognized scholars from the School District of Lee County

∫ Officers responded to numerous calls concerning illegal dumping.

∫ Officers continue to issue warnings and citations for the dewatering of pools in violation of the city ordinance

Enforcement operations statistics

Week to date for March 7-13:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 4

∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 63

∫ Traffic crashes: 2

∫ Traffic stops: 26 Citations issued: 15

Written warnings issued: 6

∫ Field interviews: 1

∫ Residential area checks: 598

∫ Business area checks: 383

∫ Total area checks: 1,304

∫ Reported burglaries: 1

∫ Reported thefts: 2

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,644

March 2023 to date:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 8

∫ Non-emergency calls: 113

∫ Traffic crashes: 3

∫ Traffic stops: 58 Citations issued: 21 Written warnings issued: 15

∫ Field interviews: 2

∫ Residential area checks: 1,094

∫ Business area checks: 713

∫ Total area checks: 2,418

∫ Reported burglaries: 1

t e i n , m i n e r a l s a n d b o d y w a t e r I t a l s o d e s c r i b e s w e i g h t m o r e a c c ur a t e l y f o r a n i n d i v i d u a l t h a n B M I B o d y c o m p o s i t i o n a n a l y s i s c a n a c c u r a t e l y s h o w c h a n g e s i n f a t m a s s , m u s c l e m a s s , a n d b o d y f a t p e r c e n t a g e o v e r t i m e a n d c a n p r ov i d e a b e n c h m a r k f o r i m p r o v i n g o n e ' s h e a l t h F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , c a l l P a g e 1 3 ■ W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , M a r c h 2 2 , 2 0 2 3 b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s . c o m I s l a n d R e p o r t e r

∫ Reported thefts: 3

∫ Total CAD calls: 3,051

Impor tant reminders

Roadside parking on Sanibel is not allowed except in the case of special events requiring a permit It is enforced and can result in a $150 fine

Several beach park facilities are open to the public

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o n S a n i b e l b e a c h e s , v i s i t h t t p s : / / w w w . m y s a n i b e l . c o m / g o v e r n m e n t / p u b l i c -

See BLOTTER, page 15

The Sanibel Public Library will host a virtual author talk on

sPOrts

EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES

Gray triggerfish opens for recreational harvest

Gray triggerfish opened to recreational harvest in Gulf state and federal waters on March 1

If you plan to fish for gray triggerfish in state or federal waters from a private recreational vessel, you must sign up as a State Reef Fish Angler (annual r e n e w a l i s r e q u i r e d ) T o l e a r n m o r e , v i s i t M y F W C c o m / M a r i n e a n d c l i c k o n “ R e c r e a t i o n a l Regulations” and “State Reef Fish Survey” under “ R e e f F i s h ” S i g n u p t o d a y a t

GoOutdoorsFlorida com

Learn more about recreational fishing regulations at MyFWC.com/Marine by clicking on “Recreational Regulations” or download the Fish Rules App at I n s t a g r a m c o m / F i s h R u l e s o r Facebook com/FishRulesApp

DDWS reports on refuge programming and more

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge reported that the J.N. “Ding” Darling National W i l d l i f e R e f u g e ' s V i s i t o r & E d u c a t i o n C e n t e r a n d Wildlife Drive will reopen to the public on April 4 In addition, the DDWS provided the following updates:

∫ “Ding” Darling Nature Wellness is partnering with the Sanibel Recreation Center to offer free Mindfulness Meditations and Mindful Nature Walks Preregister at DingDarling.Eventbrite.com.

∫ Most Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, the Nature Store will pop up at the Outdoor Gallery and Island Market from 10 a m to 2 p m at the Rachel Pierce Art Gallery, at 1571 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

∫ Refuge Cleanup with a Ranger takes place on Thursdays at 9 a m Participation is limited; preregistration is required at DingDarling Eventbrite com

∫ In concert with Earth Day, the “Ding” Darling Day Conservation Carnival will take place on April 22 at the Lakes Park in Fort Myers

∫ “Ding” Wellness Week will precede National Mental Health Awareness Week, May 3-10.

∫ The annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament will take place on May 19 Registration is open As of March 16, there were two spots left The DDWS thanked the 2023 sponsors To become an event sponsor, contact Boehnen at aprilb@dingdarlingsociety org or 239-292-0566

Edison, Ford to host vintage ‘Base Ball’ tourney

On March 26, the Edison and Ford Winter Estates will host its annual Vintage “Base Ball” Tournament at the historic Terry Park in Fort Myers The teams will play several consecutive games throughout the day in a small tournament format Gates will open at 9:30 a m , with the first game starting at 10 a m

Vintage base ball (baseball in the 1860s, was spelled with two words) is played by 1860s rules, which include using wooden bats, no gloves and lemon peel baseballs Players will wear vintage uniforms and the umpires will call the shots the way they did during the time period

The vintage team roster includes the Awkwards V i n t a g e B a s e B a l l o f C e n t r a l F l o r i d a , B r a d e n t o n Shamrocks Vintage Base Ball Club, Early Riser BBC of Detroit, Vagabonds Base Ball Club the Fort Myers h o m e t e a m a n d W y a n d o t t e S t a r s B B C , f r o m Michigan Additional teams may be added and visiting players may join a team for the day

Admission will be $5 for adults, with children age 18 and under free

The game coincides with major league baseball spring training that is now locally played at JetBlue Park, the Lee County Sports Complex and Hammond Stadium However, Terry Park was once the hub of baseball’s spring training, and where Thomas Edison was a frequent visitor

Terry Park is at 3410 Palm Beach Blvd , Fort Myers

Histor y of park, Edison connection

In 1921, Dr Marshall Terry, along with his wife, Tootie McGregor-Terry, donated several acres of land that had in its earliest days been a cow pasture and later the site of the Lee County fair Lee County government took formal possession of the land, which was a mile east of the city of Fort Myers with the stipulation that “all property shall be used as a park and public property.”

U s i n g t h e s p e c i f i c a t i o n s p u t f o r t h b y C o r n e l i u s McGillicuddy, also known as “Connie Mack,” manager and owner of the Philadelphia Athletics, construction of the original ball field began in 1923 and was officially named Terry Park After two years of negotiations between Mack and a committee led by Richard Richards Sr , owner of the Fort Myers Royal Palm Pharmacy, the Athletics agreed to play their spring training games in Fort Myers starting in 1925

Terry Park served as the official spring training home of the Athletics until 1936 The team won the World Series in 1929 and 1930. Over the next five decades, other major league baseball teams used the ballpark to play their pre-season exhibition games, including the

Cleveland Indians, Kansas City Royals and Pittsburgh Pirates Hall of Famers such as George Brett, Roberto Clemente, Ty Cob, Jimmy Foxx, and Babe Ruth are some of stars that graced the fields at Terry Park, helping bring national exposure to the “City of Palms ”

E d i s o n , w o r l d - f a m o u s i n v e n t o r a n d b u s i n e s s m a n , w a s a l s o a d i e - h a r d b a s e b a l l f a n I n a 1 9 2 7 i n t e r v i e w , E d i s o n w a s q u o t e d a s s a y i n g “ B a s e b a l l i s t h e g r e a t e s t o f A m e r i c a n g a m e s I d o n ’ t b e l i e v e y o u c a n f i n d a m o r e a r d e n t f o l l o w e r o f b a s e b a l l t h a n m y s e l f , a s a d a y s e l d o m p a s s e s w h e n I d o n o t r e a d s p o r t i n g p a g e s o f t h e n e w s p a p e r ” H e d e c i d e d t o v i s i t T e r r y P a r k o n a f e w o c c a s i o n s t o w a t c h t h e A t h l e t i c s p l a y , e v e n s e i z i n g o n e o p p o r t u n i t y t o p a r t i c i p a t e i n t h e t e a m ’ s b a t t i n g p r a c t i c e s e s s i o n “ A c c o r d i n g t o h i s t o r i c d o c u m e n t s , T y C o b b v o l u nt e e r e d t o p i t c h t o t h e 8 0 - y e a r - o l d E d i s o n , w h o s u b s eq u e n t l y h i t a l i n e d r i v e t h a t k n o c k e d T y C o b b d o w n w h o w a s s t a n d i n g h a l f - w a y b e t w e e n t h e m o u n d a n d h o m e p l a t e , ” E d i s o n a n d F o r d W i n t e r E s t a t e s

C u r a t o r i a l R e g i s t r a r M a t t A n d r e s s a i d “ A s a r e s u l t ,

E d i s o n a n d a n a r m y o f r e p o r t e r s r o a r e d w i t h l a u g h t e r a f t e r h u m b l i n g o n e t h e l e a g u e s g r e a t e s t p l a y e r s . W h i l e C o b b w a s d u s t i n g h i m s e l f o f f , t h e i n v e n t o r q u i p p e d , ' T h i n k y o u c a n h i t t h e m l i k e t h a t w h e n y o u ’ r e 8 0 ? ' A f e w d a y s l a t e r t h e e n t i r e t e a m v i s i t e d M r a n d M r s E d i s o n a t t h e i r F o r t M y e r s ' e s t a t e a n d t o u r e d t h e p r o pe r t y a n d h a d l u n c h w i t h t h e l e g e n d a r y i n v e n t o r ”

The Vagabonds Base Ball Club is the Fort Myers home team and includes Edison Ford Chief Financial Officer Tom Hottovy (third from left) and Curatorial Registrar Matt Andres (fourth from left).

Ty Cobb, Thomas Edison and Connie Mack at Terry Park in 1927

Refuge announces reopening for Wildlife Drive, visitor center

To celebrate the 120th anniversary of the National Wildlife Refuge System on March 14, the J.N. “Ding” 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 o n S a n i b e l announced the rollout of its post-Hurricane Ian reopenings

On Sept 28, the near Category 5 storm ravaged the refuge's habitat and facilities, triggering the closure of all its waters and land to public access On Feb 1, the refuge reopened the Tarpon Bay Recreation Area On April 4, it will reopen the gate to Wildlife Drive for the first time with a Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of C o m m e r c e r i b b o n - c u t t i n g c e r e m o n y T h e r e f u g e ' s Visitor & Education Center will also reopen that day

“The 'Ding' team, with help from refuge crews around the U S , has been working nonstop to get parts of the refuge open so the public can once again view the wildlife, which has made a remarkable comeback since Hurricane Ian, especially the birds,” Refuge Complex Project Leader Kevin Godsea said “It's fitting that we make the auspicious, highly anticipated announcement of our Sanibel reopening to honor the occasion when, 120 years ago, President Theodore Roosevelt created the National Wildlife Refuge System right here in Florida, at Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge ”

The observation tower on Wildlife Drive suffered little damage from the storm, and it too will be accessible as of April 4, along with a section of the Indigo Trail, Wildlife Education Boardwalk, and Wulfert Key T r a i l F i s h i n g a n d p a d d l e c r a f t - l a u n c h i n g s p o t s o n Wildlife Drive will also reopen, and narrated tram tours will recommence initially on Tuesday and Thursday only

The Wildlife Drive hours will start out on Saturday through Thursday from 7 a m to 5 p m Entrance fees remain the same as pre-Ian: $10 for vehicles, and $1 for pedestrians and cyclists older than 15 A l o n g w i t h t h e e x h i b i t a r e a i n t h e V i s i t o r & Education Center, the Refuge Nature Store will be open on Saturday through Thursday from 9 a m to 4 p m The center’s auditoriums and classroom will remain closed until further notice

Facilities also to remain closed will include: most of the Indigo Trail, except for the segment between Wildlife Drive and the Wildlife Education Boardwalk; Mangrove Overlook; Calusa Shell Mound Trail; and the trails of Bailey Tract Staff continues cleanup

‘Base Ball’ tourney

Presentation at Edison, Ford estates

For spectators wanting to learn more about the history of spring training and the baseball legends that played in

Library

The J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's observation tower will reopen on April 4 on Sanibel, along with Wildlife Drive

efforts in these areas with the help of volunteers No reopening dates have been set for these facilities

At the Tarpon Bay Recreation Area, the Tarpon Bay Explorers recreation concession is offering limited facilities, rentals, and tours Hours are from 8 a m to 5 p m Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, with last rentals issued at 3 p m Guided kayaking tours of the Commodore Creek Trail are available on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 10 a m

“We could not have mitigated the severe damage we suffered this quickly without the incredible support of o u r w o n d e r f u l f r i e n d s g r o u p , t h e ' D i n g ' D a r l i n g Wildlife Society, and all the help we received with cleanup from civic groups, condo associations, students, and just so many other volunteers,” Godsea said “Thanks to everyone who brought us to this point Cleanup will be ongoing for quite a while, so it’s tremendously gratifying to see and feel the love from friends and fans all over the U S ”

For more information about the narrated tram tours at the refuge, visit tarponbayexplorers com

From page 14

F o r t M y e r s , E d i s o n F o r d P r o g r a m M a n a g e r H o l l y Shaffer will give a presentation on March 24-25 at 11 a m at the estates at 2350 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

County commission enacts burn ban for all of Lee County

O n M a r c h 9 , t h e L e e C o u n t y B o a r d o f C o u n t y C o m m i s s i o n e r s e n a c t e d a b u r n b a n f o r u n i n c o r p o r a t e d L e e a n d m u n i c i p a l i t i e s e f f e c t i v e i m m e d i a t e l y d u e t o i n c r e a s i n g l y d r y c o n d i t i o n s t h r o u g h o u t S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a T h e c o u n t y ’ s o r d i n a n c e b a n s “ o u t d o o r b u r n i n g i g n it i o n s o u r c e s , ” i n c l u d i n g c a m p f i r e s , b o n f i r e s a n d t r a s h b u r n i n g G r i l l s f o r f o o d a n d b a c k y a r d f i r e r i n g s a r e n o t i n c l u d e d O f f i c i a l s a s k t h a t t h e p u b l i c b e m i n d f u l o f t h e d r y c o n d i t i o n s a n d u s e g o o d j u d g m e n t t o m i t i g a t e p o t e n t i a l f o r s i g n i f i c a n t w i l d f i r e s T h e c o u n t y r e p o r t e d t h a t e x t e n d e d w e a t h e r f o r ec a s t s a r e f o r c o n t i n u i n g d r y c o n d i t i o n s , a n d t h e r e i s a n e l e v a t e d r i s k o f w i l d f i r e s f r o m f a l l e n t r e e s i n u n d e v e lo p e d l a n d s d u e t o H u r r i c a n e I a n

T h e F l o r i d a F o r e s t S e r v i c e o f f e r s t h e p u b l i c i n f o rm a t i o n a n d t i p s a t : ∫ B e W i l d f i r e R e a d y : w w w f d a c s g o v / F o r e s tW i l d f i r e / W i l d l a n d - F i r e / F i r e - P r e v e n t i o n / B e - W i l d f i r eR e a d y ∫ R e a d y , S e t , G o ! r e s o u r c e s : w w w f d a c s g o v / F o r e s t - W i l d f i r e / W i l d l a n d - F i r e / F i r eS a f e t y / R e a d y - S e t - G o ! - R e s o u r c e s T h e c o u n t y r e p o r t e d t h a t f o r i t t o e n a c t a b u r n b a n , c e r t a i n c o n d i t i o n s m u s t b e m e t , i n c l u d i n g a K e e t c hB y r a m D r o u g h t I n d e x ( K B D I ) t h a t r e a c h e d o r e x c e e d s a v a l u e o f 6 0 0 L e e ' s i n d e x v a l u e o n M a r c h 9 w a s a m e a n a v e r a g e o f 6 0 2 o u t o f 8 0 0 T h e c o u n t y a l s o c o o r d i n a t e s w i t h t h e L e e C o u n t y F i r e C h i e f s ’ A s s o c i a t i o n a n d F l o r i d a F o r e s t S e r v i c e , b o t h o f w h i c h s u p p o r t t h e b a n T h e b a n d o e s n o t a p p l y t o p r e s c r i b e d b u r n s a u t h o ri z e d b y t h e F l o r i d a F o r e s t S e r v i c e , a u t h o r i z e d p u b l i c f i r e w o r k s d i s p l a y s p e r m i t t e d b y t h e c o u n t y a n d o t h e r g o v e r n m e n t a g e n c i e s , a n d f i r e w o r k s s a l e s a u t h o r i z e d b y s t a t e l a w s T h e b u r n b a n w a s a c c o m p l i s h e d b y t h e c o u n t y c o mm i s s i o n a d o p t i n g a s t a t e o f l o c a l e m e r g e n c y . C h a i r m a n B r i a n H a m m a n s i g n e d t h e s t a t e o f l o c a l e m e r g e n c y a n d b u r n b a n a f t e r t h e b o a r d v o t e d a t i t s r e g u l a r l y s c h e du l e d m e e t i n g o n M a r c h 7 t o a u t h o r i z e h i m t o d o s o w h e n t h e c o n d i t i o n s w e r e m e t T h e c o u n t y r e p o r t e d t h a t o f f i c i a l s w i l l c o n t i n u e t o m o n i t o r t h e d r o u g h t c o n d i t i o n s t o d e t e r m i n e h o w l o n g t h e b u r n b a n w i l l b e i n p l a c e

From page 13

ogy “Grand Central: Original Postwar Stories of Love and Reunion ”

Jenoff attended George Washington U n i v e r s i t y i n W a s h i n g t o n , D C , a n d Cambridge University in England Upon receiving her master’s in history from Cambridge, she accepted an appointment as Special Assistant to the Secretary of the A r m y F o l l o w i n g h e r w o r k a t t h e P e n t a g o n , J e n o f f m o v e d t o t h e S t a t e Department She left the Foreign Service in 1998 to attend law school and graduated from the University of Pennsylvania

Blotter From page 13

w o r k s - d e p a r t m e n t / u s e f u l - l i n k s / p a r k spublic-beaches

Dewatering of a pool or spa directly into a waterbody, into the city’s stormwater system or onto any third-party’s property without the third party’s consent is expressly prohibited

She now teaches law school at Rutgers

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

To register for the author talk, visit https://libraryc org/sanlib/upcoming

The library is offering some programs for adults and youths

T o d a y M a r c h 2 2 F a m i l y Storytime for age 5 and under will be held at 10 a m Miss Megan will sing, read, question, and move around during the stories, followed by early literacy centers of play to flex minds, motor skills, and cre-

Solicitation is not allowed on Sanibel

Please share any photos of solicitation hang tags to police@mysanibel com or use Tip411

Repor ting suspicious activity

Anonymous tips regarding crimes or

It is included with the admission

For more information, visit EdisonFord org

ativity, which includes an art/craft center

The program is designed for children and a c c o m p a n y i n g a d u l t s N o r e g i s t r a t i o n required

In addition, stop by the library during March to see World War II models made by Shaffer The collection includes 19 planes, seven tanks, a Jeep and three soldiers plus a bull terrier

As the library continues to recover from the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, staff is working to update the library's records, including books checked out prior to the

suspicious activity can be submitted via Tip411:

∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411

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

storm Patrons can help the library update their records by sharing the status of their borrowed items that are possibly lost At this time, there are no fines for late or lost items For more information, contact 239472-2483 or notices@sanlib org

The Sanibel Public Library is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p m

For more information, call 239-4722483 or visit www sanlib org

The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

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

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

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

REFUGE/DDWS

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Community House on Sanibel is set to celebrate its 96th anniversary of serving the islands

Six months after Hurricane Ian, the facility will reopen to the community with “We're Still Standing” on M a r c h 2 9 from 4 to 7 p m W i t h the theme a play on the 1980s song

b y E l t o n

John, the get-together will celebrate TCH's role of serving as Sanibel's gathering place for decades and its return to that

Executive Director Teresa Riska-Hall reported that it will be a chance to gather and share stories

“And we wanted to have an opportunity for people who are living on the islands and those on the islands to come take a peek at The Community House, if they haven't yet,” she added of the post-storm restoration work being done. “See what we've been able to do so far, and what is still to be done ”

The event will take place in the main lobby area's entrance veranda, small conference room and restrooms, as well as in tents at the east entrance an area being described as phase I of the project. In the summer, additional meeting rooms and kitchen areas will be added during the phase II work

R i s k a - H a l l v o i c e d g r a t i t u d e f o r t h e S a n i b e l Community Association's members, donors and volunteers who have stepped up to support the recovery, giving a major push for the work that needs to be done

“It's sad that we have to rebuild so soon after our 2016 renovation,” she said “But The Community House has always been community-supported since its opening in 1927, and this time is no different ”

The evening will feature live entertainment by the Marty Stokes Band. The four-member group is known

What

“We're Still Standing”

around the islands for its blues sounds Stokes, himself, is a native of Sanibel-Captiva

“They're one of the best loved bands on the island,” Riska-Hall said

The Point Ybel Brewing Company will provide its craft beers Wines will also be available

“They're doing a couple of types of beer,” she said “So, they'll have a couple of selections.”

There will also be catered appetizers and charcuterie items to enjoy

TCH and the SCA will have their “Rebuild” T-shirts available for purchase, plus Matlacha-based artist Leoma Lovegrove will have numbered and signed souvenir prints of her “Sanibel Lighthouse” piece

“We'll probably also have some of the (Sanibel) Shellcrafters items,” Riska-Hall said

Tickets are $50 per person

The proceeds raised will support the restoration of the historic facility

The community is encouraged to reserve a ticket.

“It's going to be a lot of fun,” she said “And it's an opportunity to celebrate in gratitude being here and still standing and for us being able to come back and serve the community for another 100 years ”

For more information or tickets, visit www sanibelcommunityhouse com or call 239-472-2155

The Community House is at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

I n p a r t n e r s h i p w i t h B e l l T o w e r a n d T w o L a n e L a g e r , t h e “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g W i l d l i f e S o c i e t y - F r i e n d s o f t h e R e f u g e w i l l p r e s e n t S o u n d s o f t h e S a n d o n M a r c h 2 5 t o s u p p o r t t h e r e c o v e r y e f f o r t s a n d c o n s e r v a t i o n o u t r e a c h o f 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 o n S a n i b e l a f t e r H u r r i c a n e I a n d e s t r o y e d m u c h o f i t s h a b i t a t a n d i n f r as t r u c t u r e

The family-friendly event will take place from 1 to 7 p m at the Fort Myers shopping plaza, featuring Sanibel guitarist and vocalist Danny Morgan with steel d r u m m u s i c i a n J o h n M c L a n e

Performances by The Lineup Band and Peter Kolter will play warm-up for the main act A stilt-walker and other local bands will also be on hand for the free event

The refuge will set up stations with nature games for families, as well as offer i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t t h e r e f u g e a n d i t s recovery and how to donate to the DDWS t o s u p p o r t r e f u g e c o n s e r v a t i o n w o r k , including post-hurricane habitat restoration, wildlife protection, and environmental education

Distributor of Two Lane American

Beverage Sales will sell beer, with the profits going directly to the DDWS

lawn games, themed photo ops, and cotton candy Musicians will perform on the main stage and at stations at either end of the shopping plaza

its

B o e h n e n a t

Certified J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge instructors will offer archery lessons as part of the lineup for Sounds of the Sands on March 25 from 1 to 7 p.m. at Bell Tower in Fort Myers. REFUGE/DDWS

Robbie’s Riders, Grampy’s Charities and Sanibel Captiva Community Bank present custom-made adaptive tricycles to local children with special needs and their families

Local youths receive adaptive tricycles

Robbie’s Riders, Grampy’s Charities and Sanibel Captiva Community Bank recently presented six custommade adaptive tricycles each worth $3,000 to $5,000 to Southwest Florida children with special needs at the bank's Bridge Branch in Fort Myers

Between the ages of 4 and 10, all of the recipients have medical issues such as traumatic brain injuries, autism, Down syndrome and cerebral palsy

The children will benefit from general strengthening, new proprioceptive sensory input and improved recipro-

cal coordination of the legs by riding the tricycles. They can also participate in activities with their families and peers and enjoy the childhood experience of riding a bike

Dunes taking reservations for ‘Soul City Live’

The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club will host its first event of the season following Hurricane Ian

“Soul City Live” will be held on March 24 from 6 to 9 p m at 949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel There will be cocktails at 5 p.m. and a buffet dinner at 5:30 p m , followed by entertainment and dancing

A limited cash bar will be available

Cost is $55 for members and $65 for non-members

Reservations are first come, first served for up to 100 attendees

PHOTO PROVIDED

of the Great White Grill on Sanibel It thanked him

Isl and HOMe islander

Confusing clusia

By SANIBEL VEGETATION COMMITTEE

(Editor's note: This is part of a series of articles by members of the city of Sanibel's Vegetation Committee dealing with vegetative matters of concern to island residents.)

There are 300-plus species of clusia in the world Clusia is often referred to as the autograph tree because any etching will remain on the leaf until it falls or pitch apple after the black material surrounding the seeds, which was used to caulk the seams of boats Clusia is a low maintenance plant that has thick leathery leaves and a low branching pattern, which makes it a nice choice for a hedge It is also drought and salt tolerant with few pests, making a perfect plant for Sanibel Only one species however, Clusia rosea, is native to Florida

Clusia rosea has the biggest leaves and a unique fruit. Consideration must be made when planting the native species because it is temperature sensitive below 35 degrees In the past, cold fronts on Sanibel have led to die-offs of the trees

Blue-eyed grass is little but cute

Blue-eyed grass (Sisyrinchium angustifolium) is a herbaceous perennial grass native to South Florida and the eastern United States, all the way up to Quebec and as far west a s T e x a s T h e n a t i v e grows naturally in meadows, damp fields, open woods, moist pinelands, swamp edges and grassy r o a d s i d e s T h e s m a l l o r n a m e n t a l g r a s s p r oduces star-shaped flowers, rising above the delicate grass-like clumps The blue flowers appear in spring and have a yellow center

The native grass self-seeds and can be divided after the bloom season every two to three years using a sharp-edged tool to cut the clumps into smaller pieces Pieces should be planted in a moist location until roots are able to develop If left alone, individual plants eventually become at least 1-foot wide, but never taller than 6 inches Use this plant along walkways, edges of planting beds and in mass

The native grass is also a wildlife attractor, attracting bees and other pollinators to its blue flowers Like many other native Florida species, Native Americans valued the plant for its medicinal value and used the roots of the plant for treatment of stomachaches, and various other ailments The blue-eyed grass is little but cute and may be just the interesting piece you need for your garden.

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

Several non-native species of Clusia have notably smaller leaves Their flowers and fruits are not easily seen on Sanibel, perhaps because they are kept as hedges and trimmed regularly, which discourages flower development They also have the leathery paddle-shaped leaves common to the Clusia genus These dwarf or “small leafed” varieties have been planted with the misunderstanding that they are native plants. In fact, it is not uncommon to see the exotic plant labeled as native (i e Clusia rosea), particularly when shopping for plants at a big box store

As a community, we have defined Sanibel as a “barri-

er island sanctuary, living in harmony with the island’s wildlife ” The community also decided it wanted “our development to reflect the predominance of natural condit i o n s a n d c h a r a c t e r i s t i c s , ” p e r t h e S a n i b e l V i s i o n Statement Therefore, when any development or substantial redevelopment occurs, the Land Development Code requires that 75 percent of the plants (in three categories: trees, shrubs and groundcovers) on the property be native

As residents have begun restoring their properties post-Hurricane Ian, city staff have observed large numbers of the exotic clusia being installed to form privacy hedges If a clusia hedge is planted with a non-native species of clusia, it is required that enough native trees and shrubs be present on the property to meet the 75 percent native requirement If this is not the case, it would

See CLUSIA, page 23

City provides guidance on home restoration

The city reported that as Sanibel r e c o v e r s a n d r e b u i l d s f o l l o w i n g H u r r i c a n e I a n , m a n y c i t i z e n s a r e anxious to return to the island and restore their home In some cases, structures will be demolished and p r o p e r t i e s r e d e v e l o p e d C i t y s t a f f knows Sanibel's Land Development Code is complex and necessary to maintain the island sanctuary charact e r i s t i c s t h a t m a k e s S a n i b e l s o unique Staff is committed to helping residents and businesses be successful in completing repairs, renovations, and redevelopment.

T h e c i t y ' s N a t u r a l R e s o u r c e s , P u b l i c W o r k s , P l a n n i n g , a n d Building departments have compiled important information regarding the L D C t o h e l p r e s i d e n t s w h o a r e undertaking renovation, restoration, and redevelopment projects The city reported that following the below guidance will help to ensure propert i e s r e m a i n c o m p l i a n t w i t h t h e Vision Statement, Sanibel Plan, and LDC and help the community recov-

City depar tment contacts

∫ For questions about replanting and beach restoration, contact the Natural Resources Department at sandnr@mysanibel com or 239-472-3700

∫ For questions about roads, road rights-of-way, drainage, or sanitary sewer, contact the Public Works Department at sanpw@mysanibel com or 239-472-6397

∫ For questions about outdoor lighting or other development standards, contact the Planning Department at sanplan@mysanibel com or 239-472-4136

∫ For questions on the 50% Rule or building permit requirements, contact the Building Department at sanbuild@mysanibel.com or 239-472-4555.

er as it works to restore the sanctuary island

In addition, city staff will host a c o m m u n i t y w o r k s h o p t o p r e s e n t information and answer citizen questions on April 26 at BIG ARTS on Sanibel. More details will be provided in the future

Source: City of Sanibel

Natural Resources Depar tment

Vegetation permits

Do I need a permit to remove or plant vegetation?

∫ Some activities that would typ-

See GUIDANCE, page 23

City committee resumes free guided plant walk

The city of Sanibel's Vegetation Committee will offer a guided native vegetation and landscaping tour on March 23 at 9 a m of the City Hall grounds, which is planted exclusively with native plants Walk the grounds for ideas on p l a n t i n g n a t i v e v e g e t a t i o n t h a t requires no fertilizer See how to plant a garden that reseeds itself with

very little maintenance, is good for the environment and will attract birds and butterflies V e g e t a t i o n C o m m i t t e e m e m b e r s w i l l p r o v i d e v a l u a b l e i n f o r m a t i o n o n p r o p e r p l a n t i n g a n d c a r e o f n a t i v e v e g e t a t i o n T h e c i t y e n c o u ra g e s p l a n t i n g o f v e g e t a t i o n t h a t i s i n d i g e n o u s t o t h e a r e a a s i t r e q u i r e s v e r y l i t t l e m a i n t e n a n c e , n o f e r t i l i z -

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

Registration is not required

Meet in front of the main staircase at the Sanibel City Hall, at 800 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

For more information, contact the N a t u r a l R e s o u r c e s D e p a r t m e n t a t s a n d n r @ m y s a n i b e l c o m o r 2 3 9 -

472-3700

Sanibel Captiva

PHOTO PROVIDED Blue-eyed grass

CITY OF SANIBEL

Recipe of the Week: Panna Cotta with Raspberry Sauce

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

This light dessert is one of Italy’s favorites and easy to prepare because it can be made ahead and kept in the refrigerator for several days Perfect for company, it looks like you spent the whole day preparing it even though you didn’t. I like to serve it with fresh fruit and mint. Serves eight (Chef tip: Be careful when working with gelatin For best results, always dissolve first in cold water and then heat in the cream mixture making sure that the gelatin is completely dissolved and incorporated )

2 tablespoons cold water

1 1/2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin

Nonstick vegetable oil spray

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 cups buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla sugar

BIG ARTS Calendar

B I G A R T S , a t 9 0 0 D u n l o p R o a d , Sanibel, will present the following:

Workshop

Glass Fusing with Petra Kaiser today, March 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at BIG ARTS Cost is $39 for donors and $48 for non-donors

Workshop

Paint Seascapes in Oil with Douglas David on March 23 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p m at BIG ARTS Cost is $148 for donors and $185 for non-donors

Workshop

Pastel Painting Plein Air with Mary Klunk on March 28 and 30 from 9 a m to 1 p m a t t h e B e r n e D a v i s B o t a n i c a l Gardens, at 2166 Virginia Ave , Fort Myers Cost is $192 for donors and $240 for non-donors

Pre-registration is required for workshops by contacting 239-395-0900 or info@bigarts org

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t www bigarts org or call 239-395-0900

CROW Calendar

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, will present the following:

∫ Today, March 2 2

Speaker Series at 1 p m

Mary Bammer, instructional designer for the UF/IFAS Honey Bee Research and Extension Lab, will present “The Global I m p a c t o f B e e s a n d B e e k e e p e r s ” v i a Zoom She will discuss specific ways in which honey bees, and the beekeepers

who manage them, influence the world Cost is free or by donation. To register, visit https://www eventbrite com/o/clinicf o r - t h e - r e h a b i l i t a t i o n - o f - w i l d l i f e - c r o w -

32068914951

CROW's campus on Sanibel is currently closed due to Hurricane Ian.

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t http://www crowclinic org/ or call 239472-3644

Being ‘coachable’ with God

As you read this, the phen o m e n o n n o w k n o w n t h r o u g h o u t t h e w o r l d a s “March Madness” the tournaments to determine t h e c o l l e g e m e n ’ s a n d women’s basketball champions for this season will be in full gear Having spent s e v e r a l y e a r s o f m y l i f e c o a c h i n g m e n ’ s a n d women’s college basketball, it is still one of my favorite times of year It is also a time which always reminds me of the many outstanding coaches I have known and learned from over the years

The lessons I have learned from them run wide and deep, and have greatly influenced not just my own coaching career, but also my years as a minister All those years learning from other coaches about how to teach, communicate, organize and respond to setbacks have been just as important as the many years studying the Bible, theology and spirituality

Faces on Faith

Raspberry sauce:

2 cups raspberries, fresh (hulled and sliced) or frozen

2 tablespoons triple sec sweet liqueur

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Fresh mint

Place water into small bowl; sprinkle gelatin over and stir Let gelatin stand for 20 minutes or until gelatin softens Lightly spray eight 3/4-cup ramekins or custard cups with nonstick spray

Heat cream, orange zest, and sugar in medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until sugar dissolves Increase heat and bring just to a low boil, stirring occasionally Add gelatin mixture; remove from heat Stir until gelatin dissolves Cool mixture to lukewarm, stirring often Stir in buttermilk and vanilla; divide mixture among prepared ramekins Refrigerate panna cotta until set, about eight hours

Place raspberries in a medium saucepan with any juice, liqueur and sugar Cook mixture over low heat until the fruit breaks down. Puree mixture until smooth. Chill until ready to serve

Using small sharp knife, cut around panna cotta in each ramekin Place plate atop each ramekin and invert, allowing panna cotta to settle onto plate Top with raspberry puree and serve chilled

Island Worship

∫ Bat Yam Temple of the Islands

2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel (Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ), https://www batyam org/, https://www facebook com/batyamsanibel/ Rabbi Stephen Fuchs and Cantor Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer

Sabbath service on Friday at 7 p.m. at the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties, at 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, 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 Larry Marshall

In-person service on Sundays at 11 a m through April Services will be videotaped and posted on the chapel's website and Facebook page Services from the past season can also be found online

∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida

www chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida org

Lecture and discussion on Thursday at 11 a.m. via Zoom. Torah Talk on the third Thursday of each month at 11 a m via Zoom Friday Shabbat service at 7:30 p m via Zoom Len Minsky Current Events discussion on Saturday at 11 a m via Zoom For Zoom links, email ChavuratShalom@gmail com

∫ Sanibel Christian Science Church

2950 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239-810-1077

Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services

∫ 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 SCC Sanctuary Sunday service at 4 p m at the Fort Myers Community Church, at 8440 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. Services will be recorded and posted on the SCC's YouTube channel on Monday

∫ Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ

other coaches though, there’s one that still continues to stand out for me The best coaches are able, despite often having very different personalities and styles, to:

∫ See in others what they may not, or even can’t, see in themselves;

∫ Believe that others can be that;

∫ Help others come to see, believe and be it

And in that, those coaches whether they realize it or not; whether they would ever think about it or consider putting it into these terms or not are carrying out a spiritually sacred task

Because isn’t that how God is with us?

2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-0497, https://www sanibelucc org/, https://www facebook com/sanibelucc/

Senior Minister Dr Mark Boyea

Sunday service at 10 a m at The Refuge Church, at 1901 Brantley Road, Fort Myers

∫ St. Isabel Catholic Church

3559 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, 239-472-2763, https://www saintisabel org/, https://www facebook com/stisabelcatholicchurch/

Father Ed Martin

Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services.

∫ St. 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

Service with optional healing prayers on Wednesday at 9 a m at the Peace Lutheran Church, at 15840 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers Sunday service at 11:30 a m at the same location, followed by a coffee hour in Fellowship Hall

Abraham Sarah Moses Mary Peter Paul

move us where we may be uncomfortable or may not want to go

Out of all those lessons learned from

Over and over in the Bible and in the Christian (as well as other) spiritual tradition, we see a God and then a Jesus who is constantly seeing in others what they can’t see in themselves; believing they can be it; and then calling and helping them see, believe and be it.

Over and over again, God the Coach does that And God the Coach wants to do the same for us

Just as in basketball though, it won’t happen by accident It takes practice Daily, dedicated, intentional practice As it did for those others, it takes a willingness to listen to God when we’re not playing our best And it takes the trust and humility to allow God to

In athletics, we call that “being coachable ” And if we’re “coachable” with God, God can and will do the rest Like the best coaches, God will also bring out our best

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

Loretta Paganini

Dr. Mark Boyea

islandBeat islander

‘All Florida’ exhibit open at Alliance

The 37th All Florida Exhibition will be on display now through April 1 at the Alliance for the Arts, at 10091 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers I t s h o w c a s e s p r o m i n e n t a n d e m e r g i

u n n i n g e x h i b i -

Refuge visits island school for Read Across America

To celebrate Read Across America on March 2, J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Supervisory Ranger Toni Westland and Ranger Jessica Barry read to students at The Sanibel School, which recently celebrated its reopening after a post-hurricane comeback Westland taught students in K-2 about the importance of birds, while Barry read to the older grades about sea turtles

Tribute band to per for m at BIG ARTS

Absolute Queen, a tribute to the iconic rock band, will perform on April 1 at 8 p m at BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel Tickets are $62 Full bar beverages will be available Sponsored by Gustav and Vibeke Christensen For more information or tickets, visit the box office or call 239-395-0900

F.I.S.H. seeking holiday donations

t i o n

The exhibit is sponsored by American Art Collector and International Artist Magazine Gallery admission is free, but a $5 donation keeps programming affordable and accessible For more information, visit ArtInLee org/AllFlorida 2023

F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva is accepting items for its Easter holiday baskets Candy, small toys, stuffed animals, plastic eggs, books and more can be dropped off now through April 3 at donation bins at Jerry's Foods, at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, and the Sanibel Public Library, at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel In addition, MacIntosh Books and Paper is holding a book drive for the holiday baskets now through March 31 at its Bell Tower location, at 13499 S Cleveland Ave , Fort Myers, and the Outdoor Gallery and Island Market, at 1571 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Traders, 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel PETER REDPATH 5 to 8 p m

DANNY MORGAN AND JOHN McLANE 5 to 8 p m

DANNY MORGAN 5 to 8 p.m.

PETER REDPATH 5 to 8 p m

JOHN McLANE 5 to 8 p m

DANNY MORGAN 5 to 8 p m

Cielo, 1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel SCOTT McDONALD 4 to 7:30 p m

SCOTT McDONALD 4 to 7:30 p m SCOTT McDONALD 4 to 7:30 p m SCOTT McDONALD 4 to 7:30 p m SCOTT McDONALD 4 to 7:30 p m

ALLIANCE FOR THE ARTS

REFUGE/DDWS

Ranger Jessica Barry reads to students at The Sanibel School about sea turtles.

Supervisory Ranger Toni Westland teaches students about the importance of birds

require the installation of additional native trees to meet the required native to exotic ratio (3:1) For example, if your hedge consists of 50 exotic clusia shrubs, you will need at least 150 native shrubs to comply with the 75 percent native requirement This may be a problem depending on the size of your property and may also add significant cost to your landscape project

Additionally, many of these exotic clusia hedges and other vegetation have been installed by private property owners in the public right-of-way (ROW) A ROW typically includes both the paved areas of streets, as well as swale and drainage areas along the edges of the road

Guidance

From page 20

ically require a vegetation permit have been exempted through mayoral proclamation and can be viewed at https://www mysanibel com/content/download/31100/fi

Utilities are also located within the ROW (water, sewer and electricity) Maintaining the ROW is important for the city to be able to provide and restore these services to residents, so just as a reminder:

∫ The public ROW must be a sodded swale, so no vegetation planting aside from sod is allowed

∫ No mulch or gravel is allowed in the ROW

∫ No obstructions are allowed in the ROW, including irrigation, decorative rocks, or fencing

Questions regarding the location of the ROW should

b e d i r e c t e d t o t h e P u b l i c W o r k s D e p a r t m e n t a t sanpw@mysanibel com

There are many native plants that did well despite Ian’s winds and storm surge and make wonderful hedges, including green and silver buttonwood, Florida privet, Walter’s viburnum and Simpson’s stopper If a native hedge is planted not only do you have plants that are attractive to wildlife, they also need no water or fertilizer once established By choosing to go native, you add to the goal of preserving our community as a sanctuary island For more information or articles, visit www mysanibel com/Departments/Natural-Resources To view the city’s “The Alien Invasion” brochure, visit online or call the Natural Resources Department at 239-472-3700

Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL), removal of live native vegetation (plants unaffected by the hurricane or those that can be restored or preserved), vegetation work on vacant lots, and other activities described in S a n i b e l C o d e S e c t i o n s 1

- 1 4

h r

-

5

( “ V e g e t a t i o n P e r m i t s ” a t https://library municode com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of o r d i n a n c e s ? n o d e I d = S P B L A D E C O C H 1 2 2 V E A R T I I -

I S T D I V 2 A D S D I I P E S 1 2 2 - 1 4 6 O T A C R E P E ) , t h a t are not otherwise addressed in mayoral proclamations require a permit

Landscaping

Are there requirements for the type of plants I use?

∫ Generally, landscaping requires the use of 75% native vegetation within each category of native plants (trees, shrubs, and groundcovers), with the remainder being additional native plants or non-competing exotic plants A good rule of thumb: for every non-competing exotic plant installed, it should be offset with three native plants to prevent non-compliance It is strongly recommended that a landscape or planting plan be submitted to the Natural Resources Department to review compliance with the LDC

∫ Planting any invasive exotic vegetation on Sanibel is prohibited (Section 122-169 at https://library municode.com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of ordinances?nodeId=

SPBLADECO CH122VE ARTIIIST DIV3GEST S1 22-169LARE) For a list of invasive exotic plants, visit t h e F l o r i d a I n v a s i v e S p e c i e s C o u n c i l w e b s i t e a t https://floridainvasivespecies org/index cfm

∫ Why native plants? Native plants are adapted to the local climate, require little or no supplemental irrigation or fertilizer once established, and provide habitat and forage for native wildlife Many native species tolerate salt spray and inundation, making Sanibel more resilient to severe weather and rising seas

∫ Certain properties (residential, commercial, and institutional uses) along arterial and collector roads (see d e f i n i t i o n f o r “ S t r e e t ” a t https://library municode com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of o r d i n a n c e s ? n o d e I d = S P B L A D E C O C H 7 8 G E P R S 7 81RUCODE) must adhere to vegetation buffer standards and these properties should work to restore buffers to c o d e s t a n d a r d s i n A r t i c l e I I L a n d s c a p i n g (https://library municode com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of o r d i n a n c e s ? n o d e I d = S P B L A D E C O C H 1 2 2 V E A R T IILA)

∫ The use of sod (turf grass) is limited by the city’s e n v i r o n m e n t a l p e r f o r m a n c e s t a n d a r d s (https://library.municode.com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of ordinances?nodeId=SPBLADECO CH126ZO ARTXIIIENPEST) Generally, sod is limited to 20 percent of the total land area of the parcel or 4,000 square feet per dwelling unit, whichever is less Only sod can be planted in the city’s rights-of-way

∫ Properties may temporarily use mulch to stabilize exposed soils until the property can conform to development and vegetation standards Once a property is properly revegetated, mulch must be limited to appropriate quantities around plantings and in landscape beds Other materials such as shell, rock, or gravel spread outside of designated driveways, foot paths, and/or landscape beds

shall be considered developed area and may result in overdevelopment of a property Check with the city before installing shell, rock or gravel

Placement of fill

The placement of fill on a property that alters the existing drainage pattern, ground contours, or grade elevations of the real property or the bottom elevation of an open body or water, constitutes development (Section 7 8 - 9 a t https://library.municode.com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of o r d i n a n c e s ? n o d e I d = S P B L A D E C O C H 7 8 G E P R S 7 89ACCODE) and a development permit is required

Removal of muck

Hurricane deposits of marine muck sediments may be scraped or raked from a property by hand without the need for a development permit A thin layer of topsoil may be placed in the area where the mulch was removed (maximum 1 inch) provided the pre-storm contours of a property do not change

Replanting guide

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's PostHurricane Replanting Guide is a resource to help replant y o u r p r o p e r t y T o v i e w i t , v i s i t h t t p s : / / w w w s c c f o r g / n e w s / b l o g / n e w - p o s t - h u r r i c a n ereplanting-guide For questions, contact the Natural Resources Department at sandnr@mysanibel com or 239-472-3700

Beachfront/Gulfward of Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL)

What are the special standards for properties along the beach?

∫ To see if the CCCL is located on your property, visit https://sanibel maps arcgis com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3da5033bdad449bfa348961f970803

58 On the city’s Future Land Use Map, the 1974 CCCL is identified by a dashed orange line and the 1991 CCCL is identified by a dashed yellow line

Lighting

∫ A development permit is required to add or replace outdoor lights in the Gulf Beach, Gulf Beach Ridge, or Bay Beach ecozones

∫ All newly installed lighting fixtures visible from the beach (which can include properties outside of the CCCL or within ecozones that are not listed above) are required to meet the standards set forth in Section 126-1000 (https://library.municode.com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of o r d i n

n c e s ?

which states:

All exterior light fixtures (examples: building exterior, parking areas, landscaping, pool lighting, etc ) must be fully shielded so that the point source of light is not directly visible from the beach

CITY OF SANIBEL

LEFT: Typical Swale Section exhibit

ABOVE: Dark Sky light fixture guide

All fixtures must be equipped with a light source that emits light 560 nanometers or greater; only certain LED bulbs meet this requirement

It is highly recommended that light fixtures and bulbs be certified by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Certified Wildlife Lighting P r o g r a m ( h t t p s : / / m y f w c c o m / c o n s e r v a t i o n / y o u - c o nserve/lighting/criteria/certified/)

∫ To apply for an accessory development permit to replace or add exterior lighting, visit https://sanibelflenergovweb tylerhost net/apps/SelfService#/home

Window tint

Tinted glass is required to be installed on any windows and glass doors of single- or multi-story structures within line of sight of the beach (Section 126-1000 at https://library municode com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of o r d i n a n c e s ?

B E L IMATUPREWINARLISO) Tinted glass means any glass treated to achieve an industry-approved, inside-to-outside light transmittance value of 45 percent or less Sand placement

∫ Both city and state permits are required to fill in holes, gullies, scours and/or erosion that occurred as a result of the ebbing storm surge

S t a t e p e r m i t : C C C L E m e r g e n c y P e r m i t (https://floridadep gov/sites/default/files/DEP%20Form %2073-303 EmergencyPermitApp Enabled 0 0 pdf) C o n t a c t K e l l y C r a m e r a t Kelly Cramer@FloridaDEP gov City permit: Emergency Erosion Control Permit ( h t t p s : / / s a n i b e l f lenergovweb tylerhost net/apps/SelfService#/home)

∫ Beach compatible sand must be obtained from a F D E P a p p r o v e d m i n i n g s o u r c e ( h t t p s : / / f l o r i d a d e p g o v / s i t e s / d e f a u l t / f i l e s / P o s tStorm Emergency Sand Specifications 22 pdf)

∫ Sanibel’s beaches are utilized by myriad protected wildlife such as shorebirds and sea turtles; their nesting seasons respectively run from Feb 15 through Sept 1 and May 1 through Oct 31 annually Beach work proposed during these dates will be subject to additional permit conditions

∫ To view information about the Florida DEP's Florida Hurricane Restoration Reimbursement Grant Program for property owners to address beach erosion, visit https://floridadep gov/hurricane

Dune restoration

∫ S e c t i o n 1 2 2 - 1 7 0 (https://library.municode.com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of o r d i n a n

See GUIDANCE, page 24

IGUBEZO) states that “Only native vegetation shall be planted seaward of the 1974 CCCL ”

∫ While planting of native species in the Gulf Beach does not require a vegetation permit, it is highly recommended that a revegetation plan be submitted to the Natural Resources Department for review to ensure appropriate beach dune species have been selected

∫ Heavy equipment is prohibited Gulfward of the CCCL unless otherwise permitted by the city

For more information or questions, contact the Natural Resources Department at sandnr@mysanibel com or 239-472-3700

Public Works Depar tment

Restoring the right-of-way

A right-of-way (ROW) includes both the paved areas of streets, as well as swale and drainage areas (typically sodded) along the edges of the road Utilities are also located within the right-of-way (water, sewer, and electricity) Maintaining the right-of-way is important for the city to be able to provide and restore these services to residents

∫ Public rights-of-way must be a sodded swale No vegetation planting other than sod is allowed in the rightof-way

∫ Placement of fill in the right-of-way is not allowed without a right-of-way modification permit from Public Works Swale elevations will be set by city staff and must follow the Typical Swale Section exhibit Deviations from the typical swale must be approved by Public Works through the right-of-way permitting process

∫ Driveway/culvert modification in the right-of-way will require a Public Works Driveway permit

∫ Ground covers, other than sod, are not allowed in the right-of-way No mulch or gravel is allowed

∫ No obstructions are allowed in the right-of-way, including irrigation, decorative rocks, or fencing

Maintaining on-site stormwater retention

All properties are required to contain stormwater runoff on-site consistent with stormwater standards (https://library municode com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of ordinances?nodeId=SPBLADECO CH118UT ARTIV STSTCO) Affecting this on-site drainage, either through placement of fill or regrading of a property, requires review by the city

∫ Any alterations in grade will require an engineered drainage plan and drainage certification letter from engineer after completion

∫ Restoration work to restore grades based on an existing approved drainage plan, a drainage certification letter from the engineer will be required after completion

Approved drainage plan must be included in permit application

∫ Addition of fill (other than to restore a property to an existing approved drainage plan) requires approval of a development permit The placement of fill on a property that alters the existing drainage pattern, ground contours, or grade elevations of the real property or the bottom elevation of an open body or water, constitutes d e v e l o p m e n t ( S e c t i o n 7 8 - 9 a t https://library municode com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of o r d i n a n c e s ? n o d e I d = S P B L A D E C O C H 7 8 G E P R S 7 89ACCODE) and a development permit is required

∫ Detailed standards for stormwater control can be f o u n d i n C h a p t e r 1 1 8 , A r t i c l e I V o f t h e L a n d D e v e l o p m e n t C o d e (https://library municode com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of ordinances?nodeId=SPBLADECO CH118UT ARTIV STSTCO)

Sanitary sewer

The city is the provider of wastewater (sewer) for residents

∫ If you are demolishing your existing house, be aware that the sewer connection must be disconnected and capped off, and you or your contractor must request an inspection from Public Works to verify that the disconnection point was appropriately sealed off

∫ All nonresidential properties are required to submit a wastewater availability agreement to verify if there is any expansion or change of use Fees will be required for additional Equivalent Residential Credits (ERC) not included in previously approved uses of the property

∫ Standards for wastewater disposal can be found in Chapter 118, Article III of the Land Development Code (https://library municode com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of ordinances?nodeId=SPBLADECO CH118UT ARTIII-

WADI)

For more information or questions, contact the Public Works Department at sanpw@mysanibel.com or 239472-6397

Planning Depar tment

Did you know that Sanibel has outdoor lighting standards for fixtures and bulbs to protect native wildlife (sea turtles) and the small-town character of our island community? Before making outdoor lighting purchases, consider the following:

∫ Full cutoff fixtures are required (unless the fixture is recessed under a porch or roof overhang) Full cutoff fixtures for landscaping and pathway lighting (under 3 feet tall) are recommended, but not required

∫ Fixtures must be downward facing

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

∫ Mercury vapor lighting is not allowed Permits for outdoor lighting

∫ A permit is required for outdoor lighting on properties or structures located in the Bay Beach, Gulf Beach, and Gulf Beach Ridge zones and must comply with marine turtle lighting standards Know your zone by visi t i n g t h e c i t y ' s F u t u r e L a n d U s e M a p S e r i e s a t https://sanibel.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/inde x html?id=3da5033bdad449bfa348961f97080358

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

∫ A p p l y f o r a p e r m i t u s i n g S a n i b e l O n l i n e a t h t t p s : / / s a n i b e l f le n e r g o v w e b t y l e r h o s t n e t / a p p s / S e l f S e r v i c e # / h o m e a n d select the “Accessory” permit type

∫ To review the outdoor lighting standards in the L D C , v i s i t https://library municode com/fl/sanibel/codes/code of o r d i n a n c e s ? n o d e I

Building Depar tment

What is the 5 0 % Rule for structures?

It only applies if the structure (pre-storm) was below the flood elevation required by FEMA and the Florida Building Code

∫ Basic Rule: If the cost of improvements or the cost to repair the damage exceeds 50% of the market or true value of the building, it must be brought up to current floodplain management standards

∫ Market or true value of the building: Market or true value is determined by one of the following: Building value as listed in the “Tax Roll Value Letter” downloaded from the Lee County Property Appraiser web site.

State of Florida licensed appraiser submitted appraisal for permitting purposes stating the depreciated actual cash value of the structure

Permitting

Damaged structures must have their repairs permitted to verify compliance with the 50% Rule (for below flood structures) and the Florida Building Code

∫ Permits for repairs to single-family, multi-family and commercial structures shall be performed using emergency permit procedures Emergency building alteration permit or separate emergency trade permits for roofing, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing are available Permits shall be submitted using the emergency permit forms found on the Building Department webpage and then submitted through the online portal electronically

∫ Emergency permits will receive a 25% reduction in fees for six months ending on Aug 7

∫ Permit submission must include sketches or plans for repair work, scope of work, market value, Florida product approval for roofs/windows/doors/siding, and, for structural repairs, detailed construction drawings prepared and sealed by an approved architect or engineer as required by Code. The FEMA form for cost estimate of the work is required to determine compliance with the 50% Rule if located in a flood hazard area and the structure is below flood

∫ FEMA flood zone maps changed on Nov 17 Any structure that is believed to be above the new base flood

elevation must submit a new updated elevation certificate to verify the structure is above flood and not required to comply with the 50% Rule.

∫ Single-family homeowners may perform their own repairs as an owner-builder per Florida Statutes Section 489 103 Owner-builder form must be submitted with t h e p e r m i t a

, v i s i t https://www mysanibel com/content/download/30812/fi le/Owner%20Builder%20Disclosure%20Statement%20 NEW%202021 pdf

∫ Anyone hired to do repairs for the homeowner must be a properly licensed contractor The homeowner should visit the Florida Department of Business & Professional R e g u l a t i o n w e b s i t e (https://www.myfloridalicense.com/wl11.asp?mode=0& SID=) to check the contractor database to verify they have an active license Do not make final payment to any contractor until you receive a certificate of compliance signed by the Building Official

∫ Obtaining a permit for repairs will help prevent post-storm scams and price-gouging Sanibel permitting process can help ensure that contractors are licensed and performing repairs in compliance with Code Performing repairs without a permit is against state law and will reduce the value of your home or business

∫ M u l t i - f a m i l y c o n d o m i n i u m r e p a i r p e r m i t t i n g : Common area elements must be repaired first ensuring that the building and property is safe to occupy The city must verify that the total repairs (common area plus unit repairs) remain under 50% of the building value for structures that are below the base flood elevation in compliance with FEMA regulations Individual unit owners can have their repairs included in the common area permit if allowed by the association Once the common area work is completed to a point when it is safe, the association and contractor will issue an approval letter that allows the city to issue individual unit repair permits (using a licensed contractor of their choice) For additional multi-family condominium permitting informat i o n , c o n t a c t t h e B u i l d i n g D i r e c t o r a t cam@mysanibel com

For additional commercial and multi-family (condo association) permitting information, contact the Building Director at cam@mysanibel com

Florida Building Code requirements for pool barriers

Damaged pool screen enclosures and barrier fences must be repaired or replaced to protect the public The Florida Building Code requires temporary or new pool barrier fencing to be in compliance with the following, except for a swimming pool that has an approved safety pool cover complying with ASTM F1346:

∫ The top of the barrier shall be at least 48 inches (1219 mm) above grade measured on the side of the barrier which faces away from the swimming pool. The maximum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom of the barrier shall be 2 inches (51 mm) measured on the side of the barrier which faces away from the swimming pool Where the top of the pool structure is above grade the barrier may be at ground level or mounted on top of the pool structure Where the barrier is mounted on top of the pool structure, the maximum vertical clearance between the top of the pool structure and the bottom of the barrier shall be 4 inches

∫ The barrier may not have any gaps, openings, indentations, protrusions, or structural components that could allow a young child to crawl under, squeeze through, or climb over the barrier as herein described below One end of a removable child barrier shall not be removable without the aid of tools Openings in any barrier shall not allow passage of a 4-inch diameter sphere

∫ Solid barriers which do not have openings shall not contain indentations or protrusions except for normal construction tolerances and tooled masonry joints

∫ Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and vertical members and the distance between the tops of the horizontal members is less than 45 inches, the horizontal members shall be located on the swimming pool side of the fence. Spacing between vertical members shall not exceed 1-3/4 inches in width Where there are decorative cutouts within vertical members, spacing within the cutouts shall not exceed 1-3/4 inches (44 mm) in width

∫ Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and vertical members and the distance between the tops of the

horizontal members is 45 inches or more, spacing between vertical members shall not exceed 4 inches. Where there are decorative cutouts within vertical members, s p a c i n g w i t h i n t h e c u t o u t s s h a l l n o t exceed 13/4 inches (44 mm) in width

∫ Maximum mesh size for chain link fences shall be a 2-1/4 inch square unless the fence is provided with slats fastened at the top or bottom which reduce the openings to no more than 1-3/4 inches Where the barrier is composed of diagonal members, the maximum opening formed by the diagonal members shall be no more than 1-3/4 inches.

∫ Access gates, when provided, shall be self-closing and shall be equipped with a self-latching locking device located on the pool side of the gate Where the device release is located no less than 54 inches (1372 mm) from the bottom of the gate, the device release mechanism may be

located on either side of the gate and so placed that it cannot be reached by a young child over the top or through any opening or gap from the outside Gates that provide access to the swimming pool must open outward away from the pool The gates and barrier shall have no opening greater than 1/2 inch (12 7 mm) within 18 inches (457 mm) of the release mechanism

∫ A mesh safety barrier 48 inches h i g h m e e t i n g t h e f o l l o w i n g m i n i m u m requirements shall be considered a pool barrier: Individual component vertical support posts shall be capable of resisting a minimum of 52 pounds of horizontal force prior to breakage when measured at a 36-inch height above grade Vertical posts of the child safety barrier shall extend a minimum of 3 inches below deck level and shall be spaced no greater than

36 inches apart

The mesh utilized in the barrier shall have a minimum tensile strength

a c c o r d i n g t o A S T M D 5 0 3 4 o f 1 0 0 pounds per foot, and a minimum ball burst strength according to ASTM D3787 of 150 pounds per foot The mesh shall not be capable of deformation such that a 1/4inch round object could not pass through

t h e m e s h T h e m e s h s h a l l r e c e i v e a descriptive performance rating of no less than “trace discoloration” or “slight disc o l o r a t i o n ” w h e n t e s t e d a c c o r d i n g t o

A S T M G 5 3 , W e a t h e r a b i l i t y , 1 , 2 0 0 hours.

When using a molding strip to attach the mesh to the vertical posts, this strip shall contain, at a minimum, #8 by 1/2-inch screws with a minimum of two screws at the top and two at the bottom with the remaining screws spaced a maximum of 6 inches apart on center

Patio deck sleeves (vertical post receptacles) placed inside the patio surface shall be of a nonconductive material.

A latching device shall attach each barrier section at a height no lower than 45 inches above grade Common latching devices that include, but are not limited to, devices that provide the security equal to or greater than that of a hook-and-eyetype latch incorporating a spring actuated retaining lever (commonly referred to as a safety gate hook)

The bottom of the mesh safety barrier shall not be more than 1 inch (25 mm) a b o v e t h e d e c k o r i n s t a l l e d s u r f a c e (grade)

For more information or questions, contact the Building Department at sanbuild@mysanibel com or 239-472-4555

Obituaries

Gentri

SHELL POINT RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Shell Point to present concer t

T h e S h e l l P o i n t R e t i r e m e n t C o m m u n i t y w i l l p r e s e n t G e n t r i , t h e

Gentlemen Trio, on March 24 at 7 p m in Connie Brown Hall at the Tribby

Arts Center, at 17281 On P a r B l v d , F o r t M y e r s Comprised of tenors Brad Robins, Casey Elliott and B r a d l e y Q u i n n L e v e r , Gentri is pioneering a sig-

nature sound it calls “cinem a t i c p o p ” T i c k e t s a r e $55 For more information o r t i c k e t s , v i s i t h t t p s : / / www tribbyartscenter com / or call 239-415-5667