Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

SCCF: Bald eagle nesting season begins in Florida

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that Oct 1 marked the official start of bald eagle nesting season in Florida, though the birds typically return to their nesting territories in late August or early September The season will last through May 15.

SCCF staff and their team of volunteers work together to monitor 10 nesting bald eagle pairs on North Captiva, Captiva, Sanibel, and just-off island The SCCF coordinates with Audubon Florida’s EagleWatch program for data collection

and entry

“The eagles of Sanibel and Captiva had all returned to their nests prior to the arrival of Hurricane Helene on Sept 26,” SCCF shorebird biologist Audrey Albrecht said The shorebird team completed a post-Hurricane Helene check on Oct 1, and all the eagle nests were accounted for Some eagle pairs were already seen tending to their nests

“Since Hurricane Ian in 2022, bald eagles on the islands

See BALD EAGLE NESTING SEASON, page 18

County board OKs design contacts for causeway projects

On Oct 1, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted to award design contracts for public amenities on the Sanibel Causeway Islands and the Punta Rassa Boat Ramp, which were heavily damaged by Hurricane Ian in September of 2022

The county reported that facilities at both sites remain closed to accommodate the Florida Department of Transportation's effort to restore the causeway Ian reshaped the Causeway Islands, which are spoil islands Efforts to restore facilities are focused on creating more resilient spoil islands

The $1 31 million contract with Fort Myers-based Johnson Engineering will

restore the damaged areas and facilities

Improvements will include site access and parking areas, landscape and irrigation improvements, site drainage and water management areas, restrooms and shade structures, beach access and ADA accommodations This portion of the project will be funded through the Florida Division of Emergency Management's (FDEM) Legislative Appropriations Program and Tourist Development Beach Capital Improvement Fund

The design phase of the Causeway Islands project is expected to be complete next summer

The $572,410 contract for design services for the Punta Rassa Boat Ramp will

include the boat ramp and dock and work to restore the drainage and water management areas, along with the lift station and sewer service to the fish cleaning station The covered pay kiosk and fish cleaning station, as well as the site lighting, signage and landscaping, will also be replaced This portion of the project will be funded through the FDEM's Legislative Appropriations Program Fund.

The design phase of the project is expected to be complete in the spring

Additional work will be required to restore the bay waterways near the boat ramp before it can be reopened for recreational use

By TIFFANY REPECKI

Sanibel City Council received an update on Hurricane Helene and the city's

housing units

On Oct. 1, city officials gave a presentation on the preparation and response to

overview of the city's stormwater management practices for review and discussion

City Manager Dana Souza opened by explaining that Sanibel was affected in “two waves”: by the initial outer bands and winds during the day, then the surge

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Building Department provides storm recovery information

T h e c i t y o f

S a n i b e l r e p o r t e d

t h a t f o l l o w i n g

H u r r i c a n e H e l e n e ,

t h e B u i l d i n g

Department offered the following information for the community:

∫ R e v i e w t h e E m e r g e n c y

B u i l d i n g P e r m i t t i n g P o l i c y a t

h t t p s : / / w w w m y s a n i b e l c o m / c o ntent/download/32575/file/Hurricane %20Ian%20%26%20Helene%20Pe rmitting%20Policy%209-30-24.pdf.

∫ Removal of damaged items drywall, trim, et cetera does not require a permit, but the replacement or repair must get a permit

∫ If there is an active issued permit and the structure needs additional repairs, then a revision will be necessary to include the scope of work, revised estimate cost breakdown and potentially new plans as needed The total scope of work will need to comply with FEMA's 50% rule.

∫ If a permit from Hurricane Ian repairs has been issued and closed and new repair work is needed, then a new permit will be required The new scope of work will need to comply with FEMA's 50% rule

The Initial Damage Assessment teams are surveying properties that e x p e r i e n c e d

n e While correspondence regarding permitting requirements will be provided

CITY OF SANIBEL

to those properties that were surveyed to have water damage, property owners who are prepared to begin their permitting may contact the Building Department at 239-472-4555.

Permits are subject to Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage FEMA 50% rule review

∫ Market value is the depreciated value of the structure only in its prestorm condition

∫ C o s t o f

material and labor towards repairing the structure

If the cost of repairs costs over 50% of the market value, then the structure is considered to have substantial damage and must be brought into compliance Flood compliance may entail elevating the structure, converting first floor to parking, storage, access and adding a second story, wet or dry floodproofing, and/or raising necessary mechanical and electrical components

Elections Office mailing sample ballots for election

Lee County Elections reported that from Oct 3 through today, Oct 9, it will mail about 335,000 sample ballots to county voters who have not requested a vote-by-mail ballot for the General Election

The mailing will feature the voter’s custom sample ballot for the election and essential information about early voting and voting by mail

Voters can also view their custom sample ballot and the all-inclusive sample ballot at

Information/Sample-Ballots

“I encourage voters to thoroughly review and mark their sample ballot ahead of the Nov 5 election,” Lee County Supervisor of Elections Tommy Doyle said “We have a two-page ballot containing six amendments Preparation is key to ensuring shorter lines and an overall positive voting experience at the polls ”

County school board selects five areas for internal audits

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

The Lee County School Board recently chose five areas for an internal audit plan with RSM for a total cost not to exceed $225,000

Each audit has a different price:

∫ Exceptional Student Education (ESE) services: $55,000

∫ Facilities maintenance: $60,000

∫ Capital planning: $60,000

∫ Cybersecurity incident response: $25,000

∫ Follow-up testing on previously issued internal audits: $50,000

Board Member Armor Persons said although cybersecurity is very good, he worries that is probably where they get into the most trouble and it is changing daily

“I would feel much more confident if we were audited and we are up to date with everything,” he said, adding another set of eyes on it

would be good because the risk is huge “I would feel more comfortable I would like to see that kept in there ”

Board Member Cathleen Morgan said she believes looking at the delivery and training of staff to meet plans is critical for ESE

“We continue to get comments from parents about that and I think it would be helpful to the board to have RSM to look at the delivery and training of staff,” she said

RSM Manager Weiss Campbell said the follow-up testing on previously issued internal audits is 38 for total observations, with 27 still open Some of those open observations may have longer lead times, instead of a lack of commitment to getting something changed

Some of those open observations include human resources recruiting and onboarding, asset management, employee timekeeping, fleet operations and contract compliance

OPINIONS

(USPS 813580)

2340 Periwinkle Way Sanibel, FL 33957

Phone: (239) 472-1587

Fax: (239) 472-8398

Web: captivasanibel.com

Publisher

Raymond M. Eckenrode reckenrode@breezenewspapers.com

Executive Editor

Valarie Harring vharring@breezenewspapers.com

Editor Tiffany Repecki 239-472-1587 trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

Design & Layout

Susan Wilhelm swilhelm@breezenewspapers.com

Advertising Director Laurie Ragle lragle@breezenewspapers.com

Advertising Sales

Mark Martens 239-472-5186 mmartens@breezenewspapers.com

Obituaries

Debbie Carletti obits@breezenewspapers.com

Subscriptions

1 year, $52

Circulation 239-574-1116

Classified Advertising 239-574-1110

Display Advertising 239-472-5186

The Island Reporter is published every Wednesday

Customer service hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except major holidays.

Letters to the editor must be typed or hand printed. Your name and phone number must be affixed to the copy.

In the event of an advertising error, we are responsible only for the first incorrect insertion of the ad itself. We are not responsible for any credit or reimbursement after 30 days from publication.

Postal Information: Periodicals rate postage paid at Fort Myers, FL Postmaster. Send address changes to the Islander / Island Reporter, 2340 Periwinkle Way K-1 Sanibel, FL 33957.

Lessons learned?

Bad memories of the past marked the two-

Southwest Florida.

Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel, Captiva, Pine Island and Matlacha all saw inundating storm surge again, with Fort Myers and Cape Coral seeing flooding as well, as Hurricane Helene raced off Florida’s Gulf Coast to make landfall in the Big Bend community of Perry as a devastating Category 4 storm

Locally, homes and streets took on water, while sand, muck and mire filled coastal roadways, yards and pools more heartbreak for those of us, residents and businesses alike, who have rebuilt or are in the process still

Regionally, Helene became the deadliest storm since Hurricane Katrina, wreaking havoc though six southeastern states from Florida up through Georgia, North and South Carolina, Tennessee and parts of Virginia, with a death toll exceeding 200 as of press time and hundreds of individuals still unaccounted for

Whole towns are gone Entire families are missing

Damage is expected to top $35 billion. We, as a community, can say with heart that we feel their pain, share their loss, and that we stand behind them as they mourn, recover and rebuild

May the post-storm challenges Southwest

Floridians experienced in the wake of Ian be lessons learned so the structural and material recovery efforts, at the least, not be a second wave of trauma for those who saw homes, businesses and the efforts of a lifetime swept away

First, federal funds, yes, and that includes the votes of conservatives in the House and Senate as efforts move from the approved

Recovery is a bipartisan mandate.

Two, mandates for expedited claims processing and appeals, as well as a call for a paradigm change at the national level to assure comprehensive coverage for natural disasters of all kinds is long overdue Make it happen

Two years after Ian, too many Southwest Floridans are still waiting to be made whole and too many are now paying insurance premiums that have tripled or more for coverage that, well, may pay pennies on the dollar for the “next time” that is now.

Three, in conjunction with addressing national disaster coverage, there needs to be an overhaul of national flood insurance policies, a program under the auspices of the

(FEMA)

Politico has reported that among the states that have experienced the worst flooding in their history, fewer than 1% of homes and b

national program Flood risk was perceived to be minimal, though, as we as a county have now learned, not non-existent

Bringing in more low-risk policy holders with low-cost polices will make premiums more affordable for everyone who wants one

One more, wholly at the local level.

As those of us who repaired or rebuilt in the wake of Ian so painfully learned, FEMA enforces its rules and regulations and it does so to the standards it sets FEMA plies the honed hook of its flood insurance discounts and can and will yank it back hard if it believes its regulations have been abridged

L

L

County, Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel are urging strongly urging that permits be obtained before any repairs necessitated by Helene are made.

This is particularly important for all properties within FEMA’s Special Flood Hazard Area

That’s most, if not all, of those damaged

See LESSONS LEARNED?, page 20

Climate, wetlands and right to clean, healthy waters

I

then, few people worried or e

change Those days are gone

charged by global warming, inflicted $120,000 of damage

u p o n m y h o u

m o s t l y b y storm surge, and my home and flood insurance premiums currently totaling $9,700 reflect future risk

C l i m a t e c h a n g e n o w impacts our daily lives, and combatting it isn’t just about fossil fuels

When it comes to mitigating the causes and effects of our climate crisis, water is a “super-power.” The final declaration of the United Nations climate conference known as COP27 recognized “the critical role of protecting, conserving and restoring water and water-related ecosystems in delivering climate adaptation benefits and co-benefits.”

Regarding the sequestration and storage of carbon, coastal wetlands such as many Cape Coral, Sanibel, and other Lee County

residents are fortunate to have are powerhouses

The National Oceanic and A t m o s p h e r i c A d m i n i s t r a t i o n reports that “mangroves and c o a s t a l w e t l a n d s a n n u a l l y sequester carbon at a rate ten t i m e s g r e a t e r t h a n m a t u r e tropical forests and, according to Economist Impact, fiftyfive times faster than tropical forests They also store three to five times more carbon per equivalent area than tropical forests.”

Thus, Florida’s important means of reducing greenhouse g a s e s a n d m i t i g a t i n g t h e effects of climate change w o r s e n i n

m surge, saltwater intrusion is its wetlands, especially its coastal wetlands

The flipside of this is that when wetlands are destroyed, not only do we lose their important sequestration and storage capabilities, but the carbon they have long stored is released and adds to greenhouse gas levels in the atmosphere, exacerbating our climate crisis

Wetlands provide irreplaceable local benefits, too

y showed that annually, across multiple storms, Florida’s mangroves reduce flood damages by 25 5% to properties behind them During Hurricane Irma, more than 626,000 people living behind mangrove forests saw reduced flooding and mangroves averted $1 5 billion in surge-related flood damages to properties. Finally, wetlands, of course, also offer valuable water filtration services, shoreline erosion protection, and serve as crucial fish and wildlife habitat, all profoundly important to Floridians.

Unfortunately, even though Florida has already lost 9 3 million acres, reckless development continues to swallow up more wetlands Developers, with the aid of our state government that passes atrocious laws like 2023’s “sprawl law,” will not stop unless we stop them.

There are hundreds of acres of mixed wetlands and uplands, mostly wetlands, directly s o u t h o f R o t a r y P a r k i n C a p e C o r a l Southwest 1st Court forms their eastern border. Knowing that Cape Coral is one of nine cities most at risk from future storms, community residents want as much storm protec-

See HEALTHY WATERS, page 22

Joseph Bonasia

CEPD to hold final meeting on bayside project

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

T

District will host its last public meeting on the Captiva Bayside Adaptation Plan this week, which will be run by the engineering firm selected for the project

The fourth meeting will take place on Oct. 10 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at the Captiva Civic Center on Captiva, as well as virtually via Zoom for those in the community

unable to attend in-person.

“The Captiva Bayside Adaptation Plan is a proactive strategy aimed at identifying and implementing nature-based solutions, infrastructure projects and policy measures to mitigate the impacts of erosion caused by recurrent flooding,” consultant

APTIM reported

“This hybrid meeting offers an opportunity to discuss the Adaptation Plan, review project concepts and visuals, and

engage w ith fellow community members,” it added “We look forward to your participation ”

The Zoom login details for the meeting are as follows:

https://zoom us/j/93159102163?pwd =cgiS4dWiBQ49gBTDtTev7zzq41Og1 D 1

Meeting ID: 931 5910 2163

Passcode: 267002

One tap mobile:

County library system offering virtual programming

T h e L e e C o u n t y L i b r a r y S y s t e m , which includes the Captiva Memorial Library, is offering the following free virtual programming:

Adult programs

∫ T o d a y , O c t 9 : O n l i n e A u t h o r

Event with Silvia Moreno-Garcia from 7 to 8 p m

F r e e y o u r m i n d w i t h h i g h l y acclaimed Silvia Moreno-Garcia, New York Times bestselling and award-winning author of several novels, including “Mexican Gothic,” “The Daughter of Doctor Moreau,” “Gods of Jade and Shadow” and more She will chat about

Latin American genre fiction and her writing process and journey, as well as her new book, “The Seventh Veil of Salome ” The event is part of the Online Author Events Series Registration is required.

∫ O c t 1 0 : O n l i n e S p a n i s h

Conversation Club from 6 to 7 p m

Are you ready to take your Spanishs p e a k i n

?

Improve your fluency by chatting with adults Practice speaking Spanish with others on a variety of topics, including current events and everyday situations

I n t

(Chicago)

In addition, residents and stakeholders are invited to take an online survey

“To share your experiences and ideas related to flooding on Captiva Island,” APTIM reported

The survey will be open throughout the

County provides update for storm debris removal

Lee County Solid Waste has resumed normal operations while working in partnership with contracted crews to begin cleaning up storm debris from Hurricane Helene from neighborhoods throughout

includes Captiva

debris at the curbside in separate piles Debris should not block roadways and should be placed away from all obstacles such as mailboxes, powerlines, and fire hydrants Debris should not be placed in plastic bags and should be separated into piles:

∫ Electronics: Television, computer, stereo, phone, DVD player, et cetera

water heater, dishwasher, et cetera ∫ Vegetative debris: Tree branches, logs, leaves, plants, et cetera

∫ Construction debris: Building mate-

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

order to get the most out of the session Registration is required before Oct 10 at 6 p m

Download books, stream video and o t h

brary net T

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

The library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva

decades

On Sept 17, the Lee Board of County Commissioners

which includes the Captiva Memorial Library on Captiva

and services provided and urging residents to get a library card to make the most of all that is offered

The board's resolution recognized the historic date of Sept 23, 1964, when commissioners officially voted to establish, operate and maintain a countywide, tax-supported free library system. Six

year during the project

During a CEPD workshop in November, APTIM presented its proposal for the Captiva Bayside Adaptation Plan, which included the following steps as its project approach:

∫ Task 1 Kick off and project steering committee:

To include a kick-off meeting and three steering committee progress meetings

∫ Task 2 Acquire background data:

To develop the adaption plan

∫ Task 3 Public-private implementation analysis:

Due to the extensive privately-owned land To involve identifying ownership and jurisdiction; strategic analysis;

p

incentives and standards

∫ Task 4 Adaption plan:

The approach and initial perception of the necessary

Debris removal

rials, drywall, lumber, carpet, furniture, plumbing, et cetera

H o u s

i n g should be placed away from hurricane debris and only placed at the curbside on one's normal collection date, regardless of location

Also, separate household hazardous waste such as oil, battery, pesticide, paint, c

elements to be included in the plan were listed as: prioritization of adaptation needs; identification of adaptation strategies and prioritization of projects; potential strategies living shoreline with resilient engineered features, minimum shoreline elevation policy for properties, mangrove adaptation plan and resilient dune strategy feasibility analysis; and prioritized projects for each asset class

∫ Task 5 Public outreach meetings:

To include four bimonthly public outreach meetings

∫ Task 6 Engineering report with conceptual adaptation drawings:

As many as 10-15 drawings with renderings included, along with construction cost estimates

It estimated that the plan would take about a year to complete

From page 6

cetera Do not set it at the curb Instead, bring it to the Household Chemical and Electronic Recycling Facility, at 6441 Topaz Court, Fort Myers For hours of operation, visit www leegov com/solidwaste.

In the light of the storm, the county reminds residents that illegal dumping is punishable by law Prior to the storm, illegal dumping had been an ongoing issue in some areas of Lee Fueled by empty lots, rapid growth and ongoing construction, the problem has led to unsightly messes After hurricanes, proper disposal is critical Do not dump hurricane debris in empty lots or wooded areas

n y o n e w h o s

e s i l l e g a l d u m p i n g occurring is asked to call the Lee County Sheriff’s Office non-emergency line at 239-477-1000 For questions on how to

library could offer alone

“Since 1964, the Lee County Library System has supported the curiosity, lifelong learning and creativity of our citizens,” Library Director Mindi Simon said “I am proud of what our libraries bring to Lee County and I encourage everyone to get their free library card ”

In the 60 years, the library system has grown to include 13 libraries, mobile, live chat, outreach and home borrower services, along with a host of online services and resources With more than 273,000 library cardholders and close to 1 5 million visitors this fiscal year, the library system continues to support, engage and enrich the community

Through access to programs, materials and resources, technology, media and gathering spaces, the library system provides tools for success and opportunities to pursue dreams and interests

“When the library system formed in the mid-60s, it did so because our county commissioners and other forward-thinking staff and residents realized the advantages of working together to improve library service for all,” she said “By the 1 9 9 0 s , w i t h L e e C o u n t y p o p u l a t i o n booming, the library system began to

evolve into a balance of large regional libraries supporting smaller community branches Our now 13 branches range from Boca Grande to Bonita Springs ”

Ayears, but the library system has accommodated and grown with the times along the way

Simon said some examples of development and growth include: physical items, ebooks and streaming content; in-person, telephone, live chat, text and email reference services; mobile and outreach services, which includes jail services, deposit collections for senior living facilities, and services to daycares, community centers and schools; and home borrower services, which include Materials by Mail and Talking Books for qualifying users

“ O u

, resources, programs, and excellent customer service to meet the needs of those we serve,” she said “Beyond just the latest bestseller, the library provides residents with free access to information and opportunity We offer programs of all types for all ages both in person and online, support literacy, language learning, business development, job searching, continuing education and so much more We provide free access to computers and the internet, scanning and mobile printing

Captiva Public Meetings

The following public meetings/hearings are scheduled:

∫ Oct 15: Captiva Island Fire Control District meeting at 4 p m at the fire station, at 14981 Captiva Drive, Captiva For more information or the agenda, visit captivafire.com.

https://mycepd specialdistrict org/bayside-adaptation

https://forms gle/q265X2Pb25Mzqfvd7

The Captiva Civic Center is 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva

properly dispose of debris, contact Lee County Solid Waste customer service at 2 3 9 - 5 3 3 - 8 0 0 0 o

www leegov com/solidwaste

Residents who download the Recycle Coach app may receive push notifications for updated information To learn more, visit www leecounty gov/recyclecoach

Residents who may have had sand washed on their property by the storm are asked to not pile sand on sidewalks or alongside roadways Do not sweep sand from driveways to the street.

Beachfront residents with overwashed sand on their property must follow a

We are a place to socialize, gather and meet new people in a welcoming environment We serve as polling places and also offer meeting and study rooms Library staff is available to provide assistance in many ways in person, by phone and text, email, and live chat We do outreach to the community visiting migrant camps, parks, summer camps, day cares, assisted living facilities and more We offer specialized services to the visually impaired, homebound, and those who may be physically unable to visit the library or hold a book There really is something for everyone at the library ”

There have of course been highlights and memorable moments over the last six decades They include:

∫ Automated catalog introduced in 1990

∫ Public computers in 1994

∫ South County Regional Library, the system's first regional library, opened in 1996

∫

libraries by April of 1999

∫ Southwest Florida Reading Festival founded in 2000

∫ E

ebooks in 2006

∫ Automated book returns in 2009

∫ Began offering free wifi circa 2014

process to remove it. They can put it back on the beach only after receiving approval f

Environmental Protection (FDEP) The FDEP has a link with information about how private property owners can receive proper permission before placing overwashed sand from Helene back on the b

V i s i t https://floridadep gov/sites/default/files/C CCL%20Post%20Storm%20Information %20Handout Private 06242022 0 pdf The county continues to update its

leegov com/storm

∫ Live chat reference service added in May of 2017

∫ Outreach vehicles including transit van and pop-up truck beginning in 2020

The library system has no plans of slowing down either, with a goal to continue being a vital resource for the community

“The library will continue to be a physical and virtual place for the community to gather and grow,” Simon said “We will provide flexible spaces, resources and programs, giving residents and visitors a place to learn, relax, explore, ask questions and find the support they need to thrive ”

Obtaining a library card is free and easy for residents Visit any branch or go

online

Information about the library system and access to online resources are available at leelibrary net, where individuals can find out about library services, programs and events, locations and more.

Telephone Reference is available at 239-479-4636

F

library services and programs offered, visit www leelibrary net

The Captiva Memorial Library is at 11560 Chapin Lane,

BUSINESS

Business Notes

Chamber to host business luncheon

T h e S a n C a p

Chamber will kick off a series of “the state of”

l u n c h e o n s o n O c t 1 6

from 11:30 a m to 1:30

p m a t t h e S u n d i a l

Beach Resort & Spa, at 1 5 0 1 M i d d l e G u l f Drive, Sanibel

T h e g u e s t s p e a k e r will be Sanibel Fire and R e s c u e D i s t r i c t F i r e

Chief Kevin Barbot He will talk about changes

i n f i r e a n d r e s c u e response operations and how they impact the public safety of businesses, residents and visitors on the island

Cost is $35 for chamber members only

Registration is required by Oct. 11 at 5 p.m. at sanibel-captiva org or by contacting Aaron Walton at a a r o n @ s a n i b e l - c a p t i v a o r g o r 2 3 9 - 4 7 2 - 8 7 5 9

Payment is due at the time of registration

SANIBEL CAPTIVA COMMUNITY BANK

San Cap Bank recognized as finalist

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank was recently n a m e d a s o n e o f f i v e f i n a l i s t s f o r t h e 2 0 2 4

Extraordinary Bank of the Year by The Institute for Extraordinary Banking

It was recognized with the Banky Award for exemplary performance in five areas: philanthropy, customer service, thought leadership, workplace culture and financial literacy education

The Extraordinary Banking Awards emphasize the indispensable contribution community banks make to their communities and how important they are to the fabric of their communities

VIP Realty agent achieves ABR status

VIP Realty Sanibel and Captiva announced

t h a t R e a l t o r B e c k y Mulka completed all of t h e r e q u i r e m e n t s t o achieve the Accredited B u y e

R

(ABR) status

T h e A B R d e s i g n ation is for real estate

b u y e r ' s a g e n t s w h o focus on working directly with buyer-clients at every stage of the home-

benefits of the designation include:

∫ Enhanced skills and knowledge to better represent buyers in real estate transactions, including See BUSINESS NOTES, page 10

Historical museum and village to open for season

Following its annual seasonal closure from August through mid-October, the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village on Sanibel will reopen to the public for the new season on Oct 15

Founded in 1984, it will welcome visitors for its 40th year of preserving, sharing and celebrating the island's history The tour experience will include an orientation video and historic buildings displaying numerous artifacts that tell engaging stories Docents will provide additional insight and information

From Oct. 15 through Jan. 4, a special $10 admission will be offered for ages 19 and older

Annual membership levels begin at $40; member benefits include free admittance

All of the buildings are handicap accessible

FloridaCommerce activates Emergency Bridge Loan Program

On Sept 29, FloridaCommerce activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $15 million available for businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene

Florida small business owners in need of assistance are encouraged to visit FloridaJobs org/EBL to apply for the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program

Businesses in the following counties, including sole proprietors, are eligible to apply: Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Brevard, Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Duval, Escambia, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Glades, Gulf, Hamilton, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lake, Lee, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Monroe, Nassau,

Okaloosa, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Santa Rosa, Sarasota, Seminole, St Johns, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union, Volusia, Wakulla, Walton, and Washington counties

The program provides short-term, zero-interest loans to small businesses that experienced economic injury or physical damage due to Hurricane Helene Interested applicants can apply now through Nov 24 or until all available funds are expended

Eligible small businesses may apply for loans of up to $50,000 through the program Loans of up to $100,000 are available for agriculture and aquaculture small businesses Loans approved through the Emergency Bridge Loan Program are intended to “bridge the gap” between the time a disaster impacts a business

and when a business has secured longer term recovery funding, such as federally or commercially available loans, insurance claims, or other resources

Loans made under the program are short-term, zero-interest, personal loans using state funds They are not grants and loans must be repaid by the approved applicant

FloridaCommerce administers the Emergency Bridge Loan Program alongside its fiscal administrator, Florida First Capital Finance Corporation

Visit FloridaJobs org/EBL to learn more about the program, view the lending guidelines and required documentation, and complete an application Business owners who need further program information may call 833-832-4494 Monday through Friday from 8 a m to 5 p m

Sanibel library, district’s board welcome director

The Sanibel Public L

Commissioners recent-

Cox as the new director for the library She will assume the position on Oct 14

“We are all happy to welcome Amber to our library family and are looking forward to

” interim Director Duane Shaffer said Cox holds a bachelor's degree in psychology, with minors in family studies and social rehabilitation and treatment, from Southeast Missouri

State University and a

tion science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign She has spent the last 1 3 y

library positions Cox is passionate about literacy and serving others

“I am honored to have been selected to serve the Sanibel comm u n i t y a s l i b r a r y director,” she said “My personal mission is to foster creativity, curiosity and lifelong learning by encouraging divergent thinking, inspiring

growth mindsets, and helping others to seek and discover their passions ” Cox started her career in 2011 as an adult and teen services librarian with the Urbana Free Library in Urbana, Illinois While in the role, she served as the technology volunt e e r c o o r d i n a t o r a n d c o - c r e a t e d , developed and managed the Teen Open Lab, a teen-directed creative s p a c e t h a t w e l c o m e d o v e r 6 , 0 0 0 attendees in its first two years

I n 2 0 1 5 , C o x r e l o c a t e d t o Colorado Springs, Colorado, to work for the Pikes Peak Library District She served as its first East Library makerspace librarian and established a new public library makerspace In 2 0 1 8 , C o x w a s p r o m o t e d a n d

See DIRECTOR, page 10

Becky Mulka

The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is at 950 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

SANIBEL HISTORICAL MUSEUM AND VILLAGE

Amber Cox

SCBWA awards annual scholarships

The Sanibel Captiva Business Women's Association (SCBWA) recognized its scholarship and continuing education recipients at its September luncheon

This year, a total of 10 scholarships were awarded to:

∫ Lori Adams for a degree in digital marketing at the University of South Florida.

∫ Scotty Lynn Kelly for a 20-month Florida Certified Professional Clerk program at Florida State University's Institute of Government The program focuses on leadership, governance, management and strategy

∫ Rachel Kelly for travel agent training at Florida

G u l f C

Partnerships program

∫ Dr Danielle Kreis for attendance at the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association's annual symposium and participation as a visiting veterinarian at the Zoo Miami Sea Turtle Hospital

∫ Brittany Laster for attendance at the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Continuing Education Seminars on the Principles of Ambassador Animal Management and Conservation Learning in Leadership

∫ Skyler Lowden for the Painters Master’s program at the Royal College of Art in Battersea, United Kingdom She holds a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Miami, with a focus on ecological architecture, and

From left, Jianna Senkeleski, Eden Sherman, Rachel Kelly, Scotty Lynn Kelly, Danielle Kreis, Laurin Van Olst and Skyler Lowden.

minors in art and urban studies

∫ Claire Schreiber for medical school specializing in pediatric oncology

∫ Jianna Senkeleski for a degree in digital marketing at Florida Gulf Coast University

∫ Eden Sherman for a master's degree in library and information science at Louisiana State University

∫ Laurin Van Olst for a master's degree in psycholo-

Interactive guide to open island businesses

The SanCap Chamber has a list available of businesses back in operation on Wander: Maps & Navigation The GPS-enabled interactive map also pinpoints beach accesses, bike parking areas and the user's relative location Points of interest can be filtered by seven categories Users can download the app from the Apple App Store and Google Play They can also access the map online at t i n y u r l c o m / s a n c a p w a ndermap

Director

From page 8

became the district's first creative

improved the workflow, best practices and services of its three makerspaces and two recording studios

In 2020, Cox started as the Old C o l o r a d o C i t y L i b r a r y m a n a g e r , where she oversaw nine staff and directed the daily operations of a hist

2023, she was hired as the district's first assistant director of program-

ming Cox assisted in directing a new department of 16 senior librarians a n

design and implement districtwide programs, services and staff training for 15 branches and three mobiles

“We are excited for Amber to lead the Sanibel Public Library team and build on the great work we already do, while writing the next chapter in the library's history,” board Vice Chair Linda Uhler said.

Upon moving to Florida, Cox and her husband plan to learn how to p a d d l e b o a r d

nature preserves and historic landm

learn the art of collecting seashells She also plans to raise mangroves through Coastal Watch's Adopt-aMangrove program and find other ways to care for the coastal ecosystem

gy from Southern New Hampshire University

Seven of the recipients attended the monthly luncheon and shared how the SCBWA is assisting with career and educational advancement opportunities

The SCBWA started this year's scholarship recipient search in July.

Monies for the scholarship fund were raised at its Annual Fundraiser held last September The SCBWA reported that the event helps to fulfill its mission for scholarship and continuing education efforts

Business Notes

From page 8

understanding buyers’ needs, navigating complex negotiations and guiding clients through the purchase process

∫ Credibility and trust as the designation signals clients that the Realtor has received specialized training and is skilled and dedicated to buyer representation

∫ Exclusive resources as designees have access to proprietary tools, marketing resources and updated industry research provided by the Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council (REBAC)

Bieski joins Beach Homes Realty

license to Beach Homes Realty

He will specialize in beach homes and land on and around Fort Myers,

, Bonita Springs, Estero, and Captiva

Bieski has over 20 years of experience in w

sales, first in the Lake Wallenpaupack region of Pennsylvania and now in Southwest Florida With over $50 million in transactional experience, he is an award-winning, top-producing agent

A Fort Myers resident for the past five years and a member of the Lexington Country Club and an avid golfer, Bieski is knowledgeable about the region's golf communities

Before transitioning to real estate, he had a 30-year career in business education, coaching football and NCAA track and field

Beach Homes Realty is a national beach-focused real estate company It is a licensed real estate brokerage in 14 states and is growing into additional states

Bernard Bieski

SANIBEL CAPTIVA BUSINESS WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION

SANCAP CHAMBER

PRESERVING PARADISE

Surge dumps saltwater into freshwater habitats

T h e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a C o n s e r v a t i o n F o u n d a t i o n reported that Hurricane Helene traversed up the Gulf of Mexico, far enough away from Sanibel to prevent severe wind damage, but large and strong enough to produce a significant storm surge that affected many recovering wetlands nearly two years post-Hurricane Ian

“Although not a complete islandwide washover like Ian, the surge certainly brought saltwater back into many of the areas that were close to being cons i d e r e d r e c o v e r e d , ” S C C F W i l d l i f e & H a b i t a t

Management Director Chris Lechowicz said “So far, we have not seen the evident wildlife mortality as we did immediately after Ian, but it is early ”

The freshwater wetlands on Sanibel experienced severe saltwater inundation from Ian in 2022

“It had been decades since all or most of these waterbodies had been stressed in this manner,” he said

Histor y repeats itself

The SCCF reported that the last two storms with severe surge events occurred in 1921 and 1926, similar to Ian There were two other hurricanes in 1947 and 1960 with storm surge events, but they were not islandwide and were considered minor

Wildlife populations of many taxa increased in number and expanded their ranges to other parts of the island during the stretch of little to no severe storm surge events and flooding of the land

“As we know from Sanibel’s history, eventually an event does occur, that may either reduce or eliminate species that depend upon freshwater to survive,” Lechowicz said

T h e s e e v e n t s a r e c o n s i d e r e d n a t u r a l b e c a u s e Sanibel is a barrier island, which serves as the first land area typically impacted by most hurricanes

“Approximately 100 years later, we experienced Hurricane Ian that washed over the island, inundating most of the waterbodies and leaving Gulf soils on our island habitats,” he said “Species dependent on freshwater, such as various gamefish, frogs, turtles, and others experienced major losses ”

The following long dry winter without much rainfall made the situation more severe Over two years, including an active summer 2023 rainy season, many of the island’s shallow and ephemeral wetlands converted back into functional freshwater bodies that many native wildlife species desperately needed

“Post-Helene, we will be monitoring wildlife in these areas to document their response to brackish water, as well the time it takes to return to freshwater,” Lechowicz said

DDWS reports on refuge programming and more

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge provided the following updates for the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel:

∫ Oct 13 will mark the kickoff for National Wildlife Refuge Week and admission fees for Wildlife Drive will be waived for the day

∫ Meet 2024-25 Federal Duck Stamp Contest winner Chuck Black at his presentation on Oct 24 at 1 p m

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

∫ Photographer-artist Niki Butcher's “Daydreaming” exhibition will be on display from Dec 14 through Feb 27

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

∫ The free Winter Lecture Series will take place on select Thursdays from Jan 9 through March 20

∫ Wellness in Nature is planned for Jan 23-26

∫ Go Wild for “Ding” is set for Feb 12, with the theme “Dreaming of White Pelicans ” Tickets will go on sale on Nov 14

∫ Project Refuge: Castoffs to Couture will return on April 2 Tickets will go on sale on Nov 21

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

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

County board approves funds for beach, shoreline projects

t o w n o f F o r t M y e r s B e a c h

C o m m i s s i o n e r s a p p r o v e d t h e f u n d i n g w i t h t h e a d o p t i o n o f t h e f i s c a l y e a r 2 0 2 4 - 2 5 b u d g e t a n d t h e

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

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T h e p r o j e c t s p r i m a r i l y a l l o w f o r m a i n t e n a n c e o f b e a c h p a r k f a c i l i -

t i e s , i n c l u d i n g p u b l i c a c c e s s e s ,

r o s i o n

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b o a r d w a l k s , r e s t r o o m s a n d e q u i p -

m e n t

B e a c h a n d S h o r e l i n e p r o j e c t

f u n d i n g a c c o u n t s f o r 2 6 4 % o f t h e p r o c e e d s f r o m t h e T o u r i s t

SCCF biologists present at annual conference

S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a C o n s e r v a t i o n

F o u n d a t i o n ' s C o a s t a l W i l d l i f e a n d

W i l d l i f e & H a b i t a t M a n a g e m e n t d e p a r t -

m e n t s t o o k p a r t i n t h e 2 0 2 4 S o u t h

F l o r i d a H e r p e t o l o g i c a l C o n f e r e n c e o n

S e p t 2 7 - 2 9 a t F l o r i d a S o u t h W e s t e r n

S t a t e C o l l e g e i n F o r t M y e r s

T h e S C C F a l s o s e r v e d a s a s p o n s o r

T h e c o n f e r e n c e b r o u g h t t o g e t h e r h e r -

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

a m p h i b i a n s r e s e a r c h e r s a n d a d v o -

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

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

F o u r S C C F s e a t u r t l e s t a f f p r e s e n t e d o n d i f f e r e n t a s p e c t s o f t h e s a m e o v e r a l l i d e a : h o w s e a t u r t l e h a t c h s u c c e s s i s a f f e c t e d b y d i f f e r e n t e n v i r o n m e n t a l

p a r a m e t e r s o n S a n i b e l a n d C a p t i v a

∫ C o a s t a l W i l d l i f e D i r e c t o r a n d S e a

T u r t l e P r o g r a m C o o r d i n a t o r K e l l y S l o a n

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

p a r t i c l e s i z e , b u l k d e n s i t y , c o m p a c t i o n a f f e c t s e a t u r t l e n e s t t e m p e r a t u r e , m o i s t u r e , a n d g r o u n d w a t e r i n f l u e n c e .

∫ S e a t u r t l e b i o l o g i s t J a c k B r z o z a p r e s e n t e d a d e e p d i v e o n s e a t u r t l e n e s t d e p r e d a t i o n b y c o y o t e s , i n c l u d i n g d i f -

f e r e n t f a c t o r s t h a t i n c r e a s e t h e r i s k o f a

n e s t b e i n g d e p r e d a t e d

∫ S e a t u r t l e b i o l o g i s t S a v a n n a h

W e b e r t a l k e d a b o u t t h e S C C F ' s s e a t u r -

t l e n i g h t - t a g g i n g d a t a b a s e a n d h o w i t

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

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

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

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

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

s e a t u r t l e n e s t s “ T h e r a n g e o f o u r p r e s e n t a t i o n s h i g hl i g h t s t h e c o m p l e x i t y o f s e a t u r t l e c o ns e r v a t i o n a n d a l l t h e f a c t o r s t h a t p l a y a r o l e , ” S l o a n s a i d “ I t ’ s v a l u a b l e f o r o u r t e a m t o s h a r e o u r f i n d i n g s w i t h t h e b r o a d e r h e r p e t o l o g i c a l c o m m u n i t y s o w e c a n f o s t e r c o l l a b o r a t i v e e f f o r t s i n t h e

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

o t h e r v u l n e r a b l e r e p t i l e s ”

T h e W i l d l i f e & H a b i t a t M a n a g e m e n t

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

L e c h o w i c z , w i l d l i f e t e c h n i c i a n N a d i n e

C o b b a n d w i l d l i f e b i o l o g i s t M i k e M i l l s , g a v e t w o t a l k s a n d p r e s e n t e d a p o s t e r

s u r r o u n d i n g f r e s h w a t e r t u r t l e s a n d t o r -

t o i s e s

∫ M i l l s l e d a t a l k r e g a r d i n g h u r r i -

c a n e e f f e c t s o n S a n i b e l ’ s g o p h e r t o rt o i s e p o p u l a t i o n , w h i c h t h e S C C F h a s

m o n i t o r e d f o r y e a r s

∫ C o b b l e d a d i s c u s s i o n a b o u t t h e r e p r o d u c t i v e t r a i t s o f F l o r i d a c h i c k e n

t u r t l e s , F l o r i d a m u d t u r t l e s , F l o r i d a b o x t u r t l e s ,

Mangrove adoption event

From page 12

Restoring coastlines after stor m

Coastal Watch reported that the recent devastation from Hurricane Helene is a reminder of the critical role mangroves play in defending shorelines The resilient t r e

absorbing wave energy, reducing wind speeds, and preventing erosion during storms Thanks to their complex root systems, mangroves act as a natural buffer, helping to shield communities from severe

damage.

“After Helene, the need for mangrove restoration has never been clearer The storm underscored just how essential these

impact of extreme weather events,” officials shared “By joining our Adopt-AMangrove program, you're taking part in a vital effort to rebuild our natural defenses ” For more information about Adopt-AMangrove, visit https://sccf org/adoptamangrove/.

Isl and lIvIng

SPD releases weekly blotter

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

Other enforcement actions

∫ On Sept 29, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for an improper U-Turn. The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued The vehicle was towed from the scene

∫ On Sept 29, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for unlawful speed (69 mph in a 35 mph zone)

Enforcement operations statistics

From Sept 24-30:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 22

∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 11

∫ Traffic crashes: 1

∫ Radar details: 32

∫ Traffic stops: 24

Citations issued: 12

Written warnings issued: 0

Verbal warnings issued: 14

∫ Residential area checks: 321

∫ Business area checks: 178

∫ Total area checks: 818

∫ Reported burglaries: 1

∫ Reported thefts: 1

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,081

September 2024 to date:

∫Alarm calls (business and residential): 48

∫ Non-emergency calls: 69

∫ Traffic crashes: 2

∫ Radar details: 202

∫ Traffic stops: 195

Citations issued: 73

Written warnings issued: 6

Verbal warnings issued: 116

∫ Residential area checks: 1,434

∫ Business area checks: 778

∫ Total area checks: 3,787

∫ Reported burglaries: 3

∫ Reported thefts: 1

∫ Total CAD calls: 4,884

Impor tant reminders

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

When leaving Sanibel, motorists are encouraged to travel east on Periwinkle Way In order to minimize the number of vehicles driving through residential neighborhoods and increase traffic flow, priority is being given to vehicles eastbound on Periwinkle. Motorists using Bailey Road southbound, Lindgren northbound and Periwinkle westbound may experience additional delays as traffic flows are adjusted for efficiency

The 2024 Annual Beach Parking Permits are available at the Sanibel Recreation Center and are valid from the date of purchase through Nov 30 The 2023 permits have expired and are no longer valid Information for the Sanibel Boat Ramp:

∫ Parking and boat launching fee is $40 per day

∫ Parking and boat launching on weekends and

page

Sanibel library offers range of programs and topics

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

W

Foundation, the library has launched a series of virtual author talks to include bestselling authors and thought leaders The next one will take place today, Oct 9, at 7 p m with New York Times bestseller and award winner Silvia Moreno-Garcia, author of “Mexican Gothic,” “The Daughter of Doctor Moreau” and “Gods of Jade and Shadow.” She will chat about Latin American genre fiction and her writing process and journey, as well as her new novel, “The Seventh Veil of Salome ” Moreno-Garcia is the author of a number of critically acclaimed novels, which also include “Shadow” and “Velvet Was the Night.” She writes in a variety of gen-

Moreno-Garcia has a Master of Arts in science and technology studies from the University of British Columbia A question-and-answer session with the author will follow

https://libraryc org/sanlib/upcoming

See SANIBEL LIBRARY, page 15

The Sanibel City Council will host a New Resident Reception on Oct 18 from 10 a m to noon at BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel It will provide attendees with an opportunity to network with neighbors and new friends. The mayor and council members, as well as city staff, will provide a brief update regarding their departments The event is open to the public Coffee and fresh pastries will be served For

that

CITY OF SANIBEL

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Sanibel Public Library will host a virtual author talk today, Oct 9, with Silvia MorenoGarcia

Sanibel library

From page 14

Additionally, the library has the following programs scheduled:

Crafternoon will be held today, Oct. 9, from 3 to 4:30 p m T

Garlands ” Open to ages 3 and older, make a work of art A variety of craft supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance

On Oct 10, LEGO Club will take place from 3 to 4 p m Participants can meet new friends, create a masterpiece, play and display their creation

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

On Oct 11, Chess Open-Play will take place from 11 a m to 1 p m Open for all ages, there will be supplemental instruction for beginners as needed Snacks and drinks will be provided

Saturday Crafterday will be held on Oct 12 from 11 a m to noon with library staff Participants will create a fall craft to take home

On Oct 14, Children's Book Bingo will take place from 3 to 4 p m for ages 3 and up A snack will be provided

Fun with 3D Printing will be held on Oct 15 from 10 to 11 a.m. There will be a presentation on 3D printing basics, and participants can ask questions and see an object get 3D printed

On Oct 15, Baby & Toddler Storytime and Playdate

Blotter

From page 14

holidays is with AC/BC permit only

∫ Commercial use is prohibited

∫ Fines for violations at the boat ramp are $500

Solicitation is not allowed on Sanibel

Please share any photos of solicitation

will take place from 10:30 to 11 a m Open to ages 4 and under, babies and their caregivers will take part in a short story time, sensory play, literacy activities and more

S T E A M Club will be held on Oct 15 from 3 to 4:30 p m The program will be “ S l i m e S c i e n c e ” P a

n about the science of slime and take some home with them

On Oct 16, Crafternoon will take place from 3 to 4:30 p m The project will be “Pumpkin Pompom Coasters ” Open to ages 3 and older, make a work of art A variety of craft supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance.

For the most up-to-date information, visit the calendar at https://sanlib org/

Those with library items that were damaged due to Hurricane Helene can email reference@sanlib org or call 239-472-2483; provide the titles of the damaged items Fees for the items will be waived

The library will serve as a drop-off location for F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva's Thanksgiving Food Drive Donations will be accepted from Oct 14 through Nov 15 Those who donate are eligible to enter a raffle at the library for an “Make-Your-Own” Book Bundle.

Library cards are available to residents of Sanibel and Lee County at no charge Visitor library cards are available for a $10 annual fee

hang tags to police@mysanibel com or use Tip411

Repor ting suspicious activity

Anonymous tips regarding crimes or suspicious activity can be submitted via

Tip411:

The Sanibel Public Library will offer Chess Open-Play on Oct 11

The library is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a m to 8 p m and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a m to 5 p m

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

The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411

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

∫ Use the free “Sanibel PD” app for your Android or iOS device The SPD's non-emergency line is 239472-3111 F

https://www facebook com/SanibelPolice

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

Recreation center provides update on activities, events

T h e S a n i b e l R e c r e a t i o n C e n t e r r e p o r t e d o n

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

F a l l S c e n t s & S w e e t s w i l l b e h e l d o n O c t . 1 2

f r o m 1 1 a m t o 1 p m P a r t i c i p a n t s w i l l c r e a t e t h e i r

o w n n o - b a k e p u m p k i n p i e W h i l e i t c h i l l s i n t h e f r i d g e , t h e y w i l l e n j o y a s p i c e d b e v e r a g e a n d c r a f t t h e i r o w n f a l l p o t p o u r r i u s i n g p i n e c o n e s , c i n n am o n a n d o t h e r i n g r e d i e n t s C o s t i s $ 2 4 f o r m e m -

b e r s a n d $ 3 0 f o r n o n - m e m b e r s

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Youth Soccer league taking registrations

Sanibel Sports is signing up children for its fall, coed Youth Soccer league island

Open to ages 5-13 prekind garten through eighth grade th s e a s o n w i l l r u n f r o m O c t o b e r

through December Practices will be held on Tuesdays or Thursdays, based on the volunteer coaches' schedules; games will take place on Friday evenings All practices and games will be held at the Sanibel Recreation Center fields

All players will need shin guard and proper footwear Each team w have some soccer balls, and it is gested that each player has their ow

cer ball of proper size cost is $85 per player. ayer registration will close on Oct

For more information or to register, visit www SanibelSports org

In addition, Sanibel Sports is in need of volunteer coaches; background checks will be required For more information about volunteering, contact Tim Drobnyk at 239-281-3530 or drobnyk@comcast net

The Sanibel Recreation Center is 3 8 8 0 S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a R o a

DOH-Lee: Beach tests show acceptable levels

On Oct 2, the Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH-Lee) r

Hurricane Helene show that there is no increased risk of illness from swimming at Lee County beaches at

SCCF provides update on turtle nests, hatchlings

Captiva Conservation F

that this year, 842 log-

green sea turtle nests,

nest were documented

Captiva As of Oct 1, 16,246 hatchlings had

through the month of O

stranded hatchlings or issues related to nests, lighting, beach furniture or holes on the

3663

this time

Tests completed on Sept 30 indicate that the water quality at all county beaches show an acceptable level of Enterococcus bacteria established by state guidelines The test results

FloridaHealth gov/HealthyBeaches

For more information, call 239-

Lee FloridaHealth gov

Bald eagle nesting season

have had great nesting success, fledging nine eaglets in 2023, and 13 in 2024,” she said “We’re hoping for another successful season in 2025 ”

Eagles, construction activity

The SCCF reported that during this time of year, questions come up about what kind of work can occur near active

City counicl

From page 1

eagle nests While bald eagles are no longer a listed endangered species, they are still protected by state and federal eagle laws, including the Florida eagle rule, Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act

Any disturbance to bald eagles should not take place within 660 feet of an active nest without a federal nest disturbance

From page 1

a n d h i g h t i d e i n t h e e v e n i n g a n d overnight

He shared the following highlights from the Building Department:

∫ About 470 structures were damaged or affected

∫ Majority were in minor damage category

∫ Majority of structures experienced flood waters 24 inches or less into the primary living area or ground flood area (i e g a r a g e o r s t o

house), receiving a “minor” or “affected” damage assessment classification

∫ Few structures experienced more than 24 inches but less than 36 inches into t h e p r i m a r y

v i n g a “major” damage assessment classification

∫ Damage assessment is an ongoing process

Souza reviewed the city's permitting r e q u i r e m e n t s f o r s

n d FEMA's 50% rule

H e a l s o s h a r e d i n f o r m a t i o n f r o m LCEC on the electricity outages

“We had outages in our community A lot of the island was restored quickly,” Souza said, adding that certain segments and subdivisions were not because the

majority had ground-mounted transformers

Next up, Natural Resources Director

Holly Milbrandt and Public Works City Engineer Oisin Dolley provided a present a t

Management Weir Policy & Operations ”

Milbrandt started by outlining the following from the Sanibel Plan:

“An invaluable resource to the islandwide natural draining system is the interior wetlands The 3,500-acre depression in the central area of the island, roughly bordered by Periwinkle Way and SanibelCaptiva Road on the north and Gulf Drive on the south, plays an important role in terms of stormwater storage during both high frequency as well as more intense storms The main drainage way of the interior wetland is the Sanibel River ”

She explained that the Sanibel River has two drainage basins: the West Basin, which covers from Tarpon Bay Road to Tradewinds Drive and is controlled by the Tarpon Bay Weir; and the East Basin, which covers from Tarpon Bay Road to Beach Road and is controlled by the Beach Road Weir

The weir system maintains over 1,600

permit and the required monitors in place

determine if their property is within the 660-foot buffer of an active bald eagle nest by viewing Audubon’s EagleWatch

er/index html?webmap=9ddae7fb26494 6578353c362f6c84b8b

acres of unique interior freshwater wetlands

Milbrandt noted the following:

Desirable wetland plant communities and

absorb excess nutrients; reduced wildfire risk; and minimization of saltwater intrusion

∫ Minimizes the frequency of discharges of polluted stormwater runoff from the interior portions of the island to the coastal waters: The Sanibel Slough, Pine Island Sound and San Carlos Bay have all been designated as “impaired” by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection due to nutrient enrichment.

Dolley outlined the city's Weir Control Policy and reviewed a series of graphics, including the typical water levels for the Tarpon Bay Weir from 2015 through 2023, pre-storm environmental conditions related to sea level trend, pre-storm environmental conditions related to rainfall, and weir operations in terms of the water level for the Sanibel Slough from October of 2023 through September of this year

For more information about obtaining permits for work around bald eagle nests, visit https://myfwc com/license/wildlife/ protected-wildlife-permits/eagle-permits/ For questions about eagles or to share e a g l e o b s e r v a t i o n s o

eagles@sccf.org.

He reported that staff opened the weirs a couple of days in advance of the hurricane to provide extra storage capacity Both weirs experienced overtopping from t h e s u r g

Mexico.

Milbrandt provided a comparison of the forecasted conditions for Helene versus the actual conditions She reported that 4-6 inches of rainfall, winds of up to 50 mph and a surge of up to 6 feet were forecast, while 2-3 inches of rainfall and sustained winds of 30 mph, with gusts of up to 50 mph, were recorded She explained that there is low tide, mean tide and high tide, with the normal high tide falling between the mean and high. During a storm, the surge and even storm tide on top of the surge come into play

“Sanibel is low-lying barrier island,” Milbrandt said, explaining that Sanibel e x p

a n d Helene was a tremendous surge event, but that other local areas also were impacted Dolley reported that since most of the d

See CITY COUNCIL, page 19

City council

From page 18

Sanibel River and its drainage basins, he provided the following information on stormwater management outside of those:

∫ S u b d i v i s i o n d r a i n a g e :

N e i g h b o r h o o d c o l l e c t s a n d r e t a i n s stormwater in a defined retention area, such as Dunes, Sanctuary, Gumbo Limb, Gulf Ridge and Bayous

∫ Canal/bayou systems: Right-of-way swales or on-site retention retain runoff and overflow to tidal waters, such as east end, Santiva area, Sanibel Harbour and Sanibel Isles

∫ Localized drainage areas: Properties retain water with no real designed overflow option, such as Gulf-front lots and non-subdivision properties

He continued that staff is currently working on the city's Stormwater Master Plan update.

The topics of focus include:

∫ Assessment of stormwater system post-Hurricane Ian and repair design

∫ Evaluation of Surface Water Master Plan and Weir Control Policy

∫ Data collection involving ground-

water, Sanibel Slough and topographic information

∫ Includes analysis of sea level rise and potential resilience measures

The prominent steps include:

∫ Partners meetings (Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Sanibel Fire a n d R e s c u

Mosquito Control District)

∫ P u b l i c w o r k s h o p ( p l a n n i n g f o r January or February)

∫ Final presentation to council (late spring or early summer)

Staff also provided the following highlights of the beach conditions as of the meeting:

∫ Sanibel Lighthouse: Additional sand placement below mean high water to being in November

∫ Clam Bayou: Breach in restored dune berm during Tropical Storm Debby and Helene

See CITY COUNCIL, page 20

CITY OF SANIBEL

The Sanibel City Council recognized October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month through a proclamation at its meeting on Oct 1

The Sanibel City Council recognized October as Florida Native Plant Month on the island through a proclamation at its meeting on Oct 1

∫ Scours/gullies: About 10 gullies in n e w o r r e p e a t l o c a t i o n s ; d

c u s s i n g options for repair with beach renourishment contractor

In other news

∫ The council voted 5-0 on a resolution supporting Community Housing & R

Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funding to construct 20 new affordable housing units at 1874 Middle Gulf Drive.

∫ The council voted 4-0 to approve a proposal from Cummins Cederberg for engineering and environmental consulting s

Comprehensive Vulnerability Assessment

Department of Environmental Protection's Resilient Florida Grant.

Councilmember John Henshaw had to leave the meeting early and was not present for the vote

∫ The council voted 5-0 to approve a conditional use permit application by resolution to allow a commercial retail use with more than 2,000 square feet of commercial floor area in the Town Center General Commercial District for a property owned by Aloha Apollo at 2400 Palm Ridge Road The application was submit-

Latitude, on behalf of the property owner

∫ The council voted 5-0 on an ordinance to amend the Code of Ordinances relating to the city's contract and purchas-

ing policy

∫ The council voted 5-0 on an ordinance to amend the Code relating to the B

Employees' Retirement Plan to decrease the number of trustees to five Three will be appointed by the council and two will be elected by the plan membership

∫ The council held the first reading for an ordinance to amend the Code to update the filing procedure for development permit applications The second reading is set for Nov 12

∫ The council held the first reading for an ordinance to amend the Code to deem

elevated beach dune walkovers as permeable under certain conditions The second reading is set for Nov. 12.

∫ Charitable Foundation of the Islands Board Chair Chip Roach and Treasurer D o u g C o n g r e

e Accelerate Small Business Loan Program, which has $1 2 million available for lending

∫ The council recognized October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month through a proclamation

∫ The council recognized October as Florida Native Plant Month on Sanibel through a proclamation.

Lessons learned?

From page 4

work will need to comply with FEMA's 50% rule.

application is also

Department advised the community to

https://www mysanibel com/content/do wnload/32575/file/Hurricane%20Ian% 20%26%20Helene%20Permitting%20 Policy%209-30-24 pdf

It added that:

∫ Removal of damaged items (i e drywall, trim, et cetera) does not require a permit, but the replacement or repair must get a permit

∫ If there is an active issued permit a n d t h

repairs, then a revision will be necessary to include the scope of work, revised estimate cost breakdown and potentially new plans as needed The total scope of

∫ If a permit from Ian repairs has been issued and closed and new repair work is needed, then a new permit will be required The new scope of work will need to comply with FEMA's 50% rule

Initial Damage Assessment teams are surveying properties that experienced damage from Helene While correspond

ments will be provided to those properties that were surveyed to have water damage, property owners who are prepared to begin their permitting may call the Building Department at 239-4724 5 5 5 P e o p l e c a n

department with questions

In addition, Lee County Government is reminding residents in unincorporated areas which includes Captiva to

See LESSONS LEARNED, page 22

Healthy waters

tion and flood mitigation as we can get, and those wetlands provide it

But they are under threat of development as the property owner continues to seek an amendment to the city’s comprehensive plan changing the current zoning

o f t h e i r p r o p e r t y f r o m “ P r e s e r v e ” t o

“Mixed Use” despite strong opposition from a concerned community

City department heads bear out those concerns “With the looming threat of sea level rise and climate change,” one has stated, “I don’t believe it would be good for community climate change resiliency policy to continue permitting developments close to high hazard zones next to water ”

“Removal of mangroves,” says another, “would weaken the buffering capacity of the mangrove area which protects the city against storms ”

But department heads don’t make the final decision, and if our current or a future city council changes the zoning of this property, and if the U S Army Corps of Engineers issues a 404 permit, there is little if anything the community can do to stop this climate-blind Redfish Pointe development

By failing to protect our wetlands, we undermine our ability to confront a crisis that poses such an enormous threat to F l o r i d i a n s T h

d “Right to Clean and Healthy Waters”

page 4

State Constitutional Amendment can be of crucial help

When it comes to wetlands, both local

Because the amendment enables us to hold agencies accountable for harm or threatened harm to our aquatic ecosys-

could protect Florida’s wetlands when other means fail The amendment lang u

ecosystem services including carbon storage, water filtration, and risk mitigation for drought, erosion, and floods.”

Other states have environmental rights enshrined in their constitutions We need this right in ours More than two hundred organizations and businesses throughout

Conservancy, Friends of the Everglades, VoteWater, Florida Sportsman, and the League of Women Voters

But they can’t place the amendment on the ballot for voters to vote on, and our Legislature won’t, so it’s up to us

Joseph Bonasia is operations and com-

ToCleanWater org For more informa-

org

Lessons learned

pull permits for repairs as well, stressing “This is particularly important for uninc o r p o r a t e d r e s i d e n t s i n c o a s t a l a r e a s , along rivers and in areas that typically flood during weather events.”

Those whose properties incurred water intrusion or other damage are urged to email FIRMinfo@leegov com for assist a n c e w i t h p e r m i t r e q u i r e m e n t s a n d

resources Provide contact information, the property address, type of damage and height of the water that entered the home Permits for hurricane damage are being prioritized for review

Summed up succinctly, when in doubt, reach out Pull a permit Do the paperwork.

Your vote From page 7

Focus on education, not partisan politics

Nonpartisan school board members must appeal to all registered voters, not just those in the dominant party

Nonpartisan school boards can work collaboratively in the best educational interests of students They can represent the values, concerns, and issues important to the local community, rather than being beholden to partisan agendas.

Nonpartisan school board elections help maintain local control by making it less likely that candidates are funded by big money from state and national political parties that want to control the teaching and learning of our students

Vote no on Amendment 1

A number of the leadership team from The Purple Group of Lee County nonpartisan advocates for public schools, stu-

page 20

Lastly, donations especially cash can make a big difference in a lot of lives State disaster funds like the Florida Relief Fund are actively channeling donations where needed

Organizations Active in Disaster for other vetted groups or charities The site can be searched by the state you would like to specifically assist

If you can, even a small donation can help

Island Reporter editorial

dents, parents, and educators in the county are available to provide more information or answer questions. They include:

∫ Madelon Stewart, of Fort Myers

∫ Jill Pellis, of Fort Myers

∫ Ray Clasen, of North Fort Myers

∫ Paula Porter, of Lehigh Acres

∫ Suzanne Cook, of Verandah

∫ Marge Cox, of Bonita Springs

∫ Sara Braun, of Estero

Also available is Cathie Kozik, president of the League of Women Voters of Sanibel

The League of Women Voters of Florida has recommended voting no on Amendment 1

The Purple Group of Lee County is a non-partisan group of residents who believe high-quality public schools should welcome all students and their families as the bedrock of a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic democracy For more information, visit on YouTube @ThePurpleGroupLeeCountyF-vw4kg

Debate with the stars

Talk about pangs of withdrawal symptoms For almost two years we’ve been caught up in one national debate after another The presidential primary debates pitted just about anyone who wanted to run for president against one another

D u r i n g t h e e a r l y debates there appeared to b e m o r e d e b a t e r s t h a n members of the audience

T h e r e w e r e a t l e a s t a d

from each major political

p a r t y a n d u n l e s s y o u blinked hard you could have sworn that among them were Pluto, Mickey Mouse, Michael Jordan, M a d

n n

, P e y t o n Manning, Adam Sandler and Lady Gaga

I s n ’ t d e m o c r a c y g r a n d ? A l m o s t a n

e can run for president and run they do They all got together and began a series of debates that captured the fancy of the American electorate One week there was a Republican primary debate and the next a Democratic one

And as our fascination with debates took hold the number of candidates began to be whittled down as primary elections caused the departure of most Then there were two left in each party but the debates continued Most of us sat at home admiring the tenacity of the remaining candidates and began to wish that we had taken our high school debating clubs more seriously

Time passed, the debates continued and by the time this past summer came around there were only two candidates left standing The others went home to hone their oratorical skills for future use We went through the political conventions which didn’t offer us debates But they still offered us fine examples of how to insult, disparage and demonize your opponents. We learned that it was perfectly okay and in the best interests of democratic interaction to call your opponents names, question their sexual preferences, the sports teams they root for and their choice of dry cereal

But the conventions were merely a prelude to further debates And once again there was one more debate between the two opposing candidates We began to learn the ground rules: two minutes for opening remarks, two-minute responses to questions, rebuttals, polite but forceful interruptions, closing remarks and a perfunctory handshake at the conclusion while exhibiting frozen smiles.

Now that the election is but weeks away, and the two remaining candidates went head to head one more time, the debating season seems to be over But is the American public ready to be weaned off the debate syndrome after almost two years? I don’t think so

We’re suffering now from debatitis interruptus, an anxiety and tension producing disease that affects four out of five Americans We turn the TV dials hoping for one more debate and are left with the next episode of “CSI” or “Desperate Housewives ” We are suffering from debate withdrawal and we’re anxious, deprived and unsettled. How will we fill the time we devoted to debate after debate? After all, there are just so many football games to watch

The answer, my friends is to continue debates but in a new format Let us now borrow from those pillars of popular television “American Idol” and “Dance with the Stars ” To allay our debate withdrawal symptoms let us replace the earlier debates with new ones Let us now have “Debate with the Stars ”

Let’s start with having a series of prime-time debates between Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Colbert on why each should win the ratings game between the

See DEBATE, page 25

San Cap Pink Project announces lineup of fall 'fun-raising' events

By STAFF REPORT trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The San Cap Pink Project will host a variety of “funraisers” this month focused on breast cancer

“You probably know us as Pink Out We've been holding events on Sanibel for 12 years,” organization founder Mary Bondurant said “While we do focus on breast cancer by providing mammograms and support, we also help with other cancer needs of the community, and this fall we're delighted to host our signature events again as we raise money to support Sanibel and Captiva residents and employees ”

The events will kick off with the Annual Dink for Pink pickleball tournament on Oct 19-20 at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, at 1451 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel Hosted by the resort, the tourney will begin at 8 a m on both days and will feature men's, women's and mixed teams. All skills levels are invited to register. The cost is $75 per person and lunch will be provided on both days In addition, there will be raffle items available on both days and Sanibel's Best Homemade Ice Cream will be on site on Oct 19 with the proceeds going to the San Cap Pink Project

For more information or to register as a player, visit PinkOutDinkforPink com

Also, the 3D Mobile Mammography bus will be on site on Oct 20 to provide mammograms

“We're so pleased to bring this service to Sanibel All insurances are accepted, and appointments only take 10 minutes. If you are in need of financial assistance for a mammogram, please sign up and Pink Out will assist y

Tickets for Wines in the Wild to go on sale

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation will hold its annual Wines in the Wild on Nov 8 from 6:30 to 9 p m at the Bailey Homestead Preserve, at 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

During the signature event, which serves as a “welcome back” gathering to kick off the fall season, attendees will enjoy strolling the grounds of the preserve while sipping wines specially selected for the evening Top local chefs will offer delectable food pairings to complement the wine tastings

Launched in 2008 by Linda and Tom Uhler, the event was created as an outdoor event for new and returning residents to meet like-minded island neighbors and the SCCF's team members

“It’s a great way to experience the warmth of our community and support SCCF’s historic role in protecting and caring for our coastal ecosystems,” Linda Uhler said. Bank of the Islands will serve as the presenting sponsor

“Mammograms are the core of our mission mammograms save lives ”

For more information or to reserve an appointment time, visit PinkOutEvent com

The community is invited to come out and cheer on the tournament players

Following the tourney, the 12th Annual Pink Out Picnic will take place on Oct 24 from 11:30 a m to 1:30 p m at the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District's Station 171, at 2351 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel The islands' tradition celebrates and supports the cancer-related needs of the community. A free lunch will be provided to cancer survivors; others can enjoy the meal for a donation There will be music, a photo booth and raffle items, including massages, boat trips, work from local artists and more For more information, visit PinkOutSanibel com

Lastly, the Annual Pink Tea Party will be held on Oct 29 from 11:30 a m to 1:30 p m at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel Featuring emcee host and NBC2 News Today anchor Lisa Spooner, there will be tea served tea, pastries and finger sandwiches music, community speakers, photos, and raffle and live auction items In addition, champagne and a custom cocktail will be available for purchase.

PinkOutSanibel com

Net proceeds from ticket sales, contributions to the raffles and auctions, donations, and merchandise benefit uninsured and underinsured community members in need of help with cancer-related needs

For information about contributing or volunteering, contact PinkOutSanibel@gmail com

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation will hold its annual Wines in the Wild on Nov. at the Bailey Homestead Preserve on Sanibel.

“We truly appreciate Bank of the Islands’ lead sponsorship for more than a decade,” Uhler said. “This very special evening would not be nearly as successful or well

See WINES IN THE WILD, page 30

Art Stevens Shell Shocked

SAN CAP PINK PROJECT

Island concert band signing up new members

Sanibel is seeking additional musicians to fill out its roster

An island institution that has been performing on Sanibel and in Fort Myers for years, it is continuing to recover from Hurricane Ian Made up of musicians of all levels, the group plays marches, show tunes, pop and classics New members are welcome and encouraged to join for the upcoming season

The first practice will take place on Oct. 22 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

n Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p m at the church

The group typically plays three concerts each year This season, it will perform for Veterans Day on Nov 11 at the Sanibel City Hall and on Dec 12 and April 11 at BIG ARTS on Sanibel

For more information or to join, contact Band Director Missy Calkin at melissa calkin@gmail com or Band Manager D e n n i s B

y @yahoo com

S

Andrea

Debate

Kiwanis donates to rec center program

Recreation Center with a d

will support the basketball clinic in the fall for the island's youth

a

From page 24

hosts of the two most popular late night talk shows The debates could follow the format that has proven to be popular a series of town hall meetings in front of real live television viewers who would ask unprompted questions

The questions would have to do with which of the two talk show hosts could produce the most exciting guests on their shows, the funniest lines, and the most entertaining sketches The overall winner of all the debates would automatically win the ratings war and the loser would lose all advertising sponsors for a month

Another debate I believe we’d turn off the old football game to watch is one between Jay Leno and David Letterman.

The subject would be who has been the heir apparent to Johnny Carson I personally would like to see a debate among the various newscasters who moderated primary and presidential debates. Those would include Wolf Blitzer, Lester Holt and Rachel Maddow The subject would be which moderators made the candidates look the most foolish and uninspiring. The winner gets to moderate a debate between Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga

Art Stevens is a long-time columnist for the Sanibel-Captiva Islander His tonguein-cheek humor is always offered with a smile.

Gabrielle Johnson, of Miami, found a junonia on Sept 13 near Gulf Pines on Sanibel She was visiting friends on the island at the time “First junonia of our family or friends,” resident and

“Everyone is jealous ” To report a shell find, contact 239-472-1587 or trepecki@breezenewspapers com

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA KIWANIS CLUB

Miller, center, accepts

donation from members of the Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club

ISL AND HOME islander

GARDEN

City: Cleaning up overwashed beach sand

The city of Sanibel reported that storm surge from Hurricane Helene caused a significant amount of sand to overwash private properties along the beaches.

It shared the following information for property owners regarding overwashed beach sand:

∫ An Emergency Beach Erosion Control permit is required to return overwashed sand to a Gulf of Mexico beach

∫ The city has taken on the permitting responsibility

Protection (FDEP) to authorize the activity

∫ Permits can be applied for though the city's permit-

energovweb tylerhost net/apps/selfservice#/applicationA ssistant?sectionName=All&moduleId=2&categoryName =All&showTemplates=false

∫ A mayoral proclamation states that the fees for the permit type will be waived

The requirements for returning overwashed beach sand include:

∫ Sand that is returned to the beach must be clean and free of debris, rocks, clay, or other foreign matter

struction materials shall not be stored, in such a way as to damage or destroy the beach dune system

∫ Existing beach dune topography and vegetation shall be disturbed only to the minimum extent necessary

∫ If any topography is disturbed as a result, then topography shall be restored to the predevelopment elevations

∫ Any native dune vegetation destroyed during the activity shall be replaced with native beach vegetation

Agave attenuata, from the Agavaceae family, is commonly referred to as spineless century plant The agave is a much smaller version of the traditional agave and the leaves do not end in sharp spines, making it a much more friendly agave to have in the landscape

The leaves of the plant are wide and a soft, almost bluish-green color The species grows 2-4 feet in height, with a spread of about 3 feet when fully mature It likes part sun/part shade ideally, has a high drought tolerance and actually thrives in the local, sandy acidic soil.

After about 10 years or so, the plant will produce a tall flower spike with pale yellow to white blooms To propagate more of the agave, gently uproot seedlings near the plant and repot

Little irrigation is necessary once the plant is established, making it the perfect addition to a rock garden either grouped together or as an individual specimen It also does well in pots as a modern focal point in the landscape

The more modern elements of current architectural styles make all types of agave a natural landscape choice The agave attenuata is the perfect choice for around the home, pool and patio as it is one of the few agave without any spines

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

H

D

∫ Sand returned to the beach shall not cover any storm-generated debris or construction material

∫ Sand shall be returned to the beach in a manner that emulates grade and slope of the beach prior to Helene

∫ Construction equipment shall not operate, and con-

Placing sand or other overwashed material onto the right-of-way of roads is strictly prohibited

For questions, contact Joel Caouette with the Natural Resources Department at joel caouette@mysanibel com or 239-267-4726

County reminds residents permits needed for storm work

o r h u r r i c a n e d a m a g e

a r e b e i n g p r i o r i t i z e d f o r r e v i e w A n y u n i n c o r p o r a t e d L e e C o u n t y r e s i d e n t s o r b u s i n e s s e s i n t h e

S p e c i a l F l o o d H a z a r d A r e a w i t h

a n y d a m a g e t o t h e i r h o m e s o r b u s i -

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

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a s s i s t a n c e w i t h p e r m i t r e q u i r e -

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

∫ C o n t a c t i n f o r m a t i o n

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∫ T y p e o f d a m a g e

∫ H e i g h t o f t h e w a t e r t h a t e n t e r e d t h e h o m e R e s i d e n t s c a n f i n d m o r e i n f o r -

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2 3 9 - 5 3 3 - 8 9 4 8 . T h e D e p a r t m e n t o f C o m m u n i t y

D e v e l o p m e n t p l a n s t o o p e n a t e mp o r a r y , r e m o t e p e r m i t o f f i c e o n P i n e I s l a n d l i k e i t d i d a f t e r

H u r r i c a n e I a n f o r M a t l a c h a -

P i n e I s l a n d r e s i d e n t s I t m a y a d d a d d i t i o n a l t e m p o r a r y , r e m o t e p e rm i t t i n g o f f i c e l o c a t i o n s e l s e w h e r e i n u n i n c o r p o r a t e d L e e C o u n t y a s n e e d e d

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∫ w w w D i s a s t e r A s s i s t a n c e g o v

∫ 1 - 8 0 0 - 6 2 1 - 3 3 6 2

∫ D o w n l o a d t h e F E M A m o b i l e a p p

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∫ A d d r e s s o f d a m a g e d h o m e o r

a f a y e t t e , L e e , L e v y , M a d i s o n , M a n a t e e , P a s c o , P i n e l l a s , S a r a s o t a , T a y l o r a n d W a k u l l a F E M A r e p o r t e d t h a t i t m a y b e a b l e t o h e l p w i t h s e r i o u s n e e d s , d i s p l a c e m e n t , h o m e r e p a i r o r o t h e r d i s a s t e r - c a u s e d e x p e n s e s T h o s e w h o a

a p a r t m e n t ∫ N a m e s o f p e o p l e l i v i n g i n h o u s eh o l d

∫ D e s c r i p t i o n o f d i s a s t e r d a m a g e s

∫ I n s u r a n c e i n f o r m a t i o n

∫ S o c i a l S e c u r i t y N u m b e r

∫ T e l e p h o n e n u m b e r t o b e r e a c h e d o r l e f t a m e s s a g e ∫ A d d r e s s t o g e t m a i l

∫ B a n k i n f o r m a t i o n t o h a v e d i s a s t e r a s s i s t a n c e f u n d s s e n t d i r e c t l y t o b a n k

I n a d d i t i o n , a s s i s t a n c e m

CITY OF SANIBEL

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

Recipe of the Week: Spaghetti alla Caprese

In the beautiful town of Sorrento, south of the city of Napoli on the Amalfi coast, the local cuisine is so flavorful that it will leave you singing after your first bite I want to share with you one of my favorite pasta sauces that I enjoyed at the restaurant Stuzzichino. The friendly owner, Mimmo, and his family always makes us feel at home when we visit, and he will make sure that you never leave hungry Serves eight (Chef tip: I like using Passata di pomodoro from Italy for my sauce; it comes in a glass jar )

8 ounces spaghetti

4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/8 teaspoon hot red peppers

1 pound ripe cherry tomatoes cut in half

CROW Calendar

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

∫ Today, Oct. 9

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be “A Day In The Life ”

∫ Thursday, Oct. 1 0

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be “Sea Turtles ”

∫ Friday, Oct. 1 1

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be “Raptors And Rehabilitation ”

∫ Monday, Oct 1 4

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be “Wildlife In A Hurricane ”

∫ Tuesday, Oct. 1 5

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The presentation will be the presenter’s choice

∫ Wednesday, Oct. 1 6

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be “A Day In The Life ”

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

In addition, CROW offers a Wildlife Walk Hospital Tour on Mondays through Fridays after the daily presentation Limited to 12 people; participants must be age 10 or older The cost is $25 per person; advanced registration and payment is required To register, contact 239-472-3644 ext 229 or reservations@crowclinic org

m

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

Santiva Islanders Calendar

The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength today, Oct 9, from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All

A n g e l s E p i s c o p a l C h u r c h , a t 2 3 0 4 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members

Social Mahjong

Social Mahjong will be held on Oct. 10 from 1 to 3:30 p m in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal C h u r c h , a t 2 3 0 4 P e r i w i n k l e W a y , Sanibel Cost is $5 For more information, c o n t a c t B e t h F u n d e r b u r g a t bfundy4648@gmail com

Coffee & Conversation

Coffee & Conversation will be held on Oct 11 from 9:30 a m to noon in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Volunteers will be available to answer questions, register new members, sign up for activities and more

Cardio & Strength

Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members

Coffee & Conversation

Coffee & Conversation will be held on Oct 14 from 9:30 a m to noon in the library at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Volunteers will be available to answer questions, register new members, sign up for activities and more

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on Oct 14 from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All

,

2 3 0 4

Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members

Social Hour

Social Hour will be held on Oct 14 from 4 to 6 p m at Tutti Pazzi Italian

1 cup tomato sauce

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

1/4 cup kalamata pitted olives

2 tablespoons freshly grated pecorino cheese

1 cup fresh mozzarella cubed

Bring a six-quart pot of water to boil Add salt and then pasta and cook until “al dente,” about nine to 10 minutes or according to the package's directions Drain and set aside

Heat olive oil in a 10-inch skillet Add onion, garlic and red pepper and cook for two to three minutes under medium heat Add cherry tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt and pepper to taste and cook for 10 minutes until thickened Add basil and olives; cook for two to three minutes

Toss pasta with sauce and pecorino cheese, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and serve

Island Worship

∫ Bat Yam Temple of the Islands

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

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

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

Rev Dr Doug Dortch

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

∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida P O Box 722, Sanibel, www chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida org

Shabbat service on Friday at 7:30 p.m. Torah Talk on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. There are also speakers, discussions and informal “schmoozes ” For Zoom links, email ChavuratShalom@gmail com

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

Pastor Jeramie Rinne

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

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

Senior Minister Rev. Dr. Mark Boyea

Sunday service at 10 a m in the Sanctuary

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

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

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

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

Strength on Oct 16 from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All

2 3 0 4

Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required. Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members

BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, will present the following:

the quality of time in

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on Oct 11 from 10 to 11 a m in the Parish Hall at Saint Michael and All A n g e l s E p i s c o p a l C h u

, Sanibel Enjoy happy hour drink and appetizer specials Attendees will order and pay individually.

Cardio & Strength

c h , a t 2 3 0 4

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio &

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

For more information, visit https://sant

landers@gmail com

and film, expanding it into space An artist reception will take place on Oct 11 from 5 to 7 p m Free and open to the public, it will feature complimen-

Loretta Paganini

Cheeburger Cheeburger, 1975 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

MudBugs

Cajun Kitchen, 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

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

islandBEAT islander

In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian and amid the challenges of recovery and rebuilding, F I S H of SanibelCaptiva is continuing to offer mental health support

t h r o u g h i n d i v i d u a l c o u n s e l i n g s e s s i o n s , p r o v i d i n g islanders with coping mechanisms to manage post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and everyday stresses

Made possible with partner SalusCare, the sessions

The Community House Calendar

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

Sanibel Hear ts Club

The Sanibel Hearts Club will meet on Oct 11 from noon to 3 p m Beginners to experts are welcome to participate and play the card game No reservations are required. Suggested donation of $5.

Shellcrafters

The Shellcrafters will meet on Oct 14 from 10 a m to 1 p m in the lobby A shell crafting class will take place at 10 a m ; it is free and supplies range from $5-10. Items will be available for sale. All sales benefit the operations of TCH

One Day Par ty

H&C Endeavors Inc will host One Day Party on Oct 19 from 9 a m to 3 p m Presented by licensed mental health providers Helene Shute and Christina Hansen, the women's retreat will feature positive community and connection, TED-style talks focusing on thriving in life, celebrating oneself, and creating future intensions of happiness and joy Cost is $150 and includes a light breakfast, lunch, beverages and surprises Registration is required before Oct 12 For more information or tickets, visit yourbirthdaypodcast com

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

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

have proven to be a lifeline for residents who are still processing the emotional impact of the storm and seeking help for ongoing personal challenges

The collaboration, made available in part through funding provided by the Sanibel-Captiva Rotary, allows F.I.S.H.

t o p r o v i d e a c c e s s i b l e m e n t a l h e a l t h resources directly onsite on the islands

“Our goal is to ensure that no one feels alone in their struggles,” Executive Director Maria Espinoza said “We are deeply committed to supporting the mental wellbeing of our community, particularly after such a traumatic event as Hurricane Ian Our partnership with

Carrasco had a dream to work with the Immokalee community Since it is a food desert, despite its strong agricultural industry, she has been

Community Garden, which is close to the refuge complex's Panther National Wildlife Refuge This past

school groups, with the intent to understand the people and introduce environmental principals Recently, she introduced Ranger Jess Barry

University honor students who have been working with her on special projects to the Immokalee garden crew The students helped to weed and harvest potatoes

SalusCare allows us to provide essential services that make a huge difference in people's lives ”

Since the launch of the sessions, F I S H has seen a significant positive impact on those seeking assistance The program offers flexibility and is designed to meet the needs of each individual

For more information about the program or to schedule an appointment, contact Senior Services Director Erika Arnowitz at 239-472-4775 or erika@fishofsancap org F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t F I S H , v i s i t www fishofsancap org or call 239-472-4775

Florida Gulf Coast University students and J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge Ranger Jess Barry with their harvest at Immokalee’s Community Garden.

Traders, 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Rosalita's Cantina, 975 Rabbit Road, Sanibel

Tutti Pazzi

Kitchen, 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

F.I.S.H. highlights community par tner

F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva reported that it contributes its success to its community partners businesses and organizations both on and off the islands Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church offered space at The Gathering Place for F I S H events and programs and provided a venue for its summer Camp Noah for

youths It also hosts F I S H 's back-to-

venue for its stakeholder meetings and provides pie assistance for the holidays For more information about being a com-

Director Maria Espinoza at 239-4724775

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

From left, Bank of the Islands President Robbie Roepstorff and Chief Executive Officer Geoff Roepstorff, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Chief Executive Officer James Evans, and Wines in the Wild co-founders Tom and Linda Uhler.

Wines in the Wild

embraced by the community without their generous, ongoing support ”

Limited individual tickets will go on sale on Oct 10

For more information or tickets, visit sccf org/wines-in-the-wild

From page 24

Sponsorship opportunities are also available For more information, contact S C C F D e v e l o p m e n t C o o r d i n a t o r Brianna Frank at bfrank@sccf org or 239-472-2329

BANK OF THE ISLANDS

Coastal Watch Director Kealy Pfau and Bank of the Islands Vice

President David Lowden

Bank of the Islands ser

ves

as sponsor

Bank of the Islands/Edison National Bank served as a partner and lunch sponsor for Coastal Watch's Annual International Coastal Cleanup on Sept 21 on the islands It provided the postevent lunch, which was created by Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille, for volunteers at the Bailey Homestead Pavilion Also, bank President Robbie Roepstorff and C h i e f E x

G e o f f Roepstorff led a team of 37 that included employees and their families, who contributed their time to take part in the clean up

F I S H OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

From left, F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva Executive Director Maria Espinoza, Jerry's Foods General Manager Rick Winningham and JOG N JAM event Co-chair Diane Cortese.

(From “Sanibel Joe’s Songbook”)

It was not in another country

Nor in another time

There was no music playing And we did not dance or dine

There was no suite I rented To which we did retire, And no romantic breakfast Relit our evening fire

No moonlit beach for lovers

To frolic on the sand, No sun-drenched orange morning For bodies to withstand,

Nor back seat in a drive-in

With a movie rated R, And girl to whom I’d promise Someday to make a star

Nor did we dare a hammock

With swinging to and fro, Or standing up in rowboats, Or slip-sliding in the snow

It was not a brief encounter

Two strangers on a train, Over before it started Until we’d meet again

Jerr y’s to ser ve as sponsor

F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva reported that Jerry's Foods on Sanibel is a sponsor for its JOG N JAM, scheduled for Dec. 7. For more information about the event, visit https://runsignup com/Race/FL/Sanibel/10K5K Race4FISH

Nor just a night to remember

Until the seas run dry

Or morning in December

When a kiss became a sigh

It’s not a true love story

Yet I simply can’t forget

The love that never happened

On the day we never met

Joe Pacheco