Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

WEEk OF OCTOBER 11, 2023

VOLUME 61, NUMBER 47

County schools superintendent will not run for elected post

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

THE SANIBEL SCHOOL

LEFT: Cambridge Global Perspectives students at The Sanibel School provide peer feedback on other group projects. RIGHT: The Sanibel School students collaborate in small groups and work on small group work in their teams as part of the Cambridge Global Perspectives curriculum.

Island school program hones skills of middle-schoolers

By TIFFANY REPECKI

F

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

or the first time this year, all middle-schoolers at The Sanibel School can take part in an accelerated program that is only available to some students at all other School District of Lee County schools.

Rachel Stokes, who teaches the curriculum for grades 6-8, explained that Cambridge Global Perspectives is typically only offered to advanced readers and was introduced at the school last year. However, because of their small size, they were able to expanded the program to all this year.

“We're offering it to all of our students,” she said. “We can do that because we're so small.”

About 75-80 students have opted for the program, while the

rest chose geometry as their elective.

“We focus on six main skills: communication, collaboration, analysis, evaluation, research and reflection,” Stokes said, adding that the students work in teams on projects or challenges, which leads them to eighth grade when they conduct more independent study and produce a research report.

School district Content Specialist Natalie Elschlager, who oversees the program curriculum and its application, explained that the students are given a number of research topics to choose from, but it is just the starting point. From there, they will conduct some research, develop a research question, and research both sides or multiple perspectives, even expanding on the topic up to a global viewpoint.

While two candidates have filed paperwork to run for the newly-created elected superintendent seat, current School District of Lee County Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier announced on Oct. 5 that he will not seek the post to be decided in 2024.

As of last week, Denise Carlin and Morgan Wright — both Republicans Dr. Christopher Bernier and educators — had filed, according to the Lee County Elections Office website.

Lee County voters approved the See SUPERINTENDENT, page 17

IslanderInsIde

See ISLAND SCHOOL PROGRAM, page 18

Sanibel police chief takes part in Annual Clips for Cancer

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

An island official volunteered to have his head shaved again to support youths with cancer.

Last month, the 6th Annual Clips for Cancer was held to raise funds for Barbara’s Friends — the Golisano Children's Hospital Cancer Fund.

September is National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and young survivors from the hospital had the opportunity to shave the heads of community supporters and leaders live on Facebook and See CLIPS FOR CANCER, page 17

Sanibel Police Department Police Chief William Dalton gets his head shaved by Dominick Nino, 13, of Naples, on Sept. 29 during the 6th Annual Clips for Cancer.

Dominick was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in 2021 at the age of 10.

LEE HEALTH

alsOInsIdetOday Guest Commentary........................4 Web Poll.........................................4 Captiva Current..........................6-7 Business......................................8 Preserving Paradise.....................12 Island Living................................14 Sports.........................................16 Classifieds 27

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Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 ■ Page 2

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District spent three days last week training on a range of tactics in simulated real-life scenarios, thanks to support from Community Housing and Resources.

Deputy Fire Chief John DiMaria explained that the district was given access to CHR's 10-unit Riverview building on Sanibel on Oct. 3-5. Due to the extent of the damages from Hurricane Ian, the structure will have to be demolished and rebuilt, so CHR offered the building first for training.

He reported that over the three days, every shift and every crew member was able to utilize the structure for training — about 12-15 hours in total — covering several different concepts.

“We focused on tactical consideration with a building like that,” DiMaria said.

“We worked on ventilation. We worked on search and rescue. We worked on communications. We worked on VES.” He explained that VES — or vent, enter, search — is a scenario where the crews know the victim's location and can access the person through say an exterior window, so that becomes the entry and exit.

“We worked on hose management, water streams. We also worked on firefighter survival, and breaching walls,” DiMaria said. “We were able to do a lot of different things.”

Because of the number of units, they were able to apply different scenarios to the different spaces.

For instance, in developing their search and rescue skills, there was a fire in one

SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District's crews spent Oct. 3-5 training at the Community Housing and Resources's Riverview building on Sanibel.

apartment and the commanding officer had to come up with the tactical response, then ensure every room on every floor was thoroughly searched. At one point, a mannequin was added into the mix and had to be located.

“Every time their victim was found, so they were mitigating this emergency properly, and they found one victim each and every time,” he said. “That's what complex about these multi-room buildings.”

DiMaria also explained that in a true emergency, radio communications get hectic. He tried to simulate a mutual aid situation where other agencies respond by trying to overwhelm the commanding officer.

“They did a really good job when it came to communications and keeping their guys organized,” DiMaria said.

The crews worked on apparatus access, including maneuvering the fire and ladder trucks into small spaces. While hydrants are typically in close proximity when they respond to calls, they were not close at Riverview, so the crews focused on how to tackle a fire scenario using just the water on the truck.

He explained that they also focused on water hose use and properly utilizing the space available.

“Placement in that it wasn't tripping anybody up — whether that meant breaking a hose and using only 100 feet,” DiMaria said. “Utilizing the space properly with hose, truck and personnel placement.”

The Sanibel Police Department and See TRAINING, page 18 From left, Sanibel Fire and Rescue District Division Chief of Fire Prevention Larry Williams, Community Housing and Resources Executive Director Nicole Decker-McHale and Deputy Fire Chief John DiMaria.

Island Reporter

captivasanibel.com

Sanibel fire crews conduct training at CHR structure

Jury finds man guilty of aggravated battery

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

A man has been found guilty of slicing his employer with a box cutter while on a Sanibel job site.

Eligao Alberta Sivira Hernandez, 40, of 360 Beach 13th St., Far Rockaway, New York, was adjudicated guilty on one count of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon or causing harm — a seconddegree felony — on Sept. 28 after a jury trial in Lee County. His sentencing is scheduled for Nov. 16 at 9 a.m.

On April 5 at about 1:30 p.m., the Sanibel Police Department responded to a 911 call on the “C” span of the Sanibel Causeway. The caller said one person had stabbed another person and both were onsite.

According to a police report, Hernandez and his employer were involved in a verbal dispute at a job site at 1212 Sand Castle Road. He used a silver box cutter to cut his employer's arm in two

spots.

Police reported that Hernandez fled the scene in a vehicle, and his employer and a witness left in another vehicle to head to the hospital. Both vehicles then stopped on the “C” span of the causeway.

The report states that both stopped on the causeway and waited for the police to show up.

In a prepared statement, the Sanibel police reported that the vehicles stopped at the same spot for an unknown reason and that the victim and witness locked themselves in their vehicle and called 911.

All three were present when police and Lee County EMS arrived. The employer's injuries were treated, and Hernandez was taken to Health Park for a self-inflicted or possibly self-inflicted cut on his arm.

Later in the day, Sanibel police arrested and charged him with one count of aggravated battery cause bodily harm or disability. Hernandez was taken to the Lee County Jail and held on $25,000 bond.

Page 3 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

Report your news to CAPTIvASANIBEL.COM

BRCA gene test and who should get it About 3% of breast and tions. Some gene variants 10% of ovarian cancers result explain differences in people’s from inherited mutations in hair or eye color, while others the BRCA1 and BRCA2 can lead to a disease or increase the risk of illness. genes.

An inherited gene mutation According to the Centers can be passed on to the next for Disease Control and Prevention, breast cancer repgeneration. According to the resents about 7,500 women CDC, all women have BRCA1 who have inherited mutations and BRCA2 genes, but only in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 some have mutations. About genes annually. For ovarian one in every 500 women in the cancers, this amounts to about United States has a mutation in 2,000 women per year. her BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene.

A genetic blood test called It’s also possible to have a Dr. Mark Roh the BRCA gene test can help mutation in both BRCA genes. determine if a patient has an It typically takes more than inherited mutation. When one gene mutation to become a mutations in those genes cancer cell. But when someone develop, there’s an increased inherits an abnormal gene copy, risk of breast, ovarian, and their cells start out with one other cancers. BRCA stands for BReast mutation. This makes it easier for other mutaCAncer gene. tions to happen, which can lead to a cell A positive or negative result can help deter- becoming a cancer cell. mine a patient’s needs and health management.

Your doctor might suggest testing using a The BRCA gene test can also help patients bet- multigene panel, which simultaneously looks ter understand their health. To learn more or to for mutations in several genes, including schedule an appointment with your physician, BRCA1 and BRCA2. please visit www.leehealth.org.

A positive result does not diagnose any disease; it tells you if you carry the gene mutation that increases your risk. A negative What is an inherited BRCA test doesn't guarantee you will not get gene mutation? cancer.

It means your risk is likely the same Some people have changes in the blueas the general population. print of a gene, which are known as muta-

captivasanibel.com

Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 ■ Page 4

OPINIONS

Island Reporter

Guest Commentary

Who should get a BRCA gene test?

Those with a family history of either breast, ovarian, or both cancers are premier candidates for the gene test. If you meet any of these specifications, it’s recommended to get a BRCA gene test: ∫ A personal history of breast cancer diagnosed before age 45. ∫ A personal history of triple-negative breast cancer diagnosed at 60 or younger. ∫ A personal history of two or more types See BRCA GENE TEST, page 5

‘Ding’ cartoon of the month

Residents still eligible for tax relief from Ian Web Poll Previous Web Poll Question Are you planning to attend the island anniversary events for Hurricane Ian? ∫ Yes, all of them, 0% ∫ Yes, one/some, 14% ∫ No, none, 86%

Current Web Poll Question A year later after Ian, how much recovery work does your home/business need? ∫ None, fully recovered. ∫ Some, mostly recovered. ∫ Much, some recovered.

Share your opinion at captivasanibel.com

Hurricane Ian was the most financially devastating hurricane to ever hit Florida and it has caused over $100 billion of damage to homes and businesses. One year later, Congress has yet to consider legislation to designate Ian as a qualified disaster.

Congressman Gregory Steube did introduce a bill to Congress on March 1 (H. R. 1331) to treat Ian as a qualified disaster loss for income tax purposes, which would have provided much-needed tax relief to Southwest Florida residents, but the bill has yet to be discussed by Congress.

However, even without

Mary Feichthaler

Guest Commentary

Congressional action, many homeowners in Lee County are still eligible for potentially tens of thousands of dollars of tax refunds.

With the Oct. 15 extended deadline to file personal income tax returns quickly approaching, many taxpayers have filed their 2022 returns assuming that they will not be able to benefit from claiming an ordinary casualty loss and that Congress will not consider favorable qualified disaster legislation before the filing deadline.

Even if one has received insurance reimbursements,

REFUGE/DDWS

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's inaugural Art in the Wild on Oct. 21-22 will celebrate the birthday of Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling, a Pulitzer-winning cartoonist and influential conservationist of the early 20th century. Darling passed away on Feb. 12, 1962, at the age of 85, leaving this famous cartoon titled “Bye now — it’s been wonderful knowing you” to print in the more than 100 syndicated newspapers where his political cartoons appeared front page for some 50 years.

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge owns the copyright of the “Ding” Darling cartoons.

See TAX RELIEF, page 5

We want your opinion The views expressed on the Opinions Pages are just that — opinions. These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on these pages do not necessarily reflect the views of The Island Reporter. Opposing views are welcome. All letters must be signed and must contain a phone number for verification purposes. Letters considered for publication must relate to subjects of public interest. Letters to the Editor may be e-mailed to Tiffany Repecki at trepecki@breezenewspapers.com; posted to the virtual newsroom at captivasanibel.com; or mailed to 2340 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957. Letters are due no later than noon Thursday. The Island Reporter reserves the right to edit or reject any submission.

of cancer. ∫ A personal history of breast cancer diagnosed before 50 and second primary breast cancer, one or more relatives with breast cancer, or an unknown or limited family medical history. ∫ A personal history of male breast cancer. ∫ A personal history of ovarian cancer. ∫ A personal history of breast cancer and one or more relatives with breast cancer diagnosed before age 50, two or more relatives diagnosed with breast cancer at any age, one or more relatives with ovarian cancer, one or more relatives with male breast cancer, or two or more relatives with prostate cancer or pancreatic cancer. ∫ A personal history of prostate cancer or pancreatic cancer with two or more relatives with BRCA-associated

cancers. ∫ A history of breast cancer at a young age in two or more blood relatives, such as your parents, siblings, or children. ∫ A personal history of breast cancer and Ashkenazi (Eastern European) Jewish ancestry. ∫ A relative with a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation. ∫ One or more relatives with a history of cancer that would meet any of these criteria for gene testing.

If you think you’re a candidate for the BRCA test or want more information, make an appointment with your physician by visiting www.leehealth.org.

What can you expect from a BRCA gene test?

The BRCA gene test is like any other blood test. A lab analyzes the results, and a physician will review them.

Many people who get the BRCA gene test also work with a genetic counselor. Those who test positive may feel various emotions, including sadness, anxiety, or anger. A genetic counselor can help you work through all of that.

A genetic counselor is well-trained in helping patients deal with the results of a genetic test, offering options for management and ways to cope.

Dr. Mark Roh is the chief physician executive of oncology services at Lee Health.

Tax relief From page 4

Your views on the editorials, letters and the guest opinions that appear on The Reporter opinion pages can be shared online. Tell us what you think. Share your opinion at: captivasanibel.com.

impacted by adjusted gross income and would result in even greater tax savings.

The casualty loss rules are complicated and require that several steps be followed correctly prior to the deduction of losses caused by Ian. Damage to business property is also eligible for the deduction.

Taxpayers are eligible to file amended returns up to three years after the initial due date of the tax returns. This means that there is still plenty of time to consider filing an amended return to claim deductions for Ian losses. Millions of dollars of loss deductions are being left unclaimed by Lee County homeowners.

The services of an experienced CPA should be sought to help correctly navigate the complicated Internal Revenue Service casualty loss rules. I also encourage all homeowners to contact their elected officials to encourage them to bring H.R. 1331 to a vote in Congress to desig-

nate Ian a Qualified Disaster. Below is the telephone contact information for our Florida senators and congresspeople.

Each of these officials has a form on their official websites through which constituents can send emails. ∫ Sen. Rick Scott: 202-224-5274 or ∫ Sen. Marco Rubio: 202-224-3041 ∫ Congressman Byron Donalds: 202225-2536 Mary Feichthaler is a licensed CPA and has 26 years of experience assisting individual, corporate and nonprofit clients in all areas of taxation including income tax compliance and audits, sales tax, FIRPTA and offers in compromise.

She graduated magna cum laude from Georgetown University with a degree in accounting and graduated magna cum laude from Pace University with a master of science in taxation degree.

Island Reporter

initial casualty loss. This remaining casualty loss amount is combined with other itemized deductions such as mortgage interest, property taxes, charitable donations and medical expenses to arrive at the total itemized deduction amount. If this amount exceeds the individual’s standard deduction, the more favorable itemized deduction amounts will be claimed on the tax return, resulting in a reduction of income tax. In the case where itemized deductions exceed AGI, a loss carryover is generated to be utilized for further tax benefits in the following tax year.

My clients have seen an average reduction in residence fair market value of over $60,000. Depending on the taxpayers’ adjusted gross income, this casualty deduction can result in a tax savings of thousands, possibly tens of thousands, of dollars.

Please keep in mind that deductions are also reduced by insurance reimbursements, but losses are not impacted by actual out-ofpocket repair estimates or payments.

If Ian had been designated by Congress as a qualified disaster, the taxpayer’s casualty loss deduction would not be

captivasanibel.com

taxpayers do have the potential to receive significant income tax relief by claiming a non-qualified casualty loss on their amended 2021 or 2022 personal income tax returns.

The rules involving deductions relating to unreimbursed property damage caused by a casualty loss hinge on what type of casualty is incurred. The last major hurricane to impact our area was Hurricane Irma, which was given special designation

by Congress as a “Qualified Casualty Loss.” As a result, taxpayers adversely impacted by Irma were able to maximize their loss deductions without claiming other itemized deductions.

Casualty losses are determined based on the damaged property’s fair value immediately before and immediately after a disaster such as a hurricane. Ian is the most serious storm to impact our area since Irma and the most damaging in Florida history. Since Ian has not been designated as a qualified disaster, taxpayers must deduct 10% of their adjusted gross income (“AGI”) plus an additional $100 from the amount calculated as their

Page 5 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023

BRCA gene test From page 4

WEEk OF OCTOBER 11, 2023

County launches proactive educational campaign Lee County Solid Waste has launched its “Take Charge” campaign to educate residents and visitors on proper battery disposal.

Residents are reminded not to place any batteries in their recycling carts.

The county reported that household alkaline batteries, AA, AAA, C, D, 9-volt and button batteries can be disposed of in the regular garbage can. Any other type of battery — rechargeable, nickel-cadmium, automotive, lithium-ion, lead-acid — should be recycled at the Household Chemical Waste

Facility, at 6441 Topaz Court, Fort Myers.

“Rechargeable batteries have become a hazard in the solid waste industry and our department wants to be proactive in educating our residents and visitors about proper battery disposal in Lee County,” Solid Waste Director Doug Whitehead said. “This campaign is meant to engage our residents and visitors and to empower them to share this information with their friends and families.”

An increasing number of products con-

tain lithium-ion batteries, which is why Lee County Solid Waste is encouraging residents to be aware of how to properly dispose of these items. Lithium-ion batteries can be found in the following common products: ∫ Electronic devices, such as mobile phones, laptops tablets and Bluetooth devices ∫ Power tools ∫ Remote car keys ∫ Vaping devices ∫ Game controllers

∫ Digital cameras ∫ Portable power packs ∫ Greeting cards ∫ Electric toothbrushes ∫ Toys ∫ Medical equipment ∫ Smoke/fire/carbon monoxide detectors ∫ E-bikes, e-scooters and hover boards For more information, visit www.leegov.com/solidwaste/battery-disposal.

LEE COUNTY

Library system kicks off activities for Fandom Fest

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

October is jammed packed with programs and activities to entice young and old for a countywide Fandom Fest celebration at the Lee County Library System, including the Captiva Memorial Library.

“Our programming staff is always coming up with really cool programming ideas and hosting events for their community that are fantastic,” Fandom Fest coordinator and Programming & Community Outreach Manager Melissa Baker said, adding that Fandom Fest is one big collective way the library sys-

tem is celebrating this year.

The hope is for those who are discovering the library system for the first time through Fandom Fest, it will spark an interest and bring them back month after month.

“It’s a good chance to tap into the community and into any of the Fandom

we are highlighting and discover what the library can offer — the comic collection in Hoopla, graphic novels and books on the shelf,” she said, noting that they are all amazing forms of literacy.

“We don’t care what book a kid picks up. We are just happy we can be part of their literacy journey,” Baker added. “This is another big systemwide push that is thematic. The goal is to always connect people with great books and resources that help enrich their lives. It’s a fun big party, but also has that undertone of life enrichment and how the library can change lives.”

Fandom Fest began in 2019 as a

newly evolved program based off of Comic Fest. The festival was similar, but Fandom Fest expanded to include all kinds of fandoms, rather than just comic related.

“They kind of change from year to year as trends can evolve,” she said.

“We want to tap into that. It’s all about celebrating pop culture and traditional Comicon with superheroes. There are always new and exciting things we can explore.”

This year instead of Fandom Fest being celebrated on one day, it will be spread across Lee County Library See FANDOM FEST, page 7

KEEP LEE COUNTY BEAUTIFUL

Rod & Gun Club. The Lee County Sheriff's Office and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's

Division of Law Enforcement also took part to ensure the safety of divers.

Interactive guide to open island businesses

SANCAP CHAMBER

Fandom Fest From page 6 System’s 13 libraries throughout the month of October.

There is something happening at every library, spreading fun throughout the entire month.

“This year we are trying something new offering more programs spread out throughout the library system,” Baker said. “We are providing access to more people that can’t make it to a one-day event — scheduling conflicts, transportation issues. This is a way that we can tap into a big celebration in a new way and put it out to all the neighborhoods.”

Although the majority of events are for youths, there are also adult programs as well.

Youth Services Programming Coordinator Marquelle LaRue said other fun programs includes bubble dance Fandom theme parties, Fandom Fest Swiftie Dance Party, games and a rolling video game truck, crafts and of course costumes.

Each branch will put its own creative spin on Fandom Fest.

“We love finding ways to connect with our readers

whether they are 4 years old or 104,” she said. “I love that we find a way to celebrate this and make an additional tie to graphic novels. It is a part of the reading process and develops a love of reading.”

For a complete list of events across and locations, visit leelibrary.net/fandomfest.

The Captiva Memorial Library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva.

Islands receive recovery funding, cybersecurity grant On Sept. 28, Gov. Ron DeSantis awarded $338 million from the Hurricane Recovery Program to communities impacted by Hurricane Ian to support long-term recovery efforts and resiliency.

Under the program, the funds will be used to assist with storm repairs and recovery efforts for schools, sheriff’s offices, fire stations, parks and recreation centers, roads, wastewater treatment plants, beach renourishment, and they will assist local governments with loss of revenue since the storm.

Among the funds awarded were: ∫ $28 million to city of Sanibel ∫ $8 million to Sanibel Fire and Rescue District ∫ $1 million to Captiva Erosion Prevention District ∫ $350,000 to Captiva Island Fire Control District ∫ $4.3 million to Lee Health ∫ $51 million to School District of Lee County In addition, Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez visited Sanibel on Oct. 4 to announce a Cybersecurity Grant Award to the city as part of the state's Local Government

Cybersecurity Grant Program.

Funded by 2022-23 budget appropriations, the $30 million program equipped 194 local governments with solutions that enhance their cybersecurity capabilities and integrate with state cybersecurity operations. Sixtysix counties applied to the Florida Digital Service, which administers the program.

Sources: Office of the Governor and Florida Department of Management Services

Captiva Current

The SanCap Chamber has a list available of businesses back in operation after Hurricane Ian on Wander: Maps & Navigation. The GPS-enabled interactive map also pinpoints beach accesses that have opened, bike parking areas and the user's relative location. Points of interest can be filtered by seven categories. Users can download the app from the Apple App Store and Google Play.

They can also access the map online at tinyurl.com/sancapwandermap.

captivasanibel.com

The fourth annual Captiva Coastal Cleanup took place on Sept. 30 out of McCarthy's Marina.

Organized by local Capt. Jimmy Burnsed and his wife, Sarah, it involved collecting debris from the shorelines and waterways along Captiva and its surrounding islands. This year's efforts focused primarily on the mangrove shoreline and waters ranging from Captiva to the Cayo Costa State Park.

Keep Lee County Beautiful, one of the event sponsors, reported that 140 volunteers came together using more than 20 boats and 25 kayaks and standup paddleboards, along with scuba divers, to remove 8,934 pounds of trash and debris from the local coastal waters. The volunteers climbed through mangroves and dived to the bottom of the Redfish Pass, gathering enough debris to fill two dumpsters.

“These waterway cleanups are crucial as the county continues to recover from Hurricane Ian,” KLCB Executive Director Trish Fancher said. “We are thankful to the Burnseds and all who supported the cleanup, including the Southwest Florida Association of Environmental Professionals. We couldn't be more grateful for the hard work and dedication of the volunteers to help make our waters cleaner and safer.”

Following the cleanup, volunteers received a free barbecue lunch from Pop'z BBQ & Catering.

Along with KLCB, the event was sponsored by the Santiva Saltwater Fishing Team, Captiva Cruises, RS Walsh Landscaping, Joanna Heath Foundation, Scuba Quest, The Green Flash, McCarthy's Marina and Captiva

Page 7 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Annual cleanup removes debris from island waters

Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 ■ Page 8 captivasanibel.com

BUSINESS Business Notes

REFUGE/DDWS

Refuge Nature Store reopens After closing for the month of September, the Refuge Nature Store has reopened in the Visitor & Education Center at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel.

Purchases support refuge conservation and education.

The store's operating hours are Saturdays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Island Reporter

CHR announces new office Community Housing and Resources reported that it has a new office space at 800 Casa Ybel, Unit 7, Sanibel. The office hours are Mondays through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

CHR can also be reached at 239-472-1189.

Contact emails include Nicole@SanibelCHR.org, Bonnie@SanibelCHR.org and Savannah@SanibelCHR.org.

CHR's mailing address is P.O. Box 1098, Sanibel, FL. 33957.

F.I.S.H. earns Top-Rated Nonprofit award F.I.SH. of Sanibel-Captiva recently announced that it has been named a “2023 Top-Rated Nonprofit”

by GreatNonprofits, a provider of user reviews of charities and non-profits.

The award is based on reviews from clients, community members, volunteers or board members.

To read the reviews, visit https://greatnonprofits.org/org/f-i-s-h-of-sanibel-captiva-inc.

Report your news to CAPTIvASANIBEL.COM

DDWS announces new executive director The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge has advanced Associate Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman to the position of executive director, the board of directors recently announced.

Former Executive Director Birgie MillerGresham will step into a new position as senior philanthropic director and conAnn-Marie Wildman tinue serving as a mentor to the team. Since Hurricane Ian, she has moved from the island and will continue to work remotely and travel back for events and meetings.

“The society needs an executive director with ‘boots on the ground’ — on the island full-time with her heart fully engaged in the refuge day-to-day,” Miller-Gresham, who has led the DDWS for the past 12-plus years, said.

“While my heart is fully with ‘Ding’ Darling, I recommended to the board they find a new executive director, letting them know we have a perfect candidate on our staff already.”

Wildman first served on the board and volunteered in other capacities for a couple years before accepting the position of Refuge Nature Store manager in the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge' Visitor & Education Center in 2018.

She moved to Sanibel some 15 years ago with her late husband and former DDWS Board Member Don Wildman. Wildman had previously lived at The Whistler Ski Resort in British Columbia, Canada, where she owned and managed a fine art gallery for 16 years. Prior

to that, she worked in Honolulu for 20 years at a major art gallery, where she represented such celebrity artists as Tony Curtis, Anthony Quinn and Red Skeleton and used her entrepreneurial skills in marketing, sales and management.

Wildman brings knowledge and understanding of the non-profit community through her work with the Birgie Miller-Gresham DDWS and as a volunteer and board member for other non-profit organizations on the islands.

“My work for ‘Ding’ Darling has been fulfilling in so many ways — working with such great staff for the benefit of wildlife and to keep alive the refuge’s art legacy, set in motion by Darling himself,” she said. “I am so honored and excited to build upon Birgie’s groundwork growing ‘Ding’ Darling Wildlife Society from three fulltime employees to eight with an internship program. I’m so thankful she will continue on with our philanthropy efforts, where she excels as a true genius at fundraising.”

Under Miller-Gresham’s leadership, the refuge gained nearly 137 acres of Sanibel land through capital campaigns and partnerships and it has seen massive expansions in facilities and programming, ranging from the Wildlife on Wheels mobile classroom and Wildlife Education Boardwalk to The Roost outdoor pavilion and America’s Best Restrooms.

“We have complete confidence that Ann-Marie will move DDWS forward as the ‘Ding’ team continues to

Government reps applaud progress and predict long-term recovery “When we say ‘long-term recovery,’ it does take a long time to recover,” Lee County Manager Dave Harner said at the SanCap Chamber's

business luncheon on Sep. 27 at The Sanctuary Golf Club on Sanibel.

“There have been a lot of opportunities from the state that has been won-

San Cap Community Bank exceeds $2B in loans Sanibel Captiva Community Bank recently surpassed $2 billion in residential mortgage loan originations with nearly 6,000 loans approved for Southwest Floridians.

The bank achieved the milestone five years to the month after achieving $1 billion in residential mortgage loan originations.

Its residential lending division has eight loan officers and 13 additional loan servicing staff in Lee County, which accounts for nearly 20% of bank employees.

Shell Point’s Larsen Health Center ranked The Larsen Health Center at the Shell Point Retirement Community has been recognized on Newsweek's America’s Best Nursing Homes 2024 list.

The center ranked number eight among the 46 best See BUSINESS NOTES, page 10

See DDWS, page 10

SANCAP CHAMBER

Panelists Florida Rep. Adam Botana, Lee County Manager Dave Harner and Sanibel City Manager Dana Souza listen as Lee County Department of Transportation Deputy Director Rob Price presents a timeline for the Sanibel Causeway completion phases at the SanCap Chamber's business luncheon on Sep. 27.

derful to provide these opportunities for us to move a lot quicker.”

The chamber hosted a panel of government officials to look back at the last 364 days since Hurricane Ian struck Southwest Florida and ahead to the future of recovery. Jeff Muddell, with The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company, moderated the discussion. Harner, Sanibel City Manager Dana Souza, Lee County Department of Transportation Deputy Director Rob Price and Florida Rep. Adam Botana all agreed “thank God for the state of Florida,” as Souza put it.

Price started off the look ahead with a report on the Sanibel Causeway's progress, explaining that state measures from the Florida Department of Transportation in recent years “are really going to help us moving forward.” He showed a presentation of measures going forward to fortify the causeway against future stormwater and a timeline for its completion.

“The project is in the late stages of completion,” Price said. “They are really starting to intensify the night work that’s happening out there right now. We are doing our best to minimize impact … But I don’t want to See PROGRESS, page 10

Page 9 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 ■ Page 10 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

DDWS From page 8

Business Notes

recover from Hurricane Ian and we fulfill our mission to support the refuge where federal funding falls short,” DDWS Board President Wendy Kindig said. “We are so happy to have Birgie’s exceptional talent and forward thinking continue to work for the society. Together, AnnMarie and Birgie have proven to be a formidable team.”

The DDWS supports the Sanibel refuge as its not-forprofit arm.

“Our friends group has been invaluable to refuge operations since its conception in 1982, but Birgie truly brought it to its full potential,” Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland said. “We already love AnnMarie, so we know this will be the smoothest transition possible in the relationship between the refuge and DDWS, which is held in the highest regard throughout the 568-refuge system.”

From page 8 nursing homes recognized in Florida.

It marks the fourth time that Shell Point's nursing care has earned the honor.

The ranking lists nursing homes in the 25 states with the highest number of facilities, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. The evaluation is based on five data sources.

Chamber to host business luncheon

Progress From page 8 sugar-coat it. There’s going to be a lot of activity happening in the next three months.”

His timeline slide showed a December estimated completion for road surfacing. Price projected the reopening of the Punta Rassa boat ramp for the end of 2024 and the Causeway Islands recreation areas restoration for late 2027.

Other panelists commended the state for its assistance in picking up the tab for debris removal on the islands and providing funding to bridge the wait time to receive Federal Emergency Management Agency assistance money.

“If the state wasn’t involved, we’d be having this luncheon on the mainland,” Botana said.

Souza expressed gratitude to Gov. Ron DeSantis for swift bridge repairs and power restoration, but he also attributed the great gains made in the past 364 days to island businesses and residents.

“It’s just amazing to see the recovery efforts that have happened,” he said. “And the other thing I’ll say is that it’s amazing to see the attitudes of the people on the islands … We’ve kept our spirits up no matter what we’ve been faced with. People are very optimistic, and we all know we have challenges ahead of us in the next couple of years, but we need to maintain that optimism.”

Harner gave a shout-out to Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau Executive Director Tamara Pigott and her team for targeting the “loyalists” — tourists who are past fans of the destination — and installing strategic interactive webcams throughout the county.

“It’s really important that we continue to educate the public on our community,” he said.

“We have to support the businesses that are open,” Souza added.

“I want to say also that we have to

support the chamber of commerce … We as a community cannot afford to let the chamber of commerce fail on what their mission is or even be minimized, because this recovery is long-term, and the work that they do is critically important to this community.”

“The panel talked about the importance of partnerships, and we at the chamber could not survive without the great partnerships we have established with the government factions that were represented in the panel,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said. “We thank them for all they have done to bring us to a point we never dreamed we be this time last year, and for their support of our island communities.”

The Trust Company and Stevens Construction sponsored the luncheon.

The SanCap Chamber will hold its next business luncheon meeting on Oct. 25 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina, at 275 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach.

The guest speaker will be Visit Florida President and Chief Executive Officer Dana Young. She will discuss the current state of the industry Comcast and Clive Daniel Home are sponsoring the luncheon.

Cost is $35 for chamber members only. Advanced registration is required by Oct. 20 at 5 p.m. at sanibelDana Young captiva.org or by contacting Aaron Walton at aaron@sanibel-captiva.org or 239-4728759; walk-ins will not be accepted. Payment is due at time of registration.

San Cap Community Bank hires Prieto Celine Prieto has joined the Sanibel Captiva Community Bank as a customer service representative and teller at the Bridge Branch in Fort Myers.

She is responsible for assisting customers with personal and business banking transactions.

Prieto has prior experience in the banking, customer service and retail industries.

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Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 ■ Page 12

PRESERVING PARADISE SANIBEL SEA SCHOOL

Youths explore beach with Planting take places at preserve Sanibel Sea School educators

Island Reporter

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SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

pollinator garden Coastal Watch and the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's Native Landscapes & Garden Center recently welcomed volunteers for a morning of planting native plants in the pollinator garden at the Puschel Preserve. It marked the first phase of the preserve's restoration since it was used as a Hurricane Ian staging site for debris.

The group broke ground on the wildflower portion of the garden. Staff and volunteers planted nectar plants and larval host plants. The SCCF reported that it takes more than nectar to entice butterflies to take up residence in a garden. While nectar-rich flowers attract passersby to stop and feed, host plants send an invitation to stay a while. Larval host plants are the secret to successful butterfly gardening; they are plants required by a caterpillar for growth and development.

For the next phase, SCCF staff and volunteers will plant a variety of trees and shrubs in the garden. When fully rebuilt, the preserve's front acreage will showcase additional features, including a welcome plaza, walking/biking trail, sculpture garden and demonstration marsh.

Students from the Heights Foundation gathered around the Sanibel Sea School's marine science educators on Sept. 20 at Bunche Beach in Fort Myers as part of the A Chance to Sea Program.

“Our one and only rule is to be kind. It’s extremely important not to just be kind to each other, but we also need to be kind to the creatures we find today,” educator Austin Wise advised the youths while discussing the proper ways to handle marine life.

As the students plowed into the surrounding water, dip nets in hand, they stopped frequently to check out the variety of shoreline treasures discovered by the educators. Annie Clinton dissected a washed-up piece of manatee poo to reveal partially digested seagrass, explaining to the youths that manatee poop points to the animal's digestive health.

“There are endless ways that they benefit,” Clinton said of such student field trips. “I feel like the main one is just being out here and connecting to nature. They get to learn all about the ocean, and they get to make their own personal connections with it, so that they can form a

Sanibel Sea School marine science educator Annie Clinton dissects a washed-up piece of manatee poop with students from the Heights Foundation. love for it. And then of course with this love, they’re going to want to protect it. So that’s the biggest goal.”

Volunteers needed for mangrove restoration

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Locals invited to ‘adopt’ a mangrove Coreopsis is a nectar plan for some local bees.

Coastal Watch reported that Florida mangroves provide protection from storms, nurseries for wildlife and recreation for people. The community is invited to consider adopting a mangrove for the fall. Residents will “adopt” their own mangroves to nurture at home until they are ready for planting. The mangroves in the program will be planted at one of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's shoreline restoration sites in 2024. For more information about the program, visit https://sccf.org/what-we-do/water-quality/mangroverestoration/. Coastal Watch is part of the SCCF family.

COASTAL WATCH

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation is looking for volunteers to help plant mangroves on Oct. 14 in Fort Myers. It has partnered with MANG to help restore the SCCF property located adjacent to McGregor Boulevard.

MANG is donating several hundred mangroves to the restoration effort. For more information or to sign up, visit https://dash.pointapp.org/events/91357.

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Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 ■ Page 14 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

Island lIvIng

Report your news to cAPTIvASAnIBEL.cOM

SPD releases Sanibel library offers range of weekly blotter programs, topics

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

Arrests ∫ Mario Gabriel Lopez Hernandez, 46, of 8224 Hobhouse Circle, Raleigh, North Carolina, was charged on Sept. 26 with one county each of failure to appear for misdemeanor offense, out-of-county warrant and drive with expired license for more than six months.

Other enforcement actions ∫ On Sept. 26, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle with only one brake light. The driver was subsequently issued notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued and a warning for faulty equipment. ∫ On Sept. 26, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for running a stop sign. The driver was subsequently issued notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued and a warning for the stop sign. ∫ On Sept. 28, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle with no brake lights. The driver was subsequently issued notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued and a citation for driving with faulty equipment. ∫ On Sept. 28, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed. The driver was subsequently issued notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued and a citation for failure to obey a traffic control device. ∫ On Sept. 30, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for expired registration. The driver was subsequently issued notice to appear for knowingly driving with a suspended driver’s license.

Enforcement operations statistics From Sept. 26 to Oct. 2: ∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 10 ∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 23 ∫ Traffic crashes: 2 ∫ Radar details: 58 ∫ Traffic stops: 30 — Citations issued: 15 — Written warnings issued: 3 — Verbal warnings issued: 16 ∫ Field interviews: 0 ∫ Residential area checks: 498 ∫ Business area checks: 210 ∫ Total area checks: 1,099 ∫ Reported burglaries: 1 ∫ Reported thefts: 0 ∫ Total CAD calls: 1,355 September 2023: ∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 24 ∫ Non-emergency calls: 79 ∫ Traffic crashes: 5 ∫ Radar details: 229 ∫ Traffic stops: 127 — Citations issued: 47 — Written warnings issued: 12 — Verbal warnings issued: 76 ∫ Field interviews: 1 ∫ Residential area checks: 2,162 ∫ Business area checks: 904 See BLOTTER, page 15

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

With support from the Sanibel Public Library Foundation, the library has launched a series of virtual author talks to include bestselling authors and thought leaders. The next one will take place on Oct. 18 at 2 p.m. with Ruth Ware, the New York Times bestselling author of “The Woman in Cabin 10” and “The It Girl.” She will talk about her new book, “Zero Days.”

Ware is also the #1 New York Times and Globe and Mail (Toronto) bestselling author of “In a Dark, Dark Wood”; “The Lying Game”; “The Death of Mrs. Westaway”; “The Turn of the Key”; and “One by One.” She worked as a waitress, bookseller, teacher of English as a foreign language and press officer before settling down as a full-time writer.

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

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

For help setting up or logging into webinars, contact notices@sanlib.org or 239-472-2483.

Additionally, the library has scheduled upcoming programs.

Family Storytime for ages 5 and under will be held on Oct. 13 at 10:30 a.m. with Megan Willis. Literacy is a family bonding experience with stories read aloud, followed by early literacy centers of play to flex minds,

GEMMA DAY PHOTOGRAPHY

The Sanibel Public Library will host a virtual author talk on Oct. 18 with Ruth Ware. develop motor skills and increase creativity. The program will include an art/craft center.

A Saturday Crafterday! will take place on Oct. 14 at 11 a.m. Professional artist and coloring book creator Melissa Gindling will lead a How-to-Draw session. No registration is required.

Youth programs are designed for children and accompanying adults.

For the most up-to-date information, visit the calendar at www.sanlib.org.

The library is hosting “In the Wake of the Flood: Community Photos of Hurricane Ian and Its Aftermath,” an exhibit curated by the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum. It features photos of Ian's aftermath taken by island residents and others living in Southwest Florida.

Photographs from the exhibition will be digitized and added to the library's digital archive at sanlib.org/digitalarchive.

An online version of the exhibit is available at https://www.shellmuseum.org/ian-photo.

See LIBRARY, page 15

The Sanibel School The Sanibel School, at 3840 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, reported the following:

Cross country team qualifies All of the runners on the cross county team recently qualified to move on to the regional meet. Led by Coach Edna Dykhuizen, they will compete on Oct. 19 at Lexington Middle School in Fort Myers.

School promotes fundraiser T-shirts and hair bows are on sale to benefit the school.

To view and purchase items, visit https://sanibelstrong.itemorder.com/.

The online fundraiser will end on Oct. 22 at 11:59 p.m.

For more information, call 239472-1617 or visit sbl.leeschools.net.

THE SANIBEL SCHOOL

The cross country team members all qualified to move on to the regional meet.

American Legion American Legion Post 123 reported that the Tiki Hut will be open on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It serves burgers, hotdogs and specials. There are TVs

available for sports and more. The Post is open to the public.

Membership applications are also available. For more information, call 239-579-0130 or visit American

Legion Post 123 Sanibel Florida on Facebook. The Post is at 4929 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel.

Sanibel Public Meetings The following public meetings/hearings are scheduled: ∫ Today, Oct. 11: Sanibel Fire

and Rescue District meeting at 9 a.m. at Station 171, at 2351 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel. For more

information or the agenda, visit www.sanibelfire.com.

Pfeifer Realty Group recently named its top producers for the month of September.

Greg Demaras was the top volume sales consultant. He is a state-licensed Realtor with over three decades of real estate expertise. Demaras was the 2018 Sanibel Captiva “Rookie of the Year” and earned his Best-of-Zillow designation in 2020. He is board president of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors.

Lisette Hitt was the top selling associate.

She has been a real estate advisor in Southwest Florida since 2002. Hitt joined Pfeifer Realty in 2008. With over 18 years

Greg Demaras

Lisette Hitt

Bill LeJeune

of sales experience, she combines customer service with market expertise to help her clients achieve their real estate goals.

Bill LeJeune was the top listing agent.

Relocating to the islands full-time in 2009, he became a Realtor in 2021 and was named Rookie of the Year. LeJeune holds the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Specialist designation. He has a background in sales and negotiating.

For more information, call 239-4720004 or visit www.mysanibelrealestate .com.

The Pfeifer Realty Group is at 1630 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Library From page 14 Lee County at no charge.

Visitor library cards are available for a $10 annual fee.

The Sanibel Public Library is open 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 www.sanlib.org.

The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.

Blotter From page 14 ∫ Total area checks: 4,705 ∫ Reported burglaries: 2 ∫ Reported thefts: 4 ∫ Total CAD calls: 5,743

Important reminders The city of Sanibel's 2021 and 2022 Hurricane Re-entry Passes are still valid.

If you have one, you do not need to reapply for a new pass.

Updated information on the Sanibel Boat Ramp:

∫ The boat ramp is open to permit holders on weekdays, weekends and holidays. ∫ The boat ramp is open to the public (non-permit holders) on weekdays that are not holidays for a $40 daily fee. ∫ Commercial use of the boat ramp is prohibited. ∫ Fines for violations at the boat ramp are $250.

Roadside parking on Sanibel is not allowed except in the case of special

events requiring a permit. It is enforced and can result in a $150 fine.

Solicitation is not allowed on Sanibel.

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

Reporting suspicious activity Anonymous tips regarding crimes or suspicious activity can be submitted via Tip411: ∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then

your tip to 847411. ∫ Web tips can be submitted at 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.

Find the SPD on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SanibelPolice.

captivasanibel.com

From now through Oct. 20, the Sanibel-Captiva Art League has a juried exhibit on display. “Food for Thought” features 18 artworks from 12 members in mediums such as oil, textile and watercolor.

Library cards are available to residents of Sanibel and

Page 15 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Pfeifer Realty Group presents top producers for month

Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 ■ Page 16

SPORTS

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CITY OF SANIBEL

Rec center provides update on facility and programs The Sanibel Recreation Center reported on the following new and upcoming activities.

Harris Dermatology will offer complimentary skin cancer screenings on Oct. 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Quick and easy, the exam is a non-invasive, visual inspection of exposed areas of the body that will be done after a brief medical history is completed. No appointment or registration is necessary; walk-ins will be welcomed.

Artist Sherry Diaz will host a Watercolor Painting Class on Oct. 16 from 10 a.m. to noon. Explore the classic painting style with an experienced professional. All supplies included. Registration required.

Registrations are being accepted for a Fun Day on Oct. 16 from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It will offer a variety of fun craft activities, games and swim time.

Enrollment is available for kindergartners through eighth-graders. Each child will need to bring a lunch, water, swimsuit, goggles, towel and sunscreen.

The center is open on Mondays through Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A variety of memberships, passes and punch cards are available.

For more information, visit https://www.mysanibel.com/government/recreation2.

The Sanibel Recreation Center is at 3880 SanibelCaptiva Road, Sanibel.

REFUGE/DDWS

New schedule for refuge’s Wildlife Drive The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge reported that the current gate times on Wildlife Drive are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Saturday through Thursday (closed Friday). As they did pre-hurricane, hours will now change to accommodate daylight hours and savings time.

The admission for Wildlife Drive is $10 for vehicles and $1 for hikers and bikers. The refuge is at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel.

DOH-Lee lifts blue-green algae bloom alerts The Florida Department of Health in Lee County has lifted the health alerts issued on June 29, July 5, July 7 and July 17, respectively, for the presence of harmful blue-green algal toxins in the Caloosahatchee River-Jaycee Park, Caloosahatchee River-Overiver Drive, Caloosahatchee River-Whitecap Circle, Caloosahatchee River-end of Canal Circle and Caloosahatchee River-Horton Park.

The DOH-Lee reported that follow-up water samples taken by the Department of Environmental Protection did not detect algal toxins, indicating the public may resume water-related activities.

It noted that it is important the public continue to exercise caution and good judgement. Blue-green algae blooms can move around or subside and then reappear when conditions are

favorable again. The public is advised to avoid contact with the water if blooms are observed. The latest sample results can be viewed on ProtectingFloridaTogether.gov.

Report symptoms from exposure to a harmful algal bloom or any aquatic toxin to the Florida Poison Information Center. Call 800-2221222 to speak to a poison specialist immediately.

SCCF partners with city on park restoration Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Native Landscapes & Garden Center staffers recently collaborated with the city of Sanibel on a planting project at the Boat Ramp Beach Park. Each year, the city's Natural Resources Department gets grants to restore and enhance public beaches and parks.

“This is particularly important since Hurricane Ian destroyed a lot of the beach habitat on the island, which is the front-line protection in such storms,” Garden Center

Manager Becca Grotrian said.

“It’s crucial to now rebuild these habitats.”

The SCCF reported that since the project took place at one of the bayside beaches, the main focus was to replant trees and some other typical beach dune species, such as sea oats, seacoast marsh elder and sea lavender. The trees that were installed are good examples of those that did well after Hurricane Ian, including Jamaica dogwood, wild tamarind and Lignum vitae.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

change from appointive to elected office via a referendum in November of 2022.

The measure, which was placed on the ballot by the state Legislature and was opposed by the Lee County School Board, passed with 62.15% of the voters in favor, making the superintendent’s post another elected constitutional office in the county as of the 2024 General Election.

The existing system of having the superintendent appointed by the board had been approved by Lee voters in 1974.

The elected superintendent will serve a four-year term.

“After extensive contemplation and reflection, I have chosen not to pursue the upcoming elected position of superintendent of schools,” Bernier wrote in an email to the district's community. “I want to assure you that this decision was not made lightly; it demanded careful consideration. I want to underscore that my decision is founded on a profound respect for our school board and the dedicated students, families, teachers, and staff who collectively contribute to our thriving educational community.”

Page 17 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Superintendent From page 1 He went on to write that although he supports the community’s decision, which was based on the referendum vote, “becoming an elected superintendent was never my aspiration. Ultimately, this realization led me to determine that running for election was not a reasonable course of action for my educational journey.”

Bernier will remain the superintendent throughout his existing contract term.

According to his contract “should the outcome of the November 2022 Lee County election result in the approval of the ballot initiative to create an elected superintendent of schools position, the terms of this agreement will officially end upon the swearing in of the elected superintendent in November of 2024.”

“We must remain steadfast in our commitment to addressing the challenges that impact the future of the children we serve,” Bernier wrote. “Our communities’ commitment to our students and educational mission continues to inspire us. I have the utmost confidence that together, we can continue to lead our school district toward our stated vision of being a world-class school system.”

a haircut.”

Dalton noted that his own family has been touched by cancer.

“I lost a brother to cancer,” he said.

Dalton's shaver for the event was Dominick Nino, 13, of Naples. A seventh-grader at Manatee Middle School in Collier County, he was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in 2021 at the age of 10.

“He was a healthy and active boy who went from being a normal kid to hearing the words, 'You have cancer,” Barbara’s Friend's Senior Director Amy Frith shared. “One night he was playing a soccer game with his team, and two days later in the middle of the night the pain in his feet and leg woke him up.”

Also noticing new bruises and that he had a fever, Dominick's parents took him to the ER. “It wasn't growing pains or an infection, he had a very rare cancer that typically only adults get. The aggressive leukemia required six months of inpatient chemo with few breaks,” she shared. “Today, he is back to doing sports, likes (video) gaming, and says he never wants to

Dominick Nino, 13, of Naples, and Sanibel Police Department Police Chief William Dalton.

TBE reopens for tours, rentals and more Tarpon Bay Explorers on Sanibel reopened on Oct. 2, following a monthlong closure in September.

Concession for the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, it is open on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last rentals at 3 p.m. Its nature-themed gift shop has also reopened. For more information or reservations, visit www.tarponbayexplorers.com or call 239-472-8900. TBE is at 900 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel. lose his hair again.”

Dominick's favorite subjects in school are history, math and science.

“While he is in remission, his cancer has a higher rate of recurrence so he is still going regularly to MD Anderson (Cancer Center) in Texas for treatments to keep the cancer from coming back,” Frith added. “He was part of a clinical trial, which saved his life when his cancer came back.”

As for how the shave went, Dalton reported that he thinks Dominick got a bit nervous.

“He did like just the top of my head — and then stopped,” he said. “I almost looked like a monk.”

In another room after, Great Clips stylists helped to clean up the volunteers' new looks.

“I was happy to do it, and I was happy that Dominick got a kick out of doing it,” Dalton said. “If you can do anything to help a kid whose going through this serious of an illness — I'd do it any day.”

He added that it was nice to get insight about Dominick's experience from his mother.

“I can only imagine how traumatic it is for the kids and family,” Dalton said.

The community is invited to help Barbara’s Friends reach its goal.

“I encourage people to donate,” he said. “Hopefully, it helps.”

For more information or to donate, v i s i t https://p2p.onecause.com/clips2023.

LEE HEALTH

Island Reporter

YouTube on Sept. 1 and 29 to help raise awareness and support.

“Thanks to the generous donors and sponsors who support Clips for Cancer, no child is denied treatment due to an inability to pay,” Barbara's Friends states, adding that this year's goal is $350,000.

It also reports that the fundraiser's shave events benefit Southwest Florida children who are battling cancer and other blood disorders at Golisano by showing them that they are not fighting alone.

Sanibel Police Department Police Chief William Dalton was one of about two dozen local volunteers who sat down for a shave during the Sept. 29 event, which took place in the lobby of the hospital.

It was his fourth year taking part in Clips for Cancer as Hurricane Ian cut it short last year.

“I was doing something else with Barbara's Friends and the topic came up,” he said of how he first become involved, adding that he was told some of the youths had expressed an interest in law enforcement. “They asked if I'd be willing to do it if one of the kids wanted to give me

captivasanibel.com

Clips for Cancer From page 1

Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 ■ Page 18

The teamwork during the research process provides checks and balances while the student conducts their independent research, all while honing those foundational skills throughout the school year.

“Those six foundational skills are not only going to follow them through to high school, but also into their college and career adventures,” she said, adding that they will carry the skills into adulthood.

Stokes explained that the students switch teams every quarter and there is an opportunity for each to serve as the designated leader, mixing high achievers with those who may require more attention.

“They're learning how to work together, even with personalities they might not be drawn to,” she said.

“It lends to so many different possibilities and opportunities,” Stokes added.

As for final reports, one entailed a comparison of sixth-grade education for different countries, another was a 3-D model of two different schools comparing their pros and cons, and one compared cultures.

“Slideshows, posters. They've done videos,” she said.

“They've done really cool research assignments.”

Last year while the school was displaced after Hurricane Ian and holding class at a school in Fort Myers, students created audio recordings about changing communities using the media room.

“I've been really pleased with the outcomes. I have really grown to love this curriculum,” Stokes said.

“I love that we have it available to all of the students this year,” she added.

School district Teaching and Learning Director Lori Houchin, who brought Global Perspectives to the middle-school level, explained that the program also helps to prepare students interested in entering a Cambridge or International Baccalaureate program in high school by honing their research and writing.

“The goal was to build those independent reading skills, those wonderings, and being able to build off of researching a topic,” she said.

Cambridge Global Perspectives students at The Sanibel School create mind maps.

Island Reporter

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Island school program From page 1

THE SANIBEL SCHOOL

Last year, The Sanibel School students in Cambridge Global Perspectives created audio recordings using the media room for their projects.

ABOVE: The Sanibel School students collaborate in small groups and work on small group work in their teams as part of the Cambridge Global Perspectives curriculum.

RIGHT: Rachel Stokes, who teaches Cambridge Global Perspectives at The Sanibel School, and School District of Lee County Content Specialist Natalie Elschlager.

Training From page 2 Lee County Public Safety also participated.

The district extended its appreciation to CHR and Executive Director Nicole Decker-McHale.

“I want to thank Nicole and CHR for allowing us to work at this building,” he said. “This has given us such a great opportunity to train. It's a true blessing.”

DiMaria explained that every call and every structure is different.

“It's a more realistic situation to sharp the skills that they have and maybe even introduce some new skills,” he said of the training. “If every fire was exactly the same, firefighting would be easy.”

CHR reported that its aim was to support the district's efforts in serving the community.

“We are immensely grateful for the tireless efforts and hard work of Sanibel Fire and Rescue, especially during these challenging times,” Decker-McHale said. “Their dedication to the safety and well-being of our community is truly commendable.”

“We are delighted to be able to support their mission by proSANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT viding the use of Riverview, and we hope this contribution will The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District's crews spent Oct. 3-5 training at the Community Housing help them continue their vital work,” she added. and Resources's Riverview building on Sanibel.

WEEK OF OCTOBER 11, 2023

Shell museum presents speaker for next lecture Dr. José H. Leal

BAILEY-MATTHEWS NATIONAL SHELL MUSEUM

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aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday Shell Shocked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Island Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 In the Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Santiva Islanders Calendar . . . . . . . . . 22

CROW Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Island Worship . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Recipe of the Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Faces on Faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

BIG ARTS Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Island Beat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Poetic License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 The Community House Calendar . . . . 24

Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 ■ Page 20 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

museum to hold next lecture Hometown Sanibel Shell The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum on Sanibel is continuing with its annual lecture series, which hero returns is offered virtually via Zoom and free of charge. The next

The hometown hero returned recently to the scene of his greatest achievement. It was just a few years ago that one of our local Sanibel geckos was chosen in a national talent contest to be the Geico gecko.

At the time he was an obscure, unknown gecko lolling around in the backyard of a Sanibel home. But when it became known that the world famous insurance company, Geico, was auditioning for a new international symbol of its car insurance policies, the word got out to geckos throughout the country.

Little Larry Gecko had no ambitions at the time. He was perfectly satisfied growing up on Sanibel and doing what all other geckos did: eat Art Stevens insects, frolic on the screens of pool cages and occasionally show up in your living room. Life for little Larry was serene and he was ready to take up his father’s occupation — eating, sleeping and staying away from frogs.

But then word got out that Geico was auditioning for a gecko that would star in most of its television commercials. The thinking behind that decision was that geckos demonstrate what insurance policies reflect the most: reliability, quirkiness and confidence building. Geico turned the task of auditioning for geckos over to its ad agency.

Florida is well known for its geckos. They are small, friendly and indeed very bright. But not a single gecko had been found that actually talks. Until Larry.

Hundreds of geckos were auditioned from throughout Florida but none were able to speak any lines. Then one day, the ad agency people stopped off on Sanibel and looked at hundreds of geckos. None had the talent or on air style and personality that they believed they needed to persuade the Geico people that their idea of producing a talking gecko was feasible.

One evening the ad agency people stopped off at Doc Ford’s and sat at the bar trying to figure out their next steps. They had a few drinks and at first thought that they were seeing things in their inebriated state.

Sitting near them at the bar were a sea turtle, an egret and a gecko. Now nothing people see at Doc Ford’s is in any way surprising. But the New York ad agency people didn’t know that.

They heard voices from their right and when they turned to look they saw the sea turtle, egret and gecko carrying on a conversation. Apparently no one else at Doc Ford’s that day paid any attention to this unlikely threesome. Stranger things have happened at Doc Ford’s. But the ad agency people were blown away.

The three creatures were having a conversation about Aaron Judge and the long home run he had just hit.

The ad people paid no attention to the sea turtle and egret but looked at the gecko with bulging eyes.

They turned to little Larry and asked him if he had ever appeared in a commercial. Larry said he hadn’t and in fact had never thought about a career in show business. He lied, of course. The sea turtle and egret rolled their eyes.

The ad agency people asked Larry if he could put on a British accent and Larry did so. Later on Larry told the ad people that he had often sat on the window sill of the Sanibel home he was living at and watched PBS Masterpiece Theater episodes. He had said that his favorite actress was Judi Dench.

His British accent was so perfect that Larry was offered the job on the spot. He was told that the search for the new Geico gecko was over and he would become a major TV star and would be seen by millions of people.

The sea turtle and egret asked if there were any roles for them as well. The ad agency people paid no

Shell Shocked

See SANIBEL HERO, page 21

lecture in the series will be: ∫ Oct. 12 at 5:30 p.m.: “The Charisma of Cowries” with shell museum curator and Science Director Dr. José H. Leal Cowries have played significant roles in human culture, going back tens of thousands of years. Their shapes, sizes and colors exert an attraction that knows no geographical or cultural barriers. Cowries have been used as money, ornaments and spiritual objects and became one the most desired groups of collectible shells in modern times. Leal will discuss the biodiversity, geographical distribution and natural history of cowries and some of the most remarkable cultural uses of cowrie shells.

Leal received his PhD in marine biology and fisheries from the University of Miami. He has served as assistant editor for Sea Frontiers Magazine, a visiting professor at the Mus um National d'Histoire Naturelle and postdoctoral fellow at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Natural History. Leal holds honorary faculty

positions at UM and Florida Gulf Coast University, is a past president of the American Malacological Society and the Conchologists of America, and is editor of The Nautilus journal of malacology.

Advance registration is required.

For more information or to register, visit https://www.shellmuseum.org/online-lectures.

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

Blessing of the Animals planned Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church will hold a Blessing of the Animals on Oct. 14 from 10 to 11 a.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, and from 1 to 2 p.m. at the Tribby Arts Center at the Shell Point Retirement Community, at 17281 On Par Blvd., Fort Myers. Both services will begin with a brief service, followed by the individual blessing of pets. The Sanibel service will offer a drive-thru option, and the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge will have games, artifacts and information set up, as well as treats for humans and pets and free digital photos. The Fort Myers service will also offer free digital photos. All are welcome to bring their pets, a photo of a pet or stuffed animal.

Bring pets on a leash or in a carrier. For the Sanibel service, enter off of Dunlop Road. For more information, visit www.saintmichaelsSAINT MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS EPISCOPAL CHURCH sanibel.org.

JOE HAUTMAN

Artists spotlight for refuge event The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge will welcome wildlife artists Joe, Jim and Bob Hautman to its Art in the Wild on Oct. 21 in the Visitor & Education Center. Among the three Minnesota brothers, they have chalked up 15

Federal Duck Stamp wins. In addition to presentations and duck stamp signings beginning at 10 a.m., they will mount an exhibition of their original works from now through Oct. 29 in the Visitor & Education Center Auditoriums. Proceeds from

the exhibit will benefit refuge conservation research and education programming. For more information on purchasing the artwork, contact DDWS Associate Director AnnMarie Wildman at 239-789-8991.

Pfeifer Realty Group announced that it is sponsoring the Captiva Civic Association's Porch & Patio Series for the 2023-24 season. Taking place from 5 to 7 p.m., the series events will be held on Nov. 13, Dec. 4, Jan. 10, March 11 and April 4.

PFEIFER REALTY GROUP

Sanibel hero From page 20 attention to them. They immediately placed a contract in front of Larry and asked him to sign it. Larry recognized the opportunity that was enfolding and decided that now was the time to make his dreams come true. He signed the contract with his tail. From the day he was hatched he believed he was destined to

become a world famous gecko. The rest is history. Larry has been the reigning Geico gecko for some years now and has become almost as well known as Angelina Jolie.

Larry visited Sanibel recently and stopped off at his old hangout — Doc Ford’s. He was welcomed as a hometown

hero and was even treated to free insects there. The Sanibel City Council gave him the key to the city and announced that a new holiday would take place on Sanibel each year — Geico Larry Day. In fact, Larry had a reunion with his friends the sea turtle and egret for whom he managed to get major roles in upcom-

ing Pixar animated movies. Larry never forgot his roots. He now provides Geico car insurance for all of Sanibel.

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From left, Cecilia Liichow, Heather Chevalier, Captiva Civic Association Executive Director Emily Hess Ankerson, Eric Pfeifer and Savannah Smith.

Page 21 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Pfeifer Realty sponsors CCA series

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

Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 ■ Page 22 captivasanibel.com Sanibel-Captiva Islander

islander

ISLAND HOME Show your colors with cordylines Cordyline fruticose, a native to Southeast Asia, is often referred to as a Ti plant or Hawaiian Ti. Because the growing conditions are favorable in Hawaii for growing these plants, many of the varieties of cordylines are grown commercially there, even though the plant is not native to Hawaii.

These plants grow well in Zones 10 to 12 and enjoy our warm humid environment on the island. They are evergreen plants with beautiful foliage in a wide variety of colors that add a tropical splash of color to areas of your landscape where there is not enough sunlight to grow flowering plants. They like well-drained, fertile soil and partial sun/partial shade.

Direct sun might burn the leaves of this plant.

Cordylines also do especially well in a container with a well-draining potting mix. With their beautiful glossy leaves in a variety of colors ranging from purple, red and pink to many shades of green, they make an interesting main plant for a container arrangement.

One of my favorites is a smaller leaf variety called Kiwi with variegated leaves of green and lime and pretty pink edges along the leaves. The Kiwi always looks great in a pot with a couple of other lower PHOTO PROVIDED plants. Add a Cordyline bromeliad with a pink center and a trailing pothos vine that spills over to create a fun container arrangement that will make an interesting addition to your porch or lanai.

Other varieties that do well in our area are Maria with wider pink leaves, Bolero in combinations of pink green and white, a darker one called Black Magic that has chocolate-colored leaves mixed with green leaves, and a variety called Auntie Lou that is more of a solid burgundy color. As you can see there is a lot of variety when it comes to selecting the cordyline for you. All these color choices and the tropical look of the foliage make this a fun tropical plant for your landscape, so show your colors and choose the cordyline that is right for you.

In The Garden is a joint effort by all at the local garden center, at 3889 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel. For more information, contact 239-3955859 or visit www.facebook.com/rswalshinthegarden.

Report your news to THE ISLANDER:

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Sanibel Captiva

Report your news to CApTIVASANIbEL.Com

City conducting housing needs survey The city of Sanibel reported that with the help of Bright Community Trust and the FEMA Community Assistance Program, it is conducting a Housing Needs Survey online from now through Nov. 2.

It is a first step in the process to obtain available funding for city and local non-profits, like Community Housing and Resources and F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva, to meet unmet affordable housing needs.

Any member of the Sanibel community is encouraged to complete the survey, especially those on a fixed income or those who commute to their Sanibel place of

work from off-island. The questions are designed to better understand the needs of the workforce and low-moderate income residents that will guide decision-making for the Below Market Rate Housing (BMRH) Program administered by CHR. The city asked that survey responses be limited to one per person.

To access the survey, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/sanibel-bmrh-20231002.

For more information, contact the Planning Department at 239-472-4136.

Saint Michael hosting virtual series Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church is hosting a Zoom series, “I Wish I Knew,” presented by the Christian Formation Ministry. “Making Medical Decisions” will take place on Oct. 17 at 6:30 p.m. Dr. Mike Wood and Susie Wilson will give tips on choosing and communicating with your doctor and being a patient advocate. There will be time for questions. To participate, visit https://us02web .zoom.us/j/83735185082; the Meeting ID is 837 3518 5082. Each session will be recorded and available on the church's website. For more information, visit https://www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/.

F.I.S.H. to hold distribution event In partnership with the United Way's Gifts-in-Kind Program, F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva continues to distribute furniture and rebuilding supplies through its Hurricane Ian Point of Distribution (POD) program. The next event will take place on Oct. 13 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Walk-In Center, at 2430 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. The program is available to Sanibel and Captiva residents and workers; recipients must show proof of residency or employment. Available items include furnishings, doors, windows, cabinetry, linens, microwaves and more. Recipients should bring a vehicle large enough for the items and some extra hands to lift them.

For more information, contact

Disaster Administrative Director Manuela Martinez at 239-472-4775 or manuela@fishofsancap.org. For

more information about F.I.S.H., visit https://www.fishofsancap.org/.

Santiva Islanders Calendar The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

Cardio and Strength Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio and Strength on Oct. 12 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. It will involve light to moderate aerobics, strength and balance exercises, and stretching. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required. Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5

per class and $40 per month for members or $10 per class and $80 per month for non-members. Enter off of Dunlop Road.

Fun and Games Fun and Games will be held on Oct. 12 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Options will include cards, board games, puzzles, Bridge, Mahjong and more. For more information about Bridge, con-

tact Bryant Korn at bryantekorn@gmail.com. For more information about Mahjong, contact Robin Christian at fwrobin01@att.net. Enter off of Dunlop Road.

Stretch and Tone Mahnaz Bassir will host Stretch and Tone on Oct. 12 from 1 to 2 p.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 See SANTIVA ISLANDERS CALENDAR, page 26

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI Semifreddo translates as “semi frozen” or “semi cold” in Italian. It is basically a mousse-like dessert made from combining an egg custard with whipped cream, and then freezing until firm. Makes two loaf pans. (Chef tip: Make sure to place your bowl and whisk in the refrigerator before you whip your heavy cream.)

6-8 ripe peaches (depending on size), peeled, pitted and sliced 1 lemon 1/4 cup cold water 1 cup granulated sugar, divided use 4 large eggs, separated Loretta Paganini 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste 1 cup heavy cream 1 cup sifted confectioners' sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/4 cup Amaretto liquor 1 cup amaretto cookie crumbs 3-4 ripe peaches (depending on size), peeled, pitted and diced Granulated sugar, for sweetening peaches, if necessary Whipped cream, for garnish (optional) Few sprigs of fresh mint

The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW. Admission to the center is currently free. Admittance includes the above daily presentations, and no reservations are required to attend.

In addition, CROW offers a Wildlife Walk Hospital Tour on Wednesdays 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 239472-3644 ext.

229 or reservations@crowclinic.org.

For more information, visit http://www.crowclinic.org/ or call 239472-3644.

Pass the salt, please I have never been big on in competition with one bland foods. I wouldn't say another to see who can act that spicy stuff is ever my in the most disrespectful “go to” choice when I sit ways. down for a meal, but I will Growing up, when I admit that I do enjoy my would feel the need to act food better when it is sprinout like that, my mother kled with a dash of salt. would always threaten to I don't think I’m alone in wash my mouth out with that regard. As I've had soap. Of course, today that conversations over the threat would probably be years with people who have considered abuse. So, my had to forego salt for suggestion is that instead of dietary reasons, to a person breaking out the soap when Rev. Dr. they have told me that givour tongues have lashed out Doug Dortch ing up salt and rewiring mean-spiritedly at others, one's taste buds accordingwe pass around a bit of salt. ly has been some of the Here's what that would hardest work they've ever look like. Withhold your done. judgments of others until Perhaps that is why salt you have taken the time to is one of the most frequent metaphors in understand their context. Try to appreciate the Bible. Time and again Scripture the good they possess, which you can ususpeaks to the diminished quality of life ally find in someone else if you try hard whenever we behave toward others in enough. Understand that not everyone will tasteless ways. In our relationships as with see things as you do, and even be willing our green beans, a little bit of salt goes a to humble yourself with the knowledge long, long way. that in some situations, you will see things Unfortunately, we seem to be living in incorrectly (a painful lesson I have had to a day when people could stand a bit more learn and relearn over the years). Most of taste in their interactions with one anoth- all, do your best to practice the dictum you er; wouldn't you agree? From the highest have heard all your life: “If you can't say circles down to the lowest levels, relation- something good about someone else, don't ships are deteriorating as folk seem to be See SALT, page 26

Faces on Faith

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. at the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties, at 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, and via Zoom.

For Zoom links, email batyamsanibel@gmail.com. ∫ Captiva Chapel by the Sea 11580 Chapin Lane, Captiva, 239-472-1646, https://www.captivachapel.com/, www.facebook.com/Captiva-Chapel-By-TheSea 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 www.chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida.org Classes and discussion on Thursday at 11 a.m. via Zoom. Torah Talk on the third Thursday of each month at 11 a.m. via Zoom. Friday Shabbat service at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Len Minsky Current Events discussion on Saturday at 11 a.m. via Zoom. An informal “schmooze” session on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. 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 SCC Sanctuary. Services will be recorded and posted on the SCC's YouTube channel on Monday. ∫ 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. at The Refuge Church, at 1901 Brantley Road, Fort Myers. ∫ St. Isabel Catholic Church 3559 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, 239-472-2763, https://www.saintisabel.org/, https://www.facebook.com/stisabelcatholicchurch/ Father Edward Martin Friday Mass at 9 a.m. Weekend Masses on Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 10 a.m. ∫ St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-2173, https://www.saintmichaelssanibel.org/, https://www.facebook.com/saintmichaelssanibel/ Rev. William “Bill” Van Oss Saturday service at 5 p.m. with a social to follow. Sunday service at 9:30 a.m. with a coffee hour to follow. Services take place at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at the church; enter off of Dunlop Road.

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife's Visitor Education Center, at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, will present the following: ∫ Today, Oct. 11 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW. ∫ Thursday, Oct. 12 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW. ∫ Friday, Oct. 13 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW. ∫ Wednesday, Oct. 18 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

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CROW Calendar

To make semifreddo, line two 9-by-5-inch loaf pans with plastic wrap, letting excess drape over the sides. Carefully smooth out the bottom and the sides as much as possible.

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip the cream, powdered sugar and vanilla paste on high speed until stiff peaks have formed. Transfer to another bowl and chill in the refrigerator.

Place eight peeled and sliced peaches with the juice of one lemon in the bowl of the food processor and process until smooth; strain puree and set aside. You will need a total of three cups of puree.

Put water and sugar in small, heavy saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar is dissolved. Increase heat to high and bring to boil. Place candy thermometer into sugar syrup. Boil syrup until it reaches a temperature of 250°F and sugar is completely melted. This should take about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.

Add the egg whites to the stand mixer and mix on high speed until frothy, about five minutes. Reduce the speed to low. Slowly add half of the hot sugar mixture. Continue beating until stiff peaks have formed, about five minutes. Remove to another bowl and reserve.

Add the egg yolks and amaretto liquor to a clean mixer bowl. Beat on high speed until pale and fluffy, about five minutes. Reduce the speed to low and add the remaining hot sugar mixture. Beat on high speed until mixture is cold and pale yellow.

Transfer to a large mixing bowl and set aside.

Fold the chilled whipped cream into the cooled egg yolk mixture. Add peach puree to the mixture and mix until blended.

Gently fold in the egg whites, a third at a time. Before folding in the last third add the diced peaches and crumbled amaretti cookies. Continue mixing until all of the egg whites are incorporated into the mix, but be careful not to deflate the mixture.

Divide mixture between the prepared loaf pans. Spread evenly with a spatula, and cover with another piece of plastic wrap, smoothing out any wrinkles with your hands.

Tuck excess plastic wrap over the top. Freeze until firm, at least eight to 12 hours but preferably overnight.

To serve, invert semifreddo onto a serving platter and remove pan and plastic wrap.

Let stand 10 minutes at room temperature to soften. Slice semifreddo into 3/4-inch slices and serve with a few fresh peach slices, fresh mint and whipped cream, if desired.

Page 23 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023

Recipe of the Week: Peaches and Cream Semifreddo

Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 ■ Page 24

islandBEAT islander Sanibel Captiva

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Cielo, 1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

Traders, 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

PETER REDPATH 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

DANNY MORGAN AND JOHN McLANE DUO 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

DANNY MORGAN 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

PETER REDPATH 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

BUCKEYE KEN 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

JENNY VE 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

BIG ARTS Calendar

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JOHN McLANE 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

MICHAEL DAVID 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

‘Jellyfish Blues’

Shellcrafters

Joe Pacheco

The Shellcrafters will meet on Oct. 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the lobby. A shell crafting class will take place at 10 a.m.; it is free and supplies range from $510. Items will be available for sale. All sales benefit the operations of The Community House.

Poetic License

Or you can say I’m the ultimate minimalist life form, The first to feed, procreate and protect itself Without hard feelings or lust for a body, The first to live forever, bloom and thrive In the rotting toilet men are making of the sea.

Look at me now in this painting: In my jellyfish float and fetal position, Drifting along with the current, you can see Tentacles huddled together tightly To protect me from the sea horse stallions And Poseidon, God of the sea in Greek mythology Who gave me the name Medusa, said my hair Was full of snakes and I could turn men into stone With one dirty look. But don’t be afraid.

Look now at the northeast part of me.

Can you see the Indian head Of the Buffalo Nickel? Keep looking PHOTO PROVIDED at me, looking at me, “Grande Meduse III,” by Hollis At gelatinous, chameleon, biolumiJeffcoat nescent me, I’m mostly blues and greens but tonight I will glow Like a phosphorescent moon in the sky of the sea, Singing my jellyfish blues to any star that will listen.

DANNY MORGAN 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

TRIVIA 7 to 9 p.m.

The Community House Calendar

and $48 for non-donors.

What can you say about a blob like me?

I have no body, I lack a spine, I can’t stand up or look you in the eye — I have no eyes, I can’t cross a room and kiss you because I can only move up and down and I have no lips.

It’s easy to see right through me and know I must always go with the flow, I’m gooey and slimy and wash up on beaches Looking like a twice-used plastic bag.

MONDAY SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, will present the Registration is required by calling 239- following: 395-0900.

Workshop For more information, visit Community Shredding Day Zentangle Drawing with Donna Lee A Community Shredding Day will be Cole today, Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 1 www.bigarts.org. held on Oct. 14 from 9 a.m. to noon in the p.m. at BIG ARTS. Cost is $39 for donors north lot, located across the street. Shred documents, credit card receipts, checks, CD/DVDs and more. Limit of four boxes or bags per person. Remove large paper(Inspired by Hollis Jeffcoat) clips and binder clips; staples and small paper clips can stay. Cost is $5 per box or “I aint got no body, aint got a spine, grocery bag. Enter via the driveway on the Take me out of water, aint worth a dime, right next to Dunlop Road and exit on the But let me jellyfish float in the blue-green sea west side near the Sanibel Bean.

And what an amazing creature I can suddenly be.”

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

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

JOSH ROWLAND AND DANI LIGHTNER 6:30 p.m.

KARAOKE 8 to 10 p.m.

SUNDAY

Painting with Friends Painting with Friends will be held on Oct. 18 from 1 to 4 p.m. Bring you own supplies. Cost is $10 donation; register and pay at the door. For more information, contact Jane Hudson at janehudsonpainter@yahoo.com.

TCH is seeking volunteers and sponsors for its Fall Festival Party on Oct. 28 from 5 to 7 p.m. For more information, contact Executive Director Teresa RiskaHall at teresa@sanibelcommunityhouse.net or 239-472-2155.

TCH is accepting art vendors for the 87th Sanibel Historical Annual Shell Festival on March 7-9. Reservations are available for 8-foot tables for $150 and include all three days.

TCH office hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For more information, visit www.sanibelcommunityhouse.net or contact 239472-2155 or office@sanibelcommunityhouse.net.

From left, Bank of the Islands President Robbie Roepstorff, 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.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

SCCF to host signature Wines in the Wild The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation will host its annual Wines in the Wild on Nov. 17 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the SCCF's Bailey Homestead Preserve on Sanibel.

Attendees can stroll the grounds while sipping wines specially selected for the evening.

Top local chefs will offer delectable dishes to complement the wine tastings.

“After various years of interruption from COVID-19 and Hurricane Ian, SCCF is thrilled to be holding Wines in the Wild once again at our restored Bailey Homestead Preserve,” Chief Executive Officer James Evans said. “This signature event is one of the most enjoyable ways to support SCCF programs.”

Wines in the Wild began in 2008 as See WINES IN THE WILD, page 25

Page 25 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023

REFUGE/DDWS

To kick off Hispanic/Latine Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge staff held the inaugural Family Fun Night after-school event on Sept. 15 at Lakes Park in Fort Myers. Nearly 240 youths and their family members enjoyed free snacks, music, Hoverball archery, planting marigolds (symbolic of Latin culture) and hands-on exhibits. The refuge partnered with the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge and Florida Public

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Refuge, partners host Family Fun Night

Archaeology Network for their first combined cultural and conservation outreach event. Organizer and Urban

Outreach Ranger Yvette Carrasco thanked everyone for their support in making event such a success.

F.I.S.H. OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

From left, F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva Executive Director Maria Espinoza, Cielo General Manager Marcus Preece and F.I.S.H. President and Island Inn General Manager Chief Executive Officer Maggi Feiner. Chris Davison.

F.I.S.H. presents 10K/5K sponsor F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva announced that Cielo is a premier sponsor and the Island Inn is a sponsor for its 15th Annual F.I.S.H. 10K/5K on Dec. 2. The race will be held at The Community House on Sanibel, with a virtual option available. Hosted in partnership with the Sanibel Recreation Center, there will also be a kids' race and

family fun day this year. For more information or to register, visit runsignup.com/Race/FL/Sanibel/10K5 KRace4FISH. For sponsorship information, visit http://fishofsancap.org/ or contact Race Committee Co-chairs Diane Cortese at Dianerc10@gmail .com or Leah Winkler at leahwinkler 12@gmail.com.

Wines in the Wild From page 24 not only an SCCF fundraiser, but also as a “welcome back” gathering to kick off the island's fall season. Proceeds from the event will support the SCCF's mission to protect and care for Southwest Florida's coastal ecosystems.

Bank of the Islands will again be the presenting sponsor.

“We truly appreciate Bank of the Islands’ lead sponsorship for more than a decade,” event co-founder Linda Uhler said. “This very special evening would not

be nearly as successful or well embraced by the community without their generous ongoing support.”

Tickets will go on sale on Oct. 17.

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

Sponsorships are available. For more information about sponsorship opportunities, contact event co-founder Tom Uhler at tom@uhler.com or 239-940-9494.

The Bailey Homestead Preserve is at 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

The Community House on Sanibel hosted “Community Reunited” on Sept. 30. The event featured a variety of activities, including an ice cream social, a Hurricane Ian Memorial Project unveiling, “Cookie Generation” Bakers Contest and more.

THE COMMUNITY HOUSE The winners of the contest were: Sally Haynes, first Cookie contest judges Fred Bondurant, Dan place; Ally, Lyla and Billheimer, Malia Samson and Sarah Jacobson.

Vanessa Flynt, second Brodeur; Nancy Black; Sharon Scott; place; and Lori Fanning, third place. The Kayla Cavanaugh; and two home economPeople's Choice Award went to Bode ics classes from The Sanibel School.

Lackenby and Cash Martinson. Honorable Baking supplies, along with gift certifimentions went to: Maribeth Traucht; cates donated by Jerry's Foods, were Mason Bottari, Tony Andrews and Max awarded.

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

TCH holds community gathering

Week of Wednesday, October 11, 2023 ■ Page 26 captivasanibel.com Sanibel-Captiva Islander

Bat Yam provides update Santiva Islanders Calendar on news and activities The Bat Yam Temple of the Islands on Sanibel reported on its recent news and activities. ∫ Returning since Hurricane Ian, it will hold services again at the temple beginning on Oct. 20. ∫ Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer has designated this year's theme as “Restoring Our Spirits — Restoring Our Home.” In that spirit, Rosh Hashanah evening and morning services were held at the Peace Lutheran Church in Fort Myers.

Schnitzer blew the shofar to proclaim the New Year, while readings were given by members of the congregation. Annette Pacyga and Wendy Harriman hosted a reception afterward. Later that day, members observed Tashlich with a gathering on the beach off Fulgur Street on Sanibel.

Schnitzer played his guitar and sang and sins were whispered into conch shells and cast in the water. ∫ Shabbat Shuvah was celebrated on the Friday between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

Schnitzer explained about the concept of return at this time of the Jewish year. ∫ Kol Nidre and Yom Kippur services were held at the Peace Lutheran Church. A part of the day's experience is “Our Congregants' Hour” after the morning service. Each year, three congregants offer personal reflections on their hopes, dreams and perspectives on Judaism and Yom Kippur. The

three speakers this year were Michael Hochschild, Yaffah Schnitzer and Dr. Mort Tavel. ∫ On Sept. 28, congregants joined Schnitzer, other clergy and Sanibel's city leaders at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church to mark the one year anniversary of Hurricane Ian. ∫ For Sukkot, congregants decorated a Sukkah and celebrated at the home of two members. ∫ Simchat Torah, the annual cycle of reading the Torah, was held on Oct. 6 at the Peace Lutheran Church. Bat Yam was joined by congregants and clergy from Peace Lutheran and the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ. Schnitzer led attendees through the text and pointed out highlights common to the faith traditions. Afterward, attendees enjoyed food and live music. ∫ Bat Yam will soon release a new cookbook, “Cooking With Bat Yam Temple of the Islands.” It published its first one in 2007. Recipes will include chopped liver, chopped herring, charoset, chicken soup with matzo balls, brisket, different kinds of kugel and other dishes. The proceeds will benefit the rebuilding of the temple and community post-Hurricane Ian. The cookbook will cost $10.

For more information, including how to receive one, contact BatYamSanibel@gmail.com.

From page 22 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. It will involve toning exercises, balance movements and total body stretches. Bring water and a towel; the exercises are done standing or sitting in chairs, so no mat is needed. Cost per class is $5 for members and $10 for non-members.

Enter off of Dunlop Road.

Happy Hour at MudBugs Happy Hour at MudBugs will be held on Oct. 16 from 4 to 6 p.m. at MudBugs Cajun Kitchen, at 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Enjoy happy hour drink and appetizer specials.

Participants will order and pay individually. For more information, contact event host Robin Christian at 817-975-7166.

Coffee Bistro Coffee Bistro will be held on Oct. 17 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Coffee and other beverages will be served. Volunteers will be available to answer questions, register new members, offer signups for activities and more. Enter off of Dunlop Road.

The Santiva Islanders serve all adult islanders and visitors, regardless of age. The cost is $20 for an annual membership. The Island Seniors raise funding to help defray the cost of the program activities.

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

Salt From page 23 say anything at all.” That really does help to make a tough situation more tasteful.

For people of faith. these maxims are more than pithy moralisms that make us feel superior to others. They are actually expressions of grace that give testimony

to the possibilities that God sees in us and work to form the deep relationships that bind us together. And ultimately, they will be the means by which we transform the structures of this fallen world into the contours of the Kingdom of Heaven so that

mercy eventually becomes the order of the day and peace the end that each of us enjoys. Now, that's the sort of taste I would think everyone could stand being left in his or her mouth.

“Salt is good, but if it loses its salti-

ness, with what will you season it? Have salt among yourselves, and be at peace with one another” (Mark 9:50).

The Rev. Dr. Doug Dortch is the pastor at the Captiva Chapel by the Sea.

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