Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

WeeK OF OCTOBeR 18, 2023

VOLUME 61, NUMBER 48

Fire commission OKs legislative rep, hears update

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

Annual Let’s Pink Out to raise awareness, funds for cause

By TIFFANY REPECKI

O

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

ne in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime, according to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. In 2023, an estimated 297,790 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer.

Organized by the San Cap Pink Project, Let's Pink Out will feature activities during October — Breast Cancer Awareness Month — to raise funds to help those in the island community who are impacted.

San Cap Pink Project founder and breast cancer survivor Mary Bondurant explained that over a decade ago, she was at a fundraiser when the then-Sanibel fire chief asked her about how to get the mobile mammogram coach to the fire station.

In planning the event, Bondurant learned about Pink Out events.

“I felt that was the way I could give back to the Sanibel community for the past two years,” she said, adding that the island had supported her while she had gone through her own journey with cancer.

The Sanibel and Fire Rescue District's commission selected a legal firm to represent the district on legislative matters and heard an update on the of reconstruction Station 172 during its recent meeting.

On Oct. 11, the commissioners voted unanimously 3-0 to hire Manson Bolves Donaldson Tanner to serve as its legislative representative at the state level for $20,000. The district also received offers from two others: Ramba Consulting Group for $25,000 and Lewis, Longman & Walker for $45,000.

Before the vote, Fire Chief Kevin Barbot explained that the district is still short on the funds needed to rebuild Station 172 on Sanibel-Captiva Road.

Early project costs are estimated at about $8.6 million.

See COMMISSION, page 19

IslanderInsIde

See LeT’S PINK OUT, page 19

School district provides one-year update on storm damage

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

Hurricane Ian damage continues to be repaired by the School District of Lee County.

The school board received an in-depth review of where the district stands in regards to damages and recovery, as well as the financial impact and recovery during a meeting on Oct. 2.

Damages and recovery Maintenance Services Assistant Director Toni Dent-McNair said the Operations Department received 2,317 total service requests. Of those 1,713 have been closed leaving 604 still in progress.

“Advancements are made daily. As of last Friday (Sept.

29) an additional 11 were completed reducing to 593.

This means we have now completed over 74%,” she said.

Damage was sustained throughout all district sites with the most com-

mon being restoration of campus roofs, drywall, floors, ceiling tiles, canopies, sunshades, athletic fields and fencing.

“Prioritization of securing building envelopes and restoring interior learning environments and guaranteeing student safety has been paramount and has been assigned to completion,” Dent-McNair said.

There should be full completion by the end of 2023 with the exception of Hector A. Cafferata and some roof repairs, she said, adding the district has been proacSee STORM DAMAGe UPDATe, page 19

alsOInsIdetOday Guest Commentary........................4 Web Poll.........................................4 Captiva Current..........................6-7 Business......................................8 Preserving Paradise.....................12 Island Living................................14 Sports.........................................18 Classifieds 31

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Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 2 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

Highlights from city council’s monthly meeting

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

The Sanibel City Council held its monthly meeting on Oct. 3, which entailed the following: ∫ The council voted 5-0 to approve an ordinance that amends the Land Development Code relating to architectural design requirements for multifamily housing to clarify regulatory language and ensure redevelopment will be conducted consist with island style character and scenic preservation within the built environment. ∫ The council held a quasi-judicial hearing to hear an appeal of the Sanibel Planning Commission's approval of the applications for the “Coastal Creek” subdivision, at 5301-5325 Sanibel-Captiva Road.

The council voted 4-1 that in its approval, the commission properly interpreted and applied the provisions of the Land Development Code based on the applications and evidence — upholding the approval. However, the council modified one condition of the project to clarify “soil excavated.” ∫ The council voted 5-0 to appoint the following members to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee: Angi Semler-Welch and Audrey Stewart for three-year terms; Ralph Quillen and Thomas Williams for two-year terms; and Christopher Denick, Kyle Sweet and Wendy Walker for one-year terms. ∫ Brett Moore, with Humiston & Moore Engineers, gave a presentation on the Sanibel Island Post Hurricane Ian Emergency Berm/Beach Recovery Project, including the scope of work and cost. ∫ SanCap Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai gave a presentation on the islands preand post-Hurricane Ian, including economic impact, actions to promote tourism and challenges. ∫ The council recognized fiscal assistant Erin Tansey, with the Finance Department, as the Employee of the Third Quarter and assistant city engineer Oisin Dolley, with the Public Works Department, as the Employee of the Fourth Quarter.

CITY OF SANIBEL

The Sanibel City Council proclaimed October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month at its meeting on Oct. 3.

At its Oct. 3 meeting, the Sanibel City Council recognized Finance Department Fiscal Assistant Erin Tansey, fifth from left, as the Employee of the Quarter for the Third Quarter. ∫ The council proclaimed the month of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. ∫ The council proclaimed the month of October as Florida Native Plant Month on Sanibel. ∫ The council held the first reading for an ordinance

The Sanibel City Council proclaimed October as Florida Native Plant Month on Sanibel at its meeting on Oct. 3.

At its Oct. 3 meeting, the Sanibel City Council recognized Public Works Department Assistant City Engineer Oisin Dolley, fifth from left, as the Employee of the Quarter for the Fourth Quarter. that amends the Land Development Code to update Resort Housing development regulations relating to Resort Housing District building height. The second reading will be held on Nov. 7.

Page 3 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

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Editorial

This is what America stands for Last week in Florida flags flew at a halfstaff in honor of the victims of the terrorist strike against Israel.

From sunrise on Oct. 9 until sunset on Oct. 13, our state Capitol remained lit with lights of blue and white.

And today, tomorrow and through the fight that has followed the heinous holiday attack by Hamas terrorists upon both the State of Israel and the Jewish people, we stand with Israel.

Not because we don’t understand that among the innocent lives lost are Israeli and Palestinian victims alike.

Not because we don’t know that war and all of its repercussions will cause more suffering.

But because Israel has the right to exist.

No matter the belief of those who hope to drive her into the sea, to stamp out her people.

No matter the belief of extremists who write political policy with blood.

No matter the pablum of justification being espoused by those who fail to understand the history of our ally and those who stand against her.

In the wake of this “act of sheer evil”

captivasanibel.com

Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 4

OPINIONS launched on the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah, in the wake of the carnage and the kidnapping of non-combatants and children, President Joe Biden has summed our country’s proper position well: “This is terrorism.

“But sadly, for the Jewish people, it’s not new.

“This attack has brought to the surface painful memories and the scars left by a millennia of antisemitism and genocide of the Jewish people.

“So, in this moment, we must be crystal clear: We stand with Israel. We stand with Israel. And we will make sure Israel has what it needs to take care of its citizens, defend itself, and respond to this attack.

“There is no justification for terrorism.

There is no excuse.

“Hamas does not stand for the Palestinian people’s right to dignity and self-determination. Its stated purpose is the annihilation of the State of Israel and the murder of Jewish people.”

United we stand.

“Today, Americans across the country are

praying for all those families that have been ripped apart,” Biden said. “A lot of us know how it feels. It leaves a black hole in your chest when you lose family, feeling like you’re being sucked in. The anger, the pain, the sense of hopelessness.

“This is what they mean by a ‘human tragedy’ — an atrocity on an appalling scale.

“But we’re going to … continue to stand united, supporting the people of Israel who are suffering unspeakable losses and opposing the hatred and violence of terrorism.”

And lastly: “This is a moment for the United States to come together, to grieve with those who are mourning.

“Let’s be real clear: There is no place for hate in America — not against Jews, not against Muslims, not against anybody. We reject — we reject — what we reject is terrorism. We condemn the indiscriminate evil, just as we’ve always done.

“That’s what America stands for.”

This is what America stands for.

— Island Reporter editorial

Island Reporter

County board budgeting on an even keel

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

The headlines out of tax rate, known as the millage.

Washington, D.C., were hard This year’s process was to miss and hardly ever unlike any before it. Ian is the change. Congress was bickerthird costliest storm in U.S. ing over the budget with the history, only behind threat of another government Hurricanes Katrina and shutdown looming over their Harvey. It wiped out $9.5 bilheads.

For everyday lion worth of our tax base.

Americans, inflation is skyHowever, despite the daunting rocketing while D.C. politiimpact to our budget, fiscally cians are perpetually camconservative commissioners paigning. But here at home were able to keep the tax rate your local government is quithe same as last year. In fact, etly working to serve you and over the past 10 years we have to protect your quality-of-life reduced the tax rate by 9.5%, Brian Hamman day in and day out. Even even though in that same perithough we have spent the last od our population has year rebuilding from increased by 25%, bringing Hurricane Ian, Lee County and with it a higher demand for the state of Florida remain services. steady in a sea of dysfunction.

The countywide general When Lee County commissioners began fund budget pays for core services whether working on the budget for next year, we you live inside a city or not. It provides for focused on three core areas: mitigating the things like the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, financial impacts from Ian, supporting law ambulance service and parks. It also pays for enforcement, and moving forward on our the other local constitutional offices like the road projects needed to deal with our grow- Clerk of Courts, Tax Collector, Supervisor of ing population. The county not only accom- Elections and Property Appraiser. Next plished each of those goals, but also was able year’s budget prioritizes public safety and to do it without an increase in the property provides salary increases for the LCSO to

Guest Commentary

ensure that law enforcement officers can afford to live in our community while protecting our residents. The budget continues to provide the level of service our citizens deserve and expect from county government departments.

To make sure we have the necessary infrastructure to accommodate our growing population, commissioners have budgeted $535 million on our most important Tier I road projects for the next 10 years. Some of the projects on this list include the Alico Road extension to State Road 82, Three Oaks Parkway Extension, the new Big Carlos Pass Bridge and the new Cape Coral Bridge.

It has been a trying few years for all of us, from blue-green algae and red tide outbreaks to COVID-19 and Ian. Each time we’ve faced adversity, our county has rallied. We will rebuild our homes and businesses and keep this county the destination of choice for people to live, work and raise a family. I am excited to see us finish the job of rebuilding, and I promise that the steady leadership you have come to expect from your local elected officials will continue.

Brian Hamman is chairman of the Lee County Board of County Commissioners.

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.

Page 5 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

WEEk OF OCTOBER 18, 2023

CEPD green lights post-hurricane beach project

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

The Captiva Erosion Prevention District's commission approved moving forward with a needed beach renourishment due to Hurricane Ian at its recent meeting, as well as filled a vacant seat on the board.

On Oct. 9, the commission voted

unanimously 5-0 on a proposal from Aptim Coastal Planning & Engineering for pre-construction services for the Hurricane Ian Storm Damage Repair Project for a cost not-to exceed about $140,416. The services will include: the collection of the design survey, if needed; plans and specification development; bidding assistance;

and additional pre-construction services.

Prior to the vote, Aptim Coastal Market Lead Nicole Sharp provided an overview.

CEPD Executive Director Daniel Munt reported that the goal is to have the project finished before hurricane season next year. Another goal is to have as much work as possible done before the sea turtle season, and staff have spoken with the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation

about the project.

Secretary Linda Laird asked about an estimated timeline for finishing.

Sharp explained that it would hinge on whether Aptim can use the beach survey completed in the summer. If so, a midNovember workshop could be set to discuss project design options. If the board then selects an option, Aptim could finalize the project and get it out to bid by the See CEPD, page 7

CCP discusses alternatives for governance

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

During its recent meeting, the Captiva Community Panel heard a presentation on governance options for the island as alternatives to being part of unincorporated Lee County and discussed next steps.

On Oct. 10, Panel Member Linda Laird outlined the information that she and Administrator Ken Gooderham had gathered. The panel voted last month to initiate the fact finding after the county board approved Land Development Code and Lee County Comprehensive Land Use Plan amendments.

A coalition of Captiva-Sanibel stakeholders, including the panel, had opposed the proposed changes.

Laird explained that the objective of the governance alternatives is to maintain the existing Captiva Plan and allow for more local control over future land use and develSee CCP, page 7

Fire commission OKs pay increase, vehicle equipment

Captiva library, county system offer programs The Captiva Memorial Library, at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva, is offering the following free programming:

Make a fun Fandom-inspired bookmark.

Adult programs Children programs ∫ Today, Oct. 18: Fandom Fest, Thor Bookmark Craft (daily during operating hours; while supplies last) Make a fun Fandom-inspired bookmark. ∫ Oct. 20: Fandom Fest, Thor Bookmark Craft (daily during operating hours; while supplies last) Make a fun Fandom-inspired bookmark.

Teen programs ∫ Today, Oct. 18: Fandom Fest, Thor Bookmark Craft (daily during operating hours; while supplies last) Make a fun Fandom-inspired bookmark. ∫ Oct. 20: Fandom Fest, Thor Bookmark Craft (daily during operating hours; while supplies last)

∫ Today, Oct. 18: Fandom Fest, Thor Bookmark Craft (daily during operating hours; while supplies last) Make a fun Fandom-inspired bookmark. ∫ Oct. 20: Fandom Fest, Thor Bookmark Craft (daily during operating hours; while supplies last) Make a fun Fandom-inspired bookmark.

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

For more information about a program or to register, contact 239-533-4890.

Download books, stream video and other online content at www.leelibrary.net.

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

The Captiva Island Fire Control District's commission approved an update to the staff compensation plans, adding emergency equipment to the beach rescue vehicle and more at its recent meeting.

On Oct. 10, the commissioners voted unanimously 3-0 on four separate resolutions.

Fire Chief Jeff Pawul presented the following for consideration: ∫ A resolution to approve amendments to the compensation plan, to include the personnel step plan and executive staff.

The plan will be adjusted by 5% Cost-ofLiving Adjustment (COLA) on the starting hourly pay. ∫ A resolution to approve the installation of emergency lighting and radios on the new Can-Am Defender by Lightning Fleet Solutions for a cost of $4,907. ∫ A resolution to approve two new Dell See FIRE COMMISSION, page 7

first of the year.

Also on the meeting agenda was a proposal from Aptim regarding emergency dune repair. The commission directed that dune repairs and plantings be incorporated into the main renourishment.

According to Munt, the CEPD recently received $13 million from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for the project. He estimated the total cost to be about $18 million, but staff is waiting to hear on funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Lee County.

Munt added that he has reached out to the county about possibly amending the CEPD's existing interlocal agreement or drafting a new one to increase the county's current cost share of 21%.

Earlier in the meeting, the commission voted 4-0 to appoint John Robert Wade III to the open Seat 4. Former Vice Chairman John Silvia had resigned effective Sept.

30 as he was relocating to Tampa.

Before the vote, Munt explained that the CEPD received one application.

According to Wade's resume, he has been a general

partner for Xando Enterprises for five years. Previously, he was chief executive officer and chairman for TriWire Engineering Solutions, assistant chief engineer of the New England Sports Network and a NE Satellite Systems broadcast liaison.

Wade received his Master of Business Administration in organizational leadership from New York University and Associate in Science in telecom engineering at the Wentworth Institute of Technology.

Asked about his desire to serve on the CEPD, he wrote: “I feel, now more than ever, our special community needs as much active oversight and effective leadership as we can muster during this unfortunate rebuilding period. I offer a two-pronged approach in helping the board navigate the current circumstances: Managing challenges with creative, yet pragmatic, 'out of the box' solutions that can be realistically executed in a non-bureaucratic fashion; and enhancing CEPD communications with local property and business owners, a vital component lacking in recent years. The CEPD has always been paramount in preserving and protecting our shores, I would

be honored to add value to its legacy during such an important time of need.”

In attendance for the meeting, Wade provided an overview of his background and answered some questions from the commissioners before the vote. Once appointed, he took up the seat on the board.

In other news ∫ Consultant and SCCF Coastal Resilience Manager Dr. Carrie Schuman provided an update on the Captiva Bayside Adaption Plan. She reported that the Request for Qualifications has been advertised, with a pre-bid meeting planned for interested firms. The submission deadline for the bids is Oct. 25.

Schuman anticipates that the board will select the firm in November.

According to Munt, the project is largely being funded by $400,000 from the state. ∫ Becker representative Nick Matthews reported that the Florida Division of Emergency Management has awarded the CEPD $1 million for parking revenue loss, dune walkovers and the beach vehicle.

Page 7 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023

CEPD From page 6

CCP From page 6 Associations — a group of 12 homeowner and condo associations inside of South Seas — Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge.

Mintz reported that the state agencies had until Oct. 6 to comment on the county's amendments.

“We don't know if the state agencies commented to the county or what their comments were if they commented,” he said, adding that once the CCP committee receives the information, it will share that.

The next step would be for the county to evaluate any comments provided by the state agencies and then schedule a public hearing to adopt the changes. The county has six months to set the hearing.

“I'd be surprised if they wait that long,” Mintz said.

He added that the CCP committee's firm will send a legal letter to the county before the hearing. If the county decides to adopt the changes as written, a decision will be made on whether to litigate those.

During the following discussion among the panel, Mintz reported that the state agencies are not required to provide comments and any comments are more like “advice” for the county to consider.

Wrapping up the LDC and Plan topic, Presidents Council of Associations Chairman Ken Suarez provided an update on what their group has been doing. He reported that it recently held an owners meeting with over 500 in attendance.

Interest in what is going on it still high among the majority.

“Within the resort, we have our own property rights issues,” Suarez said, explaining that five associations actually own part of the road that leads down to the north end of South Seas.

He reported that the group is conducting studies to figure out the property rights.

Interest in what is going on and opposition to it is also growing among the timeshare owners.

In other news ∫ President and Wastewater Committee Chair Jay Brown provided an update on the possible sewer project with the city of Sanibel. He reported that the city is waiting on answers to follow-up questions that it asked of its consultant on the study to determine what is needed to add Captiva to the system.

Brown also inquired about the future of the project in light of the LDC and Plan amendments.

“They still have a high level of interest in following through,” he said of city leadership. “Even though we're at risk of central sewer possibly providing a vehicle for additional development on Captiva.” ∫ Panel Member John Jensen provided an iguana control service update. He reported that Alfredo Fermin, with AAA Wildlife Trapping and Removal Services, started coming out to the island two days per week three weeks ago. The extra day was for him to set traps with the aim of eradicating more.

“His feeling is the traps haven't been doing that good,” Jensen said, explaining that Fermin thinks there may be too much vegetation around and that about 95% of his catches have been from shooting them.

“It might be a waste of time,” he added of the traps.

Jensen reported that Fermin will still come out two days a week, but stick to shooting instead. ∫ Brown provided an update on the panel seat openings for the upcoming year.

He reiterated that the panel had one appointment and chose to reappoint Laird for another three-year term as she was eligible.

Brown continued that the Captiva Property Owners Association had two appointments. It decided to reappoint Secretary Bruce McDonald and appoint Suarez to the seat held by Panel Member Bob Walter.

Fire commission From page 6 laptops with docking stations for the fire station for a cost of about $3,349. ∫ A resolution to approve the disposal of capital assets, to include a Rocket vehicle-mounted wireless router, John Deere Gator and 2014 Ford Explorer.

Also during the meeting, Pawul reported that the district was awarded $350,000 from the state through the Hurricane

Recovery Program. It applied for the funds due to the revenue loss from Hurricane Ian. He noted that he is waiting to hear from the state on how the funding can be applied.

Also at the meeting, Pawul explained that while the beach rescue vehicle will require installation of additional equipment — lighting and radios — the district is able

to use it for limited operations.

In other news ∫ Pawul reported that the district is continuing to explore the possibility of installing a boat lift at McCarthy's Marina for the fire boat to get it out of the water and help extended its lifetime. He is in communication with the county to deter-

mine what it can and has to approve to make that happen. ∫ Pawul reported that the district is working with homeowners and business owners who are planning to demolish or renovate their structures to set up crew training at the sites before any work begins. ∫ The district responded to 31 calls for service in September.

Captiva Current

ed to protect resources and public facilities in designated geographic areas from uncontrolled development that would cause substantial deterioration of the resources. Areas of concern include environmental or natural resources and historical or archeological districts. Only five areas in the state have been approved using the act.

The timeline would be about 18-plus months and require a local delegation to draft a legislative bill for approval by the Legislature and the governor's signature. A lobbyist and consultant would be needed.

As for the status quo variations, Laird outlined them as: the county is overruled by the state agencies reviewing the boardapproved amendments; the changes stand, but with a compromise on intensity and density for future development; or maximum density and building heights are sought in development.

On other options available under Florida Statutes, she cited forming a special district, creating a community development district and using the Gasparilla Island Conservation District Act of 1980.

During the following discussion, the panel debated the pros and cons of the various alternatives and decided to monitor the ongoing process for the county's amendments, to reach out to Sanibel and get its thoughts about possible annexation, and to further explore some options to gather more information.

To view the full research, visit this article online for free at http://www.captivasanibel.com/.

Also at the meeting, Vice President and Government Affairs Committee Chair David Mintz gave an update on the county's LDC and Plan changes, along with the work of the Captiva Civic Association's Land Use Committee and the law firm hired to represent the Captiva-Sanibel stakeholders' coalition.

The Land Use Committee members are comprised of representatives from the CCA, panel, Presidents Council of

captivasanibel.com

opment and redevelopment.

She reported that they researched five options: annexation with Sanibel, incorporation, designation as an Area of Critical State Concern, three status quo variations, and others offered via Florida Statute.

Laird provided a brief history on Captiva planning, including a previous consideration by the island to incorporate/annex in the early 2000s, the creation of the panel and the drafting of the Captiva Plan.

For the annexation option, it would involve steps such as both islands agreeing to the process, a feasibility study, a majority of Captiva property owners voting by petition through the elections office to annex, Sanibel City Council or voters approving annexation and a timeline of less than a year.

In attendance for the meeting, Captiva Island Fire Control District Fire Chief Jeff Pawul pointed out during the discussion of the annexation option that the state would likely require the Captiva district to incorporate into the Sanibel fire district, plus the Lee County Sheriff's Office into the Sanibel police.

The majority of the panel agreed with wanting to retain their existing fire and law enforcement.

As for the incorporation option, Laird reported that the steps would require a special act by the state Legislature, a feasibility study and certain standards to be met, but no vote by Captiva property owners.

Gooderham noted that while no vote is required, the state would likely prefer one to see support.

The estimated timeline for incorporation would be 20-plus months, with a cost of $70,000 or more.

On the Area of Critical State Concern, they explained that the idea came from the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation.

It would enable the island to retain local rule, but under review by the state.

The Florida Environmental Land and Water Management Act of 1972 was creat-

Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 8 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

BUSINESS Current outlook, portfolio strategy

By ANDREW VANDERHORST The third quarter is fully behind us and the end to another year is in sight. When reviewing the quarterly performance of the stock market, it is tempting to conclude that not much happened during the past quarter. The S&P 500, which represents the market-cap weighted performance of 500 large U.S.-based companies, ended the third quarter down 3%.

Although the S&P 500 remained quite tame, the underlying economic sectors tell a slightly different story. The bestperforming sector for Andrew Vanderhorst the quarter was energy.

Oil prices climbed from $70 per barrel to $90 per barrel due to production cuts by Russia and Saudi Arabia.

On the other hand, information technology experienced a slight decline as the market took some time to digest its massive outperformance during the first half of the year. Nonetheless, the S&P 500 remains up 13% year-to-date.

A bright spot has been the relative broadening of participation among stocks. Through the first half of the year, just a handful of technology-related companies were responsible for most of the S&P 500’s return. Now, those companies are only responsible for 60% of the market’s performance. This is still a high concentration, but not near the levels of midyear. So, what are some potential reasons for the market pause this past quarter? We would attribute it to a couple of uncertain outcomes we faced near quarter-end: a potential U.S. government shutdown and the Federal Reserve’s course of action. We remain hopeful that Congress will have reached a compromise on a spending bill before any significant economic damage can be inflicted on the U.S. economy and populace, but it may be an 11th hour decision. So, let us move on to the Fed. The Fed members returned from their August recess and chose to hold interest rates steady at 5.25% to 5.50%, which was widely expected by the markets.

Throughout the year the Fed has reduced the magnitude and speed of their interest rate increases as they assess its delayed impact on inflation. While there remains a possibility that they could raise interest rates one additional quarter-point (0.25%) by yearend, the bigger question is: How long will they keep interest rates at peak levels? In other words, when will the Fed start cutting interest rates? Markets currently expect the Fed to start reducing interest rates during the first half of 2024. Interestingly, markets were expecting interest rate cuts to have already begun, so they have instead continued to push out the start date.

Despite this delay in interest rates cuts, which would benefit stocks, the U.S. stock market seems largely indifferent to these shifting expectations.

The Fed also released their updated “dot-plots,” which represent the anonymized Fed members’ predictions on the economy, inflation and the future path of interest rates. The takeaway from this report is we should not expect interest rate cuts any time soon. In general, the median prediction from the Fed members largely agrees with the “higher-for-longer” theme.

Only time will tell. But a positive effect of these higher interest rates is that bonds are more attractive. The See CURRENT OUTLOOK, page 10

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F.I.S.H. volunteers win ENPY award F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva volunteers Jim and Joan Bajek were named the Nonprofit Volunteer of the Year at the Community Foundation's 7th Annual ENPYs — Excellence in Nonprofit Performance Yearly — awards on Sept. 28. The awards highlight the efforts of Southwest Florida nonprofits and the accomplishments of nonprofit leaders.

The Bajeks were nominated by F.I.S.H. for the award, which honors a volunteer(s) who goes above and beyond to support the objectives of an organization to enhance its ability to deliver on its mission for maximum impact on the community and the lives of those it serves.

F.I.S.H. reported that the couple have volunteered in many capacities since 2017, but their assistance in the food pantry and holiday programs have made a difference for many individuals and families. Each week, the Bajeks manage the coordination of providers for the pantry, the volunteers and meal pick-up. They have taken a particular interest in assisting four-legged friends, ensuring that the pantry has pet supplies and food available, and have even run donation drives and set up platforms for donors to help.

The Bajeks also volunteer with the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel.

“It becomes easy to get drawn into the action and meet the needs of so many people. It’s made a positive impact on those that need it the most and on us, since we have the time and resources to devote to the effort,” they said.

“We love seeing the smiling faces and hearing kind words from those receiving help. Knowing we have become a vital part of the Sanibel community spirit fuels our desire to continue giving.”

F.I.S.H. noted that volunteerism was particularly difficult in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. “Although their home was damaged, as soon as the causeway was repaired and vehicles allowed, Jim and Joan once again began volunteering by picking up critical items — often using their own vehicle — and assisting in every way they could,” Executive Director Maria Espinoza said. “They volunteered for any program that

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

Joan and Jim Bajek needed it and helped problem solve the layout and structure of the very important food distribution and holiday gatherings, both of which were incredibly meaningful to our community.”

“The Bajeks always step in where and when needed and coordinate with others to make every effort a success,” she added. “We are honored to work with them in our efforts to assist our neighbors.”

Refuge welcomes two DDWS interns The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge recently welcomed two new interns to support the conservation and education mission of the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel.

This year’s Harkey Development & Communication intern, Maisie Peters hails from Madison, Wisconsin. She arrived from Washington, D.C., where she spent her second summer as a tour guide for an educational travel group.

REFUGE/DDWS

Interns Maisie Peters and Carmen Wolfe will help the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge in its mission to support the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's conservation and education efforts.

Peters graduated in May from Miami University in Florida with degrees in sociology and speech pathology/audiology. She is looking forward to planning and executing fundraising events. Her permanently endowed, fully funded internship is made possible by DDWS Board Vice President Bill Harkey and his wife, Laurie.

“It has been so inspiring to witness the commitment the Sanibel community has made to rebuilding post-Ian,” Peters said. “Everyone has been incredibly welcoming, and there is such a strong feeling of support within ‘Ding’ and across the island as a whole. I have really enjoyed diving into the world of nonprofit development, communications, conservation and education, and am so grateful for the opportunity to learn from and work alongside such an incredible staff.”

When not working, she enjoys running and being active, cooking, reading and spending time on the seashore.

Carmen Wolfe, from Wausau, Wisconsin, recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire with a bachelor’s degree in integrated strategic communications and public relations and a minor in European studies. Before coming to the refuge, she interned as a webinar hostess as part of a marketing team for HalfMoon Education, a nonprofit continuing education provider.

“I am excited to learn more about the area and the ecosystem of southern Florida,” Wolfe said. “I am also really excited to do some event planning for the refuge. I think gathering the community is a great way to create connections in an area.”

Her favorite pastimes include painting, reading and, now, going to the beach.

See DDWS INTERNS, page 10

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Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 10 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

VIP Realty Group announces top producers Kiwanis holds meeting with speaker VIP Realty Group announced its top producers for the month of September.

Deb Smith had the top sales. She has a background in accounting and holds the Second Home and Resort Specialist, Sanibel Captiva Island Accredited Buyer's Specialist, Representative and Senior Real Estate Specialist certifications.

Debbie Ringdahl had the top listings and was the top producer. With sales exceeding $90 million, she specializes in luxury homes, condos and Deb Smith Debbie Ringdahl new home lots in waterfront and golf communities. Ringdahl is a 20-year For more information, call 239-472-5187 member of the VIP President’s Club and or go to SanCapIslandRE.com. receives over 130 hours of continuous VIP Realty Group is at 1560 Periwinkle advance sales training annually.

Way, Sanibel.

Current outlook From page 8 U.S. 1-Year Treasury is yielding 5.5%, which may appeal to investors seeking a short-term, risk-free investment, while the U.S. 10-Year Treasury is yielding 4.6%.

Our outlook for the fourth quarter is to expect market volatility to continue as the path forward may keep the markets on edge. Market participants will be monitor-

ing the monthly economic reports (e.g., inflation readings, jobs growth) and quarterly company earnings reports as they seek to predict the near-term path of interest rates and whether the U.S. economy can withstand higher-for-longer interest rates.

Currently, the U.S. economy continues to display resiliency. However, these data

The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club welcomed Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Chief Executive Officer James Evans as its guest speaker at its Oct. 3 meeting. He reported that the SCCF, founded in 1967, now has almost 40 employees and over 2,000 acres of land under its stewardship and it continues to serve as a leading force in water quality and land management initiatives. Evans provided insights into the rebuildSANIBEL-CAPTIVA KIWANIS CLUB ing of the SCCF's programs and From left, Sanibel-Captiva facilities since Hurricane Ian and Conservation Foundation Chief recounted the SCCF's efforts to Executive Officer James Evans help rebuild the community in the and Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis immediate aftermath. The club is Club President Jeff Blackman. holding meetings on Tuesdays at 8 a.m. at The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. For more information, visit www.sanibelkiwanis.org.

points can and do change month-to-month and quarter-to-quarter, so stock markets may fluctuate as the information is digested and acted upon. In the near-term, these volatile periods are best handled by understanding your near-term cash flow needs and ensuring those needs are met through an appropriate allocation to high-quality

dividend stocks, short-term bonds, and cash. This will allow you to maintain an appropriate allocation to high-quality U.S. stocks (growth and dividend).

Executive Director Birgie Miller Gresham said. “They bring fresh ideas and outlook to our mission to reach people of all ages with the refuge’s conservation message.

At the same time, they benefit from the team’s track record for fundraising and communication.”

The DDWS currently stewards two named internships for the 2023-24 year and is accepting donations for three future named intern funds. For more information about supporting the internship programs, contact DDWS Associate Director AnnMarie Wildman at 239-789-8991.

Andrew Vanderhorst is chief investment officer for The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company.

DDWS interns From page 8 “The beaches and all of the island’s nature are so serene,” Wolfe said. “The refuge is nothing like I have ever seen before. I am excited to see more birds and wildlife as the season approaches.”

The DDWS provides housing, living stipends and other benefits for six to eight

interns each year. Since Hurricane Ian destroyed onsite intern housing, the DDWS has procured temporary housing on and off island until replacement accommodations are built.

“We welcome Maisie’s and Carmen’s energy and enthusiasm,” DDWS

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Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 12

PRESERVING PARADISE Season underway for Florida bald eagles

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SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

SCCF: Green sea turtle survives in pond for a year Last month, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation sea turtle team received a report of a juvenile green sea turtle in a retention park at an RV park in Fort Myers.

The SCCF reported that it had been observed in the pond sporadically since February, and it was possible that it washed in during Hurricane Ian’s storm surge, which was 10-12 feet high at the site.

“While the sea turtle was not reported to be in distress, the pond in question was landlocked and offered no avenue for the turtle to reach the Gulf,” Coastal Wildlife Director and Sea Turtle Program Coordinator Kelly Sloan said.

SCCF staff received approval from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to successfully capture the sea turtle. A quick examination revealed no signs of external injury.

“Active and looking healthy, the green turtle was relocated to Tarpon Bay, where it was released into much more suitable habitat,” she said.

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that Oct. 1 marked the official start of nesting season for bald eagles in Florida, though the birds typically begin returning to their nests in late August or early September.

SCCF staff and a team of volunteers work together to monitor 10 nesting pairs on North Captiva, Captiva, Sanibel and just off-island. The SCCF coordinates with Audubon Florida’s EagleWatch program for data collection and entry. EagleWatch tracks active nest locations and possible disturbances or threats to nesting activities for about 40% of Florida’s nesting bald eagles.

D e s p i t e Hurricane Ian destroying every bald eagle nest last year that the SCCF monitors, nine of 10 pairs were able to rebuild their nests before the nesting season was over, and nine chicks were fledged.

“They’re already busy repairing and rebuilding their What the beginning of a bald nests this season, eagle nest looks like. and the one pair that did not opt to rebuild last year was recently spotted constructing a new nest structure,” SCCF shorebird biologist Audrey Albrecht said. “We’re hopeful that this pair and all the others will be successful this year.”

With Sanibel and Captiva still rebuilding from last

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

year’s devastation, Albrecht reported that a lot of questions have come up about what kind of construction can occur near eagle nests.

Although bald eagles are no longer a listed under the Endangered Species Act, they are still protected by state and federal laws, including the Florida Eagle Rule, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Construction activities should not take place within 660 feet of an active nest.

Homeowners and contractors can determine if their property is within the 660-foot buffer of an active bald eagle nest by viewing Audubon’s EagleWatch map with buffers at https://www.arcgis.com/apps/mapviewer/index.html?we bmap=9ddae7fb264946578353c362f6c84b8b.

For more information about obtaining permits for work around bald eagle nests, visit https://myfwc .com/license/wildlife/protected-wildlife-permits/eaglepermits/.

For questions regarding eagles, email eagles@sccf.org.

Sanibel students plant donated tree Sixth-graders at The Sanibel School recently commemorated the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Ian by planting a wild tamarind tree donated by the SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation’s Native Landscapes & Garden Center.

The SCCF reported that the tree grows to 40-60 feet, enjoys full sun to part shade and is considered one of the island's most resilient native species of trees.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

The first Herpeton Conference took place on Sept. 2326 at the Florida SouthWestern State College campus in Fort Myers. The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's Wildlife & Habitat Management department gave two presentations and Coastal Wildlife gave two oral presentations, as well as a poster presentation.

The keynote speaker was Charles LeBuff, who worked for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, was a founding member of the SCCF and started the sea turtle program on Sanibel in 1959.

The SCCF reported that Florida is known for its diversity of amphibians and reptiles, as well as the quantity of research on the species that are commonly referred to as “herps” for short. The term “herps” comes from the word

herpetology, which is the study of amphibians and reptiles which originates from the Latin “herpet n” or “creeping animal.”

Need for researchers to get together

FSW professor takes initiative There has been a large gap in the community since the last conference in Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation wildlife biologist Gainesville, according to the SCCF. FSW Mike Mills presented on “Population Demography, Spatial professor Jordan Donini took the initiative Ecology, and Habitat Use of the Florida Box Turtle (Terrapene to resurrect the tradition of a Florida-based bauri) on a Barrier Island.”

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's Coastal Wildlife Director Kelly Sloan presented on “Evaluating the Sub-lethal Effects of Red Tide Blooms and Brevotoxin Exposure on Nesting Sea Turtles.” conference, but in Southwest Florida. It featured field trips on the first two days, a banquet, and talks the third and fourth days. The sold-out conference will likely become an annual event.

SCCF staffers provided the following presentations: ∫ “Hurricane Effects on Insular Populations of Amphibians and Reptiles in Southwest Florida” with Lechowicz ∫ “Population Demography, Spatial Ecology, and Habitat Use of the Florida Box Turtle (Terrapene bauri) on a Barrier Island” with wildlife biologist Mike Mills ∫ “Evaluating the Sub-lethal Effects of Red Tide Blooms and Brevotoxin Exposure on Nesting Sea Turtles” with Coastal Wildlife Director Kelly Sloan ∫ “Then and Now: Comparing Reproductive Trends from the Longest-Running Sea Turtle Tagging Project in the Country” with biologist Savannah Weber ∫ “Vessel Strike Injuries in Sea Turtle Strandings along Sanibel and Captiva” with biologist Jack Brzoza

captivasanibel.com

“The decline in many species around the world, the increased knowledge about their importance in the environment as ecological health indicators, roles in the food chain and seed dispersal, as well as invasive species, has caused a sharp increase in both funding and need for research,” Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz said.

He added that conferences and symposiums related to the topic are important conduits that spread information and findings to other colleagues.

The Florida Herpetology Conference was a long-running event that took place annually in Gainesville from 1978 to 2020, when COVID brought it to a halt.

At the conference, parties from the academic, research, zoological parks, captivebreeding and hobbyist world would gather to hear presentations on all things herprelated, as well as socializing and sharing ideas.

The SCCF reported that although there were always some presentations on various projects around the world, the focus was on Florida herp research. It was especially popular among graduate students in Florida as a place to showcase their research to their peers.

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SCCF staff present at first Herpeton Conference

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Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 14

Island lIvIng

SPD releases Sanibel library offers weekly blotter range of 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.

captivasanibel.com

Other enforcement actions

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Report your news to caPTivaSaniBEL.cOM

∫ On Oct. 9, a homeowner notified officers of an approximately 6-foot alligator that had lost its fear of humans. Officers located the alligator in the water, directly next to the homeowner’s driveway.

The state trapper was notified and was able to successfully remove the alligator.

Enforcement operations statistics From Oct. 3-9: ∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 5 ∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 10 ∫ Traffic crashes: 2 ∫ Radar details: 55 ∫ Traffic stops: 33 — Citations issued: 13 — Written warnings issued: 0 — Verbal warnings issued: 20 ∫ Residential area checks: 573 ∫ Business area checks: 231 ∫ Total area checks: 1,201 ∫ Reported burglaries: 2 ∫ Reported thefts: 0 ∫ Total CAD calls: 1,416 October 2023 to date: ∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 9 ∫ Non-emergency calls: 12 ∫ Traffic crashes: 2 ∫ Radar details: 77 ∫ Traffic stops: 36 — Citations issued: 15 — Written warnings issued: 1 — Verbal warnings issued: 20 ∫ Residential area checks: 742 ∫ Business area checks: 300 ∫ Total area checks: 1,585 ∫ Reported burglaries: 2 ∫ Reported thefts: 0 ∫ Total CAD calls: 1,859

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 re-apply 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.

See BLOTTER, page 15

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

On Oct. 19, a Teen Study Session will take place from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Come to the library after school for study hall. Snacks will be provided and attendees will receive volunteer hours for participating.

Family Storytime for ages 5 and under will be held on Oct. 20 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, develop motor skills and increase creativity. The program will include an art/craft center. Youth programs are designed for children and accompanying adults.

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

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

The 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.

COMMUNITY HOUSING AND RESOURCES

CHR hosts Breakfast Club Community, Housing, and Resources recently hosted a Breakfast Club event, bringing residents and the community together for camaraderie, donuts and cof-

fee. Attendees were welcomed by CHR Housing Administrator Bonnie McCurry and Executive Administrative Assistant Savannah Miller-Berg.

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

Steel Drum Band to perform The school's Steel Drum Band will perform on Oct. 22 at the

NASCAR Cup Series 400 at the Homestead-Miami Speedway, at One Ralph Sanchez, Speedway Blvd., Homestead.

Discounted race tickets are available for $50, with $10 from each ticket going to the band.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://fevo.me/sanibel23.

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

Sanibel Public Meetings The following public meetings/hearings are scheduled: ∫ Oct. 19: Sanibel Planning Commission special meeting at 5:30 p.m. at BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop

Road, Sanibel, and via Facebook Live. For more information or the agenda, visit www.mysanibel.com. ∫ Oct. 24: Sanibel Planning Commission meeting at 9 a.m. at

BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, and via Facebook Live. For more information or the agenda, visit www.mysanibel.com.

Page 15 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

New oyster restoration site installed based organization Grow Oyster Reefs.

“Restoring oyster reefs requires only substrate at the correct elevation, and the larvae that are in the water will settle onto the shell or substrate and grow to an adult oyster,” Marine Lab Director Dr. Eric Milbrandt said. “The substrate in this project uses a unique combination of crushed oyster shell and cement.”

The tiles — which are 20 pounds each

— will be measured for their effectiveness to grow adult oysters, and the team will also look at seagrass growth around the tiles once oysters have settled. The project is being led by UF PhD student Adrian Sakr.

“Oyster reefs are in decline worldwide due to changing hydrology and habitat

destruction. In Charlotte Harbor, many of the oyster reefs visited by SCCF scientists are degraded,” Milbrandt said. “The Marine Lab has led efforts to restore oyster reefs initially in Clam Bayou on Sanibel, then expanded these efforts to restore four acres of oyster reefs since 2009.”

∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411. ∫ Web tips can be submitted at https://www.tip411.com/tips/new?alert

_group_id=22450. ∫ Use the free “Sanibel PD” app for your Android or iOS device.

The SPD's non-emergency line is

239-472-3111.

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

Blotter From page 14 Reporting suspicious activity Anonymous tips regarding crimes or suspicious activity can be submitted via Tip411:

captivasanibel.com

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Marine Laboratory and Coastal Watch recently partnered with researchers at the University of Florida to establish a new oyster restoration site in San Carlos Bay. The SCCF reported that staff, volunteers and UF scientists went to the site two weeks ago to place 250 specially designed oyster tiles, made by Virginia-

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Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 18 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

SPORTS

Report your news to captivaSanibeL.com

Rec center provides update on activities and events SANIBEL SEA SCHOOL

Local scouts complete badge at Sanibel Sea School The Sanibel Sea School recently welcomed Cape Coral Girl Scouts of all ages to complete a more complex badge, called “Think Like a Citizen Scientist.” For it, the youths conduct a research project and then complete a “Take Action” project, which uses their knowledge to better their community.

The scouts used a Marine Debris Tracker app to collect data on marine debris found on the east end of Sanibel. In just one hour, they collected over 664 items.

By far, the most common items were hard plastic fragments. The Sanibel Sea School reported that all data was submitted for scientific research to be used for policy changes. About 45 youths participated, from kindergarten to high school seniors.

“It was so much fun helping Girl Scouts complete their Think Like a Citizen Scientist badge and collectively contribute data. The girls were surprised by the amount of debris they found and were determined to get every last piece off the beach,” Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Youth Education Director Shannon Rivard said. “In the end, we emphasized the importance of solving this problem — cleanups are necessary and important, but the problem starts with our choices.

Rethinking plastic use and refusing single-use plastics are two important ‘Rs’ in addition to reduce, reuse and recycle.”

“The Girl Scouts were challenged to find five plastic items in their households, classrooms, schools or community groups they could stop using or replace with something more sustainable. At that, one commented on the fact that they should contact Girl Scouts and ask them to stop putting the badges in individually wrapped plastic bags,” she added. “Young conservationists were empowered by their experience to push for change — and that’s what it’s all about.”

The Sanibel Recreation Center reported on the following upcoming programming.

Pickleball In Pink, an indoor tournament, will be held on Oct. 21 starting at 9 a.m. to raise funds to fight breast cancer. All skill levels are welcome. Teams will be split into two skill levels, 3.0+ and 2.9-. It will feature a raffle sponsored

by TMPR to win gear, including a paddle. Light refreshments will be provided. The team entry fee is $20 for members or $25 for non-members. For the entry form, visit https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001baIbx1xvHZ83Vcwe2nmvt DLZGzu7gg_bSKhIIXABO9HZKjjbnKNc3ENhU2Zt0thcyBxJqa6jfzMh_p5bbE7rs6ikLP3dowzfyS g7_hiBcSzRvHq8QhmBungVT2Puc_vd7gahsyizKOocUV7x67cPIZCLUNknKPsx5l_mhTWtB xk9L-vsx6aYKSHclI2bqkQ0ykn-lYHuUZfRa2JDy4tMgTo4zTOlc5sEHvu9JgPk=&c=bvzl8 hWrDx_y7xrQXE7Rdknv9Yq3ymUda-xqgTzNRToFPmHhDh0sg==&ch=O3VZw9g1ThVfxhM8c OlEC74XjDqSU1fXodlMEIUS12nVRJg-SEG_gw==.

A Hunsader Farms Fall Festival Road Trip will take place on Oct. 21 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Spend a day among the hay and enjoy a variety of activities, including a pumpkin patch, corn maze, craft booths, live shows and

music, hayrides and more. Admission is $15 cash paid at the farm; other activities may require a cash fee. City van ride is $7 for members or $9 for non-members; reservations are required.

Local artist Sherry Diaz will host a Watercolor Painting Class on Oct. 23 from 10 a.m. to noon. Explore the classic painting style with an experienced professional. All supplies included. Registration is required.

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District will offer complimentary blood pressure screenings on Oct. 24 from 9 and 11 a.m. in the lobby. High blood pressure increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney disease and even blindness in some cases. The screenings are offered as a first step in determining if further examination by a health care professional is necessary.

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.

Volunteers sought for planting project Coastal Watch is signing up volunteers to plant native trees and shrubs on Oct. 25 from 8 to 10:30 a.m. at the Puschel Preserve on Sanibel. When fully restored, the front acreage of the preserve will feature a welcome plaza, pollinator garden, walking-biking trail, sculpture garden and demonstration marsh. For more information or to sign up, visit https://dash.pointapp.org/events/94442.

Girl Scout Silver Award The Sanibel School also reported that Izy and Noa Sedorchuk completed their Girl Scout Silver Award. It is the highest award a cadette can earn. It requires scouts to identify an issue in their community and work to improve it for years to come. The sisters decided to partner with the Sanibel Sea School to donate supplies destroyed by Hurricane Ian. They collected materials that needed replaced, including dip and seine nets, buckets, art supplies, storage containers and shells from the beach.

“These girls had a lot of fun working on their Silver Award. They have always loved their time at Sanibel Sea School and continuously talk about their experiences with a tremendous amount of enthusiasm, positivity and love. It was only fitting for them to choose their favorite place to learn about the ocean for their Silver Award project, especially after the losses suffered from Hurricane Ian,” parent and Troop Leader Michelle Sedorchuk said. “They hope their efforts continue to provide children a fun place to learn about the ocean.”

COASTAL WATCH

Coastal Watch organizes annual cleanup Coastal Watch hosted an island-wide beach cleanup on Sept.

16 as part of the Ocean Conservancy’s International Coastal Cleanup Day. It was followed by a light lunch provided by Bank of the Islands at the Bailey Homestead Preserve on Sanibel.

Coastal Watch reported that more than 130 volunteers participated, removing several hundred pounds of trash from the beach.

The cleanup ranged from the bayside of the Lighthouse Beach Park to Blind Pass. It thanked everyone who participated.

Homemade Ice Cream offering up cold treats.

“There will be music, Peter Redpath will be playing.

There'll be some vendors there showcasing their businesses,” Bondurant said. “We'll have a couple of surprises of some people who will be there.”

Attendees can also take part in a raffle giveaway and an auction for donated items. The raffle prizes include massages, jewelry, restaurant gift cards, a hand bag and more, while the auction will feature a spa day, half-day fishing charter, pickleball paddles and lessons, and other high-end items to bid on.

“We will be selling our T-shirts that everyone every year is very supportive of,” she said.

There will also be visors and hats available for a donation.

Reservations are required by Oct. 24 to attend.

To make a reservation or for more information, visit PinkOutPicnic.com.

Bondurant noted that to-go lunches can be reserved for those unable to stay and take part.

Marking its second year — again due to Ian — the Dink For Pink tourney will feature men's and women's on Oct. 28, followed by mixed on Oct. 29. Both days cover skills levels of 2.0 to 5.0.

“We're calling it a fun-raiser,” she said. “We want the community to come out and enjoy.”

Bondurant noted that Sundial is enthusiastic about the return of the event.

“For the tournament, we do give out awards for gold, silver and bronze levels for each division,” she said, notingthat the trophy is unusually fun. “We actually give out a jar of pickles with balls on it.”

Superior Title Services is sponsoring the snack items available to players on both days.

“We do very healthy snacks,” Bondurant said.

“Oranges, apples, grapes, to-go proteins.”

Attendees can bid on the same auction items from the Pink Out Picnic, with the winning bidders announced on the tourney's second day. T-shifts, visors and hats will again be available by donation.

The entry fee per person is $65 for club members or $75 for non-members.

All players will receive a goodie bag.

Registrations are required by Oct. 25.

To register or for more information, visit PinkOutDinkForPink.com.

As for the annual Pink Tea Party, event tickets were sold out as of last week. However, there is a waiting list.

Those interested in being added to the list can email pinkoutsanibel@gmail.com.

Bondurant thanked Cielo, Ron and Hope Hodges, Kingfisher Real Estate & Rentals, the LeAne Suarez Group, the Starr Family Team at John R. Wood, Sanibel’s Best Homemade Ice Cream, and Sundial.

“And most importantly, we want to thank Sanibel fire for their continued support of the picnic and the 100% support that they give us,” she said.

The community is encouraged to take part.

“Everybody's been touched with some kind of cancer.

Coming out to these events supports people in our community,” Bondurant said. “Over the years, with the research that has been done, breast cancer is survivable — and early detection is the key.”

For more information, visit PinkOutSanibel.com or @SanCapPinkProject on social media.

Fire Station 171 is at 2351 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel.

The Sundial Beach Resort & Spa is 1451 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel.

captivasanibel.com

Over the years, one single annual event grew into a month of activities.

Funds raised during Let's Pink Out benefit uninsured and underinsured individuals in the community who are in need of mammograms, as well as enable the San Cap Pink Project to assist with any other needs.

“Throughout the year what we do is reach out to people that we have heard are going through a cancer journey,” Bondurant said, explaining that they do more than cover mammograms for those in need.

“We send out gift baskets and care baskets, especially when they're going through chemotherapy,” she added.

“We help them with their cancer-related needs, like rides to appointments or prescriptions.”

The San Cap Pink Project also provides support by directing individuals to resources.

“We try to bring joy during a time when it's not so joyful,” Bondurant said.

This year, the annual Pink Out Picnic is set for Oct. 26 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District’s Station 171. A pickleball tournament, the annual Dink For Pink will be held on Oct. 28-29 at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel. The annual Pink Tea Party will take place on Nov. 7 at Cielo on Sanibel.

Marking its 11th year — because it could not be held last year due to Hurricane Ian — the Pink Out Picnic is open to the community. Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille is sponsoring the buffet lunch, serving up wraps, chips and more. All cancer survivors can enjoy it for free, with donations asked for others.

“We will be doing a sit-down picnic,” she said. “We'll have the traditional pink lemonade.”

Kay Casperson, owner of the Kay Casperson LifeStyle Spa & Boutique, will again hand out goodie bags to survivors in attendance, with Sanibel's Best

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Let’s Pink Out From page 1

Commission From page 1 basis, similar to the district's current counsel. It also would not end its relationship with Lewis, Longman & Walker.

“We choose which firm we want to engage with the legal matter at hand,” he said.

Also during the meeting, Assistant Fire Chief Chris Jackson gave an update on the Station 172 reconstruction project. He reported that he recently met with the architectural firm and took a 3-D walkthrough of the design. Some small changes are being considered to make it more efficient.

Barbot added that the district will eventually need three variance approvals from the Sanibel Planning Commission — for height, percentage of paved development and flag pole placement. Once those variances are approved, the project

can move to permitting, with the aim to go out to bid in December.

He continued that the hope is to break ground in late February.

“We're still on the right timeline,” Barbot said.

In other news ∫ The commission directed staff to proceed with publishing a request for proposal for a brush truck. ∫ Barbot reported that the district was awarded $8 million from the state through the Hurricane Recovery Program. It applied for the revenue loss and station rebuild due to Hurricane Ian. ∫ Assistant Fire Chief Chris Jackson reported that work has begun on the Performance Review mandated by the state. The information requested for the

report will go back as far as 2018.

“Conservatively, we're about 20% done with gathering the information they need,” he said. ∫ The district has responded to 715 calls this year, compared to 1,336 for the same period for 2022.

“We're still down about 54%,” Deputy Fire Chief John DiMaria said. ∫ Division Chief of Fire Prevention Larry Williams reported that he had conducted 720 fire plan reviews for the year as of the meeting. ∫ The following personnel were recognized for their years of service: firefighter Adam Felix for four years; firefighter Joe Nygaard for 22 years; Lt. John Reitenbach for 20 years; and firefighter Craig Shelby for six years.

Storm damage update From page 1 tively implementing additional processes to piggyback contracts to help mitigate foreseeable issues to keep them on track of completing projects.

The presentation broke down the closed project percentages, in progress and open projects within seven categories — athletics and fields, electrical, exterior, HVAC, interior, portables and roof.

Athletics and fields: ∫ 62% closed ∫ 22% in progress ∫ 16% open projects

Electrical: ∫ 81% closed ∫ 6% in progress ∫ 13% open projects Exterior: ∫ 76% closed ∫ 10% in progress ∫ 14% open projects HVAC: ∫ 79% closed ∫ 15% in progress ∫ 6% open projects Interior: ∫ 87% closed

∫ 6% in progress ∫ 7% open projects Portables: ∫ 58% closed ∫ 27% in progress ∫ 15% open projects Roof: ∫ 57% closed ∫ 16% in progress ∫ 27 percent open projects The percentage of open projects are in the pre-construction phase, or preliminary work is being accomplished. Supply

issues are still a factor and, depending on the material needed the estimated time of arrival, is anywhere from six to 24 weeks, Dent-McNair said.

“Roofing projects are the priority and last major trade to restore campuses that are ongoing throughout the district,” she said of the goal targeting the end of December for the major of roof repairs to be done. “Some reroofs, due to some issues with material purchase that will linger into early part of 2024.”

Report your news to THE REPORTER:

captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

He noted that four years ago, the build would have cost half of that.

“It's astronomical,” Barbot said, adding that the district has no option but to rebuild the fire station.

He continued that the plan is to submit an appropriations request to the state for funding, which requires legislative work and two sponsors for the project. Barbot reached out to Rep. Adam Botana and Sen. Jonathan Martin and both have agreed to sponsor it, but a representative is still needed.

Also at the meeting, the commission voted 3-0 to engage with the same firm — Manson Bolves Donaldson Tanner — for legal and general counsel. The firm's rate will be at $275 per hour.

Prior to the vote, Barbot reported that the firm would be used on an as needed

Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 20 captivasanibel.com

Partnership to put more teachers in Lee schools

Island Reporter

School district committee bringing sales tax information to the public

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

The Independent Sales Surtax Oversight Committee has begun taking information out to the community on what it does and how the half cent penny sales tax is being used in the School District of Lee County.

The first presentation was brought before tTe Foundation of Lee County Public Schools last month with more than 50 in attendance.

“It was a complete and fun presentation, and a lot of information was shared and well-received,” Independent Sales Surtax Oversight Committee Liaison Susan Malay said.

The district provides a Change for Change summary for each school, highlighting the committee proj-

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

The Lee County School Board approved a contract with University Instructors to bring 25 full-time certified teachers into the classroom to fill a portion of the vacancies the School District of Lee County is experiencing.

“The national teacher shortage has required the School District of Lee County to take unprecedented action to find and hire new teachers,” Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier said at the Oct. 3 meeting. “We have increased our recruitment to a year-round commitment. We are going to where teachers are instead of waiting for them to come to us. That’s not just physically, but that is through electronic means as well.

Our HR team is continuing to work hard to grow our own teachers through our high school academies and our principals are working on academies and scholarships that could potentially lead to

ects completed by the half cent penny sales tax funds.

She said the Change for Change Program campaign was launched in 2017 with a goal to collect sales tax and reinvest it in new or aging schools. The voters authorized four categories for expenditures — construction and major renovation, safety and security, technology, and maintenance.

The district has eight schools that are between the ages of 40 to 49 years old, seven schools between 50 to 59 years old, and 21 schools that are more than 60 years old. Malay said there were depleted revenues or taxes coming in for funding for repairs and maintenance of the buildings.

“The sales tax funds for fiscal year '24 is about $383.3 million,” she said.

After the voters passed the referendum for the half cent penny sales tax in the fall of 2018, the committee was formed with the first meeting held in 2019 and every quarter since then. The committee continues to vote that the district’s expenditures are consistent

employment.”

The school board approved another new step to try to bring more teachers to the district through a piggyback with the Broward County Public Schools for High Dosage Personalized Tutoring Services, which includes University Instructors, of Boston, Massachusetts.

“It is my recommendation that we enter into an agreement with University Instruction to provide 25 schoolteachers for the school year. They will be assigned to two elementary schools, two middle schools and a high school. University Instructors employ temporary teachers similar to the concept of traveling nurses to help with the national shortage of nurses,” Bernier said.

He said temporary teachers are not the long-term solution but are short-term help.

The teachers will go to the most at-risk schools with hard-to-fill openings at G Weaver Hipps Elementary School, Fort

with the plan and approved project list.

According to the district’s Change for Change website, there has been a total spent of $92,593,169.26 for planned projects, $92,601,936.69 for maintenance projects, $51,066.528.31 for safety projects and $82,119,486.83 for technology projects.

One of the planned projects is for the Cape Coral Technical College expansion, which includes an estimated amount of $2,435,397.98 with $80,926.20 spent so far.

The maintenance projects include such items as PE and playground improvements with a total spent so far of $959,528.71, roof replacement with a total spent so far of $16,141,126.41 and school equipment with a total spent so far of $901,844.62.

Safety and security included the purchase of OPENGATE weapons detection system, which has been installed in about half of the schools in the district. The system had a price tag of $3.2 million.

Myers Middle School, River Hall Elementary School, East Lee County High School and Oak Hammock Middle School.

“The amount budgeted for this contract is $2.9 million, which includes the negotiated 10% discount that we negotiated.

However, we will not spend the entire amount. Again, it was a budgetary estimate based on the cost of the teachers working an entire school year. We currently know these teachers will join us after the start of the second quarter, so there will be cost savings on top of that initial number in the budget,” Bernier said.

He said it was important to note that this is not additional money being spent, as the money on the contract would have been spent anyway to hire teachers for the open positions.

“Yes, they do cost more than the people we hire to fill spots, but we do not have teachers for these classrooms and our students deserve a full-time certified

educator to lead their instruction and the other members of the staff deserve the opportunity not to have to cover a classroom uncovered by a guest teacher,” Bernier said.

He said currently the teachers are paid more than the district’s teachers — $28 an hour for district teachers, which bumps up to $33.21 an hour including benefits, and $45 an hour for University Instructor teachers.

“They will remain employees of the company until the end of the school year.

We will then have the opportunity to offer them a full-time job. It is our belief that we can convince them to stay once we create connections, and they settle into the wonderful community that is Southwest Florida. Plus, at that time we can offer them the healthcare and retirement benefits their current employer does not provide,” Bernier said.

The district has hired 617 instructional staff members for this school year.

District announces school hurricane days

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

Students will now have two full days, rather than two half days, of school to accommodate the days missed due to Hurricane Idalia and will go to school for a half day before Winter Break begins in December.

The School District of Lee County closed schools on Aug. 29-30 in abundance of caution as Southwest Florida felt the outer bands of Hurricane Idalia.

“We are required by Florida law to have a certain amount of hours of instruction in each semester. We felt the best way to meet that legal requirement and still finish the semester before Winter Break was to extend the early dismissal days already in place and use the previously approved hurricane make-up day on Dec. 22 as an early dismissal day,” district spokesperson Rob Spicker said.

Those make-up days include: ∫ Oct. 25: Now a full day ∫ Dec. 2: Now a full day ∫ Dec. 22: Now an early dismissal day for students and a workday for all staff rather than a day off The calendar can be viewed at leeschools.net/calendars.

School district to hold recruitment events The School District of Lee County will host two recruitment events for the 2023-24 school year — a Social Lee: Careers and Conversations event and a recruitment fair.

Social Lee: Careers and Conversations will take place today, Oct. 18, from 4 to 6 p.m. at West End at City Walk, at 2250 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. The informational event will allow atten-

dees to connect with the recruitment team, learn about open positions and walk through the process of becoming certified to teach. Select candidates may be offered an interview for potential employment.

Held in partnership with CareerSource, the recruitment fair will take place on Oct. 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at CareerSource, at 6800 Shoppes at Plantation Drive, Suite 170, in Fort Myers. Hiring

managers will interview and hire teachers, school counselors and instructional support professionals.

High-demand positions include English, elementary education, science, math and special education, as well as non-instructional positions.

For more information or to register, visit LeeSchools.net/Careers.

For support or questions, contact careers@leeschools.net or call 239337-8676.

Keep Sanibel beautiful...Please recycle!

WEEK OF OCTOBER 18, 2023

REFUGE/DDWS

Refuge, DDWS to host inaugural Art in the Wild Page 22

On Oct. 22 at Art in the Wild, more than 20 regional pleinair artists will participate in the first-ever Paint Out at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel.

aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday

Shell Shocked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Island Worship . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Island Beat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 In the Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Recipe of the Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Santiva Islanders Calendar . . . . . . . . . 26 CROW Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Faces on Faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 The Community House Calendar . . . . 26

Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 22 captivasanibel.com Sanibel-Captiva Islander

Inaugural Art in the Wild to feature artist workshops and demos at refuge Eleven artists will demonstrate their skills, eight others will lead workshops and hands-on art stations, five duck stamp celebrities will present and sign, and an estimated 20-plus plein-air artists will paint at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel during Art in the Wild on Oct. 21-22.

In celebration of National Wildlife Refuge Week and Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling's 146th birthday, the refuge and “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge will introduce the inaugural, all-free event, which was originally scheduled for October 2022 but canceled due to Hurricane Ian. Art activities will honor 2023-24 Duck Stamp artists and the legacy of refuge namesake Darling, a Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist and artist of the early 20th century.

“This will become an annual fall tradition to celebrate 'Ding' Darling's art legacy and role in creating the first duck stamp and Federal Duck Stamp Program, which has continued for nearly 90 years and preserved six million acres of sensitive wetlands and wildlife habitat,” Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland said. “The event offers something for everyone, all free of charge.”

The Hautman brothers, of Minnesota — multiple Federal Duck Stamp Contest winners — will make appearances. A special exhibition of their nature art will also be on display in the refuge's Visitor & Education Center auditorium during the month. Also appearing will be 2023-24 Junior Duck Stamp winner Mila Linyue Ton, of Virginia, and Florida's best-of-show placer Jenny Liu, of

A CVS love sonnet I got the CVS blues Can’t stay away from it Sometimes I got no clues But if I stray I get a fit

Federal Duck Stamp Contest winners and brothers Jim, Joe and Bob Hautman will make appearances during Art in the Wild on Oct. 21 at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel.

HAUTMAN BROTHERS

Port Orange.

Other artists will demonstrate their skills on Oct. 21 from noon to 4 p.m. They will include world-renowned bird sculptor Jim Sprankle, pottery artist and educator Tim Smith and Andrew Corke, who used recycled bike tires to sculpt the refuge's manatees at its Best Restroom exhibit.

Other demonstrators include pen-and-ink artist Jaye Boswell, painter Lacy McClare, fish-fly tyer Stan Bunick, origami artist Cabe Rieck, stained glass artist Deborah Kramer, polymer clay artisan Christine Keyworth and bird carver Ken Yacavone.

Sanibel artist Rachel Pierce will conduct a workshop, “Paint on a Queen Palm,” and former Junior Duck Stamp winner John Brennan will teach hands-on how to paint ducks. Refuge Artist-in-Residence Jacqui Roch will lead a Community Mural project in the afternoon. Other handson art activities will include painting wine glasses, a nature

journal hike, painting seashells, making recycled jewelry and decorating tea towels. Some activities limit participation; visit DingDarling.Eventbrite.com to register.

On Oct. 22, the refuge expects more than 20 regional plein-air artists to participate in its first-ever Paint Out. Attendees can observe the painters along Wildlife Drive and at the Bailey Tract, then later place their vote for the People’s Choice Award. Admission to Wildlife Drive is free both days.

Other activities will include live music, yoga instruction, a nature puppet show, a Federal Duck Stamp art exhibition, and awards to winners of youth art contests and the amateur nature photography contest.

For the full schedule or more information, visit dingartinthewild.com.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact April Boehnen at aprilb@dingdarlingsociety.org.

In there every day For this or for that And come what may For a CVS vaccine I sat One day it’s the Covid shot The next day it’s the flu My meds are like a blot My age can’t be true But indeed I’m older My blood pressure knows that Can I be any bolder?

If I want to be nimble as a cat

Art Stevens

Shell Shocked

Hello CVS, is my script ready?

Waiting on the phone a must Keep my hands steady Or review my living trust I got the CVS blues Keeping track of my meds If I don’t want anything to ooze Or live in hospital beds I love CVS And CVS loves me To this I must confess If no CVS, I couldn’t pee Art Stevens is a long-time columnist for the SanibelCaptiva Islander. His tongue-in-cheek humor is always offered with a smile.

REFUGE/DDWS

On Oct. 21-22 at Art in the Wild, a Federal Duck Stamp art exhibition will be on display in the Visitor & Education Center at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel.

Monthly movie night planned

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

COMMUNITY HOUSING AND RESOURCES

Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church will host a movie and popcorn night today, Oct. 18, at 6 p.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. This month's film will be “The Long Walk Home” (1990). A brief discussion will follow. All are welcome; enter off of Dunlop Road. For more information, visit https://www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/.

captivasanibel.com

Community Housing and Resources will host the Give Your Heart To CHR Gallery Gala on Feb. 3 at The Community House on Sanibel, where more than a dozen heart sculptures will be up for auction.

HEART ART is the latest in the CHR's projects that have delighted the public for the past several years. Each one about 4 feet high and 3 1/2 feet wide, 16 pieces were designed by local artists and will be on display in public spaces throughout the area in a fundraising effort to support affordable island housing.

The sculptures will be available for viewing from midNovember until February.

“We're excited to host this fundraiser to drive our affordable housing work, while honoring the thing that makes our communities special: our collective heart to make a difference,” CHR Executive Director Nicole McHale said.

The following “HEARTISTS” donated their time and talent for HEART ART: JP Almonacid, Ginny Dickinson, Whitney Hackett, Anna Hicks, Kristina Jackson, Mary Klunk, Cheryl Logan, Taryn Manning, Rena Martinson, Kym Mason, Lacy McClary, Rachel Pierce, Eric Riemenschneider, Erica Sharp, Arlene Stigum and Toni Westland.

Mason's “Birds of a Feather” piece celebrates the spirit and perseverance of the community.

“I love the islands and have lent my time and talents to many local charities and community causes during my years here,” she said. “The beauty (of) Sanibel and Captiva have been my muse for years. Now the community spirit and perseverance of the people of Sanibel and Captiva are my inspiration.”

For more information or gala tickets, visit sancapchr.org.

Page 23 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023

CHR to kick off HEART ART project as fundraiser

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F.I.S.H. to provide holiday meal baskets F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva is gearing up for its annual Holiday Basket Program.

It will put together 160 baskets for its Thanksgiving Food Drive, which will benefit those who live or work on Sanibel or Captiva. The basket will consist of a portion of fresh produce and nonperishable goods, as well as a gift card for a choice of fresh protein.

F.I.S.H. is in need of the following: rice, canned corn, canned green beach, canned or packaged beans like black and pinto, canned protein like tuna and chicken, canned or jarred gravy, cranberry

sauce, stuffing and canned fruit. Any other nonperishables will be accepted and added to its food pantry.

Donations can be dropped of: ∫ Now through Nov. 15: F.I.S.H. Food Panty, 2430 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel ∫ Now through Oct. 31: Sanibel Captiva Community Bank ∫ Nov. 1-15: Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille If you know someone in need of a holiday basket, contact 239-472-4775 or merari@fishofsancap.

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

captivasanibel.com

Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 24

ISLAND HOME

islander

Sanibel Captiva

TOWER GALLERY

Sanibel gallery to host annual sale Banana plant

PHOTO PROVIDED

Banana plants can be tropical addition to landscape What could be more tropical than growing your own bananas? In our subtropical paradise, growing the luscious fruit is generally easy.

There are two species of banana, Musa acuminata and Musa balbisiana, and most banana cultivars are hybrids of them. The many cultivars produce fruit in a wide array of taste, size and quality.

The plants also vary in size, shape and color of foliage. Banana plants are fast growing, consisting of multiple trunks or pseudostems that support the leaves, flower and fruit stalks. Underneath the ground is a rhizome or underground stem that has numerous growing points. This is where the next pseudostem will come from, as well as the fibrous roots that support the plants.

Hundreds of roots will be produced and, if planted in well-drained fertile soil, the roots can reach 15 feet laterally. When one stem flowers and produces fruit, once that fruit reaches maturity, the stem will decline and another stem will grow up nearby. One banana stalk can produce a clump of many stalks, all producing fruit over time, in the right conditions.

See BANANA PLANTS, page 28

The Tower Gallery will hold its 17th Annual Art From The Attic Sale on Oct. 20-22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be tables and tents of artwork from 20-plus painters, fiber artists, ceramic and wood artists, jewelers and more. Once a year, the artists' co-operative cleans out its studios to make room for the new work for the upcoming season and to give back to the

community. Attendees will be able to browse through and purchase work from the award-winning artists — at discounted prices. The sale is also a chance to meet the artists and learn about their work. For more information, call 239-579-0659 or visit www.towergallery.net. The Tower Gallery is at 751 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel.

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. The final session will take place on Oct. 24 at 6:30 p.m. Church Director of

Digital Communications & Christian Formation Sue Van Oss will guide you in learning how to spot and avoid scams of all kinds. There will be time for questions. To participate, visit https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8373518

5082; 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.saintmichaelssanibel.org/.

Nature calendar donates to Turtle Time Jim Fowler, publisher of The Sanibel-Captiva Nature Calendar, recently donated $500 to Turtle Time on Fort Myers Beach. It marked the 35th annual donation to a conservation organization.

Since first publishing in 1988, it has become a tradition each fall to donate a portion of the calendar proceeds to one organization listed inside the rear cover. To date, about $28,189 has been donated.

Turtle Time was selected because of its continuing efforts in supporting the survival of marine turtles.

Fowler stated, “Turtle Time volunteers work hard during the nesting season to monitor and protect turtles and their hatchlings. They patrol all of Fort Myers Beach, Bunche Beach, Big Hickory Island and Bonita Beach. Their website provides extensive information about sea turtles and how you can help protect them and their beach habitat. They are a crucial player in sea turtle preservation in THE SANIBEL-CAPTIVA NATURE Southwest Florida.”

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI Tender chicken scaloppini gets a flavor boost from tangy limoncello-caper sauce. Served with artichokes and roasted red pepper, this recipe is everyone’s favorite.

Serves eight. (Chef tip: Look for pump chicken breasts that are hormone and antibiotic free.)

Loretta Paganini

CROW Calendar ∫ Wednesday, Oct. 25 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

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 239-472-3644 ext. 229 or reservations@crowclinic.org.

For more information, visit http://www.crowclinic.org/ or call 239-4723644.

Night of Broken Glass Nov. 9, 1938. The Westminster Synagogue in Night of Broken Glass. The London England, where beginning of the full they were preserved by removal of the Jewish peowhat has come to be ple from German life. The known as the Czech beginning of the destrucMemorial Scroll Trust and, tion of European Jewry. subsequently, offered to The event sent ripples of active Jewish communities fear throughout European all over the world.

Jewish communities The Bat Yam Temple of including Czechoslovakia, the Islands obtained our which had recently been Holocaust scroll in the absorbed into the expandearly 1990s. The scroll ing German Reich. In comes, in all likelihood, Rabbi Sunny 1942, the leaders of the from the Traplova St. Schnitzer Czechoslovakian Jewish Synagogue, also known as community gathered preSynagogue Maior, in the cious ritual objects from all Bohemian town of over the region to the Boskovice. At its peak, Jewish Museum in Prague. one-third of the population In this way, they hoped that of the town was Jewish. the holy scrolls of the Hebrew Bible — Boskovice is a small medieval town with the Torah — also known as the Old a restored Jewish ghetto dating to the Testament, might survive. After World early 16th century. Today one can visit War II, they were transferred into the the restored Traplova St. Synagogue, with ruined Michle Synagogue, where they frescoes on the walls and ceilings containremained until 1964 when the Czech ing the words of the Jewish liturgy and Communist government sold them to the mystical incantations. There are restored

Faces on Faith

∫ Bat Yam Temple of the Islands 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel (Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ), https://www.batyam.org/, https://www.facebook.com/batyamsanibel/ Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer Sabbath service on Friday at 7 p.m. and via Zoom. For Zoom links, email batyamsanibel@gmail.com. ∫ Captiva Chapel by the Sea 11580 Chapin Lane, Captiva, 239-472-1646, https://www.captivachapel.com/, www.facebook.com/Captiva-Chapel-By-The-Sea Rev. Dr. Doug Dortch Services will return for season in November. Videos of services from the past season can be found on the chapel's website and Facebook page. ∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida 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. in Fellowship Hall. ∫ 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. houses, including one with a rabbi’s study. There is even a mikvah, a Jewish ritual bath, across the street.

Bat Yam’s Holocaust Torah was believed to have found its final resting stop with our island community. Then Hurricane Ian happened. Acting quickly in the hours before the storm, a group of Bat Yam members placed Bat Yam’s Torahs (Torot) into a waterproof vault located at Congress Jewelers. After the storm had passed and the devastation to the island was known, NBC's “Nightly News with Lester Holt” covered the story of the Congress’s return to the island by boat to find the scrolls, still dry and intact.

This week, Bat Yam returned to its island

home and the Torah returned home, its journey complete.

Or so we thought. The Torah will make another journey on Nov. 5 to St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church in Naples to bear witness to the indomitable spirit of the Jewish people at an interfaith gathering commemorates the 85th anniversary of Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass.

With recent events in Israel on everyone's mind, this year's anniversary observance has even greater meaning. Am Yisrael Chai — The People of Israel Live.

Report your news to THE ISLANDER: captivasanibel.com

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. 18 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. 19 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. 20 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW.

Island Worship

captivasanibel.com

1 pound boneless skinless chicken, cut and pounded into scaloppini 1/2 cup seasoned flour for coating* 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for frying 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, for frying 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon sea salt 2 cloves garlic, chopped 1 small onion, chopped 1 red bell peppers, roasted, peeled and julienned 2 cups artichoke hearts, chopped 1 teaspoon capers 2 cups heavy whipping cream Zest of one lemon 1/2 cup limoncello 2-3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped

Season the chicken breast with salt and pepper, lightly coat with seasoned flour, and shake off excess. Heat the frying pan to medium high; add the olive oil to just past coating the bottom of the pan, along with one tablespoon of butter. Once the butter melts, add the chicken and brown on both sides. Remove chicken.

Add additional olive oil if pan is dry and saute capers, artichoke hearts, peppers, garlic and onion. Add the limoncello. When the pan is almost dry, add the heavy cream and lemon zest and bring to a boil. Add the chicken back to the pan, reduce the heat and cook until the liquid is reduced by half.

Remove the chicken to the plate and turn off the burner. Add two or three tablespoons of butter to finish the sauce. Add the parsley and spoon the sauce over the chicken. *Seasoned flour is 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.

Page 25 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Recipe of the Week: Chicken Piccata with Artichokes and Red Peppers in Creamy Limoncello Sauce

Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 26 captivasanibel.com

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.

Santiva Islanders

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

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

Coffee Bistro

Shellcrafters

Coffee Bistro will be held on Oct. 19 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 Shellcrafters will meet on Oct. 23 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the lobby. A shell crafting class will take place at 10 a.m.; it is free and supplies range from $510. Items will be available for sale. All sales benefit the operations of The Community House.

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio and Strength on Oct. 19 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. 19 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, contact 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. 19 from 1 to 2 p.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 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.

Lobby Libations Happy Hour at MudBugs will be held on Oct. 23 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.

TUESDAY

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

TRIVIA 7 to 9 p.m.

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

Happy Hour at MudBugs

MONDAY

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

Cardio and Strength Sanibel-Captiva Islander

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

KARAOKE 8 to 10 p.m.

SUNDAY

Lobby Libations will take place on Oct. 25 from 4 to 7 p.m. There will be beer and wine for $5, soda for $2 and water for $1, along with nibbles available.

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.

Coffee Bistro Coffee Bistro will be held on Oct. 24 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.

Cardio and Strength Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio and Strength on Oct. 24 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.

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.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

The Watch Party raises $75,000 The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation raised approximately $75,000 at The Watch Party on Sept. 29 at the Bailey Homestead Preserve on Sanibel.

Proceeds of the event will benefit Coastal

Watch. Raised through ticket sales, sponsorships and event offerings, the funding will support a new truck, supplies and other equipment used in habitat restoration and environmental cleanup.

Page 27 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 captivasanibel.com

Santiva Islanders hold Trivia Night On Sept. 27 — the eve of the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Ian — the Santiva Islanders celebrated their resiliency with a Trivia Night at Rosalita's Cantina on Sanibel.

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

SANTIVA ISLANDERS

Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 28 captivasanibel.com Sanibel-Captiva Islander

HOLLY SMITH

Saint Michael's holds anniversary service

Call for T-shirt design submissions The Sanibel-Captiva Shell Club is holding a T-shirt Design Contest for its annual Sanibel Shell Show, which will take place on March 8-9 at the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort in Fort Myers.

The design must: include the words “Sanibel Shell Show” and “2024”; be original artwork; and use three to five

colors. The chosen artwork must be ready for print — “camera ready.” The winner will receive a $100 stipend and T-shirt. The deadline for entries is Oct. 30. Email entires to t-shirts@sanibelshellclub.com. For more information, visit http://sanibelshellclub.com.

Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church hosted the “Community Service of Hope” on Sept. 28 at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's on Sanibel to commemorate the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Ian. There was a moment of silence for those people who died and gratitude expressed to all who have helped over past year. The ecumenical service included a prayer by Sanibel Christian Science Church reader Mary Miller, Psalm 46 by Bat Yam Temple of the Islands Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer and a song by Saint Michael Assisting Priest the Rev. Suzy Post. Saint Michael the Rev. Van Oss, Sanibel City Bill

Councilmember and previous Mayor Holly Smith, Mayor Richard Johnson and SanCap Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai offered reflections. It concluded with a video of images of hope over the past year accompanied by “Hearts Overflowing,” by pianist Erik Entwistle. Attendees were invited to write a sign of hope that they had seen on a paper leaf and add it to a tree on the wall.

The tree will remain up for several weeks and anyone is invited to add a leaf. To watch a video of the service, visit www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/hope-rising.

Symptoms of salt damage include yellowing and death of the leaf margins and thin deformed fruit. Mounding up the soil in the planting area is preferable if that area tends to hold any water, as the roots will need to be well above the saturation point in well-drained soil. Adding some natural compost will also help provide needed organic matter in the planting area.

Keep these conditions in mind when

selecting a place in your landscape for the banana and reap the benefits of having your own bananas for breakfast.

Banana plants From page 24 In the landscape, banana plants add a lush tropical look with their large leaves.

They look good as a screening plant or to add some shade in sunny areas. Add a decorative touch to your dinner table by cutting a leaf or two to use as a table runner when serving your catch of the day.

The timeframe from planting a small banana sucker and harvesting your own fruit can range from nine to 20 months,

depending upon temperatures, cultivars and growing conditions. Bananas like it hot and sunny. They do their best work at temperatures between 78 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit. While the plants may be tolerant of some shade, shady conditions will inhibit fruit production.

Although banana plants are one of the quintessential tropical plants, they do not grow or fruit well in saline soils.

Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning Probates & Estates Member of The Real Property, Probate & Trust Law Section of The Florida Bar, Lee County Bar Association.

AV Rated by Martindale-Hubble BBB Accredited Business Rated A+

34 Years Experience

(239) 472-3322 The Treetops Center 1101 Periwinkle Way, Suite 104 Sanibel, FL 33957 jms@sanibellaw.net

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

Page 29 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 captivasanibel.com

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 30 captivasanibel.com Sanibel-Captiva Islander

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

From left, Grampy's Charities founders Jim and Jonatha Castle with 30th Annual Tennis Tournament Director Toni Halski, Chair Lisa Cochrane and founder Luc Century.

SCCF presents tourney sponsors The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation announced that Grampy's Charities is the presenting sponsor and Barbara Chappell is a major sponsor for its 30th Annual Tennis Tournament on Nov. 11-12 at the Beachview Tennis Club, at 1101 Par View Drive, Sanibel. It will feature men's, women's and mixed doubles 3.0, 3.5 & 4.0. Cost per player is $100 per day or $150 for both days.

Players will receive T-shirts, breakfast and lunch, with Luc Century etched wine glasses awarded to the winners and runners-up. Entries and payment must be received by Nov. 4. To register, call tourney Director Toni Halski at 239-4729099. For sponsorship information, con-

SANIBEL CAPTIVA BUSINESS WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION

SCBWA raises over $16,000 at fundraiser The Sanibel Captiva Business Women's Association raised more than $16,000 at its annual scholarship fundraiser on Sept. 22 at Cielo on Sanibel.

The proceeds will support scholarship and From left, Barbara Chappell with continuing education opportunities. The 30th Annual Tennis Tournament SCBWA thanked Art Ranger Toni, Chair Lisa Cochrane.

Bubbly Latitude, Cielo, Congress tact Cheryl Giattini at 239-822-6121 or Jewelers, Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille, Lisa Cochrane at 239-246-8875.

Island Therapy Center, Rachel Pierce Art

Gallery and 'Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa for donating items for the silent auction and swag bags. It also thanked Colleen Zurcher-McGauran for underwriting the event. To donate to the Scholarship Fund, visit https://checkout.square.site/merchant/ML 4XW4ERQ23M2/checkout/MFB5VKD T5KVAPXSN4WMC5WMK.

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Residential ¯ Commercial New Construction Remodels ¯ Repairs Room Additions

*Additions *Remodels *Renovations

Tree Service

Screening

Page 31 ■ Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Home Watching

Contractors

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

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Week of Wednesday, October 18, 2023 ■ Page 32