Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

CROW announces island event canceled

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife reported that this year would have marked the 41st year for its Taste of the Islands fundraiser. In a brand new format, it would have been Sanibel and Captiva’s first official restau rant week, where diners could experience everything the islands have to offer food, recreational activities, businesses, and breathtaking resorts Hurricane Ian changed those plans

With events scheduled from Nov 12 19, CROW planned to feature trolleys on both Saturdays so patrons could enjoy Taste features across the islands

“Our goal was to bring the 'fun' people reminisced about from past events on the field back to the Taste event,” Director of Development and Advancement Aimee White said “We are deeply saddened by the collective loss on the island and can only hope we are able to return to Taste in 2023 ”

Amongst the islands' destruction, rem nants of the long running Taste of the Islands still remain Last year’s first time Taste of the Taste winner Sanibel Fresh owner Troy Thompson found pieces of the most honored trophy in the damaged

CROW, page 10

Last year ’s first-time Taste of the Taste winner Sanibel Fresh owner Troy Thompson found pieces of the most honored trophy in the

Ian CLINIC FOR THE REHABILITATION OF WILDLIFE

Sanibel school deemed structurally sound

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers

T h e S a n

received some great news last week their school does not have to be torn down, due to recently passing the engi neering test of being structurally sound

S c h o o

Superintendent Dr Christopher Bernier said the island school is being cleaned and dried out

“The building itself is sound Instead of Sanibel being a rebuild, it will be a reno vation We will not have to tear it down,” he said

Principal Jamie Reid said she met with Bernier and his cabinet, as well as the par ent liaison group, on Oct 26 The main concerns are with the electrical systems, due to the surge going into the buildings

“They are going through each electrical grid,” she said.

The elementary section of the school,

which is lower in elevation, suffered a lot more damage and had 3 feet to 4 feet of flooding

“Every classroom is gutted,” Reid said of crews having to go through each room and remove drywall and carpeting

The middle school section, which includes the offices, fared better as the newer middle school classrooms are 4 feet higher

“Right now they are drying out the sec tion,” she said.

Teachers' personal items have been boxed up and are currently sitting on the stage in the cafeteria The boxes will be sent to San Carlos Elementary School in Fort Myers, where The Sanibel School is sharing the campus

“My staff was really happy about that,” Reid said

Although officials do not have a time line of when students will return to the Sanibel campus, the hope is before the end of the school year. Many of the class rooms are now doubled up at San Carlos Elementary, as the island school began with nine classrooms before being given four more

“We don't have all of our supplies, textbooks and reading books They (teach ers) are trying to get by with limited resources,” Reid said

City provides updates on recovery effort

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The city of Sanibel reported that the Sanibel Causeway will be open daily for all pass holders

During the cit Facebook Live

Souza explained that access to

would be open to idents, businesses, private contractors and property owners, versus only essential response personnel as was previously dis cussed as part of a schedule

He continued that the city would re access the traffic situation on a weekly basis, and if it finds the need to limit access on certain days to expedite cleanup and debris removal on the island, then it will

Souza added that the city may close certain streets rather than the causeway to allow for work

He also reported that the normal speed limits of 30 35 mph on Sanibel have resumed Motorists should still yield to workers, bicyclists and pedestrians in the road; passing is not recommended at this time

In addition, the city had released the following updates as of Oct 26:

procedures

School district: Estimated $150 million in hurricane damage

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

On Oct 24, School District of Lee County staff put the estimated loss from Hurricane Ian at $150 million a very preliminary number

“This probably will change It’s a very early prelimi nary estimate from our insurance company We still have lots more work going on,” Chief Finance Officer Dr Amy Desamours told the Lee County School Board The damage estimate has to be submitted by Nov 1 She said there has been $11,831,824 in purchase orders created as of Oct 23 for remediation and short term recovery to open schools again for students and staff

The total documented losses to date include at least five schools with significant damage and at least 19 schools that are being evaluated for a permanent repair scope and cost estimates

Desamours said although they will see reimburse ments in both property and flood insurance, it may not cover the entire cost, and it will not be seen in the near future In addition, they may also receive reimbursement from FEMA and potential reimbursement from Lee County for shelter costs

A comparison was provided at the Oct. 25 school board meeting of the impact Hurricane Irma had on the district Those documented losses were $31 million The t o t a l r e c o v e r y w a s $ 2 1 , 5 5 7 , 5 7 3 , w h i c

n

d e d : $8,397,030 from insurance; $4,827,152 from the Restart Grant; $118,568 from the Lee County Board of County Commissioners; and $8,214,823 from FEMA She said it has been five years since Irma and the district is still looking to try and recover dollars from FEMA “It’s a real possibility that some funds won’t be recov ered depending on what the ruling is from FEMA Some of the funds this time will be spent and will not be recov ered,” Desamours said.

The district has a 16 layer approach with 14 insur ance companies There is a $100 million limit for fire and other perils; $75 million limit for windstorm; $50 million limit for flood specific to location, building and school; and a 5 percent hurricane deductible of the values per structure

“We have to work with insurance, so they determine damage caused by wind, or flood,” she said, so the dis trict can maximize on all of their reimbursements

The presentation provided a capital funds breakdown, which concluded $98,401,977 for recovery efforts

“The funds being used for recovery may mean that the five year capital plan must be revised if more funds than above need to be used before FEMA funds are recovered Utilization of sales tax funds or short term borrowing options may be necessary We want to try to use that as a last resort,” Desamours said of using sales tax funds “Those funds are sitting there now as a reserve Much of it is intended to be used in five to 10 years ”

She also dove into short term financial impacts, as property taxes which supports the district’s capital and general funds will be impacted Desamours said some people may be able to take abatements, as the prop erty is no longer livable after the hurricane, therefore not paying their property taxes this year

“That could potentially affect our collection and the amount of money coming into the general and capital funds,” she said, as they see substantial amounts of money 86 percent collected in November and December “If we don’t receive that in November, then we have to plan for that because it’s a major impact to cash flow ”

The Oct 26 meeting also included an Ian update from Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernier.

As of Oct 26, 716 students had officially withdrawn from the School District of Lee County and there were currently 528 “no show” students There had also been 112 new enrollments

There was a breakdown of attendance for students and TALC and SPALC represented employees

For student attendance, there was 82 percent on Oct 17; 90 9 percent on Oct 18; 87 3 percent on Oct 19; 87 3 percent on Oct 10; 86 5 percent on Oct 24; and 86 9 percent on Oct 25

Those numbers rose for TALC represented employees from 92.57 percent on Oct. 17 to 93.41 percent on Oct. 25 Those numbers remain high for SPALC with 90 93 percent on Oct 17 in attendance to 93 54 percent on Oct 25

Bernier said they are hearing amazing stories from their staff of personal conditions and heroism of helping families He said they continue to support and be avail able to teachers and staff

The district is currently working with the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools in terms of the $500,000

Hurricane Ian Relief Fund

Although all students have returned to academic instruction, dialogues have begun with communities of schools that were more heavily impacted

On Oct 25, Bernier said that the district held commu nity engagement opportunities for Fort Myers Beach

Elementary School and The Sanibel School On Oct 27 a similar meeting took place with Hector A. Cafferata Elementary School These engagements will happen on a weekly basis, he said

Bernier said they were very explicit with the Beach community that all options are on the table

“ F o r t h e v e r y f o r e s e e a b l e f u t u r e , S a n C a r l o s Elementary is their home,” he said of permanent tempo rary housing

A possibility was shared regarding Hector Cafferata Bernier said although they do not want to have a portable campus in the millions of dollars, he would rec ommend it because they need to give Hector Cafferata what it needs to heal and come back as a learning com munity

“There is a potential that FEMA could cover, and also would not,” he said, adding that they would have a more definite answer before making that type of recommenda tion

The district has begun the procurement process for portable sites as a temporary campus with information coming before the board as early as this week

As far as Diplomat Middle School and Lexington Middle School, the projects still appear to be on schedule with people in the buildings on Oct 31

“Best case scenario those will include students,” Bernier said, adding that the students have already had their reunification day “Monday potentially could be teachers only to get settled into the building, (students) start on Nov 1 ”

County reports on collaboration with FDEM

The Florida Division of Emergency Management, in collaboration with Lee County, is accepting applications from pri vate and commercial property owners who would like assistance for the assessment and removal of qualifying debris, including vehicles, vessels and other title property Lee County reported that in addition, the FDEM is accepting applications from owners of vehicles, vessels and other title

The website is www IanDebrisCleanup com and the number is 850 961 2002

The Hurricane Ian Debris hotline is open on Monday through Friday from 8 a m to 8 p m and on weekends from 9 a m to 5 p m People can also email IanDebris Cleanup@em myflorida com

For more Hurricane Ian updates and information, visit www leegov com/storm or follow @Lee County Government on F a c e b o o k o

The total documented losses to date include at least five schools with significant damage and at least 19 schools that are being evaluated for a permanent repair scope and cost estimates. For students and staff at Fort Myers Beach Elementary School, San Carlos Elementary will be their home for the foreseeable future. / LEE COUNTY SCHOOLS PHOTO VIA FACEBOOK

VANDY

Fire commission OKs final millage rate, budget

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

During its second and final budget hearing last month, the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District's commission adopt ed a final millage rate of 1 2365 mills and a final budg et of about $13,961,212

On Oct. 11, the commis sioners voted unanimously 3 0 in support of the 1 2365 rate for fiscal year 2022 23, which exceeds the rolled back rate of 1.1642 mills by 6 21 percent The adopted operating millage rate of 1 2365 will provide $8,011,169 in proceeds

A mill is $1 per every $1,000 of taxable valua tion. The rolled back rate is the rate it would take to gen erate the same amount of revenue in the coming fiscal year as was generated in the previous year

The commission also voted 3 0 to approve a final budget of $13,961,212 42 for 2022 23

Prior to the voting, newly promoted Fire Chief Kevin Barbot explained that the proposed rate is the lowest in Lee County by 0 7 mills He added that they will revisit and reassess next year to see what is required to sustain the district, adding that he thinks they will still have one of the lowest local rates.

Also on Oct 11, the commissioners held their month ly meeting just before the hearing

During the meeting, Commissioner Jerry Muench reported that he asked retiring Fire Chief William “Bill” Briscoe to stay on through the hurricane as the district needed all hands on deck in the immediate aftermath Barbot, who was deputy chief, was scheduled to be appointed as the new chief on Oct 3 Muench continued that he would like to make Barbot's new position official

Barbot next took the oath of office and stepped into

the role of chief Muench, along with Commissioners Bruce Cochrane and Richard McCurry, thanked Briscoe for staying on to assist and for his service to the district and congratulated him on his retirement Briscoe thanked the board for allowing him to serve and noted that Barbot “will do an awesome job ”

In other news

∫ The following personnel were recognized for their years of service: Joe Nygaard for 21 years of service; John Reitenbach for 19 years of service; Craig Shelby for five years of service; and Adam Felix for three years of service

Refuge’s WoW heads back out on the road

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife S o c i e t y F r i e n d s o f t h e R e f u g e reported that Hurricane Ian may h a v e w r e a k e d h a v o c o n J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge facilities and habitat, but its mission to protect wildlife and spread the conservation message remains firmly entrenched Outreach efforts returned last week when the refuge's Wildlife on Wheels mobile classroom hit the road to education once more. On Oct 28, WoW headed to Tice Elementary in Fort Myers for a Title I after school event, kicking off of a two week stint On Nov 4, i t w i l l p a r t i c i p a t e i n t h e Environmental Education Alliance of Southwest Florida conference at Florida Gulf Coast University’s Water School

“We are so excited to keep alive the refuge education and conserva tion mission with this return of the WoW mobile outreach classroom to the Southwest Florida communi t y , ” D D W S U r b a n E d u c a t i o n Leader Melissa Maher said Maher currently works with a reduced team due to the hurri cane’s impact on staffing.

To donate to support the upkeep and programming for the WoW e f f o r t s , v i s i t https://interland3 donorperfect net/ weblink/WebLink.aspx?name=E5 4182&id=12

Fire Chief Kevin Barbot

SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District's Board of Commissioners held the swearing in for new Fire Chief Kevin Barbot, who previously served as deputy fire chief, during its meeting on Oct. 11.

SCCF provides week four post-Ian update

i c a n

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a t w e c h e r i s h o n o u r i s l a n d s a n d i n t h e c o m m u n i t i e s a n d e c o s y s t e m s o f S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a W e a r e f a c i n g t h e m o s t c h a l l e n g i n g t i m e s i n t h e S a n i b e l C a p t i v a C o n s e r v a t i o n F o u n d a t i o n ' s 5 5 y e a r h i s t o r y t r y i n g t o e n s u r e o u r o r g a n i z a t i o n i s w h o l e , o u r s t a f f i s f u l l y e m p l o y e d a n d o u r f a c i l i t i e s a r e b u i l t b a c k b e t t e r a l l w h i l e d o i n g w h a t e v e r w e c a n t o r e s t o r e o u r i s l a n d c o m m u n i t y a n d h e l p e v e r y n e i g h b o r w h o a s k s f o r S C C F s t a f f a s s i s t a n c e

James Evans

Guest Commentary

A s S C C F s t a f f e r s h a v e m o v e d f r o m s u p p o r t i n g f i r s t r e s p o n d e r s i n s e a r c h a n d r e s c u e e f f o r t s t o w h a t i s n o w t h e l o n g p e r i o d o f r e c o v e r y , t h i s s e e m s a g o o d d a y t o m a r k w h a t w e k n o w a n d w h a t w e d o n o t k n o w s i n c e o u r w o r l d w a s r o c k e d o n S e p t . 2 8 .

W h a t w e k n o w

∫ W e a r e s a f e , s t r o n g a n d r e s i l i e n t : D e s p i t e e v e r y t h i n g , t h e r e i s a w i d e s p r e a d c o m m i t m e n t t o h e l p i n g e a c h o t h e r I t c a n b e s e e n p l a y i n g o u t i n c o u n t l e s s w a y s e v e r y d a y D e s p i t e t h e i r o w n h o u s i n g d e s t r u c t i o n a n d d i s p l a c e m e n t t o t e m p o r a r y a r r a n g e m e n t s , o u r t e a m m e m b e r s a r e t r y i n g t o h e l p e v e r y o n e w h o n e e d s u s , w i t h o u t f o r s a k i n g t h e i r c o m m i t m e n t t o t h e S C C F ’ s m i s s i o n d r i v e n w o r k

∫ W e a r e d e d i c a t e d t o u n d e r s t a n d i n g

H u r r i c a n e I a n ’ s i m p a c t s : W i t h t h e h e l p o f o u r p a r t n e r s a t t h e U n i v e r s i t y o f F l o r i d a , F l o r i d a G u l f C o a s t U n i v e r s i t y , F l o r i d a I n s t i t u t e o f O c e a n o g r a p h y a n d o t h e r s , w e h a v e b e e n s u r v e y i n g t h e s t o r m ’ s i m p a c t o n w a t e r q u a l i t y a n d h u m a n h e a l t h a n d s a f e t y , p r a c t i c a l l y s i n c e t h e m o m e n t o f l a n d f a l l W e a r e m o n i t o r i n g m i g r a t o r y a n d n a t i v e w i l d l i f e a n d a s s i s t i n g t h e C l i n i c f o r t h e R e h a b i l i t a t i o n o f W i l d l i f e a n d C o n s e r v a n c y o f S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a b y i d e n t i f y i n g a n d t r a n s p o r t i n g t h e i n j u r e d I s l a n d e r s h a v e s t o o d s t r o n g i n t h e i r c o m m i t m e n t t o o u r b e l o v e d n a t u r e b y e n t h u s i a s t i c a l l y r e s p o n d i n g t o o u r r e q u e s t f o r w i l d l i f e s i g h t i n g s W e ’ v e h e a r d o f m a n y s p e c i e s t h a t s u r v i v e d , i n c l u d i n g b o b c a t s , o s p r e y , p e l i c a n s , b o x t u r t l e s , m o n a r c h b u t t e r f l i e s , r a t s n a k e s , a g r e a t h o r n e d o w l , a l l i g a t o r s , g o p h e r t o r t o i s e s , p i l e a t e d w o o d p e c k e r s , d o l p h i n s , m a n a t e e s a n d b a l d e a g l e s ∫ W e a r e e a g e r t o s h a r e a n d b e t o g e t h e r : W e a r e r e v a m p i n g o u r p r o g r a m s t o i n c l u d e p o s t I a n f i n d i n g s a n d r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s f o r o u r s h a r e d f u t u r e a s c o a s t a l d w e l l e r s O u r S a n i b e l S e a S c h o o l e d u c a t o r s a r e e a g e r l y d e v e l o p i n g o f f i s l a n d p r o g r a m m i n g t o p o s t t r a u m a t i c a l l y r e i n f o r c e c h i l d r e n ’ s l o v e o f t h e o c e a n a n d j o y i n t h e n a t u r a l w o r l d a r o u n d t h e m

∫ W e a r e f i n d i n g s t r e n g t h i n n u m b e r s : W e a r e r e g u l a r l y m e e t i n g w i t h t h e i s l a n d s ’

What we do not know

∫ We do not know Ian’s financial impact on the SCCF: Like everyone, there is damage throughout our facilities, with four being unsalvageable. It seems increasingly clear that the fun events we rely on to raise 10 per cent of our operating income will be impos sible to hold for the coming season

∫ W e d o n o t k n o w I a n ’ s f i n a n c i a l I m p a c t o n o u r s u p p o r t e r s : O u r h e a r t s b l e e d f o r t h e d a m a g e a n d t r a u m a o u r n e i g h b o r s h a v e s u s t a i n e d , a n d t h e e n s u i n g c o s t s i n s u r a n c e m a y n o t c o v e r I s l a n d e r s ’ p e r s o n a l g i f t s a m o u n t t o a p p r o x i m a t e l y h a l f o f o u r a n n u a l b u d g e t W e j u s t d o n o t k n o w i f t h a t l e v e l o f p a s t g e n e r o s i t y w i l l b e p o s s i b l e f o r t h e c o m i n g y e a r .

∫ We do not know where you are: Thanks t o a g r a n t f r o m t h e B a n k o f t h e Islands/Edison National Bank, we would like to print and “snail mail” the SCCF’s annual report to our members. It will share the accomplishments of the fiscal year that ended on June 30 It will also have a special insert to address the hurricane If you are in tempo rary housing or at a different address than w h e r e y o u w o u l d n o r m a l l y b e i n November/December, please let us know by emailing ARaddress@sccf.org.

James Evans is chief executive officer for t h e S a n i b e l C a p t i v a C o n s e r v a t i o n Foundation Founded in 1967, the SCCF's mission is to protect and care for Southwest F l o r i d a ’ s c o a

F o r m o r e information, visit www sccf org

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Captiva chapel postpones opening for new season

I’d like to give you an update regarding the scheduled opening of our beloved Captiva Chapel by the Sea Our board of directors met on Oct 24 to consider our path forward We are amazed at how quickly the restoration process is progressing. A temporary bridge to Sanibel and Captiva is now complete and power has been restored in some areas Thank God for all those who are working night and day to bring this process to completion

As we reported, the chapel and parsonage received minimal damage, yet there is still much to do That is why our board has decid ed to postpone our opening originally sched uled for Sunday, Nov 13, to a later date yet to be determined Look for continued updates o

Faces email contact list

I want to thank all who have shared their

prayerful concern for the chapel Some of you have reached out with personal sto ries of how God touched your life through Chapel by the Sea Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place Please know that our leadership continues to monitor the restoration process and are committed to opening our doors as soon as possible We are working to provide worship services from my loca tion here in Ohio, posting them on our YouTube channel to keep us connected Stay tuned! We appreciate your continued prayers.

The missions we support on the islands and beyond need our help more than ever We

desire to continue our support as best we can in these dire circumstances

Finally, may these words from Psalm 62 sustain us as we navigate the future with hope in our hearts, and confi dent assurance that we are loved by a mighty God

“Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will not be shaken My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge ”

The Rev Larry L Marshall is the pastor at the Captiva Chapel by the Sea

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

Rev Larry L Marshall

Our beautiful Southwest Florida barrier islands need your help

The business community on Sanibel, Captiva and the surrounding islands has always been unique, made up largely of f a m i l y o w n e d s m a l l b u s i n e s s e s . W e believe in providing the highest level of service to our cherished residents and guests, while working in concert with our conservation partners to steward our natu ral treasures and protect the wildlife that makes our destination special

In the past few weeks since Hurricane Ian devastated the islands our businesses and res idents call home, it has become clear that this once in a lifetime storm will require once in a lifetime assistance to keep the culture and community that made our islands spe cial We have been on the ground every day since Hurricane Ian helping our businesses recover from this disaster

We have seen an unfathomable level of decimation that is impossible to capture through the lens of a camera Our fear is that if assistance is not granted swiftly, the desperation of our island business owners

John Lai is president and chief executive officer of the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce For more information, visit https://sanibel captiva org/sani bel captiva island chamber of commerce

John

CEPD gives green light to remove beach sand

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

At a special State o Emergency meeting, the Captiva Erosion Prevention District's commission approved letting Lee County remove the beach sand washed up on the roadways by Hurricane Ian

On Oct 24, the commission voted unanimously 5 0 to allow

t to remove the sand lining the ds under an existing con act and at no cost to the CEPD and treat it like hurricane debris

Prior to the vote, Executive Director Daniel Munt explained that the ounty has the ability to move the sand under an ment with its contractor and

transport it to a landfill as if it is storm debris

“There's a large amount of sand that lines Captiva Drive,” he said

Munt reported that the sand cannot sim ply be collected and put back on the beach. While that is an option, the sand would first have to be treated through sifting to remove any contaminants, like glass It would also require an acceptable staging area to process the sand and more, which the CEPD lacks

“We could definitely sort the sand,” he said of treating it

In preparation for the discussion, Munt obtained quotes for the work He shared that it would cost about $9 per cubic yard for the sifting, plus just over $63 per cubic yard to haul away any bad unusable sand

Munt noted that it cost $16 per cubic yard to place the sand during the renour ishment project

Board appoints new member to fire commission

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Captiva Island Fire Control District's commission filled the vacant seat on its board during its recent meeting, as well as were updated on housing a Lee County EMS ambulance at the fire station

County library system offering virtual programming

County Library System,

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Sources

Alternative records are one of the best

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inar will discuss the most useful records to assist researchers Advance registration required.

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

mously 2 0 to approve a resolution appointing

Seat 2, which was vacated by former Commissioner Jeffrey Brown Brown had resigned as of Sept 30 because he would no longer be residing on Captiva

Prior to the vote, Fire Chief Jeff Pawul explained that Campbell would serve the rest of that term

overcome

often provide infor mation that

The

The Captiva Memorial Library is currently closed due to Hurricane Ian

The Captiva library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva

CCP provides more updates on recovery effort

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released the following updates on Oct 27:

Island Water Association

The Island Water Association reported that it is concentrating efforts on the process to rescind the boil water notice The process requires system wide flush ing, disinfectant residual confirmation and two successive lab samples confirm ing the absence of bacteria It takes

Fire Chief Jeff Pawul

He recommended that the board accept the county's offer and have the sand removed

Treasurer Dick Pyle voiced his agreement with Munt's suggestion

Commissioner Linda Laird reported that she spoke to N i c o l e S h a r p , w i t h A P T I M C o a s t a l P l a n n i n g & Engineering, in the hopes of figuring out how to save the sand Sharp also agreed with removing it

Vice Chair and Secretary Rene Miville felt that they needed to move quickly on either choice

Commissioner Bob Walter noted that he passed along the county's offer after meeting with officials

Also during the meeting, Munt provided an update on the state of the CEPD's office building

“The office building is very much intact,” he said, adding that there may be a few small leaks forming, but all of the office equipment is intact “However, the beach vehicle appears to have been flooded ”

Board

From page 6

“Basically (it) is for two years,” he said of the appointment

The commission seats are four y e a r t e r m s T h e S e a t 2 t e r m expires in 2024

Also at the meeting, Pawul pro vided an update on the negotiations with county officials to house the ambulance to service the island Prior to the hurricane, they were finalizing lease agreement terms

“The county does still want to do it,” he said “They want to move forward with it ”

“They already had it approved i n n e x t y e a r ' s b u d g e t , ” P a w u l added

He explained that county offi c i a l s r e a c h e d o u t t o h i m a n d acknowledged the lease terms have not been finalized yet, but they would like to get the ambulance out on Captiva and deal with the details later

“I'm OK with that,” Pawul said “I don't have an issue with that ”

The commissioners agreed and directed him to work with the county to set up the ambulance Also during the meeting, Pawul gave the commission a post hurri cane update

CCP From page 6

Munt is working with the CEPD's insurance adjuster in terms of filing a claim for it

In other news

On Oct 27, the CEPD shared on social media that it is a beach and shore preservation district as legislated under state law It is the only entity with the authority to place sand on Captiva's beaches

“Please, do not attempt to handle any over washed sand Over wash sand is being classified as contaminated storm debris to be removed by Lee County,” it reported “Over wash sand placed on the beach would be unautho rized and considered a contaminate, which may require remediation ”

The public is asked to contact the CEPD at 239 472 2472 or www mycepd com, or other local authorities, if they see or suspect any unauthorized sand placement on the island's beaches

Captiva Public Meetings

The following public meetings/hearings are sched uled:

∫ Nov 7: Captiva Erosion Prevention District monthly meeting at 1 p.m. via Zoom. For more infor mation or the agenda, visit mycepd com

∫ Nov 8: Captiva Community Panel monthly meeting at 9 a m via Zoom For more information or the agenda, visit captivacommunitypanel com

∫ Nov 8: Captiva Island Fire Control District meeting at 4 p m at the fire station, at 14981 Captiva Drive, Captiva For more information or the agenda, visit captivafire com

He reported that the agencies r e c e n t l y a s s i s t i n g t h e d i s t r i c t ' s crew would be leaving the next week

“So those resources are leav ing,” Pawul said, adding that oper ations are nearly back to normal

The crew drives the island each day to ensure fire hydrants and accesses are clear

He reported that he also spoke w i t h o f f i c i a l s f r o m t h e I s l a n d Water Association IWA is contin uing to decrease its water pressure during the night because too many people are using water for irriga tion

In other news

∫ The district responded to 40 calls in September, with about another five unaccounted for

“The good thing for us during the hurricane, when we could not respond, was we did not get a lot of calls,” Pawul said, noting that the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District fielded a number of calls from those who had stayed and their res idences were flooding, but the crews could not respond until it was safe

a n d , u l t i m a t

r e q

e F l o r i d a Department of Environmental Protection to review the results and approve rescind ing the boil notice The IWA has an inter nal goal to have the advisory lifted during early November

Federal Emer gency Management Agency

The Federal Emergency Management Agency reported that if the cost of repair ing a structure to its condition before Hurricane Ian is 50 percent or more of its pre disaster market value 50% rule the structure is considered “substantially damaged ” The value of the land is not a consideration; the determination is based strictly on the market value of the struc ture before the damage occurred

FEMA does not make substantial dam age determinations; the determination is made by a community’s building official or floodplain manager

Repairing a structure in a floodplain requires a permit In addition, the “sub stantially damaged” structure must be brought into compliance with the Florida

Options include:

∫ Flood proofing a non residential structure

∫ Relocating the structure outside the floodplain

∫ Elevating the structure to a height determined by local community officials

∫ Demolishing the structure

Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage is a paid coverage under the i

c y

Policyholders of structures substantially damaged by flood, located in the Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA), can receive up to $30,000 through ICC to help meet the cost of complying with building codes and ordinances

For more information on general flood insurance questions, contact the NFIP at 800 427 4661 or your insurance agent P e o p l e c a n a l s o e m a i l FloodSmart@dhs gov to request informa tion in a language other than English I n f o r m a t i o n a l s o i s a v a i l a b l e a t FEMA gov and FloodSmart gov T h e C C P n o t e d t h a t t h e c i t y o f

Sanibel's Facebook Live update on Oct 2 6 i n c l u d e d a s e s s i o n w i t h N F I P Insurance Specialist Jeffrey Parker and Florida NFIP State Coordinator Conn Cole, who provided floodplain technical assistance and answered questions about the NFIP and 50% rule To watch the video, visit https://www mysanibel com /news announcements/news

South Seas Island Resor t

The South Seas Island Resort reported that most areas had power as of Oct 26, and the power is hot to the meter outside of your home If your power is not on, it is either:

∫ Something is damaged leading to the unit

∫ Your HOA is systematically work ing through all units checking for prob lems; once confirmed there are no issues, panels will be turned on

∫ If you have a private home in the SSIR program, the resort is working through those homes with an electric company and turning on panels If you are not in the program and have a private home, contact LCEC If you are having

d i f f i c u l t y , e m a i l S S I R R e g i o n a l

Managing Director Bob Walter at bwal ter@southseas com and he will do his best to assist; the challenge is LCEC will probably require someone present at the home

Water

The SSIR reported that water was on in all areas as of Oct 26; your main valve may be turned off leading to your home If you are part of an HOA, they are system atically turning on areas and checking for leaks inside and outside

Wastewater

The SSIR reported that the FGUA plant was on full power with 12 of the 18 lift sta tions running on full power as of Oct. 26. Repairs are still being done on six stations control panels Crews are on site

Debris pick up

The SSIR reported that debris is being picked up by CrowderGulf; it had four large trucks working as of Oct 26 Debris was scheduled to be picked up in the next day or two The state and county were awaiting FEMA approval to pick up debris on private property and commer cial property

TIFFANY REPECKI

BUsIness

celebrates Jerry’s Foods reopening

As a big first step toward island recovery from Hurricane Ian, Jerry’s Foods on Sanibel celebrated its reopening with a ribbon cutting hosted by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce on Oct 25

“We are all very excited about Jerry’s reopening,” cham ber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai, who has been at the forefront of island recovery efforts, said “Our goal right now is to celebrate everything positive that points toward a return to normalcy ”

Rick Winningham, general manager of the island store, announced the official reopening at the city of Sanibel’s Facebook Live on Oct 24 He also presented a $20,000 donation in partnership with the Johnson family, the owner of Bailey’s General Store on Sanibel, to F.I.S.H. of Sanibel Captiva the islands' food pantry and human services organization

“We have had a longtime partnership with Richard (Johnson),” Jerry’s Foods Vice President of Operations Doug Winsor, who also participated in the presentation, said “We help each other out all the time when one or the other runs out of supplies We’re competitors, but at the same time, it feels like we’re more partners than competitors We want to be there to help Bailey’s get back up and going ”

Winsor added that the two grocery stores' shared suppli er, United Natural Foods, also partnered on the donation Like most businesses, Jerry’s suffered extensive damage from the Category 4 hurricane that leveled a crippling blow to the islands on Sept 28 It lost much of its operating equip ment and most of its air conditioning units, causing roof damage Its second story structure, however, gave the busi ness an advantage in recovering quickly, and Winsor credit ed Winningham’s hard work for making it happen

“During this unprecedented time when many of our own staff have lost their homes and personal possessions and have been displaced, our team reflected on the philosophy and passion of the company, which is to be a community

Trust Company takes temporary space in Fort Myers

The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company has taken up temporary office space for its Lee County team within the RE/MAX Realty Group, at 7910 Summerlin Lakes Drive, Fort Myers

“Since our flagship office was damaged on Sanibel due to Hurricane Ian, we felt it best to assist our clients of Sanibel, Captiva, Fort Myers and greater Lee County by promptly securing office space in Fort Myers,” founder and Chairman S Albert D Hanser said “We were able to settle our employees in quickly and be phys ically accessible to our clients and professional advisors in the area ”

The team began working from the temporary office a few days after the storm

“We are grateful for some quick teamwork and our generous friends at RE/MAX Realty Group,” Sanibel market President Jeffrey A Muddell said “Mike and Coleen Frye have donated ample office space for sever al of our employees to use and meeting rooms for our in person client visits ”

Updates on the Sanibel office renovation progress will be forthcoming

For more information, call 239 472 8300 or visit www sancaptrustco com

gathering place for the neighborhoods in which we operate,” Winningham said “Our team has pulled together and is hon ored to partner with Bailey’s, UNFI and F I S H to focus on 'neighbors helping neighbors,' because we believe everyone, especially in this time of hardship, deserves nutritious food and a friendly smile ”

“It’s not going to look like it did before the storm,” Winsor said “The store is not yet able to offer frozen foods, and refrigerated items are limited, but Jerry’s team overcame enormous obstacles, including limited island access for con struction workers and employees, to be able to officially open on Tuesday, Oct 25, for daily operation 8 a m to 4 p m ”

The restaurant was scheduled to open on Oct 28 for first responders only It will open to the public the following day with a limited menu for breakfast and lunch

The Sanibel Surf Shop, the primary tenant at the Jerry's shopping center, has reopened and Sanibel Spirits was expected to open last week.

“My hats off to what the city has done This is a once in a hundred years hurricane, and three weeks later they have the causeway open They’re amazing,” Winsor said, giving special gratitude to Vice Mayor Richard Johnson for step ping in two days after the hurricane to help Jerry’s “figure things out ”

“As the vice mayor of the city of Sanibel, I am proud to work with the team from Jerry’s Foods to be one of the first businesses to reopen post catastrophe to pro vide for our community during Bailey’s absence from the marketplace,” Johnson said “Bailey’s General Store suffered significant damage We look forward to the day that we can welcome our work family and our customers back ”

“Jerry’s reopening is not only a symbol of hope for all islanders, but a potent demonstration of the island spirit where people all work together for the better good and com petitors join forces,” Lai said

Jerry’s Foods is at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

T h e F l o r i d a D e p a r t m e n t o f

Revenue has extended the deadline for hotels and businesses to remit any bed taxes collected in Lee County, according to the Lee County Clerk of the Court After Hurricane Ian, the agency issued an emergency order to extend the due dates for September

and October to Nov 23

As of Oct. 29, the permitting lobby at the Lee County Department o f C o m m u n i t y D e v e l o p m e n t i s closed on Saturdays to allow for the processing of an increasing number of building permits.

I t h a d b e e n o f f e r i n g e x p a n d e d h o u r s , i n c l u d i n g o n S a t u r d a y , s i n c e O c t 1 7 a t i t s M o n r o e S t r e e t o f f i c e i n F o r t M y e r s t o a s s i s t h o m e o w n e r s w i t h e m e r g e n c y p e r m i t s t o a d d r e s s

The 5 percent bed tax, also known as tourist development tax, applies to hotel stays and all rentals of six months or less The monies help fund destination marketing, local sports facilities and maintenance of 50 m i l e s o f b e a c h a n d s h o r

Collected and distributed by the Lee County Clerk, the funds also go t o w a r d f u n d i n g l o c a l n o n p r o f i t organizations at more than 40 local attractions

l i n e

d a m a g e f r o m H u r r i c a n e I a n .

T h e D C D h a s s e e n a n e v e r i n c r e a s i n g a m o u n t s o f e m e r g e n c y p e r m i t a c t i v i t y , w h i l e a l s o p r o c e s s i n g t h e r e g u l a r b u i l d i n g p e r m i t s a l r e a d y i n t h e w o r k s p r i o r t o t h e h u r r i c a n e , a s w e l l a s n e w b u i l d i n g p e r m i t r e q u e s t s s u b m i t t e d s i n c e t h e s t o r m P r o c e s s i n g e m e r g e n c y p e r m i t s r e m a i n s t h e p r i o r i t y T h e l o b b y w i l l c o n t i n u e t o b e o p e n t o

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n a b o u t t o u r i s t d e v e l o p m e n t t a x , v i s i t www leeclerk org/tdt

t h e p u b l i c a n d t a k i n g p h o n e c a l l s f r o m 7 a m t o 5 p m M o n d a y t h r o u g h F r i d a y Contractors have continued to be directed to file for permits using the c o u n t y ’ s o n l i n e s y s t e m . Homeowners can also choose to uti lize that option

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t www leegov com

The

The

Army Corps begins Lake Okeechobee releases to Caloosahatchee

The U S Army Corps of Engineers' Jacksonville District reported that beginning on Oct. 29, it would make releases from Lake Okeechobee to the Caloosahatchee Estuary from the W P Franklin Lock and Dam (S 79) at a seven day average pulse release of 1,200 cubic feet per second No lake releases were planned for the St Lucie Estuary

The target is right in the middle of the REstoration COordination & VERification (RECOVER) optimal flow envelope for the Caloosahatchee Water from the lake will only be released in amounts needed to supplement local basin runoff to meet the downstream target of 1,200 cfs, and the target is consistent with the South Florida Water Management District’s position statement as of last week.

“Lake Okeechobee rose more than 2 5 feet in the month s i n

H

Kissimmee Chain of Lakes,” Jacksonville District Deputy Commander Lt Col Todd Polk said on Oct 28 “The rise in lake stage has slowed significantly over the past week, providing an opportunity to start making lake releases with in the RECOVER optimal flow envelope ”

RECOVER is a multi agency team of scientists, model ers, planners and resource specialists who organize and apply scientific and technical information in ways that are essential in supporting the objectives of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan.

The Corps also expects to begin executing the HHD Surveillance Plan as the lake approaches 16 feet At that stage, teams will begin inspecting the south side of the lake from Moore Haven to Belle Glade every two weeks If the lake rises to 16 5 feet, the frequency of inspections on the south side of the lake will increase to weekly and the remainder of the dike will start receiving inspections every two weeks

HHD was inspected thoroughly following Hurricane Ian and no problems were identified

As of Oct 28, Lake Okeechobee was 15 74 feet That is approximately 3.5 inches higher than the prior week, 2 feet 5 inches higher than 30 days ago, and 1 5 inches lower than on the same day of last year

page 1

∫ There are two inbound lanes: The left lane is for residents, businesses, prop erty owners and private contractors, and the right lane is for emergency vehicles and emergency government contractors

∫ A valid 2021 or 2022 city issued

Hurricane Re Entry Pass must be promi nently displayed or a Florida driver's license with a Sanibel or Captiva address r e a d i l y a v a i l a b l e w h e n a p p r o a c h i n g checkpoint

∫ Outbound access open from 6 a m to 9 p m

∫ There is one outbound lane from the causeway and two outbound lanes on McGregor Boulevard

∫ A curfew is in effect on Sanibel and Captiva from 9 p m to 6 a m No vehicle, bicycle or pedestrian movement is permit ted, except for essential response person nel The curfew is being strictly enforced

Hurricane re-entr y passes

∫ R e s i d

: R

a l H u r r i c a n e

Reentry Pass or valid ID with island address

∫ P r o p e r t y o w n e r : R e s i d e n t i a l

Hurricane Reentry Pass with valid ID

For a Residential Hurricane Reentry Pass, visit https://www mysanibel com /content/download/30505/file/Residentia l%20Pass%20Application%202022 pdf

∫ Contractor: Commercial Hurricane Reentry Pass with valid ID

For a Commercial Hurricane Reentry Pass, visit https://www mysanibel com /content/download/30506/file/Commerci a l % 2 0 P a s s % 2 0 A p p l i c a t i o n % 2 0 %202019%20 %20MASTER pdf

∫ I n s u r a n c e a d j u s t e r : I n s u r a n c e

Adjuster Reentry Pass with valid ID

For an Insurance Adjuster Hurricane

Reentry Pass, visit https://www mysani bel com/news announcements/news/hur r i c a n e i a n r e c o v e r y i n s u r a n c e a d j u s t e r access to sanibel Passes are issued Monday through Saturday from 8 a m to noon and from 1 t o 5 p m a t t h e c i t y o f S a n i b e l ' s Temporary City Hall, which located in the Captiva Room at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, at 13051 Bell Tower Drive, Fort Myers F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t https://www mysanibel com/

LeeTran shuttle ser vice

LeeTran is operating two shuttle bus routes to help residents move through the i s l a n d s T h e h o u r s o f o p e r a t i o n a r e Monday through Friday from 8 a m to 6 p m and the service is free For a map of the Sanibel route, visit https://cc mysani b e l s t o r a g e s 3 a m a z o n a w s c o m / m a i n / i m a g e s / 9 / 8 / 5 / 1 / 2 0 1 5 8 9 1 e n g U S / i a n % 2 0 t r a n s i t % 2 0 m a p % 2 0 v 2 P A L

1 PNG For a map of the Captiva route, visit https://cc mysanibel storage s3 ama zonaws.com/main/images/3/9/5/1/20159 3 1 eng US/ian%20transit%20map%20

v2PAL 2 PNG

Cur few

A curfew is in effect on Sanibel from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. No vehicle, bicycle or pedestrian movement is permitted, except for essential response personnel The cur few is being strictly enforced

Sanitar y sewer

The city's sewer system can receive l i m i t e d t o i l e t f l u s h H o w e v e r , o t h e r domestic water use should be minimized, including showering and dishwasher use; do not do laundry until full sanitary serv

ice is restored When performing an initial home cleaning, limit water use so sedi ment does not enter the wastewater sys tem Homeowners are reminded to have their plumbing inspected for any leaks and broken lines prior to any use

Debris removal

Debris removal is ongoing on Sanibel; f o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t h t t p s : / / w w w m y s a n i b e l c o m / n e w s a n n o u n c e m e n t s / n e w s / h u r r i c a n e i a n recovery debris hauling Residents can request the removal of debris from private p r o p e r t y , i n c l u d i n g v e h i c l e s , v e s s e l s , motorcycles, trailers and ATVs To make a request, visit IanDebrisCleanup com

FEMA 50% rule, substantial damage/improvement

At the city's Facebook Live on Oct 28, staff referenced the FEMA document titled “Substantial Improvement /Substantial Damage Desk Reference ” To review the FEMA document, visit https://www fema

/fema

On-island resources

pdf

The city reported that it has received the following list of on island resources:

∫ F I S H of Sanibel Captiva, at 2430 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel: Water, non per ishable food, hygiene products, and clean ing supplies like mold liquid, buckets, trash bags and gloves are available

∫

Periwinkle Way, Sanibel: Water, ice, charging station, shower and laundry are available

Periwinkle Way, Sanibel: Water and ice

are available

∫ Palm Ridge Plaza, at 2330 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel: Hot food and ice are available after noon

∫ The Shack of Sanibel, at 1219 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel: Hot food is available after noon

∫ Jerry's Foods, at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel: Open from 8 a m to 4 p m with limited options

Mail pickup

Island mail may be picked up at the JetPort Loop Mail Station, at 14080 JetPort Loop, Fort Myers Hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a m to 4 p m and Saturday from 9 a m to noon

City operation adjustments

The city of Sanibel is operating from a T e m p o r a r y C i t y H a l l , l o c a t e d i n t h e Captiva Room at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, at 13051 Bell Tower Drive, Fort Myers

∫ Phone numbers are 239 472 3700 or 239 603 7261

∫ Call Center is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a m to 5 p m

∫ Information Desk is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a m to noon and from 1 to 5 p m

∫ Sanibel Police Department: 239 472 3111

∫ Emergencies: Call 911

The city will continue to provide infor mation at https://www mysanibel com/ and on Facebook at “The City of Sanibel, Florida,” as well as email those who have signed up for city announcements To sign

announcements

FILE PHOTO

restaurant The coveted coral trophy representing the People’s Choice Award was found in Mudbugs Cajun Kitchen, the consecutive winner of the title Many Sanibel and Captiva restaurants adorned their walls with Taste of the Islands plaques as memorabilia of past years’ successes in serving the Best Dessert, Best Seafood, Best Appetizer and more

“These trophies are a symbol of our islands and our community battered and broken but not gone We will

Sanibel school

Although the current situation is not ideal, it has improved every day, as more resources are being sent by the school dis trict.

“We are happy to have a home, even though it's a temporary home It's very m u c h a p p r e c i a t e d , ” s h e s a i d “ H e (Bernier) has been amazingly supportive His whole team reached out to me. Every day I hear from them They are amazing They want what's best for students ”

embrace our restaurant partners and their staff as we rebuild These restaurants have supported CROW for decades and we are here for them now and in the future,” Executive Director Alison Charney Hussey said. “Taste will be back, and I am looking forward to reopening of all of our restaurants ”

For more information on helping with the recovery, email volunteer@mysanibel com To donate toward CROW's recovery, visit crowclin

From page 1

As of Oct 27, Reid said they had lost about 25 percent of their students

“We were at 292 before the hurricane We are down to 214 right now. We are seeing kids trickling back every day,” she said

Although many staff members have lost their homes and are dealing with their own post storm recovery outside of the classroom, Reid said they are just amaz ing in front of the children

ic org/donate/donate today For updates on clinic needs and ways to get involved, follow on Facebook at “CROW Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife” and on Instagram @crowclinic.

If you find injured, orphaned or sick wildlife, bring them to the BluePearl Pet Hospital, at 9500 Marketplace Road, Fort Myers For wildlife or operational inquiries, contact info@crowclinic org

She said the community has been extremely generous in providing supplies With that said, they are running out of storage to keep the supplies. Reid asked that people send their donations to the F

Schools, as they can put those items in the hands that need them

To donate, visit https://thefoundation

ian relief fund Those who would like their donation to directly benefit the island school should type “Hurricane Relief for The Sanibel School” into the “Your Note for the Donor Scroll” field Checks can also be made out to the F o u

P

b

i c

Schools with “Hurricane Relief for The Sanibel School” written in the memo line and sent to 2266 Second St , Fort Myers, FL 33901

CLINIC FOR THE REHABILITATION OF WILDLIFE

The coveted People’s Choice Award trophy was found in Mudbugs Cajun Kitchen.

PreserVIng ParadIse

Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland salvaged original artwork by Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling, which was donated by the Bruning family Their grandparents, Jean and Max Hanford, lived on Captiva and were personal friends of Darling and his wife.

Refuge provides post-hurricane updates

Some recent good news highlights at the refuge include:

∫ Although the Art in the Wild event

including: Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland recovered original Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling art from the destroyed DDWS office; Westland saved three original Jim Sprankle duck decoy carvings, which are being restored; and before the hurricane, Westland secured all of the works by Artist in Residence Jacqui Roch, which were on exhibit in

Auditorium

∫ The refuge again offers its Pocket Refuges Grant program to local schools to teach students on campus about polli nators and the environment The DDWS continues to monitor and educationally support the eight schools awarded grants last school year, and it will award five more schools the monies for supplies to plant Pocket Refuge gardens this school year

SCCF’s mission continues amid hurricane cleanup

The Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that since the beginning of the month, staff have boarded the R/V Norma Campbell daily to make the journey from Fort Myers to Sanibel and Captiva, lending helping hands wherever they have been need ed after Hurricane Ian

It began with meeting vital community needs like providing resources and equipment to first responders and rescuing residents’ lost pets Shortly after began the long process of cleaning up the mess Ian left across the SCCF’s lands and properties

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society Friends of the Refuge reported that as the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge team continues to work steadily to clean up, restore, and rebuild habitat and facilities at the Sanibel refuge, it still keeps its conservation education mission front of mind.

∫ On Oct 25, U S Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks

staff for:

Donnie Swingle,

the

Army Corps

Jim Sprankle carvings were salvaged from the rubble and will become cleaned up and exquisite once again Sprankle has agreed to restore the ducks back to their original beauty

REFUGE/DDWS

U.S. Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks Shannon Estenoz with some of the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge team.

SCCF: Drone imagery shows Ian’s impact on Caloosahatchee

T h e S a n i b

C

C

Foundation reported that the day after Hurricane Ian made landfall, water flow from the W P Franklin Lock and Dam exceeded 24,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) more than 11 times the optimal f l o w

Caloosahatchee estuary (750 2,100 cfs) No water was released from Lake Okeechobee, meaning that excess flow came from rain and runoff in the water shed The resulting degraded water quali ty can be seen in the SCCF's most recent aerial images of Lighthouse Beach Park

page 11

Throughout the hard work, staff have continued their jobs managing and monitor ing water, wildlife and habitat by making scientific observations about the hurricane’s impact on Sanibel’s ecosystems Their efforts have included:

∫ Surveying the island to document

“The flow from the Franklin Lock and Dam sharply decreased following the peak flow but continues to be at damaging lev els for our estuary at a 14 day average of 3,046 cfs,” Research & Policy Associate Leah Reidenbach reported on Oct 24 “With dry season patterns beginning we expect the average flow to continue to decline, but it is unknown how long it will take our system to recover from such a damaging event ”

SCCF provides update on Eden Oak proper ty

T o v i e w

wildlife sightings

h e a e r

a

m a g e s , v i s i t https://aerialwq sccf org/lighthouse/virtu altour/

On Oct 25, the Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation provided an update on Eden Oak It reported that the permit applicant seeking to rezone Eden Oak has made a request for a continuance from the scheduled Nov 2 final vote by the Lee County Board of County Commissioners The SCCF reported that it will immedi ately post the rescheduled date of the vote when it becomes available For all of the county documents and latest updates, visit the SCCF Eden Oak webpage at https://www sccf org/our work/environmental policy/eden oak

quality after the storm

∫ Navigating challenging terrain and debris to locate remaining sea turtle nests

∫ Partnering with the Florida Gulf Coast University, University of Florida Center for Coastal Solutions and Florida Institute of Oceanography to measure regional water

∫ Helping locate and save injured turtles and birds

∫ Informing the public about native veg etation including the importance of man groves

“We may have lost buildings, walls,

plants and property, but SCCF’s commit ment to science, education and advocacy holds strong,” Chief Executive Officer James Evans said “It has never been more important to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems while we restore and rebuild our community ”

SANIBEL CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

SANIBEL

DDWS provides update on Woodring Homestead

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society

Friends of the Refuge reported that the Woodring name is known around the islands as one of the first homesteading families on Sanibel In 2013, the DDWS acquired Woodring Point, in partnership with Lee County Conservation 20/20 and the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge It acquired the original homestead

with the agreement of a lifetime lease for Ralph and Jean Woodring The historical and vital piece of island history was heav ily damaged due to Hurricane Ian The DDWS reported that the Woodring family is hard at work to recover and rebuild, and the DDWS will do its part to help make that happen

Isl and lIVIng

impact

The Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation recently reported that Hurricane Ian has drastically affected all the habitats on Sanibel, with impacts on keystone species yet to be fully determined

The conservation and sustainability of several key stone species in South Florida are vastly important to other wildlife species Keystone species have an immense effect on the natural environment and hold the ecosystem together The loss of a keystone species would result in an intense change to the overall habi tat and species diversity

The SCCF reported that two of most well known keystone species in Florida are reptiles: the Florida gopher tortoise and the American alligator. Both cre ate habitats that benefit many other species

A threatened species in Florida, gopher tortoises live in open sandy upland grasslands and ridges Gopher tortoises dig long and sometimes deep bur rows that have been documented to provide habitat for over 350 animal species throughout their range Many of the species are completely dependent upon the burrows and would not be able to survive without them Many of the uplands on Sanibel were flooded over from the storm surge and burrows were totally inundated with tortoises in them

“Tortoises are accustomed to occasional flooding and although there was likely a significant loss of tor toises, it's certain that many survived,” Wildlife and Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz said “This has been verified by several people throughout the island ”

Gopher tortoises have been seen walking around looking for live grasses and sprouts of other plant species Many plant species are beginning to regrow leaves and sprout from the ground; however, many species will not be successful for a period of time due to the saltwater intrusion in the soil

The SCCF reported that prior to Ian, gopher tor toises were documented to be in steep decline due to development Their preferred habitat is unfortunately

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VIRGINIA LATTNER

A Florida gopher tortoise spotted on Sanibel

Repor t wildlife sightings to help SCCF scientists

The Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation is asking the public to share any wildlife sightings on the islands Wildlife and Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz reported, “It's a critical time for us to document any wildlife sightings on our islands This post Hurricane Ian recovery time is a great time for citizen science We are grateful that our community cares so much about our wildlife and look forward to everyone's input ” In the sighting form, you can upload a photo or video, or you can just report a sighting, including the species as you are able to best identify date and location by entering text. The SCCF is also seeking reports of fatalities of dead animals. To make a report, visit https://forms gle/Pu9Ci3ZREwLQnLqu8

SANIBEL CAPTIVA

County provides update on bridge toll operations

Lee County reported that it will resume normal toll operations on two of its three bridges the Cape Coral Bridge and the Midpoint Bridge beginning on Nov 1 at 6 a m

Tolls have been suspended since shortly before Hurricane Ian’s landfall on Sept 28

The county announced the suspension in tan dem with the state’s announcement of tolls being suspended at state toll plazas County officials reported that the state resumed its normal toll collections on Oct 25 N o t o l

s w i l l b e c o

d o n t

Sanibel Causeway until further notice

Education Note

School district changes calendar due to hurricane

The School District of Lee County’s 2022 23 Instructional Calendar has been revised The revised calendar ensures the number of hours of instruction for students are met per statutory requirements

The following revisions have been made to the calendar:

∫ Hurricane Make Up days as previ

ously identified on the calendar will be implemented as full school days for stu dents and staff on Nov 11, Feb 17 and May 5

∫ Early Release Days previously des ignated for Professional Development for teachers will become full school days for students and staff on Feb 22 and April 26

The revised calendar can be found at www leeschools net

San Cap Community Bank collecting hurricane relief supplies

S a n i b e l C a p t i v a C o m m u n i t y B a n k i s p a r t n e r i n g w i t h l o c a l n o n p r o f i t o r g a n i z a t i o n s t o c o l l e c t e s s e n t i a l i t e m s f o r S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d i a n s i m p a c t e d b y H u r r i c a n e I a n C r i t i c a l n e e d i t e m s t h a t a r e r e q u e s t e d i n c l u d e : ∫ C l e a n i n g s u p p l i e s : B l e a c h , s a n i t i z i n g w i p e s , l a u n d r y d e t e r g e n t a n d d i s h w a s h i n g l i q u i d ∫ H y g i e n e i t e m s : T o o t h p a s t e , t o o t h b r u s h e s , f e m i n i n e h y g i e n e p r o d u c t s , d e o d o r a n t , s o a p , s h a m p o o , a d u l t d i a p e r s a n d b i o d e g r a d a b l e w i p e s ∫ B a b y s u p p l i e s : D i a p e r s o f a l l

Impact

From page 14

where people prefer to build housing and businesses, which results in them being pushed out or relocated to other areas The invasion of exotic plant species, such as Australian pines and Brazilian pepper, as well as native shrubs and trees that invade open canopy grasslands due to the lack of wildfire, have greatly reduced the usable habitat for the Florida gopher tortoise.

The American alligator provides sever al benefits to the habitat and wildlife species During the dry season in South Florida, they create “alligator holes” in mostly dried up wetlands that provide wet habitat for wading birds, other reptiles and

s i z e s , b a b y w i p e s a n d f o r m u l a ∫ P a p e r p r o d u c t s : P a p e r t o w e l s a n d t o i l e t p a p e r ∫ F i r s t a i d p r o d u c t s ∫ G i f t c a r d s : G r o c e r y , g a s a n d c l o t h i n g

∫ L i n e n s ( n e w i t e m s o n l y ) : B e d d i n g o f a l l k i n d s , t o w e l s a n d p i l l o w s

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

∫ W i n k l e r B r a n c h , a t 7 0 4 0 W i n k l e r R o a d , F o r t M y e r s

∫ C o l l e g e B r a n c h , a t 7 5 0 0 C o l l e g e P a r k w a y , F o r t M y e r s

∫ B r i d g e B r a n c h , a t 9 3 1 1 C o l l e g e P a r k w a y , F o r t M y e r s

∫ D o w n t o w n B r a n c h , a t 1 5 3 3 H e n d r y S t , F o r t M y e r s

∫ G a t e w a y B r a n c h , a t 1 1 6 9 1 G a t e w a y B l v d , F o r t M y e r s

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t b i t l y / 3 F 7 2 X t S o r e m a i l a m c q u a g g e @ s a n c a p b a n k c o m

T h e b a n k h a s r e o p e n e d f i v e o f i t s F o r t M y e r s l o c a t i o n s w i t h f u l l b a n k i n g s e r v i c e s a n d r e g u l a r h o u r s o f o p e r a

t i o n T h e M a i n O f f i c e o n S a n i b e l s u s t a i n e d m i n i m a l s t o r m d a m a g e a n d w o r k i s u n d e r w a y t o r e o p e n t h e b r a n c h ; l i m i t e d b a n k i n g s e r v i c e s a r e a v a i l a b l e p e r i o d i c a l l y i n t h e p a r k i n g l o t T h e P e r i w i n k l e B r a n c h o n S a n i b e l a n d t h e M c G r e g o r B r a n c h i n F o r t M y e r s b o t h s u s t a i n e d c o n s i d e r a b l e s t o r m d a m a g e a n d a r e t e m p o r a r i l y c l o s e d f o r r e p a i r s

F o r u p d a t e d i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t w w w S a n C a p B a n k c o m / h u r r i c a n e i a n r e c o v e r y r e s o u r c e s

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

fish The mound like nests of alligators provide nesting areas for other egg laying vertebrates such as wading birds and tur tles

The SCCF reported that the species choose to nest in the guarded alligator nests because the female alligator will protect that mound, containing her eggs as well as other species eggs from predators such as raccoons and coyotes Several bird species have been shown to lay eggs on small rookery islands in lakes, rivers and other waterbodies that have healthy alligator populations They choose to lay eggs on these islands because there is

safety from predators that may try to swim across Alligators hunt for prey in the water, which helps protect bird eggs and young

“Alligators will be affected by the salt water intrusion on the island,” Lechowicz said “Although alligators can tolerate saltwater for a time, they cannot live in it indefinitely. They must find freshwater areas to survive We’re still in the rainy season, so the freshwater being added to the island from rainfall will bring down salinities in many areas and will create new freshwater puddles for wildlife to drink from ”

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GARY BILTGEN

Recreational boating safety after a hurricane

By U.S. COAST GUARD AUXILIARY

FORT MYERS BEACH

Recreational boating after a hurricane is unwise. While the sun is shining and it’s been a couple of weeks after Hurricane Ian made landfall, it left many hazards on land and in the water The local bays and canals are loaded with unseen dangers lurking in the water You’ve seen the damage, imagine some of that debris in the water Everything from trees to dangerous germs, such as Vibrio vulnificus and tetanus There are estimates of thousands of vessels producing a toxic soup of gasoline, diesel fuel, engine oil, battery acid and boat sewage spilling into the waterways

We’ve seen the power of the wind and waves This power can shift the sandy bottom making customary nav igation channels become impassable and producing dan gerous new sand bars and shoals that can cause you to run aground

The U S Coast Guard Local Notice to Mariners reflects that most Aids to Navigation (ATONs) and chan nel markers are off station, missing or damaged, produc ing hazards to navigation Due to the passage of Ian, aids to navigation may be damaged, destroyed or submerged They may be broken just under the water line Running over them can damage your boat or outdrive Lighted and unlighted buoys may have been moved from their assigned positions, be damaged, extinguished, sunken or otherwise inoperative Coast Guard units are actively working to restore the aids to navigation in affected areas Mariners should not rely entirely on the position or oper ation of an aid to navigation in these areas and should also employ such other methods of determining their position as may be available Wrecks, submerged obstructions and shoals may have moved from charted locations, and pipelines may have become uncovered due to the force of storm surge Do what the professional cap tains do and check the most current local notice to mariners (LNM) available on the Coast Guard Navigation Center at https://bit.ly/3MPPXe8 before get ting underway

The Coast Guard reminds travelers to the barrier islands to be certain that the operator is a licensed captain if they are charging you for the trip Trips by unlicensed captains are simply illegal Owners and operators can face maxi mum civil penalties of over $59,000 for conducting illegal passenger for hire operations Travelers should ask to see their Merchant Mariner Credentials and inspection certifi cates before you get underway Report unlicensed captains to the Coast Guard at 727 824 7534

The bottom line, reconsider getting underway, at least for now. Give those who maintain our waterways a chance to recover They’re working hard to get some resemblance of normalcy

The U S Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian component of the U S Coast Guard and supports the Coast Guard in nearly all mission areas The Auxiliary was created by Congress in 1939 For more information, visit www cgaux org

The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce recently announced sponsors, remaining registration opportunities and new fundraising details for its annual Golf Classic set for Nov 4 in Fort Myers

Traditionally, the event is a fundraiser for the cham ber, which is working to restore and reopen its office after flood damage due to Hurricane Ian This year, it is expanding its fundraising to support its fellow beach chambers that have been impacted by the storm The chamber is dedicating $100 from every foursome sold to the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce and Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce to support their recovery efforts.

“Since Hurricane Ian, the chamber has been working hard to check on businesses, inform members with important information and advocate on their behalf to federal and state agencies who are assisting in recovery The Golf Classic supports the chamber in these efforts, while also helping us physically rebuild,” chamber Chair Michele Hoover said “We are extending our fundraising this year to rally alongside our fellow chambers of com merce on Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel and Captiva, whose physical buildings and membership have been devastated ”

This year's annual Golf Classic will be held on the greens of the Fort Myers Country Club, at 3591 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers Check in will open at 10:30 a m , followed by a shotgun start at noon

A limited number of foursomes are still available Registration is $199 for individuals and $799 per group of

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society Friends of the Refuge report ed that hurricane damage has meant the closing of the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Visitor & Education Center and Wildlife Drive until further notice Consequently, many programs and events includ

four and includes cart and green fees, food from “Taste of the Chamber” restaurants along the course, boxed lunch and beverages Corporate foursomes are also available at $999 for four people with all the benefits of the standard four some registration, in addition to two mulligans, $20 in prize drawing tickets, 5 feet of golf rope and other promotional materials provided to each golfer

On Oct 21, the Florida Fish and W i l d l i f e C o n s e r v a t i o n C o m m i s s i o n reported that it was monitoring Southwest Florida, since Karenia brevis also known as red tide was detected in mul t i p l e s a m p l e s i n M a n

Charlotte, and Lee counties during the week

The FWC reported that red tide is a naturally occurring microscopic alga that has been documented along Florida’s Gulf Coast since the 1840s and occurs

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Additional event sponsors include Coca Cola Beverages Florida, Crowne Plaza Fort Myers at Bell Tower, Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers Brewing Company, Hedberg Wealth Management, Image One Facility Solutions, Knight Barry Title Group, Midwest Cartz, Omni Title of Southwest Florida, Orthopedic Specialists of Southwest Florida, Scanlon Auto Group, Solomon & H

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W e a l t h Management, Suncoast Beverage Sales, Suncoast Credit Union, TECO Peoples Gas and Val Ward Cadillac

Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available

For more information, to register or for details about sponsorship opportunities, visit FortMyers org or con tact info@fortmyers org

Golf tourney registrations to support local chambers of commerce Refuge reports on programming, annual contests

ing art exhibits and Art in the Wild have been canceled ∫ W h

n recovery efforts, they make time to offer occasions for locals to engage and heal through nature during this trying time The DDWS will soon report on free 30 and 60 minute

Mindfulness Walks at the Bailey Tract for groups and individuals who are working on the island.

“Start your day or take a break, by yourself or with a work group, from that stress component of clean ing up,” Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland said “We hope our free mental health breaks will be an asset to the community, to help peo ple go through what they’re going through Take 30 minutes for your

press

∫ The refuge will go forward with its annual Cartoon Contest in local schools Staff hopes to recover the submissions already completed by The Sanibel School students, which are locked away in the school during its closure, and engage other local schools

∫ The annual “Ding” Darling T

Photography Contest will go on The deadline for entries is Jan 15 For

Associate Executive Director Sierra Hoisington at shois@dingdarlingso ciety org

FWC responds to red tide in Southwest Florida

nearly every year

As part of the FWC Center for Red T i d e R e s e a r c h , t h e U S F C o l l e g e o f Marine Science and the Mote Marine L a b o r a t o r y e a c h d e p l o y e d a g l i d e r equipped with sensors to better under

stand conditions offshore The informa tion collected will help direct future sam pling and forecasting efforts

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t : https://myfwc.com/research/redtide/.

Local Roots adjusts markets after hurricane

Local Roots, which owns and operates the Sanibel Island Farmers Market and Captiva Island Farmers Market, is adjusting and relocating some of its markets across Lee County following Hurricane Ian.

The following markets will be operational weekly beginning today, Nov 2:

∫ Wednesday from 9 a m to 1 p m at Harbour Plaza, at 17660 South Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers (previously the Lakes Park Farmers Market)

∫ Thursday from 9 a m to 1 p m at Coconut Point, at 23106 Fashion Drive, Estero (Coconut Point Farmers Market)

∫ Saturday from 8 a m to noon at The Promenade at Bonita Bay, at 26795 South Bay Drive, Bonita Springs (Bonita Springs Farmers Market)

∫ Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Founder’s Square at Babcock Ranch, at 42850 Crescent Loop, Babcock Ranch (Babcock Ranch Farmers Market)

The Downtown Fort Myers Farmers Market is on hold due to Ian's impact to the area

“We continue to work on trying to find new locations for markets that have been temporarily closed,” co owner and Sanibel resident Jean Baer said “Rest assured, as soon as Lee County re opens Lakes Park and allows the market to return, we will be back This is true for all our locations that have been closed due to the Hurricane Ian ”

“We opened the Sanibel Island Farmers Market with 15 vendors,” co owner Betsy Ventura added. “Before Ian, we had nine farmers markets six days per week across Southwest Florida with over 150 vendors and

small businesses We are excited to be able to reopen four markets after the devastating storm Our motto is eat, shop BuyLocalLee com ”

Ventura and Baer said they are thankful for the sup port they have received from the community In 2009,

A shell of a lot of ‘Hope’

By MARY ELIAS NEWMAN

smiled for the very first time in many weeks We’ll be okay! We’ll get through this!

What you may not know is that I work at the Sundial East on Sanibel On Oct 21, I walked down to the beach to not only take in the sheer destruction the storm caused, but to take a moment to feel the sand on my feet and the sun shine on my face and to hear the time less sea lapping at the shore At that moment, I knew the places I call home, that held so many amazing memories, would be OK I felt the tightness and weight that’s been o n m y s h o u l d e r s t h i s p a s t m o n t h suddenly begin to ease.

You also may n o t k n o w t h a t there is a tradition on Sanibel to dec orate seashells and leave them behind for others to find and enjoy I turned to walk back into the semi organized chaos that was my life after Ian. Time t o g e t b a c k t o w o r k I w a l k e d , glancing occasion ally down to the sand It was then that I spotted an u n u s u a l c o l o r e d shell, a shell that was half buried in v a r i o u s d i a t r i b e left by an angry sea. I picked up the little shell and it was then I realized I h a d f o u n d a n amazing treasure I

The person who painted the “Hope” shell, and left it behind to brighten a stranger’s day, could not know that lit tle shell of “Hope” would be battered and beaten by the worst of Ian. “Hope” finally took rest on the beach She patiently waited to be found by some one who truly needed her message at that exact time The person who paint ed “Hope” on a little shell will never know what that short message would come to mean to a battered, tired soul You gave a community a “shell of a lot of 'Hope '”

Lee County approached them to organize a market at Lakes Park and soon others followed

For more information or to become a vendor, visit https://www buylocallee com/

‘Feedback Loop’ exhibit to open at Alliance

T h e e x

ib itio n

Loop,” featuring the works of Anne Stagg and Laura Tanner, will be on display from Nov 4 26 at the Alliance for the Arts, at 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers

A f

will be held on Nov 4 from 5 to 7 p m

Stagg and Tanner are visual artists whose work pulls from their experiences growing up in the South Though outwardly, their work appears to be very different, one using abstraction and the other using collage with p

h turn a critical eye towards the South and explore how built systems and false narratives reinforce systems of inequity and invisibility

b o

Gallery admission is free, but a $5 donation keeps pro g

o r d a b l e a n d accessible

For more information, visit https://www artinlee org/event/ feedback loop/2022 11 04/ or call 239 939 2787

E v e r y o n e k n o w s t h e d e v a s t a t i o n H u r r i c a n e I a n c a u s e d i n S o u t h w e s t

Florida Fort Myers, Estero, Bonita Springs, Captiva and Sanibel, as well as many other areas in the region

MARY ELIAS NEWMAN

ALLIANCE FOR THE ARTS

“Edits

ANNE

“Lithotomy”

Alliance accepting vendor applications

The Alliance for the Arts will host its annual Arts and Ends Holiday Sale on Dec 3 from 9 a m to 1 p m at 10091 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers It is taking

Edison, Ford estates to offer art classes for adults

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers offers opportunities throughout the year to learn painting techniques, create floral arrangements or other pieces of artwork taught by local artists

Classes scheduled for the month of November include the following:

∫ Nov 5: Floral Still Life Painting with Marie Dyer at 10 a m

Impressionist painter Marie Dyer will explain color mixing, effect design, impressionistic techniques, shading and effective color contrast to create mood The acrylic on canvas painting workshop is for any experience level Cost is $90 for members or $100 for non members

∫ Nov 12: Silk Scarf Painting with Marie Dyer at 10 a m

Marie Dyer has been teaching at the estates for years Participants will paint a scarf that can be worn or hung as a piece of artwork Participants of all experience levels are welcome Cost is $90 for members or $100 for non members; all materials are included

∫ Nov. 13: Fall Floral Arranging with Anita Singh at 10 a m

Anita Singh, with Flowers by Anita, has been creating floral displays for years The class offers an opportunity for participants to learn floral arranging and they will make an arrangement to take home Participants of all experience levels are welcome Cost is $75 for members or $85 for non members; all materials are included, as well as printed notes, an apron and refreshments Seating is limited and registration is required

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n o r t o r e g i s t e r , v i s i t

EdisonFord org

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is at 2350 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

vendors applications from those who make art or hand made gifts of any kind The deadline to submit an application is Nov 7 at 5 p m For more information or

to apply, visit https://www artinlee org/event/artsale/ ALLIANCE FOR THE ARTS

EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES

Megan Kissinger teaches painting techniques at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers

GO Divas to per for m at dinner concer t

DDWS creates merch to help fund rebuilding

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society Friends of the Refuge reported that it has created a Hurricane Ian Relief Fundraiser on Bonfire, a merchandise company that allows non profits to develop designs for items to sell and raise money for a cause For its fundraiser, the DDWS has used Bonfire to create shirts and sweatshirts Due to the destruction of the J N “Ding”

Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Nature Store2 on Periwinkle Way and inaccessi bility of the flagship Nature Store, e store operations are stalled for a few weeks

Supporters who would like to purchase merchandise to help with rebuilding can visit https://www bonfire com/dingstrong hurricane ian relief fundraiser/

Orchestra to present season opener

The Gulf Coast Chamber Orchestra will present its season opening concert, “Beethoven Eroica Symphony,” on Nov 5 at 7:30 p m at the Music & Arts Community Center, at 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers A new season begins with conductor Andrew M Kurtz and the orchestra performing one of Beethoven's most celebrated works, a large scale composition that marked the beginning of the com poser's innovative “middle period ” Composed mainly in 1803 04, the work broke boundaries in symphonic form, length, harmony, emotional and cultural content It is widely considered a landmark in the transition between the Classical and Romantic eras It is also often considered to be the first Romantic symphony Tickets range from $35 41 For more information or tickets, visit https://gulfcoastsympho ny org/concerts/

GULF COAST SYMPHONY

The GO Divas the Gulfshore Opera’s women’s vocal ensemble will perform on Nov 6 at 6 p m in the outdoor courtyard at Carmelo's Italian Ristorante, at 321 W Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Their repertoire ranges from opera scenes to popular contemporary songs

of the '60s and '70s, and their program features new selections like pop favorites “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “Happy Together,” plus a passage from Handel’s “Dixit Dominus ” Appetizers and a cash bar will be available starting at 5:30 p m Tickets are $125 and include an

Italian plated dinner during the performance For tickets o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t https://www gulfshoreopera org/ GULFSHORE OPERA

Rotary

Rotarians hear from chamber on recovery efforts

We have all been affect ed in various ways from the winds and rain of Hurricane Ian It was very reassuring to be able to hear from Sanibel & Captiva Islands

a m b

Executive Officer John Lai

The chamber has over 450 members and operates the “Francis P Bailey” Visitor

The destruction that we see on our island and else where is incomprehensible Lives lost, jobs lost, homes and businesses and church buildings lost We might shake our fist at God and scream, “Why? Why would a g o o d a n d l o v i n g G o d allow such a thing to hap pen?”

I have a friend whose daughter has a rare form of cancer They have taken h e r t o m e d i c a l c e n t e r s around the country to treat her, and the cancer keeps coming back This family’s suffering is incomprehensi ble, and yet they live with faith in a loving God.

Recently my friend wrote this piece about her faith in light of her daughter’s cancer I thought it might be helpful as we make our way through our own struggles:

days a year and sees over 80,000 visitors per year

Professionally, Lai has been in the hospitality and tourism industry for more than 28 years and a resident of Lee County for over 30 years He has operated resorts on Sanibel, Captiva, Clearwater and Vero Beach Lai joined the chamber staff in 2017 and was promoted to president and chief executive officer in 2018 Personally, he has been in Southwest Florida for more than 36 years, skate boarding all over the island

Since Sept 29, when we started to see the devastation of our beloved islands and the mainland, Lai reported that

Why?

“ W h e n a s k e d w h y I s t i l l b e l i e v e i n a l o v i n g G o d i n t h e f a c e o f A m a r a ’ s c a n c e r t h i s i s t h e b e s t I h a v e t o o f f e r : I t i s n o t t h a t I h a v e n ’ t h a d m y a n g e r a n d r a g e a n d e v e n t h o s e d o n o t m e l t m y c o n v i c t i o n t h a t G o d i s a G o d o f c o m p a s s i o n a n d l o v e I t h e l p e d w h e n m y f a i t h m a t u r e d b e y o n d s e e i n g G o d l i k e O z w h o o r c h e s t r a t e s e v e r y t h i n g f r o m b e h i n d a c u r t a i n W h e n I n o l o n g e r s a w G o d i n m y i m a g e , b u t m y s e l f i n G o d ’ s i m a g e I h a v e a c c e p t e d t h a t I c a n n o t f u l l y c o m p r e h e n d G o d . M y f a i t h i s f a i t h , i t i s n o t c e r t a i n t y I h a v e g r o w n m o r e c o m f o r t a b l e t h e s e p a s t f e w y e a r s w i t h l i v i n g i n u n c e r t a i n t y a n d s o m e t i m e s j u s t p l a i n l i v i n g i n t h e d a r k ”

residents, business owners and Florida politicians were “working hand in hand like never before.” For example, the Sanibel Causeway being passable in 10 days is just short of unbelievable

While we all have a long road ahead of us, we can rest assured that Lai has our best interests in mind and he is facing the challenges face on Another resource that may be of help is RotaryFL org

The Sanibel Captiva Rotary Club holds a Zoom meet i n g o n F r i d a y s a t 8 a m T h e Z o o m l i n k i s https://us02web zoom us/j/ 81545260726; Meeting ID: 815 4526 0726 and Passcode: 955563 To connect via phone, call 646 931 3860. For more information, visit sanibelrotary org or www facebook com/sancaprotary

“I have learned things in the dark that I could never have learned in the light, things that have saved my life over and over again, so that there is really only one logical conclusion I need darkness as much as I need light ”

Barbara Brown Taylor, author of “Learning to Walk in the Dark”

The great love of God is shown when God joins us, becomes one of us God, incarnate, knows what it is like to have fear, doubt, suffering and pain The Holy one journeys close in our suffering Why do I keep believing in this Holy source? Because I see and experience small mira cles that matter I am sustained by a living presence that has not abandoned me, but has carried me

Rabbi Steven Leder in his book “The beauty of what remains” reminds us that the tragedy is not that one dies The tragedy is that one does not fully live

“If you want to change your life really change wake up to the blessed

life you already have despite your pain ” “The single most important thing in life is showing up ” “I have never understood how people can pray for mercy and com passion from God but not be merciful and compassionate themselves ”

My friend Dana’s words have been helpful as I’ve walked this post Ian road together with my spouse, friends and church family, and I hope they are helpful for you too I hope that you are able to see compassion and goodness in the midst of the pain and suffering

I have seen it at every turn: in a kindly boat captain helping us to shore, in gov ernment officials working tirelessly, in police, utility and debris removal workers, in a cold bottle of water and a satisfying BBQ “Small miracles that matter ” The God of love is with us in a myriad of ways in all of this.

The Rev William “Bill” Van Oss is the rector at Saint Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church

St. Michael and All Angels to resume monthly gathering

St Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church will host its next Messy Church on Nov 13 from 4

at its temporary location at the Peace Lutheran Church, at 15840 McGregor Road, Fort Myers

∫ Bat Yam Temple of the Islands

The event will feature free crafts, games, service projects, songs, story telling and a meal

The church is requesting RSVPs

time

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

Sabbath service on Nov 4 and 11 at 7 p m via Zoom In person service on Nov 18 at 7 p m at the Jewish Federation, at 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers. For Zoom links, email batyamsanibel@gmail com

∫ Captiva Chapel by the Sea

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

Rev Larry Marshall

S u n d a y s e r v i c e w i l l r e s u m e f

o n N o v 1 3

u

Held on the second Sunday, Messy Church is for all ages and family types. Attendees

themed

activities,

Island Worship

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

∫ Sanibel Christian Science Church

2950 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239 810 1077

Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services

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

Pastor Jeramie Rinne

To RSVP or for more information, contact 239 472 2173 or parishsecre tary@saintmichaels sanibel org

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

Senior Minister Dr Mark Boyea

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

∫ St Isabel Catholic Church

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

Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services

e d o n t h e c h a p e l ' s w e b s i t e a n d F a c e b o o k p a g e

v

Sunday service at 10 a m in the SCC Historic Chapel Sunday service at 5 p m at the Fort Myers Community Church, at 8440 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers Services will be recorded and posted on the SCC's YouTube channel on Monday.

∫ St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239 472 2173, https://www saintmichaels sanibel org/, https://www face book com/saintmichaelssanibel/ Rev William “Bill” Van Oss Service with optional healing prayers on Wednesday at 9 a m at the Peace Lutheran Church, at 15840 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Sunday service at 11:30 a.m. at the same location, followed by a coffee hour in Fellowship Hall

John Lai

Rev William “Bill” Van Oss Faces on Faith

Isl and HOMe Sislander

FEMA extends renewal grace period for flood insurance policyholders

Certain National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders impacted by Hurricane Ian now have a lim ited opportunity to renew their policies without a conse quence of a lapse in coverage

Previously, NFIP announced that policyholders in Florida who had flood damage from Ian had a 90 day grace period to renew their policies and file a claim for flood damage

The extension applies to policyholders whose flood insurance policy expiration dates began on Aug. 25, through and including Oct 23 For example, if the original renewal date for a policy was Aug 25, the policy may be renewed on or before Nov 23 and you can file your claim for damage received from Ian If the renewal date was Oct 23, the policy may be renewed on or before Jan 21

As of Oct 24, there were 26 Florida counties desig nated for FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program where policyholders could take advantage of the grace period FEMA encourages all affected policyholders residing in the counties to jumpstart their recovery by using the grace period to renew their policies as soon as possible

Policyholders who wish to take advantage of the grace period should contact their agent or insurance company today, or within 90 days of their policy expiration date

All Florida policyholders even those in undesig nated counties should monitor fema gov because more counties may be added

Adonidia palm is easy and elegant

The

Policyholders who do not have their insurance agent or company’s contact infor

mation should call 877 336 2627 for assistance

To learn more about how to file a flood insurance claim, visit floodsmart gov

is a

The palms perform best in full sun, but can tolerate a little shade The Adonidia is a self cleaning palm, which means the old fronds will drop off naturally. You can trim brown fronds off if seeing a brown frond now and then does not appeal to you New fronds are formed from the bud or crown of the palm tree in the center of the fronds

Adonidia palms are also known as the Christmas palm As it matures, the Adonidia will bloom with white flowers and then large clusters of red berries the seeds in the winter time This makes for a pret ty holiday look in the tropical landscape The palm is moderately salt tolerant and does not like consistent ly cold weather or frost conditions

If you have space for a small pretty palm, the Adonidia may be just the right palm for you

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

GCHS and partners to host Pet Food Pantry

The Gulf Coast Humane Society, along with the Lee County Game Room Association and in coopera tion with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and Animal Cruelty Task Force, will host a Pet Food Pantry on Nov 5 from 11 a m to 2 p m at 5781 Bayshore Road in North Fort Myers

There will be free dog and cat food, cat litter and other pet items to p i c

p

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Animal Cruelty Task Force will be on hand Prizes will also be up for grabs with the purchase of a raffle ticket, including a 14 inch HP touch screen laptop, grill and other pet cen tric raffle baskets

The GCHS has distributed over a ton of pet food since Hurricane Ian on Sept 28 and looks to help those forever families in need to feed their pets

donations to GCHS since Sept 28 has enabled us to help those families who were affected by Hurricane Ian and aiding them in feeding their p

G a r y

Willoughby said “Helping families feed their pets can at least take some pressure off of them, because we know these peoples’ pets are a part of their family.”

The Adonidia palm (Veitchia merrillii)

PHOTO PROVIDED

Adonidia palm

GULF COAST HUMANE SOCIETY

Recipe of the Week:

Bruschetta with Fresh Tomatoes, Basil and Balsamic Glaze

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

I think my family, especially my grandchildren, love this recipe I never get to taste it during our family dinners since it disappears before I have a chance Farm fresh tomatoes and basil are the secret ingredients that make this recipe so delicious, together with good extra virgin olive oil and good quality balsamic vinegar, which creates a flavor that is hard to resist I prefer to grill the bread after brushing it with olive oil and roasted garlic Makes 36 pieces (Chef tip: Ricotta Salata is a slightly salty soft cheese from the south of Italy If you cannot find it, mix one cup of whole milk ricotta cheese with a teaspoon of salt and let it drain in a small strainer in the refrigerator overnight and use as garnish on top of the bruschetta )

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 cup balsamic vinegar, reduced by half

4 cups ripe salad tomatoes, chopped

1/8 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes

2 tablespoons fresh basil, chiffonade

36 slices Italian bread, cut 1/2 inch thick

6 cloves of roasted garlic, peeled

1 teaspoon salt

Freshly grated Ricotta Salata, for garnish

Prepare a dressing by mixing together half the vinegar, garlic, basil, salt, pepper and

Governor suspends payment deadlines for property taxes

Gov Ron DeSantis recently signed an executive order to suspend deadlines for payment of property taxes in counties that have been impacted by Hurricane Ian The order extends to real property, including personal homes and commercial property, that was destroyed or otherwise rendered uninhabitable “Floridians who have lost their homes and businesses because of Hurricane Ian shouldn’t have to now worry about their property taxes,” he said in a prepared

statement

Counties included in the

, Manatee, Monroe, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St Johns and Volusia

To read the full order, visit https:// w w w f l g o v c o m

I

‘Riding Out Wilma’

Eleven o’clock Category two

The reds, yellows and greens

Of Wilma’s eyes glare

From the motel room TV screen: Wilma spirals and spins Landfall in five hours

Under the mock moons Of the motel parking lot lamps

The pool glimmers eerie green A mad dog couple frolics in the Jacuzzi

II

One o’clock Category three

Cone of uncertainty Grows more certain In the left bottom corner Of the Mad TV rerun On the screen

Outside the eye Wilma’s advance gusts Rattle the pool and motel signs Sleep is difficult Waiting slow madness

III

Four o’clock Category four

Poetic License

n t / u p l o a d s /2022/10/EO 22 242 pdf

w p c o n t

Hope Healthcare to host ‘After the Storm: Coping with Disaster ’

Hope Healthcare will offer a new sup port group, After the Storm: Coping with Disaster, to help the community start to h e a l i n t h e w a k e o f H u r r i c a n e I a n Participants will have the opportunity to share their stories, learn ways to cope and engage with other area residents in a safe and supportive space

Led by professional counselors, the group will help participants grieve the missing pieces in their life the loss of a home, pet, business or priceless treas ure while preparing to rebuild their future

Virtual sessions will be held on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 2 p m via Zoom Advanced registration i s r e q u i r e d a t 2 3 9 3 2 2 4 8 6 7 o r Lorrie McCann@HopeHCS org

In person sessions will be held on the s e c o n d a n d f o u r t h T u e s d a y o f e a c h month at 10 a m at 2430 Diplomat Parkway E , Cape Coral Advanced reg istration is required at 239 322 4867 or Tricia Betters Black@HopeHCS org

The group is open to the public at no cost, thanks to community support

Lee Health to offer self-management program

Lee Health's “It’s All About You” a self management resource program with the SMRC is offering the following research based programs for free to the com munity: Chronic Pain Self Management Program

Would you like to learn how to better manage chronic pain conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, back pain, headaches and more?

Information presented in the Chronic Pain Self Management Program can help you become empowered to improve your

quality of life Learn how to more easily manage your medications; understand the benefits of exercise; manage symptoms of stress, pain and fatigue; and make smarter decisions related to health eating The virtu al workshops are held once a week for six weeks

Participants will receive a copy of the book “Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Pain ”

The program will be offered virtually on Tuesdays starting on Nov 8 from 1 to 3 p m For more information or to register, call 239 424 3121.

The wake and wait is on, Wilma howls horribly, Hurling horizontal rain, Shingles and debris

Through the helpless air, The mad sea of pool rages Then disappears into darkness As the power failure begins In the unconditioned darkness The battery powered radio and flashlight Connect us to the world and each other But not to the evacuated home Where the backups beep to no one

IV

Five o’clock

Final burst of Category Three

Wilma locomotors and thunders, Body parts of buildings and trees Collide and explode With maddening nearness While our own bodies hold on to each other

V

Five thirty Category two

Wilma weakens to tropical, Then gale force And finally random gusts

Flashlights lighting our way, We emerge from the musty cocoon Of motel room, descend to the lobby Where other untouched and grateful Riders of the storm will help us wait For the return of light and power

olive oil Marinate the tomatoes in the mixture for 30 minutes or overnight Toast or grill the bread slices Place on individual serving plates, and rub the garlic over the slices. Drizzle about two teaspoons of the balsamic glaze over each slice. Serve the crostini topped with tomato mixture Garnish with Ricotta Salata

Chef Loretta Paganini

Joe Pacheco

W e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , N o v e m b e r

c a p t i v a s a n i b e l . c o m

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