Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

Local animal shelters moving forward post-hurricane

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c j h a d d a d @ b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s c o m

Th e i m p a c t o f H u r r i c a n e I a n h a s a f f e c t e d a l l i n t h e S o u t h w e s t

F l o r i d a a r e a , i n c l u d i n g o u r f o u r l e g g e d f r i e n d s

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

O f f i c i a l s w i t h t h e C a p e C o r a l

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

Two newcomers won seats on the Lee County School Board on Nov 8 during t h e G e n e r a l E l e c t i o n , w h i l e t h e l o n e incumbent retained hers.

With polling sites limited due to dam ages and impacts wrought by Hurricane Ian, final results came in shortly after 11 p m showing Sam Fisher as the top vote getter in District 1 and Jada Langford F l e m i n g i n t h e a t l a r g e D i s t r i c t 6 Incumbent Debbie Jordan won the District 4 race, which was not on the ballot for Sanibel and Captiva votes

Results are not final until certification on Nov 18

District 1

The District 1 seat was between two candidates, Fisher and Kathy Fanny, who were neck and neck through the evening with Fanny ahead at the 9:45 p m count

A n i m a l S h e l t e r a n d L e e C o u n t y D o m e s t i c A n i m a l S e r v i c e s s h a r e d t h e i r e x p e r i e n c e s o v e r t h e l a s t m o n t h a n d h o w t h e y a r e w o r k i n g t o c o n t i n u e t o f i n d d o g s a n d c a t s f o r e v e r h o m e s

C C A S E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r L i z M c C a u l e y s a i d t h a n k s t o t h e b u i l d i n g b e i n g b u i l t j u s t r e c e n t l y a n d t o w i t h s t a n d h u r r i c a n e s , m i n i m a l d a m a g e w a s h a d t o t r e e s a n d f e n c i n g i n t h e i m m e d i a t e a r e a D u e t o t h e p o w e r o u t a g e , t h e s h e l t e r d i d l o s e a l l o f i t s r e f r i g e r a t

e d v a c c i n e s a n d m e d i c a l t e s t s .

O n t h e d a y o f I a n , t h e C C A S h a d 9 3 a n i m a l s i n i t s s h e l t e r a n d o t h e r s i n f o s t e r h o m e s T h a t n u m b e r i n c r e a s e d a f t e r t h e s t o r m , a s m o r e t h a n 1 0 0 a n i m a l s h a v e b e e n t a k e n i n s i n c e T h e b r i g h t s i d e ? M o r e t h a n 1 0 0 a n i m a l s h a v e b e e n a d o p t e d f r o m t h e C C A S s i n c e I a n

“ W e h a v e d e f i n i t e l y s e e n a n i n c r e a s e i n r e q u e s t s f o r o w n e r s t o s u r

Sanibel library board re-elected in landslides

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

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

A l l t h r e e i n c u m b e n t s v y i n g t o r e t a i n t h e i r s e a t o n t h e S a n i b e l P u b l i c L i b r a r y

D i s t r i c t ' s B o a r d o f C o m m i s s i o n e r s f o u g h t o f f a c h a l l e n g e r i n t h e N o v 8 G e n e r a l E l e c t i o n w i t h a m a s s i v e w i n

O f t h e 5 1 8 , 0 3 5 r e g i s t e r e d v o t e r s i n L e e C o u n t y , a t o t a l o f 2 7 5 , 9 6 2 b a l l o t s w e r e c o u n t e d a s p a r t o f t h e e l e c t i o n a v o t e r t u r n o u t o f 5 3 2 7 p e r c e n t O n S a n i b e l , 2 , 5 8 2 v o t e s w e r e c a s t i n t h e S e a t 2 r a c e ( 1 , 6 7 3 V o t e b y M a i l a n d 9 0 9 e a r l y v o t e s ) , 2 , 5 2 4 v o t e s w e r e c a s t i n t h e S e a t 5 r a c e ( 1 , 6 4 4 V o t e b y M a i l a n d 8 8 0 e a r l y v o t e s ) , a n d 2 , 6 2 2 v o t e s w e r e c a s t i n t h e S e a t 7 r a c e ( 1 , 7 1 0 V o t e b y M a i l a n d 9 1 2 e a r l y v o t e s )

I n c u m b e n t S e a t 2 C o m m i s s i o n e r S u s a n H o l l y s c o r e d t h e b i g g e s t w i n b y g a r n e r i n g 7 6 7 6 p e r c e n t o r 1 , 9 8 2 o f t h e t o t a l v o t e s a g a i n s t o p p o n e n t C h e l s e a F S w e i s s , w h o r e c e i v e d 2 3 2 4 p e r c e n t o r 6 0 0 v o t e s

I n c u m b e n t C o m m i s s i o n e r B a r b a r a R u b e n b e a t o u t o p p o n e n t J u d e S i n c o s k i e i n t h e r a c e f o r S e a t 5 , l a n d i n g 7 0 7 6 p e r c e n t o r 1 , 7 8 6 o f t h e t o t a l v o t e s c o m p a r e d t o S i n c o s k i e ' s 2 9 2 4 p e r c e n t o r 7 3 8 v o t e s

I n c u m b e n t S e a t 7 C o m m i s s i o n e r R o y G i b s o n s e c u r e d a w i n i n t h e c l o s e s t b a t t l e , e a r n i n g 6 8 p e r c e n t o r 1 , 7 8 3 o f t h e t o t a l v o t e s v e r s u s t h e 3 2 p e r c e n t o r

At 10 p m , Fisher moved ahead where he stayed at final count to win the seat

At 11:04 p m , Fisher had 26,425 (51 75 percent) votes to Fanny's 24,634 (48 25 percent)

Fisher, a resident of Lee County since 2008, became a resident of Cape Coral in 2013 He is a small business owner and

Fanny

an attorney, and former Oasis School Governing board member and for mer deputy administrator of a local state agency

moved to southwest Cape Coral 12 years ago with her husband, Lew She has a bachelor's and master's degree in edu

y C J H A D D A D

Sam Fisher

Debbie Jordan

Jada Langford

Donalds re-elected, Greenwell secures seat on county commission

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

Congressman Byron Donalds easily won re election in the Nov 8 General Election to represent the 19th Congressional District that covers most of Lee and Collier counties, including the islands Donalds, who was in a rematch against Fort Myers Democrat Cindy Banyai, carried 67.13 percent of the electorate in Lee and 70 3 percent of voters in Collier based on the unofficial tallies, with more than 313,300 ballots counted Write in candidate Patrick Post earned 0 17 percent of the Lee Collier votes Donalds, of Naples, clashed with Banyai over abor tion, immigration and other issues with the two taking starkly different positions on most issues Banyai had attacked Donalds for voting not to certify the 2020 pres idential election in two states and for a vote against a spending bill after Hurricane Ian that would have aided t h e F e d e r a l E m e r g e n c y M a n a g e m e n t A g e n c y A Republican, Donalds ran on a platform criticizing the immigration policy of President Joe Biden and calling for a change in Federal Reserve policy He previously said he is seeking a position on the financial services commit tee

At the state level, Lee County Republican Party Chairman Jonathan Martin was unopposed in his ascen sion to the new District 33 Senate seat against write in candidate Robert Valenta, garnering 95 39 percent of the unofficial vote It was redrawn out of District 27, held by past Sen Ray Rodrigues

District 33 encompasses parts of Lee, including Sanibel and Captiva.

Previously serving District 76, Republican State Rep Adam Botana won his re election in a landslide over Democrat Mitchel Schlayer for the redrawn District 80 House seat Botana, of Bonita Springs, secured 70 33 percent of the unofficial votes in Lee and 72 2 percent of the unofficial votes in Collier

The islands are included in District 80

Lee County Commissioner Mike Greenwell (R Alva) handily won a special election for District 5 against Lehigh Acres Democrat Matthew Wood and write in

Public invited to dedication for late county commissioner

T h e c o m

invited to join the Lee C o u n t y B o a r d o f County Commissioners and other public offi cials in the dedication o f t h e L e e C o u n t y Government Center in h o n o r o f t h e l a t e Commissioner John E Manning The ceremo ny will be held Nov 17 at 10 a.m. at 1039 S.E. 9th Place, Cape Coral

It will feature brief remarks by the commis sioners and other officials

T o a t t e n d v i r t u a l l y v i a F a c e b o o k L i v e , v i s i t www facebook com/leecountyflbocc

Manning was appointed to the county commission in 1988 and served for more than 15 years He was a Cape resident for many years Prior to being appoint ed a commissioner, Manning served as a member of the Cape city council He dedicated more than 25 years of his life to public service. Manning passed away in July

candidate Angela R Chenaille, while Lee County Board of County Commissioners Chairman Cecil Pendergrass (R District 2) and Commissioner Brian Hamman (R District 4) scooted into office against the write in candi dates challenging them

Greenwell secured 68 59 percent of the unofficial vote, compared to the 31 29 percent for Wood and 0 13 percent for Chenaille The former Boston Red Sox All Star outfielder and owner of several businesses in Lee was appointed by Gov Ron DeSantis to fill the seat of the late Commissioner Frank Mann in July Greenwell won a Republican primary weeks later for the special election

“It’s a great feeling,” he said on Nov 8 “It’s a great honor to be appointed by, who I think is, the greatest gov ernor in the country It’s an even greater honor to be voted in by your community ”

Greenwell said he was focused on helping the county recover from Hurricane Ian, with millions of cubic yards of debris still waiting to be picked up More than two mil lion cubic yards had already been picked up by Election Day He added that more than 21,000 homes in the coun ty had been flooded

“There is so much to be done,” Greenwell said Greenwell said he had not done any campaigning since Hurricane Ian, instead choosing to focus on the

recovery effort, going out to hard hit areas such as Sanibel and Matlacha and working with county officials t o f i n d s o l u t i o n s t o i s s u e s s u c h a s t h e F e d e r a l

Emergency Management Agency's 50% rule and how residents may be affected The county had tried to add on 15 percent of the market value of properties to help homeowners build back their properties without having to tear down if 50 percent or more was damaged, but the county recently received a letter from FEMA that it may not be able to

“We are doing everything we can We are discussing with FEMA and the state if we can improve the 50% rule and we are not sure if we can If we can, we will,” Greenwell said

In the race for District 2, Pendergrass garnered 93 31 percent of the unofficial tally against Karen Watson, while Hamman secured 93 84 percent of the unofficial tally in District 4 against Jim Sheets

The election results were indicative of the over whelming advantage Republicans hold in Lee County w i t h n e a r l y 1 0 0 , 0 0 0 m o r e r e g i s t e r e d v o t e r s t h a n Democrats According to statistics from the Lee County Board of Election Supervisors, there are 226,672 regis tered Republicans in the county compared to 128,650 Democrats There are 162,709 voters affiliated with other parties or no party

Vicki Collins, spokesperson for the office of the Lee County Supervisor of Elections, said there were “lines all day” to vote on Nov 8 There were 13 voting locations throughout the county, down from the normal amount of 97 The limited polling locations was blamed on dam ages to the facilities from Ian

Collins said there were some “signature discrepan cies” with some mail in ballots, though an exact number was not immediately available Those with discrepancies where the signature provided with the ballot did not match a signature on file or license, “have until 5 p m Thursday to cure their ballots ”

Collins said there were no issues with signatures at the p o l l s U n d e r a v o t i n g l a w p a s s e d b y t h e F l o r i d a Legislature, signatures must match though election offi cials can use multiple records to match them

T h e G o l i s a n o C h i l d r e n ’ s H o s p i t a l o f S o u t h w e s t Florida and Safe Kids Southwest Florida have partnered with Healthy Start and the Iona McGregor Fire District to provide safety supplies to families impacted by Hurricane Ian

Items can be picked up on Nov 19 from 9 a m to

T h e L e e C o u n t y D o m e s t i c A n i m a

noon in the parking lot in front of the children’s hospital, at 9981 S HealthPark Drive, Fort Myers Donations will include car seats, Pack ‘n Plays and other play yards, car bon monoxide detectors, door alarms, diapers and more They are being distributed in an effort to help keep youths safe as clean up and recovery continues

Mike Greenwell

Byron Donalds

John E. Manning

Disagree with your disability decision? We will take another look

By SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

Social Security is here to help millions of people secure their today and tomorrow by providing benefits and financial protection We continue to protect the integrity of our disability programs by ensuring we make the correct decision on each claim However, if you disagree with the decision on your claim, you can ask for your case to be reviewed by filing an appeal

How can I appeal

Social Security’s decision on my claim?

Generally, there are four appeal levels If you are not satisfied with the decision at one level, you may appeal to the next.

The appeal levels are:

∫ Reconsideration: A reconsideration is a complete review of your claim by someone who did not take part in the first decision We look at all the evidence submitted in the orig inal determination, and any new evidence

∫ Hearing: If you disagree with the deci sion at the reconsideration level, you may ask for a hearing An administrative law judge, who had no part in the original decision or the reconsideration of your case, conducts the hearing.

∫ Appeals Council Review: If you dis agree with the hearing decision, you can r e q u e s t a r e v i e w b y S o c i a l S e c u r i t y ’ s Appeals Council The Appeals Council looks

at all requests for review They will decide whether or not there is a reason to return your case to the judge for further review

∫ Federal Court Review: If you disagree with the Appeals Council’s decision, you can file a lawsuit in a federal district court as the last level in the appeals process.

For more information, visit our Appeal A Decision webpage at www ssa gov/bene fits/disability/appeal html

When should I file my appeal?

If we denied your claim, you have 60 days from the date of the notice to file an appeal

The easiest and quickest way is to file your appeal request online at www ssa gov/bene fits/disability/appeal html This is where you can submit associated documents electroni cally You can also call your local Social Security office or 800 772 1213 to obtain the forms You can find your local office at www ssa gov/locator

Do I need a representative to file an appeal?

A r e p r e s e n t a t i v e o r a t t o r n e y i s n o t required to file an appeal Whether you choose to appoint an attorney or authorized representative is completely up to you You may choose to have someone help you with your appeal or represent you Your represen tative may be a lawyer or other qualified per son familiar with you and the Social Security program We will work with your representa tive just as we would work with you They can act for you in most Social Security mat ters, and they will receive a copy of any deci sions we make about your claim

If you need us to review your case, go o n l i n e a t w w w . s s a . g o v / b e n e f i t s / d i s a b i l i t y /appeal html or call 800 772 1213

For more information, visit the Social S e c u r i t y A d m i n i s t r a t i o n a t w w w s s a g o v People can also contact the area office in Fort Myers at 888 318 9114 or the nation al number at 800 772 1213 for assistance

Hurricanes have hit those most in need hard

More than 18,000 homes across Southwest and Central Florida were reported to have been destroyed or suffered major damage in the wake of Hurricane Ian Damage esti mates by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra tion exceeded $50 billion, making Ian one of the costliest hurricanes in Florida’s history Previous experience has demonstrated that recovery from a storm like Ian is likely to take many years As commu nities begin the hard work to build back, Hurricane Nicole is likely to set some of those ini tial efforts on their heels

Habitat for Humanity affil

iates across the state have been actively engaged in efforts to help Florida communities in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Ian’s landfall, but a l s o l o n g t e r m r e c o v e r y through the assessment and repair of damaged homes, and planning for the construction of new affordable homes

Storms like Hurricane Ian tend to most adversely impact the lower income populations that Habitat serves As one of the largest nonprofit housing o r g a n i z a t i o n s i n F l o r i d a , Habitat is uniquely positioned to help those most in need rebuild stability through safe and resilient shelter

To build back the place we all call home, Habitat calls on the greater Florida community to support our efforts to ensure that everyone at the end of the storm has a safe place to call home Together, we can do that

Though we are unlikely to know what impact Nicole will have on our communities for days to come, we know for certain that there is a need now for your continued sup port

To help fund recovery efforts related to Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Nicole, visit the Habitat for Humanity of Florida Hurricane Fund These resources will be allocated to Habitat affiliates in communities across the state where recovery efforts are and will be taking place

Roxanne Young is the executive director of Florida Habitat for Humanity

We want your opinion

Roxanne Young

Korean War Veterans #155 welcoming new members

By KATIE EGAN news@breezenewspapers com

The Korean War is often called the forgotten war

But the veterans from Chapter 155 can never forget it

“Korean people love Korean veterans because we saved their country and we know that They really look up to and admire Korean War veterans to the highest esteem,” Korean War Veterans Southwest Florida Chapter 155 President Bob Kent said “That’s probably the best thing that came out of this war ”

Fought from 1950 53, the Korean War is often over shadowed by World War II, which ended five years before the Korea War began, and the Vietnam War, which started five years after the Korean War concluded

The Korean War saw the United States, South Korea and their allies wage battle against North Korea and the Chinese Communists

Kent, who was a support person in Okinawa, Japan, joined Chapter 155 in 2002 when it had 150 members.

School board

cation and educational fields, who has spent 38 years as a public schools teacher, as well as 26 years as a Title I reading specialist

District 6

Langford Fleming received 111,436 votes (51 53 percent) to opponent Denise Nystrom's 104,817 (48 47 percent)

Langford Fleming, a seventh genera tion Floridian, lives in Fort Myers with her husband and three children Before becoming a small business owner of Jada Fleming Fitness and a personal trainer for young adults and athletes, she taught ele mentary education for 20 years She also was a P 5 PE coach for the last four years of her education career, as well as a high school volleyball coach for 12 years

Nystrom retired to Southwest Florida seven years ago, first living in Collier County for five years before relocating to Bonita Springs two years ago She was a

From page 1

Now they have 41 Membership has gone down due to members aging out of the organization

One of the things Kent enjoys about being part of the chapter is its commitment to veterans in the community Chapter 155 has an endowment scholarship with Florida Southwestern that began in 2008 The scholarship is award ed to a veteran or a child or grandchild of a veteran For the past five years, it has also provided $500 scholarships to Cape Coral Technical College and Fort Myers Technical College

The Facebook group has about 200 members and that is one of the ways the chapter stays active Kent said it also collects dues and maintains an active board of directors

And each Tuesday at about 11:30 a m , a few of them meet along with some Vietnam veterans at the American Legion Post 90, at 1401 S E 47th St , Cape Coral

At one point, members had to be in the Korean War for a

14 year special education teacher, three year special education administrator and an eight year assistant superintendent of schools responsible for managing the human resource department

District 4

Jordan retained her seat, receiving 19,722 votes (55.57 percent) to chal lenger Dan Severson's 15,770 (44 43 percent)

Jordan, the current board chair, has lived in the same Fort Myers home for 33 years, where she raised her children She is a small business owner of a hospitality management company, Nina Rose Events Jordan was first elected to the board in 2018

Severson has lived in southeast Cape since 2015 He was a state legislator in Minnesota for eight years, four of which were in executive leadership, and an offi

certain period of time during the conflict

“But because national membership has dwindled, they’ve opened it up to anyone who has served in Korea for one day,” Kent said “We are open to accepting any service per sonal who has served in Korea ”

Chapter 155 is always looking for more members, espe cially younger members who can take over one day

“If we don’t get younger members, we’re going to cease to exist,” Kent said

Widows of Korean War veterans can also join Normally, they stay in the chapter after their significant other, who was a veteran, passed away because they have made friends, he said

“I joined for some camaraderie and I was interested in knowing other Korean veterans and the activities they do to help support veterans,” Kent said “It’s just a veterans thing ”

Those interested in joining or learning more about Chapter 155 can contact Kent at 239 945 3018 or rkent9000@aol com

cer in the U S Navy for 22 years flying fighter aircraft He was also assigned to n u m e r o u s l e a d e r s h i p p o s i t i o n s b e f o r e retiring as a commander with numerous medals

A fourth race District 5, which was also not on the ballot for islanders was d e c i d e d i n t h e A u g u s t p r i m a r y Challenger Armor Persons beat incum bent Gwynetta Gittens by receiving over 50 percent of the vote Persons had 8,232 votes, or 55 09 percent, while Gittens scored 6,712 votes, or 44 91 percent

School board referendum

A referendum asking Lee County vot ers if they wanted to repeal a decades old resolution that made the superintendent of schools a school board appointed admin istrative post passed on Nov 8, meaning voters will elect a superintendent in the next General Election

HB 497, entitled Lee County School District, was one of 10 bills that Gov Ron DeSantis signed on May 3 Republican District 78 Rep Jenna Persons Mulicka filed the bill on Nov 4, 2021 The coun ty referendum passed with 62 15 of vot ers voting “yes ” The tally was 153,461 for and 93,478 against

With the “yes” votes winning, the 1974 resolution will be repealed and the school district will move to an elected superintendent, to be done in a “partisan election by vote of qualified electors residing in Lee County for a term of four years, beginning with the 2024 general election ”

The superintendent will become anoth er elected constitutional officer, making a total of eight for the county, including Sheriff, Clerk of the Courts, Tax Collector and Property Appraiser

Total election turnout was 53.27 per cent with 275,962 ballots counted

The Korean War Veterans Memorial at Eco Park in Cape Coral, which was dedicated by the Korean War Veterans #155 of Southwest Florida in 2008.

PHOTO PROVIDED

W

CCP hears of panel nominations, storm recovery

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

e e k o f

The Captiva Community Panel was updated on the nominations for two panel seats and the recovery plan for Captiva at i t s r e c e n t m e e t i n g , a s w e l l a s h e a r d posthurricane updates from local officials O n N o v 8 , P a n e l M e m b e r a n d

Nominating Committee Chair Linda Laird explained that there will be five open seats on the panel in January and that three

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

island groups nominate individuals to serve

T h i s t i m e , t h e C a p t i v a P r o p e r t y Owners Association will nominate two people and has made its selections, and the Captiva Civic Association will nomi nate one person and has made its decision The CCP will nominate two people, and t h e N o m i n a t i n g C o m m i t t e e h a s b e e n accepting applications

Laird continued that the two seats to be filled by the CCP are presently held by Treasurer Tony Lapi and Panel Member

John Jensen, who have both expressed i n t e r e s t i n s e r v i n g a n o t h e r t e r m Christopher Leedom, Sarah McClure and R o b e r t W i e s e m a n n I I a l s o s u b m i t t e d applications and letters of interest

“The people who volunteered are out standing,” she said of the three applicants

Laird reported that the Nominating Committee met to discuss the applicants and review credentials It agreed on con

Fire board hears update on ambulance, talks vacancy

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

T

On Nov 8, Fire Chief Jeff Pawul reported that the district's and county's attorneys have been in ongoing negotiations over the lease terms proposed by the district for setting up the ambulance He explained the county is not will ing to commit to any language that will allow the district to provide transport services if the county pulls the ambulance, saying that it is solely a housing agreement

“They don't want to be tied to that,” Pawul said “They don't want to open that door ”

He noted that only two districts have been able to receive the county's approval for transport

“They don't want fire districts transporting because they transport,” Pawul said, adding that the district never wanted full transport, only limited to move patients from a scene to the helicopter landing site

“It would only cost us an apparatus to do it,” he said

It was those discussions with the county that evolved into putting an ambulance at the station

Pawul asked the commissioners how they would like him to

he Captiva Island Fire Control District's commission received an update on hous ing a Lee County EMS ambulance at the fire station and discussed a soon to be vacated seat at its recent meetingproceed, such as whether to agree to the county's terms and hope that it does not remove the ambulance or “brown” it out when staffing is shorthanded or whether to continue to push the issue of what the district wants if those do take place

He pointed out that the district also agreed to a lower lease payment, which they could revisit “How bad do we want them to have a unit here?” Pawul asked

Commissioner John Bates reported that they could proceed now and revisit it later

“I think it's worth getting an ambulance in here as soon as possible,” he said, adding that he does not want to enter into the agreement, how ever, if the island ends up not having the agreed to services

After some discussion, the commission directed Pawul to reach out again to county officials

Also during the meeting, Pawul reported that Bates' time on the commission was set to expire in 10 days Bates was appointed in April on the basis that he would serve and assist through the budget

Pawul voiced appreciation for Bates' dedication and will ingness to help the last few months.

Bates recommended that Commissioners Sherrill Sims and Carole Campbell look to fill the seat probably by January,

CEPD board OKs interlocal contracts and financial audit

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

T h e C a p t i v a E r o s i o n P r e v e n t i o n

D i s t r i c t ' s c o m m i s s i o n a p p r o v e d t w o annual agreements with Lee County and its annual financial audit agreement at its mee ing, plus discussed an upcoming vacancy O n N o v 7 , E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r Daniel Munt present ed the commissione with the 2023 interlocal agreements from the Lee County Tourist Development Council for project grant funding for the Alison Hagerup Beach P a r k m a i n t e n a n c e f o r $ 1 9 2 , 1 6 0 a n d CEPD beach vehicle maintenance for $10,299

See

CEPD,

The Captiva Civic Association will host a Community Social on Nov 17 from 5 to 6 p m

Free and open to the public, it will take place at the Captiva Civic Center

“I hope this finds everyone in good health and as well as can be expected at this point in the post hurricane recovery phase,” Executive Director Emily Hess Ankerson said in a prepared statement “I know it has been a lot for people to cope with, and the CCA would like to help by opening its doors for a social hour and a chance to connect with other community members who are on the islands ”

Beverages and light fare will be pro vided

In addition, the CCA continues to offer drop in WiFi access on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 3 p m at the Captiva Civic Center for those who need Internet access

It also posts regular updates on its F a c e b o o k p a g e a t h t t p s : / / w w w f a c e book com/CCAcaptiva

See CCP, page 7 See FIRE BOARD, page 7

CCA to host Community Social for islanders

County library system offering virtual programs

The Lee County Library System, which includes the Captiva Memorial Library, is offering the following free virtual programming:

Adult programs

∫ Nov. 30: Online Book Discussion for Adults at 10 a m

Calling all readers! A live virtual book discussion for adults There is no assigned title Instead, participants take turns sharing about the latest books that they have read Advance registration required before Nov 30 at 10 a m

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 leelibrary librarymarket com

Questions can also be directed to 239 479 INFO (4636)

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

The Captiva Memorial Library is currently closed due to Hurricane Ian

The Captiva library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva

From page 6

tinuing with the current panel and will recommend Lapi and Jensen for reappointment

“But we are so pleased with the quality of the volun teers,” she said. “We would just urge them to get more involved with the panel business because they have a lot to offer our community ”

Also during the meeting, Vice President David Mintz provided an update on the island's plan for recovery He reported that at the last Lee County Commission meet ing, Commissioner Kevin Ruane proposed creating a multi year task force to draft a plan for all of the county for implementation

Mintz continued that the recovery plan would overlay what county staff would present, with federal and state monies to serve as possible funding sources Ruane asked and agreed to serve as chair of the task force and wants all communities involved, meaning that the CCP's plans could be folded into it

Also at the meeting, the panel received the following post storm updates from officials:

∫ L C E C K e y A c c o u n t E x e c u t i v e T r i c i a D o r n explained that properties able to receive power on the island should have electricity Those still without power should contact LCEC to follow up on it

Fire board

Panel Member and South Seas Island Resort Regional Managing Director Bob Walter noted that homeowners associations for those resort properties are handling the turning on of electricity.

∫ Lee County Sheriff's Office Lt Mike Sawicki reported that the team has been focused on burglary sup pression There has been one residential burglary, which is under investigation, and missing marine electronics People are advised to ensure their security system works and report anything suspicious

∫ Captiva Island Fire Control District Fire Chief Jeff Pawul explained that before a commercial property can reopen for business, it is required to undergo a “life safe ty inspection” that is done by the district

To schedule a life safety inspection, contact the dis trict at 239 472 9494.

∫ Walter reported that Comcast is expecting to be active island wide by mid December

∫ Mintz explained that the state decided against fund ing a ferry service to the island because of the Sanibel C a u s e w a y ' s r e o p e n i n g C a p t i v a C r u i s e s h a d b e e n involved in the plans to provide the service, with help from the Port Sanibel Marina He noted that Ruane may try to appeal the state's decision

In other news

∫ Mintz reported that the county relayed the proposed ordinance relating to a year round farmers market will be approved However, it has language written into the ordi nance that states no more than 20 percent of the market's vendors can be selling products or items that are non agriculture goods

“Which will keep it as a farmers market as opposed to a flea market,” he said

“That was also one of our recommendations,” Mintz added.

∫ Mintz provided an in depth informational presenta tion regarding FEMA's 50% rule, as well as discussed the county's five year look back rule and its proposed 15 percent home value adjustment

∫ Michael Fusco, founder and chief executive officer of Ironclaim, provided an informational presentation about public adjusters, what they do, and when and why you might hire one

For a video of the meeting, visit https://captivacom munitypanel com/news updates/

From page 6

which will give people enough time to express their inter est in serving

Pawul said he would reach out to past candidates to see if they are still interested

He also noted that the district's attorney said they could reappoint Bates if he is open to that.

“Plenty of other boards have done it,” Pawul said After some discussion among the chief and commis sion, Bates reported that he is comfortable with seeing who might be interested in serving first, which would also give him time to think about it

Those interested in an appointment to the seat can con tact Pawul for more details

He can be reached at jpawul@captivafire com or 239 472 9494

In other news

∫ The district responded to 24 calls in October Pawul explained that the monthly total was lower than normal because crews have not been running their usual amount of calls due to the recent hurricane

“The calls we are running now are still storm related calls,” he said, adding that the calls include contractors falling off of ladders or accidentally starting brush fires, to downed power lines

From page 6

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

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

“ I t h a s b e e n c o m p l e t e d , s o i t i s i n d r a f t f o r m , ” s h e s a i d

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

FEMA, state open Disaster Recovery Center on Sanibel

FEMA and the state of Florida recently announced the opening of new Disaster Recovery Centers in Lee County, including one at the Sanibel Community Church, at 1740 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

The hours for the center is from 8 a m to 7 p m daily

Additional DRCs in Lee are located at:

∫ Beach Baptist Church, 130 Connecticut St , Fort Myers Beach

∫ Lakes Regional Library, at 15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers

∫ Lake Kennedy Center, at 400 Santa Barbara Blvd , Cape Coral

∫ Pine Island Phillips Community Park, at 5675 Sesame Drive, Boleelia

All centers are operating seven days a week, hours may vary No appointment is necessary

DRCs provide disaster survivors with information from state agencies, FEMA and U S Small Business Administration Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, update applica tions and learn about other resources available To find a center close to you, go online to: DRC Locator or floridadisaster org, or text DRC along with your zip code to 43362

It is not necessary to visit a center to apply Survivors can go online to disasterassistance gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call 800 621 3362. The line is open every day from 7 a m to 11 p m Help is available in most languages If you use a relay serv ice, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service To view an accessible video about how to apply, visit https://www youtube com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI

Interpretation services and translated materials are available at the centers to help you communicate in the language with which you feel most comfortable DRC locations are chosen for their accessibility, with the goal of reaching as many people as possible

In addition, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are canvassing neighborhoods in areas impacted by Hurricane Ian to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and answer questions about federal assistance DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges There is no charge for service

City releases information on emergency repair permits

The city of Sanibel reported that the Buil Department has posted information concerni the Emergency Repair Permitting Policy along with Emergency Permit Applications f o r a l t e r a t i o n s , d e m o l i t i o n , e l e c t r i c a l , mechanical, plumbing and roofs To review t h e H u r r i c a n e I a n p o l i c y , 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 / c o n t e n t / d o w n load/30809/file/Hurricane%20Ian%20POL CY%2011 4 22 pdf

To review the city’s Guidance for Structures That Sustained Significant Damage or Require “Significant

ovement,” visit https://www mysanibel com ontent/download/30814/file/Substantial%20 Damage%20Information%2011 4 22 pdf

To access the city’s Emergency Permit A p p l i c a t i o n s , v i s i t https://www mysanibel com/city forms/build ing department forms

T h e c i t y a d d e d t h a t t h e B u i l d i n g p a r t m e n t e x p e c t e d t o o p e n t h e E n e r G o v r o n i c P e r m i t t i n g p o r t a l l a s t w e e k A n e w s r e l e a s e w i l l b e i s s u e d w h e n t h e p e r m i t t i n g s i t e i s o p e n f o r a p p l i c a t i o n s

Free health clinic sets up on Sanibel

The city of Sanibel reported that a free medical clinic has been estab lished in a partnership between the Lee County Medical Society, Lee Emergency Medical Services and Broward County Medical Corp

Beginning Nov. 14, it will operate

f r o m a w h i t e t r a i l e r i n f r o n t o f Sanibel Fire and Rescue District Station 171, at 2351 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel The hours are gener ally Monday through Friday from 8 a m to 4 p m , depending on travel times to the island.

S e r v i c e s o f f e r e d b y v o l u n t e e r physicians include free flu shots, including the vaccine for those 65 and over, tetanus shots, wound care, and assessment and treatment of res piratory issues, like cough, flu, pneu monia and bronchitis.

Property tax bill deadline extended in Lee County

The Lee County Tax Collector reported that property owners typi cally receive their property tax bills the last week of October However, because of Hurricane Ian, this year’s t a x r o l l i n s t e a d o p e n e d i n e a r l y November for collection of pay ments, with tax bills being mailed later in the month.

The 4 percent discount usually o f f e r e d d u r i n g t h e m o n t h o f N o v e m b e r w i l l b e e x t e n d e d i n t o January due to the delayed mailing, with a firm date set once the bills have been mailed

Once the tax roll is open for collec tion, customers will be able to access and print their bills online or have them

emailed, by visiting LEETC com, clicking “Online Service Center,” then “Property Tax” and entering a name, address, or account number

If your property was destroyed or rendered uninhabitable by Ian, contact the Lee County Property Appraiser’s office at 239 533 6100 or visit https://www.leepa.org/.

Chiklakis named trust officer at Trust Company

The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company announced the addition of Jason Chiklakis as vice president and trust officer in the company’s tempo rary office, at 7910 Summerlin Lakes Drive, Fort Myers

He is responsible for managing individual and family client rela tionships, coordinating efforts with internal team members and external advisors to provide trust and invest ment services

Prior to joining the company,

Chiklakis

presi

Fort M y e r s H e w a s r e s p o n s i b l e f o r d e m o n s t r a t i n g p r u dent fiduciary man a g e m e n t , e n s u r i n g trust accounts were a d m i n i s t e r e d i n a c c o r d a n c e w i t h estate documents and applicable laws, and

VIP Realty Group announces top producers

VIP Realty Group announced its top producers for the month of October Debbie Ringdahl had the top sales and top listings With lifetime sales exceed ing $90 million, she special izes in luxury homes, con

dos and new home lots in waterfront and golf commu nities Ringdahl is a 20 year member of the VIP President’s Club and receives over 130 hours of continuous advance sales training annually

Bob Berning was the top producer. Through his spe cialty in residential, luxury, new construction, golf course and gated communi ties, he shares his expertise Berning applies his negotiat ing skills and strategies to

ensure his client’s goals are reached.

For more information, call 239 472 5187 or go to SanCapIslandRE com

VIP Realty Group is at 1560 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

n d h e obtained his Bachelor of Science in political science from Florida State University.

served as associate vice

dent and trust officer at FineMark National Bank & Trust in

Jason Chiklakis

Debbie Ringdahl

Bob Berning

PreserVIng ParadIse

SCCF sea turtle research moves over to FGCU

The Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that its sea turtle team did not skip a beat conducting its research Before Hurricane Ian, some lab equipment and materials were moved to The Water School at the Florida Gulf Coast University, where they were more likely to be out of harm’s way It included sea turtle blood samples, which must be kept at 80 degrees C ( 112 degrees F)

Since the hurricane, sea turtle research technician Jacob Wozny has been using lab space generously provided to the SCCF by FGCU’s Dr. Hidetoshi Urakawa to continue working on a long term study investigating differences in sea turtle hatch success on Sanibel versus Captiva beaches

DDWS provides update on future of The Roost

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society Friends of the Refuge reported that as Hurricane Ian hit on Sept. 28, the building of The Roost outdoor education pavilion was well underway at the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge

The $1 million project was to serve as an outdoor classroom for visiting school and other groups The DDWS envisioned creative uses to reflect the refuge’s arts legacy and experiential mission, including music and artist events, puppet shows, lectures, mindfulness classes, and culture driven programs

Along with other refuge facilities, Ian blew away most of the progress on The Roost construction, but not the dream and vision.

“The refuge has okayed the recommencement of con struction as soon as its facilities are in a position to sup port it,” DDWS Executive Director Birgie Miller said “The refuge staff understands the importance of an out door facility such as this to the community, as well as the refuge, in these times ”

The hurricane setback and subsequent impact on con struction costs ups the price tag on The Roost’s comple tion, and the DDWS is seeking an additional $125,000 to complete the project To donate, visit https://inter land3 donorperfect net/weblink/WebLink aspx?name=E 54182&id=12 and designate The Roost in the form’s notes or contact Miller at 239 292 0566

SFWMD extends deadline for public comment on draft plan

a t i v e w a t e r supply/asr?utm medium=email&ut m source=govdelivery T h e S F W M D a n d U S A r m y Corps of Engineers developed the draft plan to address uncertainties identified in the National Research C o u n c i l ' s r e v i e w o f t h e A S R Regional Study Final Technical Data Report. It shall serve as an update to the inaugural 2021 Science Plan

S

SANIBEL CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Sanibel Sea School continues teaching post-storm

and

“We wanted to still meet the needs of our homeschool groups who were interested, despite not being able to enjoy the beach as we n o r m a l l y d o i n t h e s e c o u r s e s , ” D i r e c t o r S h a n n o n R i v a r d s a i d “Getting back out there and doing our jobs as marine science educators has been a great stress reliever for our staff ”

It is unknown when the Sanibel Sea School will reopen for its nor mal operations, as the SCCF is still assessing and repairing damages to the two buildings on Periwinkle Way The main building experi enced about 2 feet of flooding, with nearly all contents a loss, as well as major tree damage The back building had 2 feet to 3 feet o f f l o o d i n g t h a t s u b m e r g e d t h e e l e c t r i c a l p a n e l a n d c a u s e d t h e wooden floors to buckle, one win dow was broken, and the fence surrounding the outdoor teaching area was destroyed

“We look forward to the day when kids are back on our campus d i s c o v e r i n g S a n i b e l ’ s u n i q u e marine habitats,” Rivard said “For now, we’re lucky that you don’t need buildings to teach about nature and conservation ”

T o s u p p o r t t h e S a n i b e l S e a S c h o o l , v i s i t h t t p s : / / w w w s a n i belseaschool org/support the cause

“ ( T h e m u l t i y e a r p r o j e c t i s ) t a k i n g a d e e p e r l o o k i n t o h o w p h y s i c a l p r o p e r t i e s o f t h e i n c u b a t i o n e n v i r o n m e n t m a y i n t e r a c t t o i m p a c t h a t c h s u c c e s s , s u c h a s t e m p e r a t u r e , m o i s t u r e a n d s a n d g r a i n s i z e , c o m p a c t i o n , c o l o r a n d b u l k d e n s i t y , ” h e s a i d

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

d e e p w h e r e e g g s w o u l d b e l a i d f o r 6 0 n e s t s , t h e t e a m a l s o i n s t a l l e d p r o b e s i n e a c h n e s t t o r e c o r d t h e t e m p e r a t u r e , m o i s t u r e a n d g r o u n d w a t e r l e v e l e v e r y 1 5 m i n u t e s t h r o u g h o u t i n c u b a t i o n N o w t h a t t h e f i e l d w o r k i s c o m p l e t e d , W o z n y h a s b e e n u s i n g a s p e c i a l i z e d m a c h i n e t o s e p a r a t e t h e s a n d s a m p l e s b y p a r t i c l e s i z e .

“ T h e s a n d o n S a n i b e l h a s s o m e d i f

f e r e n c e s f r o m t h e s a n d o n C a p t i v a , w h i c h h a s a d d e d n o n n a t i v e s a n d t o i t s b e a c h e s a s p a r t o f o n g o i n g b e a c h r e n o u r i s h m e n t p r o j e c t s , ” h e s a i d

C o a s t a l W i l d l i f e D i r e c t o r a n d S e a T u r t l e P r o g r a m C o o r d i n a t o r K e l l y S l o a n s a i d t h a t t h e d a t a m a y p r o v i d e i n s i g h t i n t o w h y C a p t i v a h a s h a d h i s t o r i c a l l y l o w e r a n n u a l h a t c h s u c c e s s t h e p r o p o r t i o n o f e g g s p r o d u c i n g l i v e

h a t c h l i n g s t h a n S a n i b e l

“ C a p t i v a ' s h a t c h r a t e t h i s y e a r w a s o n l y 3 1 p e r c e n t , w h i c h i s a l a r m i n g l y l o w c o m p a r e d t o n e a r l y 4 9 p e r c e n t a n d 6 1 p e r c e n t o n S a n i b e l e a s t a n d S a n i b e l w e s t , r e s p e c t i v e l y , ” s h e s a i d “ W e ' r e h o p i n g t h i s p r o j e c t w i l l h e l p u s l e a r n m o r e a b o u t t h e f a c t o r s t h a t c o u l d b e c o n t r i b u t i n g t o l o w p r o d u c t i v i t y o n t h e s e b e a c h e s ”

The Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation report ed that every school year, the Sanibel Sea School pro vides classes to groups of home schooled children as part of its “Homeschool at Sea” program With the courses already scheduled and paid for

before Hurricane Ian and with the Sanibel Sea School facilities non useable and the island’s natural habitats unsafe staff had to get a little creative to deliver the same level of education this season Classes have recently been held off island at parks

preserves around Southwest Florida, where children ages 4 13 have explored topics including shark biology, bird anatomy and habitat, history of the Calusa, and changes to wildlife after the storm They have taken hikes at the Three Oaks Park, learned about the Koreshan com munity at the Koreshan State Park, mastered how to use binoculars at the Wild Turkey Strand Preserve and more

SANIBEL CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

O f f i c i a l s r e p o r t e d t h a t w h i l e r e c o v e r i n g f r o m H u r r i c a n e I a n , t h e S a n i b e l P u b l i c L i b r a r y c o n t i n u e s t o m o v e f o r w a r d b y p r o v i d i n g o n l i n e s e r v i c e s 2 4 / 7 b o o k s , m u s i c , m o v i e s , m a g a z i n e s a n d m o r e

T h e l i b r a r y ' s p h y s i c a l b u i l d i n g w a s c l o s e d a n d s e c u r e d t h e d a y b e f o r e I a n h i t O f f i c i a l s r e p o r t e d t h a t o v e r a l l , i t h e l d u p v e r y w e l l ; s t o r m s u r g e w a s t h e b i g g e s t t h r e a t a n d d i d l e a v e s e v e r e d a m a g e S t a f f a n d p r o f e s s i o n a l r e s t o r e r s a r e w o r k i n g t o h a v e t h e b u i l d i n g r e a d y f o r p u b l i c a c c e s s a s s o o n a s p o s s i b l e

B o o k s , m a g a z i n e s , D V D s a n d a r c h i v e s a r e s a f e a n d i n g o o d c o n d i t i o n O f f i c i a l s r e p o r t e d t h a t t h e H i s t o r i c F l o r i d a c o l l e c t i o n h i s t o r i c p h o t o g r a p h s , m a p s , a n d o t h e r d o c u m e n t s a r e s a f e a n d s e c u r e L i b r a r y a r t a n d s p e c i a l d i s p l a y s , i n c l u d i n g h i s t o r i c q u i l t , p r e h i s t o r i c s h e l l c o l l e c t i o n , h i s t o r i c , l o c a l , d o n a t e d , o n l o a n f r o m a r t i s t a r e s a f e a n d s e c u r e

O f f i c i a l s r e p o r t e d t h a t a l l o f t h e A d u l t , T e e n , a n d Y o u t h a n d f a v o r i t e f i c t i o n a n d n o n f i c t i o n w i l l b e r e a d y s o o n f o r c h e c k o u t E v e r y t h i n g f r o m f a v o r i t e r e a d s t o c h e c k i n g e m a i l w i l l b e r e a d y a s s o o n a s p o s s i b l e

T h e p l a n s i n c l u d e : o p e n i n g s e l e c t p h y s i c a l a r e a s f o r p u b l i c a c c e s s s e r v i c e s , a s w e l l a s d r i v e t h r o u g h p i c k u p , o f f i c i a l s r e p o r t e d S t a f f w i l l e x p a n d a n d a d d t o s e r v i c e s a s t h e r e s t o r a t i o n w o r k g o e s o n

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

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

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

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , c a l l 2 3 9 4 7 2 2 4 8 3 o r v i s i t w w w . s a n l i b . o r g .

Islander grateful for SCCF help with hurricane cleanup

By SANIBEL CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Carrie Toothman wells up with emotion as she talks a b o u t t h e h e r c u l e a n h e l p t h a t t h e S a n i b e l C a p t i v a Conservation Foundation staff recently brought to her devastated ground level home on Ibis Lane

“There aren’t enough thank yous in the world to express my gratitude,” the single mother with a cleaning business on Sanibel said “SCCF moved mountains for me and helped me with work I never could have done on my own.”

Eight staff members responded to Toothman’s plea for assistance at her home adjacent to the Puschel Preserve that was flooded by 5 feet of water in Hurricane Ian

“In one hour, they cleared the tangled trees that were blocking the door and the front yard, and hauled out my refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher,” she said “Then, today they got my hot water heater and dryer out They couldn’t get the washer because it’s still full of water ”

T h e S a n i b e l P u b l i c L i b r a r y i s a t 7 7 0

n l o p R o a d , S a n i b e l

SANIBEL CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation staffers with resident Carrie Toothman

Carrie Toothman's home before Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation staff cleared the yard

The Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation crew in CarrieToothman 's kitchen.

See HURRICANE CLEANUP, page 13

rescinds boil water notice for most of islands

The Island Water Association reported that the Sept 27 precau tionary boil water notice has been r e s c i n d e d f o r a l l r e s i d e n t s o f Sanibel and Captiva, with the exception of one area as of Nov.

7

The notice was lifted follow ing the thorough flushing of the distribution system and satisfac tory completion of the bacterio logical survey showing that the water is safe to drink

The IWA reported that until f u r t h e r n o t i c e , w a t e r s e r v i c e s w i t h i n t h e C a l o o s a S h o r e s Association remain under a boil water notice due to low pressure delivery to the area

Sanibel police to launch blotter on criminal activity

The city reported that as Sanibel con tinues to recover from Hurricane Ian, the Sanibel Police Department announced a new initiative to support its effort to keep the community safe and secure

Beginning on Nov 14, a police blotter will be issued twice weekly to report real time law enforcement response to criminal activity, including enforcement actions,

arrests, search warrants executed, unli censed activity, and information about routine operations and patrol

The SPD continues to encourage the community to report any suspected crimi nal activity by calling 239 472 3111 For emergencies, call 911 “If you see some thing, say something,” officials said.

Hurricane cleanup

With all her belongings drenched by the surge, Toothman said the team also carried ruined clothing, mattresses, a box spring, blankets, towels and couches to the curb While setting up the Puschel Preserve as a staging site for debris, SCCF staff became aware of Toothman’s desperate need for assistance

From page 12

U n d e r t h e d i r e c t i o n o f C h i e f

E x e c u t i v e O f f i c e r J a m e s E v a n s , s t a f f m e m b e r s h a v e b e e n i n s t r u c t e d t o h e l p t h e c o m m u n i t y o u t w h e n e v e r p o s s i b l e s i n c e i m m e d i a t e l y a f t e r t h e h u r r i c a n e

R e c e n t l y , t h e y t u r n e d t h e i r a t t e n t i o n t o g i v i n g b a c k t o S C C F v o l u n t e e r s b y h e l p i n g o u t w i t h c l e a n u p t a s k s a t t h e i r

Sanibel police release more photos of missing property

T h e S a n i b e l P o l i c e D e p a r t m e n t recently published photographs of addi tional items discovered during post hur r i c a n e p o l i c e o p e r a t i o n s R e s i d e n t s , property owners and business owners c a n r e v i e w t h e p h o t o s a t http://www.mysanibel.us /police/prop erty/property2 html Previously released

p h o t o s c a n b e r e v i e w e d a t http://www mysanibel us/ police/prop erty/ If you are missing property that you believe may be included in one or more of the photos, and can provide proof to sup port your claim, contact the SPD's non emergency number at 239 472 3111.

h o m e s A t t h e s a m e t i m e , t e a m m e m b e r s h a v e a l s o b e e n f o c u s e d o n t h e c o n s e r v a t i o n w o r k t h a t i s c e n t r a l t o t h e S C C F ’ s m i s s i o n t o p r o t e c t a n d c a r e f o r S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a ’ s c o a s t a l e c o s y s t e m s

“I could not be more impressed by your hard work, dedication to our mis

sion, and the compassion that you have all demonstrated towards our community,” Evans said of how the staffers have bal anced their work over the past weeks “We continue to receive praise from resi dents and business owners for our work and I want to assure you that we are mak ing a difference ”

A map of the area still under the Island Water Association’s boil water advisor as of Nov 7

ISLAND WATER ASSOCIATION

FWC approves final rule to modify gag grouper season

n d h e l p e n s u r e f u t u r e g a g f i s h i n g o p p o r t u n i t i e s T h e c h a n g e i s c o n s i s t e n t w i t h p e n d i n g r e g u l a t i o n s i n a d j a c e n t f e d e r a l w a t e r s i n t h e G u l f o f M e x i c o T h e F W C i s c o m m i t t e d t o c o l l e c t i n g

c r i t i c a l r e c r e a t i o n a l h a r v e s t f i s h i n g d a t a t o i n f o r m m a n a g e m e n t o f g a g g r o u p e r , i n a d d i t i o n t o o t h e r r e e f f i s h T h e S t a t e R e e f F i s h S u r v e y u s e s i n p e r s o n i n t e r v i e w s a n d a m a i l s u r v e y t o c o l l e c t i n f o r m a t i o n o n r e c r e a t i o n a l f i s h i n g f o r r e e f f i s h , s u c h a s g a g g r o u p e r , f r o m p r i v a t e b o a t s T h e s e m e t h o d s p r o v i d e t h e F W C w i t h a c l e a r e r p i c t u r e o f t h e h e a l t h o f r e e f f i s h s t o c k s t h r o u g h o u t t h e s t a t e a n d h e l p e n s u r e t h e l o n g t e r m s u s t a i n a b i l i t y o f r e c r e a t i o n a l f i s h i n g i n F l o r i d a

T h e S t a t e R e e f F i s h A n g l e r d e s i g n a t i o n i s r e q u i r e d f o r r e c r e a t i o n a l a n g l e r s

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

F

The Boston Red Sox Foundation will a w a r d $ 5 , 0 0 0 scholarships in the s p r i n g o f t o o n e d e s e r v i n g s t u d e n t from each of the 15 public high schools in Lee County. Lee County charter and A L S s c h o o l s a r e also included with one $5,000 scholar ship being awarded, for 16 scholarships worth $80,000

“The Red Sox are great partners with the School District of Lee County, and we sincerely appreciate t h e i r c o n t i n u e d c o m m i t m e n t t o o u r s t u d e n t s , ”

Superintendent Dr Christopher Bernier said “I encourage our seniors to apply for this scholarship Selecting just one student from each high school will not be easy, but I look forward to meeting the select ed recipients ”

The scholarships are for academically talented stu dents who have shown a commitment to community service and are pursuing a two or four year degree at any college or university

Scholarship funds are raised annually from pro ceeds of the Red Sox annual Swings for the Sox Golf T o u r n a m e n t T o d a t e , i t h a s r a i s e d m o r e t h a n $ 4 9 7 , 0 0 0 f o r l o c a l c h a r i

a n d s p e c i f i c a l l y $437,175 for the scholarship program Due to Hurricane Ian, this year’s tournament was canceled.

“The Red Sox Foundation continues its commit ment to providing the funds for these scholarships,” Brennan Whitley, senior manager Florida business operations for the Boston Red Sox, said “Our 11th annual Swings for the Sox golf tournament was can celed, but we are proud to still be giving more money for these scholarships for deserving students ”

Applications are open at https://www redsoxfoun dation org/leecountyscholarship/ Applications should be submitted to flscholar ships@redsox com

The deadline to apply is Jan. 13.

FWC: It is Manatee Awareness Month

By FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

November is Manatee Awareness Month, an important time for boaters to go slow and lookout below to watch for manatees as they travel to warmer water sites around the state Manatees depend on water gener a l l y w a r m e r t h a n 6 8 d e g r e e s Fahrenheit to survive the winter, so in the fall they travel to Florida springs, power plant discharges and other warm water sites

While manatees are large, they can be difficult to see in the water That is why it is important to: follow guidelines and follow all manatee protection zones; look out while boating; wear polarized glasses and always give them space Manatee p r o t e c t i o n z o n e s a r e m a r k e d b y waterway signs and maps of manatee protection zones are available online at MyFWC com/Manatee by clicking on “Data and Maps ”

During the colder months, season al manatee zones require boaters to slow down in certain areas to prevent m a n a t e e s f r o m b e i n g i n j u r e d o r killed by motorboats or personal watercraft. Boat strikes continue to be a major threat to Florida mana t e e s F l o r i d a F i s h a n d W i l d l i f e C o n s e r v a t i o n C o m m i s s i o n l a w enforcement officers are on patrol in state waters to inform boaters of the seasonal manatee speed zones and t a k e a p p r o p r i a t e e n f o r c e m e n t actions Boaters are reminded to abide by the regulatory signs they see on the water

Remember, disturbing manatees at warm water sites can cause them to swim out of protected areas and into potentially life threatening cold w a t e r M a n a t e e s a r e a p r o t e c t e d species and it is illegal to feed, harass, disturb or harm them Physically handling a distressed or stranded manatee can cause more

harm Instead, report injured, dis tressed, sick or dead manatees to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888 404 FWCC (3922) or by dial ing #FWC or *FWC on a cellphone so trained responders can assist.

T h e F W C a n d U S F i s h a n d Wildlife Service continue to investi gate and respond to an elevated num ber of manatee deaths along the Atlantic coast of Florida The FWC and USFWS take manatee conserva tion seriously by actively implement i n g s c i e n c e b a s e d c o n s e r v a t i o n measures that are making a differ ence for manatees and habitat Learn m o r e a b o u t h o w o f f i c i a l s a r e responding to this event by visiting MyFWC com/Manatee and clicking on “Learn More” in the banner at the top of the page

Resources for boaters, educators and other interested members of the

e c t i o n t o r e c e i v e a m a i l s u r v e y c o m p o n e n t o f t h e S t a t e R e e f F i s h S u r v e y T o l e a r n m o r e a b o u t t h e S t a t e R e e f F i s h S u r v e y , v i s i t M y F W C c o m / S R F S

o r c u r r e n t r e c r e a t i o n a l g a g g r o u p e r r e g u l a t i o n s , v i s i t M y F W C c o m / M a r i n e a n d c l i c k o n “ R e c r e a t i o n a l R e g u l a t i o n s , ” “ R e e f F i s h ” a n d t h e n “ G r o u p e r ”

FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

Refuge reports on programming, events

Nature Store items and talk to visitors about the refuge at a Pop up Stand at the Coconut Point Farmer’s Market in Estero The D D WS thanked Local Roots for making space for the setup each Thursday from 9 a m to 1 p m

∫ The annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament remains on the calendar for May 19 However, the opening for registration has been post poned until further notice The DDWS thanked the 2023 sponsors To become an event sponsor, contact April Boehnen at aprilb@dingdarlingsociety.org.

15,

team on its road to recovery.

∫ Starting on Dec 1, staff will sell

∫ While staff is focused on recovery efforts, they are making time to offer occasions for locals to engage and heal through nature Watch for news in the coming weeks of free Mindfulness Walks at Bailey Tract for groups and individu als For times and dates or to reserve a group walk, contact Supervisory Refuge R a n g e r T o n i W e s t l a n d a t Toni Westland@fws gov or Ranger Jess Barry at jessica barry@fws gov People can also tune into the guided podcasts via Anchor or Spotify

Manatee awareness

p

MyFWC com/Manatee What should you do if you see a manatee? The Viewing Guidelines page provides helpful tips on

page

respectfully viewing manatees, additional guidelines for boat and personal water craft operators, and information on what you can do to help these amazing aquatic

mammals.

Are you interested in supporting the FWC’s manatee research, rescue and management efforts? You can purchase a

Florida manatee license plate or donate $5 to receive a collectable FWC manatee decal Both are available from your local Tax Collector’s office

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Flag football game to raise funds for school district students, staff

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

An event scheduled for next month vision to bring the community togethe manship, while raising funds for studen teachers through a Hurricane Ian relief

“As a teacher at The Sanibel Scho blessed with the outpouring of support f munity and strangers near and far,” coordinator Joe Camputaro said. “I would be nice to pay it forward and se will ambassador, similar to a program t mented with my fifth grade students at Blueberry Ambassadors ”

A 2021 Golden Apple recipient Camputaro is an advocate of the work that the Foundation for Lee County P u b l i c S c h o o l s C h i e f E x e c u t i v e Officer and President Marshall Bower does for the students and educators of the county

“I have also served as league coor dinator for various adult intramural leagues through the school district’s employee wellness program When I returned home from evacuating the hurricane, I shared my vision with employee wellness and the foundation Both were incred ibly supportive and let me run with the ball, so to speak, to organize this tournament Since its inception, many individuals from the foundation and the school district,

including full support and endorsement of district leader ship, have made this possible,” he said

The Hurricane Ian Relief Flag Football Tournament will be held on Dec 3 at 8 a m at Dunbar High School, at 3800 Edison Ave , Fort Myers Participation is $10

per person and will go toward the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools Hurricane Ian Relief Fund. Those interested must register by Dec 1 at 11:50 p m by visit ing https://playpass com/HurricaneIanFlagFootballFund raiser

A d d i t i o n a l d o n a t i o n s a r e e n c o u r a g e d , b u t n o t required

“There is no max number for registration The tour nament will be 7v7 adult only 18 plus years or older to play There is a men’s division and a co ed divi sion Teams can have as many players on their roster as they wish, however, only seven players can be on the f i e l d f o r t h e i r r e s p e c t i v e t e a m d u r i n g t h e g a m e , ” Camputaro said.

He said the event would not be possible without the incredible support of the School District of Lee County, the foundation and those who are volunteering for the tournament

“In order to ensure all funds go directly to the Hurricane Ian Relief Fund, myself, our officials and any one else who is helping us on the third are volunteering their time to bring our community closer and support our a m a z i n g s c h o o l d i s t r i c t e m p l o y e e s a n d f a m i l i e s , ” Camputaro said

To make donate to the fundraiser, scan the QR Code or visit https://thefoundationforleecountypublicschools n e t w o r k f o r g o o d c o m / p r o j e c t s / 1 7 2 8 4 0 f l a g f o o t b a l l hurricane ian relief fundraiser

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 : / / p l a y p a s s c o m

/HurricaneIanFlagFootballFundraiser

Foundation donates $250K for Ian victims to Community Cooperative

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers com

The Community Cooperative, which recently announced receiving $250,000 from The Joel Foundation to aid the vic tims of Hurricane Ian, delivered meals to residents, shrimpers and businesses at the Key West Express parking lot on Fort Myers Beach on Nov 4

The organization was at 1200 Main St providing meals, water and essential sup plies

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame musician Billy Joel and his daughter, Alexis Joel, made a $250,000 contribution through their organization, The Joel Foundation, to Community Cooperative for the Lee County Strong Hurricane Ian Relief Fund

The emergency fund is providing relief and long term recovery assistance to resi dents of Southwest Florida who are recov ering from the devastating impacts of Ian According to Community Cooperative, the foundation is focusing on relief and rebuilding efforts in Southwest Florida for those impacted by the storm, for children and school programs, as well as the local maritime community

The fund was established the day Ian m a d e l a n d f a l l b y C o m m u n i t y C o o p e r a t i v e , a n o n p r o f i t o r g a n i z a t i o n which working to alleviate hunger and homelessness It will provide displaced residents and families with food and basic needs, as well as assist hurricane victims with additional resources and long term recovery assistance

“We are blown away by the outpouring of support from people across the world, including Billy and Alexis Joel,” Chief Executive Officer Stefanie Ink Edwards said “The Joel Foundation’s incredible donation will go such a long way in get ting our community back on its feet, our children back in school, and their families back at home We can’t thank the Joel family and their organization enough ”

According to Edwards, Community Cooperative has already purchased recess e q u i p m e n t f o r t h r e e m e r g e d s c h o o l s thanks to the foundation’s contribution Fort Myers Beach Elementary and The Sanibel School are being temporarily p l a c e d i n s i d e S a n C a r l o s E l e m e n t a r y School Providing additional recess equip ment ensures students a sense of normal cy while their own schools are rebuilt

“Our family is moved to action by the catastrophic hurricane that wiped out an entire coastline in Lee County Florida,” Billy Joel and Alexis Joel said in a joint statement

“Florida is our winter home and living through our own experience during super storm Sandy and the rebuilding needed in the ongoing years, our goal is to help those less fortunate While we always put music education at the forefront of our agenda, we also help those during devas tating times We have partnered with the Lee County Community Cooperative to aid those that are suffering in the after math of this storm We are grateful to them for their tireless work in the commu nity,” they said

The foundation has made and pledged more than $7 million in charitable dona tions, with a focus on music education and humanitarian aid It also provides grants to organizations throughout New York City and Long Island, leveraging the power of music to enhance the lives of people of every age.

In 2021, Community Cooperative pro vided more than 2 1 million pounds of food to those in need, assisting over 4 2 , 0 0 0 S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a r e s i d e n t s through its vital human services pro grams

Those who wish to apply for relief can visit www CommunityCooperative com T o d o n a t e t o t h e f u n d , v i s i t www LeeCountyStrong com Those interested in volunteering can

PHOTO PROVIDED

Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Billy Joel and wife Alexis Joel's The Joel Foundation recently donated $250,000 to The Community Cooperative to assist Hurricane Ian victims. The Community Cooperative recently fed residents, workers and shrimpers at the Key West Express on Fort Myers Beach.

DDWS updates on refuge’s Artists in Residence

Society Friends of the Refuge report ed that although Hurricane Ian has p a u s e d t h i s y e a r ’ s J N

D i n g ” Darling National Wildlife Refuge Artist in Residence program featuring Jacqui Roch, it continues to support current and former artists in resi dence The DDWS and refuge staff were able to secure all of the art Roch h a d o n d i s p l a y i n t h e V i s i t o r & Education Center

Last year’s artist, Rachel Pierce, however, lost much of the art in her Sanibel gallery DDWS Refuge Store Manager Chris Galloway managed to retrieve one of her paintings from the demolished 2250 Periwinkle Store. Named “All in this Together,” the f l a m i n g o s p a i n t i n g s u r v i v e d unscathed by mold or other damage thanks to its placement above the high flood line Ed Anderson, the first year artist in residence, also lost many pieces he was working on at his Sanibel studio on Dinkens Bayou Based in Idaho, he splits his time on Sanibel, where his family’s home sur vived but with serious damage

Refuge’s WoW heads to Caloosa Elementary

On Nov 14, the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife on Wheels team headed to Caloosa Elementary in Cape Coral for the week

Afterward, the WoW will edu cate classes at Villas Elementary in Fort Myers on Nov 28 to Dec 9, and then on to James Stephens Elementary in the Tice community on Dec 14 to help with its Fall Fest

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=E54

San-Cap Nature Calendar donates to TIOF

Jim Fowler, publisher of The Sanibel Captiva Nature Calendar, recently donated $1,000 to The I n t e r n a t i o n a l O s p r e y Foundation on Sanibel It marked the 34th annual donation to a conserva tion organization Since first publishing in 1988, it has become a tradition each fall to donate a por tion of the calendar pro ceeds to one organization listed inside the rear cover To date, about $27,689 has been donated TIOF was selected because of its continuing worldwide e f f o r t s t o p r o m o t e a n d c o o r d i n a t e ef f o r ts to p r es er v e o s p r ey s th r o u g h information and education It conducts m o n i t o r i n g a c t i v i t i e s , m a i n t a i n s a

Bat Yam announces post-hurricane services

The Bat Yam Temple of the Islands has m a d e o f f i s l a n d a r r a n g e m e n t s f o r i t s weekly services due to extensive hurri c a n e d a m a g e t o i t s s h a r e d S a n i b e l

Congregational United Church of Christ facility

As of Nov 11, Bat Yam will hold a Sabbath service on Fridays at 7 p m at the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties in Fort Myers Its congregants can attend in person or via Zoom The Jewish Federation has graciously agreed

to temporarily house Bat Yam while its Sanibel facility is restored

Rabbi Stephen Fuchs and new Cantor Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer will officiate the services. The Nov. 18 service will be fol lowed by a special Oneg Shabbat as a wel come to Schnitzer and his wife, Yaffah

For more information, contact batyam sanibel@gmail com

T h e J e w i s h F e d e r a t i o n o f L e e & Charlotte Counties is at 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers

breeding data base, publishes a newslet ter and issues grant monies, as well as provides information about ospreys, other organizations and links to osprey web cams on its website Fowler stated, “This is a large donation from a small publication, but only a tiny drop of what is needed by our local nature organiza t i o n s d u e t o t h e d e s t r u c t i o n f r o m Hurricane Ian I am confident the needed c o n t r i b u t i o n s f o r rebuilding the island and all of our treas u r e d o r g a n i z a t i o n s will soon be avail able Most of all the natural beauty of the islands will recover The birds and other animals will live their l i v e s a l o n g s i d e t h e people of Sanibel and Captiva, who appreci a t e a n d k n o w t h e v a l u e o f p r e s e r v i n g wildlife and the natu ral habitat ”

DDWS Refuge Store Manager Chris Galloway with “All in this Together” by Rachel Pierce.

Isl and HOMe islander

Bottle palm is salt-tolerant and perfect for islands

Aptly named for its uniquely shaped trunk, the bottle palm (Hyophorbe lagenicaulis) is a relatively small but beautiful accent palm for any tropical garden Typically ranging in height from 5 feet to 7 feet overall (10 foot maximum height), the palm adds a striking statement to your land scape with its graceful fronds, swollen trunk, and reddish colored crown shaft and leaf stems. The bottle palm also makes for a great container palm due to its slow growth habit

Often seen in a single trunk, bottle palms are also available in eye catching, multi trunk specimens Contrary to popular belief, the swollen trunk of this mini palm is not for water storage and although it can be mod erately drought tolerant after it gets established, irrigation is required for optimal results At the same time, the palm does not like an overly wet area and prefers to be plant ed in soil where the soil drains well, like our island envi ronment Generally speaking, freezing temperatures or frost for a few hours will not usually kill a bottle palm, but may burn the tips of the fronds

Naturally found on Round Island off the northern coast of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean, the bottle palm is highly salt tolerant, making them ideal for coastal plant ings While habitat destruction may destroy the last remaining palms in the wild, the survival of the species is assured due to its planting as a specimen plant through out the tropics and subtropics In the United States, only southern Florida and Hawaii provide ideal locations to grow the unique palm tree. Luckily for us here on Sanibel, we are fortunate enough to fall in the perfect environment to enjoy the beautiful bottle palm

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

The city of Sanibel reported that the Electronic Permitting Portal is now open for emergency permitting Applications will be accepted for the following emer gency permits:

Emergency Alteration Permit

Emergency Demolition Permit

Emergency Electrical Permit

Emergency Mechanical Change Out Permit

Lee County Public Safety Emergency Operations is working with the United Way to collect the names and addresses of residents who need help re tarping due to the winds from Hurricane Nicole

Residents can call 211 or 239 439 3900 C

In addition, the city of Sanibel reported Lee County's Alert Lee shared that those who need assistance repairing or replacing a tarp on a roof can contact the Crisis Cleanup Hotline at 800 451 1954

L e e C o u n t y S o l i d W a s t e announced that containerized yard waste collection resumed in all coun ty served areas on Nov 14

Residents are asked to use con tainers, paper lawn and leaf bags or clear plastic bags to set vegetative material including palm fronds curbside on their regular collec tion day Black plastic bags and bun dled yard waste are not being collect ed with curbside yard waste at this

Emergency Mechanical Permit

Emergency Plumbing Permit

time; those items will be collected at a later date by the county’s storm debris contractor using specialized equipment

Residents are asked to keep their containerized yard waste separate from any hurricane debris piles

Residents who do not want to w a i t f o r s t o r m d e b r i s t r u c k s c a n bring bundled horticultural waste to one of the four citizen debris drop off sites The sites are open daily

from 7 a m to 5:30 p m To find the l o c a t i o n s , v i s i t w w w l e e g o v c o m / storm/debris F o r H u r r i c a n e I a n r e s p o n s e u p d a t e s a n d i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t w w w l e e g o v c o m / s t o r m o r f o l l o w “ L e e C o u n t y G o v e r n m e n t ” o n Facebook or at www facebook com /leecountyflbocc.

To receive updates, sign up for the n e w s l e t t e r a t w w w l e e g o v c o m /

Sanibel Captiva

PHOTO PROVIDED

Bottle palm

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

This recipe was given to me by my next door neighbor in Shaker Heights, Doris Turner, a fantastic artist and cook Trained in Paris, she would make great pies and share them with my family Serves eight (Chef tip: Do not overwork pie crust or it will be tough.)

Pie crust:

2 2/3 cups all purpose flour

1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/2 inch cubes

2 large eggs

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 to 5 tablespoons lemon ice water

In a large bowl, combine the flour with butter, egg, salt and lemon water as needed Mix lightly with your fingertips until pastry forms pea sized pieces You should be able to see chunks of fat, and the pastry should be moist enough to begin to stick together. If the pastry is too dry, add more lemon water

Turn the pastry out onto a lightly floured work surface, dust with flour, and lightly knead it until the pastry is smooth and elastic Cut dough in half and transfer each half to a separate plastic bag and form pastry dough into a disk Refrigerate a minimum of 30 minutes, or as long as two days

Roll out the pastry between parchment paper sheets lightly dusted with flour Place rolled dough carefully in a pie dish, being careful not to stretch the dough Trim the edges

Apple filling:

6 tart apples, preferably Granny Smith

2 tablespoons corn starch

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 cup light brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Can add up to a 1/2 cup of fill ins (dried cranberries, raisins or nuts)

Egg wash:

1 egg white, beaten with 1 teaspoon milk

Granulated sugar

Preheat oven to 425°F. Peel, core and slice apples. Mix apples together with the corn starch, lemon juice, vanilla, cinnamon and brown sugar Spoon apple filling into pre pared pie shell Top apple filling with pieces of butter Then cover with second pastry round and press edges together, then crimp decoratively Lightly brush top of pie with egg white and sprinkle all over with sugar Cut two steam vents in top crust

Set pie on a cookie sheet to catch any juices and bake for 20 minutes Lower the heat to 350°F Bake for 45 minutes more or until the juices bubble through the slashes After 30 minutes, protect the edges from over browning by covering them with a foil ring Cool the pie on a rack for at least two hours before cutting Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or ice cream

Island Worship

∫

Bat Yam Temple of the Islands

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

Sabbath service on Friday at 7 p m at the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties, at 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, and via Zoom. For Zoom links, email batyamsanibel@gmail com

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

Rev Larry Marshall

Sunday service available online; in person services have been postponed until further notice Services from the past season have been videotaped and posted on the chapel's website and Facebook page

∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida www chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida org

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

∫ Sanibel Christian Science Church 2950 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239 810 1077

Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services

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

Hurricane cleanup program available for eligible properties

The city of Sanibel reported that resi dents can apply for debris removal on pri vate and commercial property through the Hurricane Ian Debris Cleanup Program, which is managed by the Florida Division of Emergency Management

It noted that commercial property own ers should not place additional debris in the right of way They should follow city instructions or have their contractor remove debris from the commercial property

The debris removal service includes displaced and abandoned vehicles, ves sels, and other titled property from quali fying private and commercial properties, as well as waterways in Lee County Submit an application if you (1) own a

property in Lee and would like to request the removal of the debris on that property or (2) if you lost a vehicle, vessel, or other titled property due to Ian and would like to report the vehicle, vessel or other titled property missing

The city noted that completing an application does not guarantee eligibility for debris removal or the return of one's displaced title property

For more information or to apply, visit https://iandebriscleanup com/

For assistance with the application or for general questions, call the FDEM’s Hurricane Ian Debris Cleanup Hotline at ( 8 5 0 ) 9 6 1 2 0 0 2 o r e m a i l I a n D e b r i s Cleanup@em.myflorida.com.

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.

∫ Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239 472 0497, https://www sanibelucc org/, https://www facebook com/sanibelucc/ Senior Minister Dr Mark Boyea

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

∫ St. Isabel Catholic Church 3559 Sanibel Captiva Road, Sanibel, 239 472 2763, https://www saintis abel org/, https://www facebook com/stisabelcatholicchurch/

Father Ed Martin

Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services

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

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

Chef Loretta Paganini

Damaged homes and debris is seen on Sanibel Island, in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, Friday, Sept. 30, 2022, on Sanibel Island. / AP PHOTO/STEVE HELBER

Benefit concert to help those in need from Hurricane Ian

Nice Guys Production will h Strong Benefit Concert on Nov 10 p m at the Alliance for the A McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

It will be a family friendly e drinks and vendors The lineup Frank Hannon of Tesla and the Band, with special guests Roxx R The Velvets and Vallion T h e p r o c e e d s w i l l b e n e f i t aLive SWFL and the Fort Myer C o m m u n i t y F o u n d a t i o n #WEAREFMB for Hurricane Ia recovery.

Music aLive SWFL is a non profit organization creat ed to help provide financial, ed cational and other assistance to

The

enues and those who support live st Florida in the face of pandemic, dual hardship MB is a non profit organization that help those put out of work due to 19 pandemic Now money raised AREFMB goes directly into the those in desperate need following e Ian who live in the 33931 zip ckets are $25 75; active and retired ary and first responders are free h an ID For tickets or more information, v i s i t h t t p s : / / n i c e g u y s p r o d u c t i o n com/event/swflstrong benefit con cert/

Latin Infusion! to per for m in Naples

The Gulfshore Opera will present Latin Infusion! on Nov 17 at 6 p m at Bodega Ole, at 965 4th Ave N., Naples. Experience a kaleidoscope of Latin music including boleros, Zarzuela latin pop, traditional folk from Mexico, Venezuela, Peru, Spain, and more Join Latin Divo Fernando Gonzalez from Cuba and GO Diva Erika Ramirez from Venezuela, with Cuban gui tarist, pianist and percussionist The indoor concert will include a four course Spanish dinner, cava cock tail and glass of wine Tickets are $150 For tickets or more information, visit https://www gulfshoreopera org/ GULFSHORE OPERA

Fundraising effort to benefit arts in Lee and Collier

W o r l d r e n o w n e d dancers will take stage on Nov. 18 at 8 p m for Arts H e a l a f u n d r a i s i n g effort to benefit t h e a r t i s t i c o r g a n i z a t i o n s affected by Hurricane Ian at the Artis Naples in Naples

The event is an initiative of the new Florida Gulfshore Ballet and will bring together artists and champions of goodwill, under the direction of artistic directors Iliana Lopez and Franklin Gamero.

It will showcase choreographies from Ballet Xtreme (Zurich), Ballet de Barcelona, Ballet Nacional del Perú, Miami City Ballet, United Ballet Theater of Orlando, Tampa City Ballet, Arts Ballet Theater of Florida, Houston Ballet and alumni of the Gulfshore Ballet School

All proceeds will be received and disbursed by the Collier Community Foundation's Arts Heal Fund and Collaboratory's Fund for the Arts in Southwest Florida, which are deploying the funds to help restore and strengthen the arts community across Lee and Collier counties.

Collective to present Jazz at the MACC

“The arts illuminate the human condition, bring people together and provide a crucial vehicle for healing Disaster recovery includes addressing the emotional and spiritual healing of the community, in addition to materi al necessities,” Lopez said “After the massive devasta tion brought to us by Hurricane Ian, we are touched and humbled by the dancers’ willingness to donate their time and efforts to support their fellow artists Arts Heal rec ognizes the need to uplift and protect local artists and artistic organizations in the area, in addition to providing much needed funds during this recovery process ”

Tickets range from $25 150.

For tickets or more information, visit https://artis naples org/events/florida gulfshore ballet 2223 1118

The Artis Naples is at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples

Edison, Ford estates to host Annual Garden Festival

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates will hold its annual Garden Festival on Nov 19 20 from 9 a m to 4 p m outdoors in Fort Myers

More than 40 garden vendors from around the state will have exotic and native plants and trees for sale Vendors will have many types of plants and trees, includ ing African violets, bromeliads, butterfly plants, cacti, fruit trees, herbs, hibiscus, orchids, palms, succulents and more In addition, the Edison Garden Shoppe will be open and stocked The festival will also feature food trucks and live music

“Because of the hurricane, many gardeners now have e m p t y s p a c e s t o

o m e

a n d s c a p e s , ” Horticulture Director Debbie Hughes said “With all the different vendors, the Garden Festival offers a place where locals can essentially shop at 40 garden centers in one place ”

Parking and admission to the festival is free

A limited number of garden carts will be available, so attendees are encouraged to bring a cart or wagon for transporting plants

Members will receive a discount on Garden Shoppe purchases

For more information, visit EdisonFord org

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

MACC to present ‘The Michael Bublé Experience’

Paul Todd Jr will pay tribute to Michael Bublé and the great crooners of the past with “The Michael Bublé Experience” on Nov 18 at 7:30 p m at the Gulf Coast Symphony's Music & Arts Community Center, at 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers An accomplished entertainer, singer and songwriter, Todd got his musical start performing in shows alongside keyboard virtuoso father, Paul Todd He is known for his energetic stage persona, versatile vocals, percussion prowess, and his ability to emulate music greats like Bublé, Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin, Josh Groban, Franki Valli and more Tickets range from $35 45 For more information or tickets to either performance, visit https://gulfcoastsymphony org/ GULF COAST SYMPHONY

Registration open for camps at Edison, Ford estates

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers offers educational programs for grade school children throughout the year. Day camps are held when Lee County schools are closed and camp is h e l d d u r i n g t h e s u m m e r m o n t h s Registration is open for camps during the 2022 23 school year

Camps take place in the “living labora tory,” where Thomas Edison and Henry Ford made history No experience is required to participate Each camp is designed for students currently in grades K 5, unless otherwise noted Campers must bring their own lunch and snacks All camps run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The scheduled camp offerings include:

∫ Nov 21 23: Fantastic Physics

The camp will explore experiments that relate to all kinds of waves, including water, sound, and light Campers will explore different experiments that relate to Newton’s Laws of Motion It is a conceptu al physics camp Cost is $135 for member and $150 for non members

∫ Dec 22 23: Simple Machine Science

The engineering camp is focused on the six simple machines: wheel and axle, wedge, lever, screw, ramp, and pulley Campers will engage in engineering chal lenges that relate to each simple machine All activities demonstrate how each machine applies a mechanical advantage to make work easier Cost is $90 for member and $100 for non members

∫ Dec 26 30: Designing the Future (Engineering and Design)

In the design and innovation camp, campers will learn how to manage “the problem space” with an engineering design process In addition to solving engineering challenges, campers will also learn simple computer aided design (CAD) and get to work with 3 D printers and 3 D pens Cost is $160 for member and $185 for non members

∫ Jan 2 6: The Four Forces of Flight (Rockets and Flight)

The camp focuses on the four forces of flight: lift, gravity, drag, and thrust. Activities include paper airplane design,

EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES

foam rockets, and water rockets all tied to concepts of Newton’s Laws of Motion and the forces of flight. Cost is $160 for member and $185 for non members

∫ March 20 24: Creative Coding (Grades 2 5 only)

The camp is only for grades second through fifth, as it requires basic literacy skills Campers will learn Scratch and other “word block” coding Essentially, it is a code crash course Campers will work to create a finished program that can be a story, game, or an interactive card to a family member or friend Campers will learn the basics, such as “if/else” state

See CAMPS, page 24

Semi-finals set for Rock the Stage at Alliance for the Arts

The 2nd Annual Rock the Stage semi finals showcase will be held on Nov 19 from 4 to 9 p m at the A l l i a n c e f o r t h e A r t s , a t 1 0 0 9 1 McGregor Blvd , Fort Myers

The top 25 top 12 from each division will perform for their chance to make the finals

Tickets are $10 for general admis sion and $100 for VIP

Proceeds from this year's music competition will go toward helping the Southwest Florida music commu nity that suffered from Hurricane Ian

For tickets or more information, v i s i t h t t p s : / / w w w e v e n t b r i t e c o m / e / r o c k t h e s t a g e 2 0 2 2 s e m i f i n a l showcase tickets 400848878787

EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES

Attendees shop for plants at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates Garden Festival.

Students learn about science, tech nology, engi neering, art, mathematics and history during the Edison and Ford Winter Estates day camps in Fort Myers.

Rotary Happenings

Rotarians learn about F.I.S.H.’s post-storm efforts

Amidst all the craziness left behind by Hurricane Ian, a shining star alongside w i t h a s m i l e h a s a l s o e m e r g e d R o t a r i a n a n d

F I S H of Sanibel Captiva Executive Director Maria Espinosa shared with the group all that her organiza tion, as well as its volun teers many of whom were also affected have been doing to assist those affected by the storm

Throughout the island, F I S H has set up stations that are offering items free of charge most needed

by those who are clearing out and cleaning up their homes, including drinking water, cleaning supplies and a compassionate ear. While many people lost their homes and cars, many have also lost their jobs F I S H has also been able to provide financial assistance

Espinosa has been with F I S H since 2017, right after Hurricane Irma as a volunteer She soon shifted to a full time employee, during which time she has held posi tions as the Walk In Center manager, Volunteer Manager and Director of Food Programs, proving herself a com mitted organization advocate

E s p i n o s a i s a g r a d u a t e o f F l o r i d a G u l f C o a s t University, majoring in social work with a minor in polit

ical science She has volunteered at various non profits in Lee County, including the Salvation Army’s Center of Hope, Boys and Girls Club of Lee County, and Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida Before working at F I S H , Espinosa taught foreign language to elementary students

Those able to donate or volunteer any amount of time to F.I.S.H. are greatly appreciated. For more information about donating to or volunteering for the organization, contact 239 472 4775

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

Gratitude in the midst of loss and destruction

It has not been the start I expected, and certainly not the one I’d hoped for J u s t a f e w d a y s a f t e r a r r i v i n g i n Southwest Florida in mid September to begin my tenure as the senior minister of t h e S a n i b e l C o n g r e g a t i o n a l U n i t e d Church of Christ, Hurricane Ian struck As expected in the aftermath of that hurricane, flooded homes, downed power lines and poles, battered trees, roofs and

fences were all on full display, impossible to ignore But there was also, and contin ues to be, something else on full display and every bit as impossible to ignore

Something perhaps not as expected.

Gratitude

Over these last few weeks, I have seen, read and heard a constant flow of expres sions of gratitude in the midst of so much loss and destruction. Gratitude for what

‘Return With Me To Sanibel’

Return with me to Sanibel And we’ll bring back its magic spell; We’ll help our paradise isle revive When our insurance checks arrive

was not lost Gratitude for those who provided shelter during the storm or have provided it since Gratitude for the efforts of those who have been working so dili gently to clean up, repair and restore basic services

No, everything is not fine, and there is nothing unfaithful or “unspiritual” about feeling that way or expressing it In the Bible of the Christian and Jewish s p i r i t u a l t r a d i t i o n s , t h e r e are countless examples of those who have no hesita tion in expressing to God their frustration, dismay or even anger over their life circumstances That is spir itually healthy.

Faces on Faith

psychological characteris tic hope

Hope, properly under stood from a spiritual per spective, is not “wishful thinking” nor “optimism,” but the unwavering belief that with God and each other a better day is always possible. It is the conviction that God has both given us the capacity to do our part in bringing about that better day, and will help lead us there all along the way Research has demonstrated that people who more con sistently demonstrate grati tude also score higher on assessments of hopefulness

On Periwinkle we’ll clear the path Of devastation from Charley’s wrath, Restore the canopy and bowers With palms and trees and tropic flowers

Though FEMA loans will help our stores Lure back the tourists to our shores, Tis sure day trippers will stay away Six bucks too much to Save Our Bay

But Charley left upon our beach New treasures of shells in easy reach, Perhaps sand dollars bleached and whole Will help us pay the causeway toll

Our forty footers with latest controls Helped some elude marine patrols, When it was dark upon our isle They lived upon their boats in style

When all debris is chipped or burned We’ll not forget the lessons learned: Don’t plant a tree that can’t withstand The power of a hurricane hand;

Don’t build a home ignoring codes Then lose all you have when it implodes; Empty that freezer, don’t stay and wait When sheriffs say “Evacuate ”

So come, once more we’ll ride And watch the pelicans dip and glide Along the causeway then we’ll begin Before the high rise “fixed” is in

To build anew in paradise, Watching blue tarps fall, pool cages rise; On a gentler wiser isle we’ll dwell Return with me to Sanibel.

Poetic License

But at the same time, I have been both deeply encouraged and inspired by the way so many in my new home area have still chosen to express gratitude in the midst of their struggles Encouraged and inspired because gratitude is one of the foundations of another vital spiritual and

In my short time here, I have seen so much gratitude in these tragic circumstances But because of that, I have also seen so much hope And I am grateful for that

Dr Mark Boyea is the senior minister at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ. I s l a n d R e p o r t

Boys & Girls Clubs, Harry Chapin partner for local turkey giveaway

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County will host its first Turkey Give a Way on Nov 19 from 11 a m to 1 p m at its new Park Meadows Community Club, at 1900 Park Meadows Drive, Fort Myers

Sponsored by the Harry Chapin Food Bank, the event is open to all families in Southwest Florida Recipients do not need to be club members. Each family will receive a frozen turkey and side dishes to prepare for a traditional Thanksgiving feast, including vegetables, stuffing and other holiday staples

“Although the past two months have been incredibly difficult for everyone in Southwest Florida, we should all pause to

Camps

give thanks for the many blessings we enjoy,” Chief Executive Officer Denise Gergley said “The Turkey Give a Way is a great opportunity to connect with our community and let families know we’re here to support them ”

Volunteers will also distribute hurri cane relief items, including hygiene prod ucts, cleaning supplies, home care items and more. The turkeys and items will be distributed on a first come, first served basis

From page 23

ments, with the main focus on learning how to use variables. Cost is $200 for member and $230 for non members

∫ April 7 (Good Friday): STEAM

Explorers

In the camp, campers will learn about science, technology, engineering, arts and

mathematics, along with history Cost is $45 for member and $50 for non mem bers

For more information or to register, visit EdiAonFord org

T h e E d i s o n a n d F o r d W i n t e r E s t a t e s i s a t 2 3 5 0 M

(The Passionate Evacuee to His Beneficiary)

Joe Pacheco

Maria Espinosa

Dr. Mark Boyea