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FWC approves final rule to modify gag grouper season

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission previously approved a final rule — effective Jan. 1 — modifying the recreational season for gag grouper in state waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

The modification for gag grouper in Gulf state waters is intended to prevent overfishing, improve stock abundance and help ensure future gag fishing opportunities. The change is consistent with pending regulations in adjacent federal waters in the Gulf of Mexico.

The FWC is committed to collecting critical recreational harvest fishing data to inform management of gag grouper, in addition to other reef fish. The State Reef Fish Survey uses in-person interviews and a mail survey to collect information on recreational fishing for reef fish, such as gag grouper, from private boats. These methods provide the FWC with a clearer picture of the health of reef fish stocks throughout the state and help ensure the long-term sustainability of recreational fishing in Florida.

The State Reef Fish Angler designation is required for recreational anglers and spearfishers who intend to fish for or harvest certain reef fish species from a private vessel in Florida. The designation makes recreational anglers eligible for selection to receive a mail survey component of the State Reef Fish Survey. To learn more about the State Reef Fish Survey, visit MyFWC.com/SRFS.

For current recreational gag grouper regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine and click on “Recreational Regulations, ” “Reef Fish” and then “Grouper.

Local Red Sox scholarship applications open online

The Boston Red Sox Foundation will award $5,000 scholarships in the spring of to one deserving student from each of the 15 public high schools in Lee County. Lee County charter and ALS schools are also included with one $5,000 scholarship 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 their continued commitment to our students, ” 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 selected recipients. ”

The scholarships are for academically talented students 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 proceeds of the Red Sox annual Swings for the Sox Golf Tournament. To date, it has raised more than $497,000 for local charities and specifically $437,175 for the scholarship program. Due to Hurricane Ian, this year’s tournament was canceled.

“The Red Sox Foundation continues its commitment 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 canceled, but we are proud to still be giving more money for these scholarships for deserving students. ”

Applications are open at https://www.redsoxfoundation.org/leecountyscholarship/.

Applications should be submitted to flscholarships@redsox.com.

The deadline to apply is Jan. 13.

FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

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 generally warmer than 68 degrees 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 protection zones are marked by 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, seasonal manatee zones require boaters to slow down in certain areas to prevent manatees from being injured or killed by motorboats or personal watercraft. Boat strikes continue to be a major threat to Florida manatees. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission law enforcement officers are on patrol in state waters to inform boaters of the seasonal manatee speed zones and take appropriate enforcement 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 water. Manatees are a protected 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, distressed, sick or dead manatees to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) or by dialing #FWC or *FWC on a cellphone so trained responders can assist.

The FWC and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service continue to investigate and respond to an elevated number of manatee deaths along the Atlantic coast of Florida. The FWC and USFWS take manatee conservation seriously by actively implementing science-based conservation measures that are making a difference for manatees and habitat. Learn more about how officials are 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

See MANATEE AWARENESSS, page 15

Refuge reports on programming, events

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge reported that the hurricane damage has meant the closing of the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Visitor & Education Center and Wildlife Drive until further notice. Consequently, many programs and events are canceled. ∫ Deputy Refuge Manager Erin Myers and Refuge Ranger Tucker Phillips took outreach efforts south recently for the Panther Festival at the Naples Zoo. Other outreach opportunities coming up include the 12th annual Burrowing Owl Festival in Cape Coral on Feb. 25. ∫ Tune into the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce's Instagram page today, Nov. 15, for the “Ding” Darling Instagram Takeover event. From 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., staff from the refuge, DDWS and Tarpon Bay Explorers will broadcast clips about rebuilding efforts, programs, events, shopping deals and ways to help the refuge team on its road to recovery. ∫ Starting on Dec. 1, staff will sell 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 DDWS 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 postponed until further notice. The DDWS thanked the 2023 sponsors. To become an event sponsor, contact April Boehnen at aprilb@dingdarlingsociety.org. ∫ 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 individuals. For times and dates or to reserve a group walk, contact Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland at 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 From page 14

public are available at MyFWC.com/Manatee. What should you do if you see a manatee? The Viewing Guidelines page provides helpful tips on respectfully viewing manatees, additional guidelines for boat and personal watercraft operators, and information on what you can do to help these amazing aquatic

REFUGE/DDWS

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.

Obituaries

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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 came to be as a vision to bring the community together through sportsmanship, while raising funds for students, educators and teachers through a Hurricane Ian relief fund.

“As a teacher at The Sanibel School, I have been blessed with the outpouring of support from our community and strangers near and far, ” tournament coordinator Joe Camputaro said. “I felt that it would be nice to pay it forward and serve as a goodwill ambassador, similar to a program that I have implemented with my fifth-grade students at our school titled, Blueberry Ambassadors. ”

A 2021 Golden Apple recipient, Camputaro is an advocate of the work that the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools Chief Executive Officer and President Marshall Bower does for the students and educators of the county.

“I have also served as league coordinator 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 incredibly 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 leadership, 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 visiting https://playpass.com/HurricaneIanFlagFootballFund raiser. Additional donations are encouraged, but not required. “There is no max number for registration. The tournament will be 7v7 adult only — 18-plus years or older — to play. There is a men’s division and a co-ed division. Teams can have as many players on their roster as they wish, however, only seven players can be on the field for their respective team during the game, ” 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 anyone else who is helping us on the third are volunteering their time to bring our community closer and support our amazing school district employees and families, ” Camputaro said. To make donate to the fundraiser, scan the QR Code or visit https://thefoundationforleecountypublicschools .networkforgood.com/projects/172840-flag-footballhurricane-ian-relief-fundraiser. For more information, visit https://playpass.com /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 victims 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 supplies.

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 residents of Southwest Florida who are recovering 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 made landfall by Community Cooperative, a nonprofit organization 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 getting 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 equipment for three merged schools thanks to the foundation’s contribution. Fort Myers Beach Elementary and The Sanibel School are being temporarily placed inside San Carlos Elementary School. Providing additional recess equipment ensures students a sense of normalcy 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 superstorm 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 devastating times. We have partnered with the Lee County Community Cooperative to aid those that are suffering in the aftermath of this storm. We are grateful to them for their tireless work in the community, ” they said.

The foundation has made and pledged more than $7 million in charitable donations, 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 provided more than 2.1 million pounds of food to those in need, assisting over 42,000 Southwest Florida residents through its vital human services programs.

Those who wish to apply for relief can visit www.CommunityCooperative.com.

To donate to the fund, visit 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.

contact volunteer@communitycooperative.com or visit www.CommunityCooperative.com/GiveHelp/Volunteer. For more information, visit www.CommunityCooperative.com or call 239-332-SOUP (7687).

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge reported that although Hurricane Ian has paused this year’s J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge Artist in Residence program featuring Jacqui Roch, it continues to support current and former artists in residence. The DDWS and refuge staff were able to secure all of the art Roch had on display in the Visitor & 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 flamingos painting survived 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 survived but with serious damage.

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

REFUGE/DDWS

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 educate 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 efforts, visit https://interland3.donorperfect.net/ weblink/WebLink.aspx?name=E54 182&id=12.

The J.N.

“Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife on Wheels closed out its visit to Tice Elementary last week.

REFUGE/DDWS

Bat Yam announces post-hurricane services

The Bat Yam Temple of the Islands has made off-island arrangements for its weekly services due to extensive hurricane damage to its shared Sanibel 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 followed by a special Oneg Shabbat as a welcome to Schnitzer and his wife, Yaffah.

For more information, contact batyamsanibel@gmail.com.

The Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties is at 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers.

San-Cap Nature Calendar donates to TIOF

Jim Fowler, publisher of The Sanibel-Captiva Nature Calendar, recently donated $1,000 to The International Osprey Foundation on Sanibel. It marked the 34th annual donation to a conservation organization. Since first publishing in 1988, it has become a tradition each fall to donate a portion of the calendar proceeds to one organization listed inside the rear cover. To date, about $27,689 has been donated. TIOF was selected because of its continuing worldwide efforts to promote and coordinate efforts to preserve ospreys through information and education. It conducts monitoring activities, maintains a breeding data base, publishes a newsletter 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 organizations due to the destruction from Hurricane Ian. I am confident the needed contributions for rebuilding the island and all of our treasured organizations will soon be available. Most of all the natural beauty of the islands will recover. The birds and other animals will live their lives alongside the people of Sanibel and Captiva, who appreciate and know the value of preserving wildlife and the natural habitat. ”

Island HOMe Report your news to CAPTIVASANIBEL.COM islanderSanibel Captiva

Bottle palm

PHOTO PROVIDED

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 (10foot maximum height), the palm adds a striking statement to your landscape 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 moderatelydroughttolerantafteritgetsestablished,irrigation isrequiredforoptimalresults.Atthesametime,thepalm does not like an overly wet area and prefers to be planted in soil where the soil drains well, like our island environment. 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 plantings. While habitat destruction may destroy the last remaining palms in the wild, the survival of the species isassuredduetoitsplantingasaspecimenplantthroughout 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 garden center, at 3889 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel. For more information, contact 239-395-5859 or visit www.facebook.com/rswalshinthegarden.

DDWS: Shop refuge site to support rebuild

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge reported that ShopDingDarling.com reemerged on Nov. 8 to offer some J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge logo wear items, children's toys and clothing, calendars, eco-friendly items, and other one-of-a-kind gifts. It noted that the islands are still closed to the general public. There will be no local pickup opportunities for orders; all items will be shipped directly.

REFUGE/DDWS

City announces launch of Electronic Permitting Portal

The city of Sanibel reported that the Electronic Permitting Portal is now open for emergency permitting. Applications will be accepted for the following emergency permits: ∫ Emergency Alteration Permit ∫ Emergency Demolition Permit ∫ Emergency Electrical Permit ∫ Emergency Mechanical Change Out Permit

∫ Emergency Mechanical Permit ∫ Emergency Plumbing Permit ∫ Emergency Roof Permit The application forms may be accessed at https://www.mysanibel.com/city-forms/building-department-forms. The progress of applications may be monitored though the online portal. County assisting with Blue Roof Program re-tarping

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 239-4393900.

County staff will help coordinate repairs with partnering entities.

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.

FILE PHOTO County resumes yard-waste collection in service areas

Lee County Solid Waste announced that containerized yard waste collection resumed in all county-served areas on Nov. 14.

Residents are asked to use containers, paper lawn and leaf bags or clear plastic bags to set vegetative material — including palm fronds — curbside on their regular collection day. Black plastic bags and bundled yard waste are not being collected with curbside yard waste at this time; those items will be collected at a later date by the county’s stormdebris 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 wait for storm-debris trucks can bring bundled horticultural waste to one of the four citizen debris dropoff sites. The sites are open daily from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. To find the locations, visit www.leegov.com/ storm/debris.

For Hurricane Ian response updates and information, visit www.leegov.com/storm or follow “Lee County Government” on Facebook or at www.facebook.com /leecountyflbocc.

To receive updates, sign up for the newsletter at www.leegov.com/ resources/newsletters.

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 prepared 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.

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

Hurricane cleanup program available for eligible properties

The city of Sanibel reported that residents can apply for debris removal on private 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 owners 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, vessels, and other titled property from qualifying 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 (850) 961-2002 or email IanDebris Cleanup@em.myflorida.com.

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

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.saintisabel.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.saintmichaelssanibel.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.

Benefit concert to help those in need from Hurricane Ian

Nice Guys Production will host a #SWFLSTRONG Strong Benefit Concert on Nov. 18 from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Alliance for the Arts, at 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.

It will be a family-friendly event with food, drinks and vendors. The lineup will include Frank Hannon of Tesla and the Ben Allen Band, with special guests Roxx Revolt And The Velvets and Vallion.

The proceeds will benefit Music aLive SWFL and the Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation’s #WEAREFMB for Hurricane Ian recovery.

Music aLive SWFL is a non-profit organization created to help provide financial, educational and other assistance to musicians, music venues and those who support live music in Southwest Florida in the face of pandemic, disaster or individual hardship. #WEAREFMB is a non-profit organization that was formed to help those put out of work due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now money raised from #WEAREFMB goes directly into the hands of those in desperate need following Hurricane Ian who live in the 33931 zip code. Tickets are $25-75; active and retired military and first responders are free with an ID. For tickets or more information, visit https://niceguysproduction .com/event/swflstrong-benefit-concert/.

Collective to present Jazz at the MACC

The Gulf Coast Jazz Collective will open its third season with the music of the Jazz world's most important innovator — Miles Davis — on Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. at the Gulf Coast Symphony's Music & Arts Community Center, at 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. Tickets are $38-44. For more information and tickets, visit https://gulfcoastsymphony.org/.

GULF COAST SYMPHONY

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 Heal — a f u n d r a i s i n g effort to benefit the artistic organizations 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.

“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 material necessities, ” Lopez said. “After the massive devastation 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 recognizes 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://artisnaples.org/events/florida-gulfshore-ballet.2223.1118

The Artis-Naples is at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples.

Latin Infusion! to perform 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 guitarist, pianist and percussionist. The indoor concert will include a four-course Spanish dinner, cava cocktail 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

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, including 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 empty spaces to fill in their home landscapes, ” 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.

EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES

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

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 held during the summer months. Registration is open for camps during the 2022-23 school year.

Camps take place in the “living laboratory, ” where Thomas Edison and Henry Ford made history. No experience is required to participate. Each camp is designed for students currently in grades K5, 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 conceptual 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 challenges 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.

Students learn about science, technology, engineering, art, mathematics and history during the Edison and Ford Winter Estates day camps in Fort Myers.

EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES

∫ 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 nonmembers. ∫ 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, 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 Alliance for the Arts, at 10091 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 admission and $100 for VIP.

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

For tickets or more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e /rock-the-stage-2022-semi-finalshowcase-tickets-400848878787.

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 with a smile has also emerged. Rotarian and F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva Executive Director Maria Espinosa shared with the group all that her organization, as well as its volunteers — 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 positions as the Walk-In Center manager, Volunteer Manager and Director of Food Programs, proving herself a committed organization advocate.

Espinosa is a graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University, majoring in social work with a minor in political 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.

Maria Espinosa

The Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club holds a Zoom meeting on Fridays at 8 a.m. The Zoom link is 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.

Just a few days after arriving in Southwest Florida in mid-September to begin my tenure as the senior minister of the Sanibel Congregational United 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 continues 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 expressions of gratitude in the midst of so much loss and destruction. Gratitude for what 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 diligently 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 spiritual traditions, there are countless examples of those who have no hesitation in expressing to God their frustration, dismay or even anger over their life circumstances. That is spiritually healthy.

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 psychological characteristic — hope. Hope, properly understood from a spiritual perspective, 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 consistently demonstrate gratitude also score higher on assessments of hopefulness. 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.

‘Return With Me To Sanibel’

(The Passionate Evacuee to His Beneficiary)

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. 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.

Joe Pacheco Poetic License

Dr. Mark Boyea Faces on Faith

Dr. Mark Boyea is the senior minister at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ. 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 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 hurricane relief items, including hygiene products, cleaning supplies, home care items and more. The turkeys and items will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Camps 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-members.

For more information or to register, visit EdiAonFord.org.

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