112724 Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

Anniversary celebration to continue with holiday tree lighting

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The island community is invited to kick off the holiday season and continue to mark the yearlong celebration of the city of Sanibel's 50th anniversary with a special event set for this weekend.

In partnership with Sanibel Captiva Community Bank and The Community House, the city will present the 50th Anniversary Tree Lighting Ceremony on Nov 30 at 5 p m at the Sanibel Community Park See Tree lIGHTInG, page 10

SCCF: Impacts of surge events on freshwater habitats

Foundation reported that it has been an up-and-down few years on Sanibel in many ways For one thing, the salinity of the island's freshwater habitats has been a rollercoaster over the past two and a half years

Often called the Sanibel River, the Sanibel Slough is the centrally-located freshwater system, which is connected to the San Carlos Bay via the East Basin and t h e T a r p o n B a y v i a t h e W e s

B

s

n through a system of two weirs

“This central wetland system benefits and protects the island by providing habi-

tat to wildlife, replenishing fresh water to our groundwater aquifers, and by storing precipitation which would normally just pool and runoff causing flooding,” SCCF

Marine Lab Research Associate Mark Thompson said “It also improves water

through groundwater, and provides low salt conditions needed for residential vegetation plantings ”

New era in saltwater intrusion

In previous years, water releases from the slough through the weir system were few and saltwater surges over the weirs and into the slough were almost unheard

Carlin sworn in as schools superintendent

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

Three county commissioners sworn in

On Nov 19, three commissioners were sworn in as members of the Lee County Board of County Commissioners. Lee County reported that the newly inaugurated board members are:

Ruane, who was re-elected after serving since 2020.

Mulicka, who was elected to the seat earlier this month, replacing Commissioner Ray Sandelli, who retired

∫ D

Greenwell, who was re-elected after serving since 2022.

Following the ceremony, the board held its regularly scheduled meeting Lee County Clerk of Court Kevin C. Karnes presided over the board’s selection of its new chair for the year ahead Ruane will serve as chairman Then the board selected its vice chairman, Commissioner Cecil Pendergrass. To watch the inauguration ceremony, visit www leegov com/bocc/inauguration

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

T r a n s p o r t a t i o n r e p o r t e d t h a t c r e w s h a v e

m o v e d t r a f f i c t o t h e p e r m a n e n t l a n e s o n

t h e S a n i b e l C a u s e w a y T h e c a u s e w a y

i s l a n d s s u r r o u n d i n g t h e t e m p o r a r y r o a d -

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

w a t e r

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

a r e s c h e d u l e d t o o c c u r . H o w e v e r , u n f o r e s e e n u n d e r g r o u n d c o n d i t i o n s a n d

w e a t h e r m a y a f f e c t t h e s c h e d u l e :

E a s t f ro m t o l l p l a z a

∫ B o t h d i r e c t i o n s o f M c G r e g o r

B o u l e v a r d t r a f f i c a r e s h i f t e d t o t h e

s o u t h s i d e o f t h e r o a d f r o m a p p r o x i -

m a t e l y 1 / 2 m i l e f r o m S h e l l P o i n t

B o u l e v a r d t o w e s t o f P o r t C o m f o r t

R o a d W e s t b o u n d t r a f f i c h e a d e d t o P o r t

C o m f o r t m a y c o n t i n u e s t r a i g h t t o t u r n r i g h t t o P o r t C o m f o r t T h e s h i f t i s n e ce s s a r y f o r t h e c o n t r a c t o r t o r e c o n s t r u c t t h e u n d e r g r o u n d p i p e c r o s s i n g u n d e r t h e n o r t h s i d e o f t h e r o a d M c G r e g o r i s s c h e d u l e d t o r e m a i n r e d u c e d t o o n e l a n e i n e a c h d i r e c t i o n t h r o u g h e a r l y 2 0 2 5

∫ C r e w s w e r e s c h e d u l e d t o p a v e t h e

e a s t b o u n d ( s o u t h / b e a c h s i d e ) s h o u l d e r

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

r e m a i n f u l l y c l o s e d t o a c c e s s C r e w s

h a v e c o m p l e t e d w o r k t o r e i n f o r c e t h e

s h o r e l i n e a n d a r e s c h e d u l e d t o f i n a l i z e

s h o u l d e r w o r k b y l a t e N o v e m b e r

∫ M o t o r i s t s s h o u l d e x p e c t t e m p o -

r a r y d a y t i m e l a n e c l o s u r e s o n

M c G r e g o r , b o t h e a s t b o u n d a n d w e s t -

b o u n d f r o m S h e l l P o i n t t o P u n t a R a s s a

R o a d , f o r c r e w s t o m o v e e q u i p m e n t a n d

m a t e r i a l s a s n e c e s s a r y .

We s t f ro m t o l l p l a z a

∫ L e e C o u n t y i s i n s t a l l i n g a p o s t a n d

r o p e s y s t e m t o t e m p o r a r i l y d e l i n e a t e

p e d e s t r i a n t r a f f i c o n t h e C a u s e w a y

I s l a n d s d u r i n g t h e u p c o m i n g r e c r e a t i o n -

a l f a c i l i t y r e c o n s t r u c t i o n

∫ M o t o r i s t s s h o u l d e x p e c t t r a f f i c t o

b e i n t e r m i t t e n t l y s t o p p e d a t t h e s t a g i n g

a r e a e n t r a n c e a s e q u i p m e n t c r o s s e s t h e

r o a d w i t h m a t e r i a l s f o r w o r k o n t h e

s o u t h s i d e o f M c G r e g o r a n d o n t h e

s o u t h s i d e o f t h e t o l l p l a z a

∫ C r e w s a r e s c h e d u l e d t o d r i v e s h e e t

p i l e o n t h e s o u t h s i d e o f t h e r o a d b y t h e

t o l l p l a z a l a t e t h i s w e e k C r e w s a r e c u r -

r e n t l y p l a c i n g a r m o r s t o n e i n t h i s a r e a

∫ C r e w s a r e s c h e d u l e d t o b e g i n

i n s t a l l i n g s o d f o r r o a d w a y s t a b i l i z a t i o n

a n d p o n d c o n s t r u c t i o n i n t h e c o m i n g

w e e k s E a r t h w o r k ( g r a d i n g ) a n d d e b r i s r e m o v a

e C a u s e w

I s l a n d s E x p e c t c o n s t r u c t i o n e q u i p m e n t p

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

Kevin Ruane David Mulicka Mike Greenwell

OPINIONS

Web Poll

Previous Question

Did you cast a ballot in the Nov 5 General Election?

∫ Yes, by mail, 60% (3)

∫ Yes, early, 0% (0)

∫ Yes, day of, 40% (2)

∫ No, I did not, 0% (0)

Current Question

How did you commemorate veterans Day this year?

∫ Attended ceremony

∫ Visited family/friends.

∫ Did not do anything

∫ Other

Nature’s shield against natural disasters

As we near the end of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, it’s important to acknowledge how invaluable natural systems, including mangrove forests, are along our coasts Mangroves are a type of “nature-based solution” for abating severe weather events and longer-term impacts associated with a changing climate.

Mangroves lessen water and wind energy produced during hurricanes, which helps protect human communities, including people’s homes and other critical infrastructure They slow water down and stabilize the ground, lessening coastal impacts like erosion and flooding

Dr Carrie Schuman

Guest Commentary

For instance, according to a Nature Conservancy report in 2017, mangroves helped Collier County reduce annual flood risk by about 25%, and the state as a whole avoided $1 5 billion in damages from Hurricane Irma Researchers have also suggested mangroves provided important damage reduction during Hurricane Ian’s destruction in 2022

The amount of protection that mangroves provide for inland coastal areas can depend on characteristics such as forest maturity, mangrove height, density (how closely trees are growing near each other), forest width, and how healthy the forest is prior to the storm. However, studies have shown that though wider

Teaching players the wrong lesson

To the editor:

I wrote the following letter to The Sanibel School on Nov 15 concerning the girls volleyball team

Sanibel School,

I’ve waited to send this because I wanted to give the current team structure a fair chance. However, it’s become clear that the decision to create A, B, and C teams was a mistake Here we are, weeks into the season, and the teams have not improved at all Why? It’s simple: when the standard for making a t e a m i s m e r e l y s h o w i n g u p , t h e r e ’ s n o accountability, no drive, and no real development happening

This approach does a disservice to the girls who take their sport seriously Those who go home and practice, who want to improve, are being held back by a system that prioritizes participation over performance. This is not the real world In high school, in college, and beyond, success requires effort, dedication, and the ability to meet expectations By setting the bar this low, we are fail-

forests are more effective, the majority of wave energy and height is reduced in the first stretches of forest, suggesting even smaller systems can provide advantages

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection estimates that 600,000 acres of mangrove forests contribute to the overall health of Southwest Florida’s coastal zones Mangroves help maintain water quality and clarity and thrive in salty environments because they’re able to extract freshwater from saltwater sources

Southwest Florida’s mangrove forests are a vibrant refuge for creatures of all shapes and sizes Mangrove root systems provide a sanctuary for species like fish and shellfish. Mangrove canopies serve as habitat for wildlife like insects and nesting coastal birds

While adaptable and tough, mangroves are not immune to stressors, like storms and climate change, but they are protecting us from them Mangroves do have some strategies for responding to impacts like sea level rise They can build up sediment beneath their roots in the right conditions, or they can move further inland to escape deepening water

Their importance to estuarine biodiversity, protecting shorelines from storms, and sequestering carbon could mitigate future cli-

Letters to the Editor

ing these players

How can the team improve when every game they’re playing with different teammates? How are they supposed to grow when they aren’t encouraged let alone required to practice outside of scheduled sessions? Do you even ask the girls to practice at home? Because I guarantee that if you did, and if you held them accountable for it, you’d see results

The truth is, we are teaching these players the wrong lesson Right now, we are telling them that effort doesn’t matter and that everyone gets a spot just for showing up That mindset guarantees failure, both on the field and off If we continue like this, we will remain the laughingstock in athletics

W e ’ v e b e e n c l e a r w i t h o u r d a u g h t e r , Dylan: if she doesn’t practice, she doesn’t p l a y P e r i o d T h a t ’ s w h a t a c c o u n t a b i l i

y looks like. That’s what builds winners and prepares them for the challenges ahead If you’re not instilling this same standard in every player, you are failing them, their teammates, and the program

If this school is serious about building

matic impacts These amazing forests are one of the economic foundations in coastal tropical regions and are necessary to maintain quality for people and nature, yet their future is uncertain both in Collier County and worldwide

Human activity like increased development in coastal areas and changes to natural water flow has contributed to major decline in mangrove forest A 2024 global mangrove assessment report from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Ecosystems shows that 50% of the world’s mangrove systems are at risk of collapse

It’s our job to protect these incredible trees so they can continue protecting us This includes conserving pre-existing forests, allowing them room to migrate whenever possible, and supporting efforts to protect water quality and restore mangroves For more information, visit Conservancy org/our-work/science/mangrove-research Or, join the Conservancy as it hosts multiple organizations to discuss these topics and more in the upcoming Dec 3 symposium, “Working with Nature: Nature-Based and Hybrid Solutions for Resilient Communities,” by visiting https://conservancy org/nature-based-solutions-symposium

Dr Carrie Schuman is climate resilience advisor with the Conservancy of Southwest Florida The environmental advocacy organization is dedicated to protecting the water, land, wildlife and future of the five-county area For more information, visit https://conservancy org/

competitive teams, it needs to start acting like it Players who put in the work should make the team Those who don’t, need to practice harder and try again next season We are not here to appease everyone we are here to build athletes who understand that success must be earned

It’s time to step up and take this process seriously. Anything less is a failure of leadership

On another note: It’s beyond frustrating that Dylan, who has been giving 110% every single day to improve, is being sidelined from the final two games of the season because of a scheduling mess She’s not just balancing her commitment to the team but also excelling in the Steel Drum Band, and this complete lack of consideration in the schedule is an outright failure to support a hardworking player Moving the schedule around to “appease everyone” has clearly done the opposite it’s failed one of your most dedicated athletes Great job showing her that hard work and commitment don’t matter Absolutely unacceptable Jesse Field Sanibel

no later than noon Thursday. The Island

Coastal Watch, SCCF welcome intern

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's Coastal Watch recently welcomed AJ Carothers as a new intern From Dallas, Texas, she will also serve as a new intern for the SCCF's Marine Lab

Carothers is a recent graduate from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Science in oceanography and experience with oceanographic and conservation genetics research

AJ Carothers

She will assist with various projects at the lab, including ongoing macroalgae research Carothers also will help prepare collected algae samples for stable isotope analysis, which will help the SCCF understand potential sources of nitrogen used by the algae

“The data from this project, along with the other projects going on at the lab, will help us better understand coastal ecosystem health and the potential effects of disturbances on these ecosystems,” she said “This information can then be used to support

coastal management and conservation efforts, which will be beneficial for local fish populations and habitats ”

During her undergraduate degree, Carothers worked in multiple biological oceanography labs helping with research on topics including zooplankton ecology She also completed an internship in the Philippines, where she investigated the presence of a cryptic species of blue swimming crab using mitochondrial DNA markers

Additionally, Carothers completed her senior thesis on the temporal and spatial variations in nutrients and pCO2in the equatorial Pacific

“Thanks to your generous donations in support of this internship, I will be able to grow as a scientist, gain skills that I will be able to use in future coastal science and conservation positions, and support the important research going on at SCCF,” she said

Her internship is funded and supported by the Sanibel FlyFishers

REFUGE/DDWS

Habitat restoration of refuge conservation tract to begin

In 2019, the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS) acquired the Wulfert Bayous property as part of the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel

The 68-acre parcel later was renamed the Lee Anne Tauck Conservation Tract with plans to restore the habitat for birds, alligators, gopher tortoises, and other native species Lee County Conservation 20/20 partnered with the refuge and DDWS for the purchase with the understanding the refuge would restore and maintain it

The refuge recently announced work will begin on the project

“It has been a long time coming after several years of delay from the pandemic, hurricanes, and other administrative hurdles,” project leader Kevin Godsea said “At last, the refuge is ready to move forward with the restoration of 39 acres on the tract upon hiring an engineering and design firm ”

The goals of the project are to enhance existing mangrove communities and restore the functional quality of wetlands; create a nesting island for wading birds; create one or more alligator basking areas within proximity of the nesting island to prevent predation; identify opportunities for beneficial use of dredged material and to reduce waste; and address sea level rise impacts

The refuge has chosen MSMM HuittZollars A Joint Venture, with team partner Tetra Tech, for the project The contractors began their surveying and geotechnical bor-

ings the week of Nov 18

“We are beyond excited to see our work fundraising, working with Lee County, and procuring grants come to fruition,” DDWS Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman said “This promises to be a valuable addition to the refuge’s habitat and wildlifewatching opportunities ”

Florida-based engineering and ecological restoration team MHZ JV has extensive experience and includes national technical experts who will provide the U S Fish and Wildlife Service with the full range of services required to permit and design a restored wetland ecosystem for colonial waterbirds, wading birds, and other bird species.

The team has a proven track record of revitalizing ecosystems throughout the contiguous coastal United States and using a multidisciplinary approach that integrates scientific knowledge with innovative engineering techniques to restore and enhance biodiversity in degraded habitats The team’s services include qualitative and quantitative resource surveys and water quality analysis

“We look forward to getting this project going” Godsea said “There is a lot of work to be done within an aggressive timeline for the surveying, hydrological studies, and ultimately a complete design by the summer of 2026 ”

Following the completion of the bird rookery, work will begin on the tract’s Jim Sprankle Walking Trail, which is currently in design phase

County: FEMA to maintain rating, discounts

Lee County reported it was notified on Nov 21 that FEMA will maintain unin-

Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policy-

work by the county to provide all requested and required documentation

FEMA determined unincorporated Lee County residents which includes Captiva with policies issued under the NFIP will maintain the discount rate of 25%

The county reported that for more than

40 years, it has enjoyed an exemplary working relationship with FEMA Since joining the Community Rating System (CRS) program in 1991, the county has spent millions of dollars on studies, consultants and projects to mitigate the risks of flood damage and obtain a favorable rating for residents and taxpayers This was evidenced most recently in February of 2023 by FEMA’s determination that

County library system offers virtual programs

T h e L e e C o u n t y L i b r a r y S y s t e m , which includes the Captiva Memorial Library, is offering the following free virtual programming:

Adult programs

∫ Dec 3: Online ReUnite and Brain Health from 10 to 11 a m

Learn more about the ReUnite program and view a brief presentation on Brain Health, “Protect Your Brain, Protect Your Loved Ones ” Registration is required before Dec 3 at 10 a m

∫ Dec 4: Online Author Event with Jeff Post from 2 to 3 p m

Join us for an absolutely dazzling presentation with the

emeritus curator of the Smithsonian's National Gem Collection, Dr Jeffrey E

Smithsonian National Gem Collection Unearthed: Surprising Stories Behind the Jewels ” The event is part of the

Registration is required

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

All library branches will be closed on Nov 28-29 for Thanksgiving The Captiva Memorial Library remains closed post-storms The library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva.

Lee would retain its Class 5 CRS rating six months after Hurricane Ian In March, FEMA initially announced plans to retrograde the discount, prompting months of work by Lee County to submit documentation requested by FEMA T h e c o u n

FEMA to submit a corrective action plan prior to the Nov 18 deadline FEMA

See FEMA, page 7

Protect Captiva provides update on legal efforts

By STAFF REPORT trepecki@breezenewspapers com

A coalition seeking to maintain the longtime building height and density limi

d u p d a t

n i t s legal actions

On Nov. 12, Protect Captiva r e p o r t e d t h a t after four failed attempts by South Seas, t h e

increase density and building heights was found sufficiently complete by the Lee C

y Development to be tentatively scheduled f

County Hearing Examiner commencing on Feb 26

“As reported earlier, the hearing examiner will take public testimony and decide all of the density, height, environmental, t r a

issues related to the resort’s application to build 196 condominiums and 435 hotel units including whether the application to increase heights and density is consistent with the Lee County Land D

shared P

intends to be full participants in the hearing with its expert witnesses explaining why South Seas should continue to be limited to its historic development pattern of 912 units It will also work with comm

appearances at the hearing and to make sure that their voices are heard in the process

To view the county's sufficiency letter, along with the most recent legal comments from the coalition and 12 South Seas Associations in opposition to the application, visit this article online for free at http://www captivasanibel com/

In addition, Protect Captiva reported that after five days of trial before the administrative law judge, the transcripts have been provided to the parties so that they can draft and submit their proposed final orders to the judge

“We continue to believe that the record

LEE COUNTY

County reports on schedules for upcoming holiday

Most Lee County administrative operations will be closed on Nov 2829 in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday

T h e c o u n t y ’ s h o l i d a y s c h e d u l e

adjustments are as follows:

∫ Community Development

Lee County Community Development’s lobbies and phones will be closed today, Nov 27, with the exception of Inspections Administration; staff will continue working to address applications and departmental workload Offices will be closed on Nov 2829. The electronic permitting portal will remain open at www leegov com/dcd

∫ Domestic Animal Services

Lee County Domestic Animal Services, at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers, will be closed on Nov 2829 It will resume regular business hours on Nov 30

∫ LeeTran

LeeTran bus, trolley, Mobility on Demand or Passport service will not operate on Nov 28 Normal service will resume on Nov 29 Route schedules and maps are available at www rideleetran com ∫ Parks & Recreation

Protect Captiva

of the trial proves that the recent

South Seas from the hotel density limits that apply to all other property owners on Captiva are inconsistent with the Lee Plan which requires the county to maintain the historic develo p m e n t p a t t e r n o f C a p t i v a , ” t h e coalition shared “If the judge agrees, we will seek immediate repeal of the LDC amendments and petition the governor’s office to do its duty to enforce the judge’s order ”

&

offices, recreation centers and pools will be closed on Nov 2829; recreation centers and pools will reopen on Nov 30 and administration offices will reopen on Dec 2 Parks, preserves, beaches and boat ramps will remain open on Nov 28-29 For a list of open locations, hours and amenities, visit www leeparks org

∫ Solid waste

All county facilities will be closed on Nov. 28 and no garbage, yard waste or recycling will be collected Collections will be delayed by one day for the remainder of the week

On Nov 29-30, the Waste-to-Energy Facility in

Transfer Station will be open All other Solid Waste facilities will be closed

Hurricane Milton debris collection will pause on Nov 28-29, then continue through the weekend

page 6

opposing the county’s motion to dismiss its state court lawsuit to enforce the 2003 Settlement Agreement, the judge is soon to hear cross-summary judgment motions from the Captiva Civic Association, Lee County and South Seas on the validity of the agreement.

The coalition noted that the 2003 settlement agreement between the CCA and county provides that “the

Captiva resort to hold tree lighting

Island Resort & Spa will

Lighting on Nov 29 from 5 to 9 p m at 15951

Captiva Drive, Captiva

Kayley Bishop from “The Voice” and a deejay, fireworks, appearances from Santa Claus, and more.

Holiday All Day Access Passes are available $50 per person and include parking and all-day resort access To purchase passes, contact the front desk at 239-472-5161, Ext 1 For information about the event, visit https://tween-

total number of dwelling units on South Seas Resort is limited to 912” and that “no building permits may be issued that will cause that number to be exceeded at any time ”

“We believe that the judge will understand that the 912-unit limit on South Seas has been in effect for more than 50 years, and that the settlement agreement that enforced the density limit of 912 units in 2003 is both valid and enforceable today,” Protect Captiva shared

From page 6

found that the plan exceeded expectations and resulted in the retention of the discount

Concurrently, the county used best practices for Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which illustrated its diligence to adhere to FEMA’s NFIP and CRS requirements and guidelines.

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

The Lee County Board of County Commissioners remained committed throughout the process to retaining the CRS rating of 5 to maintain the discount available to unincorporated Lee residents with NFIP policies

BUSINESS

Business Notes

Rec center adds to Hall of Sponsors

J o h n G

y P

Recreation Center's Hall of Sponsors

All proceeds from the sponsor signs are applied to the city's Recreation Center Financial Assistance Program It assists eligible island parents and workers' children with financial assistance so youths can attend the after-school program, Fun Days, holiday camp, summer day camp and other city-operated programs at the center All money raised stays on the island F

Chairperson Barry Alan Roth at 239-313-9591

San Cap Community Bank hires Mooneyham

C

S

announced the hiring of Debbie Mooneyham as m

Myers Beach, which is set to open in 2026

She will be responsible for helping oversee the bank's daily operations, including assisting customers with per-

banking transactions

Before the branch's

M

will serve as a floating office manager, gaining training in software and systems while engaging in business development efforts on Fort Myers Beach

She has nearly 50 years of experience working at various community, regional and national banks, including more than 30 years spent working in the banking industry on Fort Myers Beach

Mooneyham has been an active member of the Fort Myers Beach community for decades, including being a member of the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce for nearly 20 years

COMMUNITY HOUSING & RESOURCES

From left, Bank of the Islands' Vice President David Lowden and Community Housing & Resources Executive Director Nicole DeckerMcHale

CHR holds meeting, thanks repor t sponsor

Community Housing & Resources (CHR) held its annual meeting on Nov 12, reflecting on 45 years of service in providing affordable housing for the older residents and workforce of Sanibel

E

expressed her gratitude to those who have supported the organization throughout its journey

“Our mission to provide affordable housing is not possible without the contributions of our community

See BUSINESS NOTES, page 9

LWV of Sanibel to host luncheon program

T

Sanibel will hold a citizen education luncheon program on Dec 5 from 11:30 a m to 1:30 p m at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, at 1451 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel

“The Presidency Unleased” will feature Philip Allen Lacovara, a former deputy solicitor general of the United States for criminal and national security matters and former counsel to the Watergate special prosecutor

H i s

Framer’s expectations about the character of the presidency, both the personal qualities that were expected and the constitutional mechanisms that would “check and balance” presidential power Lacovara will explore the ebbs and flows of presidential power as illustrated by several important decisions of the U S Supreme Court, including

the Nixon tapes case, which he argued before the Supreme Court He will also discuss the evolution of the presidency to the present, with the Supreme Court’s

Committee about this decision

The cost is $30 per person, and payment by cash or check can be made at the door R

today,

/ydm5pfab or email lwvsanibel@gmail com

For more information, contact Janice Block Chaddock at 312-520-0603 or janiceblockchaddock@gmail com

Pfeifer Realty presents top producers for month

The Pfeifer Realty Group named its top producers for the month of October

Wendy Kirschner was the top volume sales consultant

Realty in 2018 A Realtor with more than $30 million

Kirschner holds the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Specialist designation She earned a

Brigham Young University and a master's degree from Arizona State University

Kerri Maw was the top listing agent A full-time, real estate professional and Realtor, she moved to Sanibel in 2003 Maw obtained her S

designation in 2017, and she has reached $30 million in sales volume

this year

Greg Demaras was the top selling agent He is a state-licensed Realtor with over three decades of real estate expertise Demaras was the 2018 S

Year” and earned his Best-of-Zillow d

board president of the Sanibel &

Realtors

For more information, call 239472-0004 or visit www mysanibelrealestate com

The Pfeifer Realty Group is at 1630 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

VIP Realty announces top producers for month

VIP Realty Sanibel and Captiva announced its top producers for the month of October

Debbie Staley had the top sales She finds great satis-

beauty, serenity and uniqueness of Sanibel through selling real estate An island

works hard to satisfy the needs of her customers

Bob Berning had the top listings Through his specialty in residential, luxury, new construction, golf course and gated communities, he shares his expertise Berning applies his negotiating skills and strategies to ensure his client’s goals are reached

Ken King was the top producer A licensed Realtor from the Hudson Valley in New York, he is retired from law enforcement and later managed an excavation and rock crushing company In 1996, King and his wife closed on their first Sanibel home He is now a full-time resident For more information, call 2394 7 2 - 5 1 8 7 o r g o t o SanCapIslandRE com

VIP Realty Sanibel and Captiva is

Philip Allen Lacovara

Wendy Kirschner

Greg Demaras Kerri Maw

Debbie Staley Bob Berning Ken King

Debbie Mooneyham

Business Notes

From page 8

partners, dedicated staff, and volunteers,” she said “Together, we have made a significant impact on the lives of many residents who call Sanibel home ”

Bank of the Islands was the inaugural sponsor of CHR's annual report The back cover of the report featured a statement of support from bank President Robbie Roepstorff

CCA announces acting director

T h e C a p t i v a C i v i c A s s o c i a t i o n ( C C A ) a n n o u n c e d

Kathryn Sisson as its new acting director

She has worked at the CCA for almost a year as the events coordinator

Sisson is excited to step into the new role, and she is determined to continue the efforts of the organization to be a welcoming place for all and to further enhance the island community

Sisson can be reached at 239-472-2111 or kathryn.sisson@ccacaptiva org

TBE welcomes two new naturalists

T a r p o n B a y E x p l o r e r s ( T B E ) o n Sanibel welcomed two new staff members its working family.

Emma Engel and Austyn Feigenbaum were hired in October

F r o m C

University with a Bachelor of Science, with minors in wildlife science and environmental politics and policy She was drawn to the position because she saw an opportunity to find ways to make science accessible and engaging for people of all ages Engel is always looking for creative

See BUSINESS NOTES, page 10

Kathryn Sisson

TARPON BAY EXPLORERS

Emma Engel and Austyn Feigenbaum

Business Notes

From page 9

approaches to connect people with nature, whether through hands-on activities, storytelling, or interactive programs

Feigenbaum grew up in South Carolina, but spent the past few years in North Carolina She recently graduated from Furman University with a Bachelor of Science in environmental and conservation biology Feigenbaum is eager to spend time on the water with visitors, helping them observe and discover the wildlife at the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. She also looks forward to teaching about bird diversity and how their behavior is shaped by their environment

TBE is the official concessionaire for the refuge on Sanibel

Tree lighting

From page 1

The celebration is free and open to the public

“It's one of our events in the series for the 50th anniversary,” Recreation Department Director Andrea Miller said. “We've never done a tree lighting ceremony like this on the island, so it's something unique to bring the community together ”

After a brief welcome, the BIG ARTS Community Choir will lead attendees in a sing-a-long of two holiday songs, “Winter Wonderland” and “Silver Bells,” to get the crowd into the seasonal spirit

“They'll have Sanibel specific lyrics, so that'll be fun,” she said

Mayor Richard Johnson will offer a few remarks, then lead the countdown for the lighting of the community's holiday tree This year, the city hired a company to erect the magnificent 20-foot tree

“We'll also be lighting the Shared Use Path at the same time,” Miller noted

Again, attendees will have the chance to sing-a-long to “O Christmas Tree ”

“We will have Santa and Mrs Claus We also have a bunch of surprise holiday characters that will make appearances,” she said, adding that the Grinch may be one and there will be photo opportunities.

The tree and other holiday decorations will be on display through the month of December

“We chose the date of Nov 30 to make sure that everything would be up and lit prior to Luminary,” Miller said, adding that residents and visitors can take advantage of the setting for photos

From 5:30 to 8 p m , the festivities will

SCCF speaks at Right to Clean Water event

(SCCF) reported that Policy Associate Allie Pecenka spoke on the importance of conserving wetlands to mitigate the impacts of the changing climate during a recent panel hosted by the Florida Right to Clean Water

Other speakers included: Joseph Bonasia, who discussed the Right to Clean Water Amendment’s ability to protect wetlands when other means fail; Jason Pim, who provided updates about the proposed Redfish Pointe development in Cape Coral; and Jack Ubinger, who introduced the newly formed SWFL EcoAlliance group

move inside The Community House

Executive Director Emily Ankerson explained that the city approached it about the event

“We just thought it was a great idea to open up the house to be part of that celebration,” she said “We thought it was a great opportunity to participate in the celebration of Sanibel's 50th anniversary ”

In the Founders Room, Santa and Mrs Claus will be set up in front of the fireplace to meet with children and take photos A photo booth will also be available to capture additional memories

There will be holiday activities and crafts, with the participating groups to include the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium, Children's Education Center of the Islands, Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, Community Housing & Resources, Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, Sanibel Fire and Rescue District, Sanibel Public Library and Sanibel Recreation Center

“Different organizations, different nonprofits are going to have tables where they're going to have family-friendly activities,” Ankerson said “We might have the Shellcrafters doing activities.”

Live music for the evening will be provided by The Florida Keys Local to the Fort Myers area, the band performs popular songs from the 1960s to present day tunes

Steel drums are a fan favorite

MudBugs Cajun Kitchen will serve up food, and the city will offer bottled water

“And we're going to have a cash bar,” she said of TCH

Interactive guide to open businesses

The SanCap Chamber has a

Wander: Maps & Navigation T

map also pinpoints beach accesses, bike parking areas and the user's relative location Points of interest can be filtered by seven categories. Users can download the app from the Apple App Store and Google Play They can also access the map online at tinyurl com/sancapwandermap

SANCAP

If you go

What

City of Sanibel's 50th Anniversary Tree Lighting Ceremony When Nov 30 from 5 to 8 p m

Where

Sanibel Community Park, 2231 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, and The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Details

Free and open to the community

For those with a sweet tooth, Pinocchio's Original Italian Ice Cream will provide dessert

“It's Christmas cookies and hot cocoa,” Ankerson said

The public is invited to come out, be part of the anniversary festivities and spread holiday cheer

“It is going to be a great opportunity to bring the community together,” Miller said “It's something that's very unique, it's never been done before, and it's also in celebration of a huge benchmark for the community ”

“Come celebrate Sanibel and the season with your neighbors and friends,” Ankerson added. “Come socialize a bit and enjoy the different things the organizations are offer-

ing ”

Parking will be available at TCH and in the BIG ARTS lot across the street, with overflow parking at the Sanibel library and City Hall Handicap parking will be set up at the Sanibel Community Park

Carpooling is encouraged

For more information, contact 239-4720345 or Andrea Miller@mysanibel com

For more information about the yearlong anniversary events, visit 50YearsofSanibel com

The Sanibel Community Park is at 2231 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel TCH is at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

CHAMBER

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

PRESERVING PARADISE

Refuge welcomes interns to support education mission

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge recently welcomed two new interns specifically to support the education mission of the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel: Ethan Dye and Bhritney Hernandez

This year’s Herb Schwartz Memorial Education Intern, Dye is assisting refuge staff with environmental education duties He hails from Cary, Illinois, and graduated from Northern Illinois University in 2023 with a degree in environmental science and minor in biology Before arriving to the refuge, Dye worked on mourning dove research in McPherson, Kansas.

“I've never seen the coast of Florida before, so being here has been completely magical with all of the diverse plant and animal life,” he said “My favorite part, however, has to be the wonderful rangers and employees of the refuge They're all so kind and enjoyable to be around, and I'm very excited to get to know them during my term here ”

impact on a few students while I'm here ”

Being part of the Sanibel community has become her latest passion

T h e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a C o n s e r v a t i o n F o u n d a t i o n

r e p o r t e d t h a t t h e a f t e r m a t h o f t h e s t o r m s u r g e s f r o m

H u r r i c a n e s H e l e n e a n d M i l t o n o n S C C F c o n s e r v a -

t i o n l a n d s i s r e m i n i s c e n t o f H u r r i c a n e I a n , b u t n o t

a s s e v e r e I n s o m e c a s e s , t h e r e c u r r i n g s a l t w a t e r

s u r g e h a s e r a d i c a t e d e x o t i c s i n p r e s e r v e s “ T h e q u a n t i t y o f c o n s t r u c t i o n a n d d e m o l i t i o n , o r

C & D , d e b r i s a t t h e b o u n d a r i e s o f o u r p r o p e r t i e s f r o m h o m e s a n d b u s i n e s s e s i s m u c h l e s s t h a n i n

2 0 2 2 , ” H a b i t a t & W i l d l i f e M a n a g e m e n t D i r e c t o r

C h r i s L e c h o w i c z s a i d “ H o w e v e r , i t w i l l s t i l l r e q u i r e a s i g n i f i c a n t a m o u n t o f e f f o r t f r o m s t a f f a n d

v o l u n t e e r s t o c l e a n u p ”

T h e h a r d e s t h i t a r e a s f r o m t h e S e p t e m b e r a n d

O c t o b e r s t o r m s a r e a l o n g W e s t G u l f D r i v e , C a s a

Y b e l R o a d , a n d t h e f a r w e s t e n d o f S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a

R o a d , w h e r e t h e b r o w n i n g a n d d i s r u p t i o n o f v e g e -

t a t i o n i s e v i d e n t

“ I f t h e r e i s a n y s i l v e r l i n i n g t o t h e s e r e c e n t

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

b a c k , ” h e s a i d

A p r i m e e x a m p l e i s w e d e l i a , w h i c h w a s p r i m a r i -

l y a m o n o c u l t u r e i n s o m e a r e a s a n d q u i c k l y b e c o m e

t h e d o m i n a n t g r o u n d c o v e r p l a n t i n o t h e r a r e a s “ T h e B a s s e t t M c G r a t h P r e s e r v e o n W e s t G u l f

D r i v e i s o n e o f o u r n e w e s t p r e s e r v e s t h a t w a s s t i l l i n t h e e x o t i c t r e a t m e n t p h a s e , ” L e c h o w i c z s a i d “ T h i s b e a c h f r o n t p r o p e r t y h a d n e a r l y a h a l f - a c r e o f t h i s e x o t i c p l a n t t h a t i s n o w c o m p l e t e l y d e a d f r o m t h e

s a l t w a t e r ” T h e i n v a s i v e , o r n a m e n t a l p l a n t i s d i f f i c u l t t o c o n t r o l b e c a u s e i t q u i c k l y r o o t s a t n o d e s o n t h e s t e m a s i t s p r e a d s i t s e l f a l o n g t h e l a n d s c a p e T h e m o w i n g o f t h e p l a n t s p r a y s t h e n o d e s a l l o v e r t h a t o f t e n t a k e r o o t a n d s t a r t n e w p l a n t s “ W i t h a l l o f i t g o n e a t t h i s p o i n t o n t h a t p a r c e l , i t w i l l b e e a s y t o t r e a t w h e n i t s t a r t s r e s p r o u t i n g a s t h e g r o u n d i s m o s t l y b a r e a n d t h e y w i l l b e e a s y t o s e e , ” h e s a i d O t h e r e x o t i c p l a n t s s u c h a s a i r p o t a t o a l s o d i e d b a c k a n d w i l l l i k e l y n o t b e s e e n u n t i l t h e n e x t g r o wi n g s e a s o n T h e b e g i n n i n g o f t h e g r o w i n g s e a s o n i s t h e i d e a l t i m e t o c h e m i c a l l y t r e a t t h e p l a n t s b e c a u s e t h e y a r e b o t h s m a l l a n d h i g h l y v i s i b l e . “ T h e r e i s l i t t l e r i s k o f d a m a g i n g n e a r b y p l a n t s w

Among all this work at the refuge, he looks forward most to working with The Sanibel School next door and leading volunteers on Fridays to clean up monofilament fishing line around refuge waters

“I love getting the chance to talk to people about nature and have always loved teaching children about the less charismatic aspects of the natural world such as snails or lizards,” Dye said “There's so much life even in a tiny area that often gets overlooked, and I would love to inspire people to take a closer look when they go out in nature ”

From Naples, Hernandez last interned with Tampa Bay Watch in its Estuary EDventures program She graduated from the University of South Florida in Tampa in the summer with a bachelor’s in environmental science and policy Her position with the education team involves traveling around the school district’s Title I schools as the Betty Bishop WoW intern with the Wildlife on Wheels (WoW) mobile classroom.

“I'm really excited about WoW and eventually helping to develop a WoW summer camp program with the team,” Hernandez said “One of my favorite things about teaching is watching when a student finally understands and gets excited about science, so I'm hoping to be able to make that

“Everyone is incredibly welcoming and it is so great to see a community that is so proud of their natural environment,” Hernandez said. “Everyone I've met has been awesome ”

The DDWS provides housing, living stipends and other benefits for six to eight interns each year Since Hurricane Ian destroyed onsite intern housing, the DDWS has procured off-site housing with the intent to build on-site housing in the future

“We welcome Ethan and Bhritney’s energy and passion,” refuge Supervisory Ranger Toni Westland said “They bring fresh ideas and perspective to our mission to reach people of all ages with the refuge’s conservation education message At the same time, they benefit from the team’s track record for creating new conservation stewards by getting all ages excited about nature ”

The DDWS currently stewards four named internships for the 2024-25 year and is accepting donations for future named intern funds For information about supporting the internship programs, contact DDWS Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman at 239-789-8991

Refuge welcomes resident volunteers

Joining this season's team of J N “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g N a t i

Wildlife Refuge resident volunteers, Jon and and Joy Sperry arrived recently from a summer in Winter Harbor, Maine

n t s o f L

e Worth, they have been RV'ing across the country for more than

4 0 national parks In their former lives, Jon Sperry worked in softw a r e s

J

y Sperry raised two children and ran a house-cleaning business

“This is our first time volun-

spoonbills, and everyone is super nice ”

The Resident Volunteer program engages RVers in refuge work in exchange for a free spot t o p a r k T h e “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g Wildlife Society-Friends of the R e f u g e s u p p o r t s t h

program

Jon and Joy Sperry

Ethan Dye Bhritney Hernandez

Isl and lIvIng

SPD releases weekly blotter

The Sanibel Police Department is committed to keeping the community safe and secure. To support that effort, a weekly police blotter will be issued to include recent information about law enforcement response to criminal activity

Arrests

∫ Clarence Lenard Davis, 36, of 4775 Cedar Hammock Court, Fort Myers, was charged on Nov 12 with one count each of drive while license suspended revoked revocation equivalent status second offense and drive while license suspended revocation equivalent status

∫ Yorlan Espinosa Pena, 28, of 1128 N W 12th Lane, Cape Coral, was charged on Nov 13 with one count of drive while license suspended revocation equivalent status

Other enforcement actions

∫ On Nov 12, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued and a citation for speeding The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver

∫ On Nov. 13, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued and a warning for speed The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver

∫ On Nov 17, a records check during a traffic stop revealed the driver had a suspended license The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for knowingly driving with a suspended license The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver

∫ On Nov. 17, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle with an obscured temporary tag A records check revealed the vehicle was not registered The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for the unregistered vehicle and a citation for failing to change the address on his license The vehicle was towed from the scene

∫ On Nov 18, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for knowingly driving with a suspended license and a citation for unlawful speed The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver

Enforcement operations statistics

From Nov 12-18:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 4

∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 12

∫ Traffic crashes: 1

∫ Radar details: 59

∫ Traffic stops: 73

Citations issued: 24

Written warnings issued: 1

Verbal warnings issued: 52

∫ Residential area checks: 368

∫ Business area checks: 210

∫ Total area checks: 936

∫ Reported burglaries: 0

∫ Reported thefts: 3

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,241

November 2024 to date:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 14

Sanibel library offers range of programs and topics

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

Foundation, the library has launched a series of virtual author talks to include bestselling authors and thought leaders The next one will take place on Dec 4 at 2 p m with emeritus curator of the Smithsonian's National Gem Collection, Dr Jeffrey E Post He will talk about “The

Surprising Stories Behind the Jewels.” Fact will be separated from fiction, and Post will reveal fresh information and regale attendees with anecdotes and tales of some of the world's greatest and most famous gemstones

Curator of the gem collection for over 30 years, Post's areas of research interest include mineralogy, gemology, and geochemistry He has published more than 150 scientific articles in the fields Post also authored “The National Gem Collection ” He received Bachelor of Science degrees in geology and chemistry from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and his Ph D in

Arizona State University. Prior to joining the Department of Mineral Sciences at the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of Natural History in 1984, Post was a postdoctoral research fellow for three years at Harvard University's Department of Geological Sciences He was chairman of the Department of Mineral Sciences 198994 and 2014-19, and from 1991 to 2023 served as curator-in-charge of the U S National Gem and Mineral Collection Post was the lead curator for the “Janet A

Minerals” that opened in 1997 In May of 2023 he was appointed research curator, emeritus

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

https://libraryc org/sanlib/upcoming

Additionally, the library has the following programs scheduled:

Crafternoon will be held today, Nov 27, from 3 to 4:30 p m The project will be “Shell Crafts with Clay ”

The Sanibel Public Library will host a virtual author talk on Dec 4 with Dr Jeffrey E Post

Open to ages 3 and older, make a work of art. A variety of craft supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance

On Nov 29, Family Storytime for ages 5 and under will take place from 10:30 to 11 a m Sing, read, question and move around during the stories, followed by early literacy centers of play to flex minds, motor skills and creativity The program will include an art/craft center Baby & Toddler Storytime and Playdate will be held on Dec 3 from 10:30 to 11 a m Open to ages 4 and under, babies and their caregivers will take part in a short story time, sensory play, literacy activities and more. On Dec 3, R E A D to Rizzo will take place from 3 to 4 p m Participants will practice reading and reading o u t l o u d w i t h R i z z o , a t r a i n e d R e a d i n g E d u c a t i o n Assistance Dog (R E A D ) therapy dog Registration is required by contacting sgafgen@sanlib org

Creative Writing Program will be held on Dec 4 from 1 to 2 p m Attendees can bring their work to share and get feedback on, workshop their ideas, and have some dedicated time to work on new writing prompts and projects The program is welcome to all ages, but caters towards an adult audience

See LIBRARY, page 15

City reports on holiday operation hours and refuse collection

Administrative Offices will be closed on Nov 28-29 in observance of the T

resume regular operating hours on Dec 2 For more information, contact City Hall at 239-472-3700

w

Refuse, recycling and vegetation

Management (WM) will not have

trash pick-up on Nov 28, resulting in a one day delay to the trash pickup schedule For more information, contact WM at 239-334-1224

The Sanibel Recreation Center will be closed on Nov 28-29 It will resume normal operating hours on Nov 30 For more information, contact the center at 239-472-0345

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

Library

From page 14

On Dec 4, Crafternoon will take place from 3 to 4:30 p m The project will be “Painted Mini Wood Slice Ornaments ” Open to ages 3 and older, make a work of art. A variety of craft supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance

For the most up-to-date information, visit the calendar at https://sanlib org/

Those with library items that were damaged due to Hurricane Milton can email reference@sanlib org or call 239-472-2483; provide the titles of the damaged items Fees for the items will be waived

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

The library is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a m to 8 p.m. and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a m to 5 p m The library will be closed on Nov 28 for Thanksgiving

For more information, call 239-472-2483 or visit https://sanlib org/

The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

Blotter

From page 14

∫ Non-emergency calls: 36

∫ Traffic crashes: 2

∫ Radar details: 126

∫ Traffic stops: 179

Citations issued: 54

Written warnings issued: 2

Verbal warnings issued: 127

∫ Residential area checks: 997

∫ Business area checks: 441

∫ Total area checks: 2,275

∫ Reported burglaries: 0

∫ Reported thefts: 4

∫ Total CAD calls: 3,007

Impor tant reminders T

Recreation Center and are valid through Nov 30, 2025 The 2024 permits will expire on Nov 30; a 2025 permit will be required

Roadside parking is not allowed on Sanibel and is enforceable with a $150 fine

When leaving Sanibel, motorists are encouraged to travel east on Periwinkle Way In order to minimize the number of

neighborhoods and increase traffic flow, priority is being given to vehicles eastbound on Periwinkle Motorists using Bailey Road southbound, Lindgren northbound and Periwinkle westbound may experience additional delays as traffic

flows are adjusted for efficiency.

Ramp:

∫ Parking and boat launching fee is $40 per day

∫

weekends and holidays is with AC/BC permit only

∫ Commercial use is prohibited

∫ Fines for violations at the boat ramp are $500

Solicitation is not allowed on Sanibel Please share any photos of solicitation hang tags to police@mysanibel com or use Tip411

Repor

R E A D to Rizzo will take place on Dec. 3 at the Sanibel Public Library.

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

ting suspicious activity

Anonymous tips regarding crimes or suspicious activity can be submitted via Tip411:

∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411

∫ W

https://www tip411 com/tips/new?alert g roup id=22450

∫ Use the free “Sanibel PD” app for your Android or iOS device

The SPD's non-emergency line is 239472-3111

https://www.facebook.com/SanibelPolice

SPORTS

Recreation center provides update on activities, events

The Sanibel Recreation Center reported on upcoming programs and activities

Thrfitmas Thrift & Sift will take place on Dec 5 Participants will “thrift and sift” their way through local secondhand shops in Fort Myers, with self-pay lunch options along the way. Transportation will be provided via city van, departing from the center at 9:30 a m and returning by 4:30 p m Cost is $5 for members and $7 50 for non-members Registration is required

In addition, Sanibel Beach Parking Permits for residents/property owners and non-residents/non-property owners are available for purchase at the center, along with Sanibel Dog Licenses

New and current members can call 239-472-0345 or stop by the front desk for help with setting up their CivicRec account A variety of memberships, passes and punch cards are available.

The center is open on Mondays through Thursdays from 7 a m to 7 p m , Fridays from 7 a m to 5 p m and Saturdays from 8 a m to 5 p m

For more information about fitness classes and a c t i v i t i e s o r t o r e g i s t e r , v i s i t https://secure rec1 com/FL/sanibel-fl/catalog

For questions, call 239-472-0345

The Sanibel Recreation Center is at 3880 SanibelCaptiva Road, Sanibel

America’s Boating Club to offer boating course

The America's Boating Club of Sanibel-Captiva will present the U S Power Squadron's “America's Boating Course” in two sessions Dec 5 from 6 to 9 p m and Dec. 14 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Sanibel Public Library, at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

The course covers basic boat operation and safety, with an emphasis on boating the waters around Sanibel and Captiva Among the topics covered will be aids to navigation, required and recommended safety equipment, boat handling including docking and anchoring techniques, right of way rules, VHF radio operation, and handling emergencies at sea Participants will also learn basic chart reading and about local channels and waterways

The course is designed for those new to boating or the area, as well as experienced boaters who would like to

instructors present the material using lectures, videos and demonstrations Completion of the course and passing an exam qualifies participants to receive the Boating Safety Education ID card from the state

The registration fee for the course is $85

To register, visit www.sancapboating.club, click on the “Education” tab at the top of the page and complete the registration form for the “America's Boating Course” scheduled for Dec 5 and 14

For more information, contact lead instructor Bob Orr at 313-909-0584 or robert orr1663@comcast net

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Roving Ranger mobile visitor center will make special appearances throughout the community this season.

REFUGE/DDWS

DDWS reports on refuge programming, more

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge provided the following updates for the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel:

∫ The Roving Ranger will make an appearance at the Luminary Stroll on Dec 6 at the Tahitian Gardens on Sanibel

∫ The refuge's free Winter Programs will run from Jan 6 through March 26

SCCF, Audubon to host bird walks

T h e S a n i b e l - C a p t i v a C o n s e r v a t i o n Foundation and Sanibel-Captiva Audubon Society will host a bird walk on Nov 30 from 7:30 to 9:30 a m at the Bailey Homestead Preserve, at 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, and on Dec 4 from 7:30 to 9:30 a m at Bunche Beach, at 18201 John Morris Road, Fort Myers For the Sanibel walk, participants will observe various songbirds, wading birds, shorebirds, and other avian species that call Sanibel home either year round or in fall and winter For the Fort Myers walk, participants w i l l l e a r n a b o u t t h e s h o r e b i r d s t h a t c a l l Florida home for the fall and winter, including tips and tricks to help tell them apart Binoculars are recommended for both events

The walks are free, but registration is required; parking at Bunche Beach is $2 per hour or free with a Lee County parking sticker For more information or to register for the Sanibel walk, visit https://events humanitix com/bird-walk-at-the-shipley-trail For more information or to register for the Fort Myers walk, visit https://events humanitix com/bird-walk-at-bunche-beach-qax2d8d7

∫ The free Winter Lecture Series will take place on select Thursdays from Jan 9 through March 13

∫ Wellness in Nature is planned for Jan 23-26

∫ Go Wild for “Ding” is set for Feb 12, with the theme “Dreaming of White Pelicans ”

∫ The “Ding” Darling Day Conservation Carnival is scheduled for April 26 at Lakes Park in Fort Myers

∫ The 13th annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament will take place on May 9

Try the Bailey Tract on Sanibel for a dose of nature and gratitude on Nov 28

REFUGE/DDWS

Refuge center, offices to close for holiday

The J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Visitor & Education Center, Refuge Nature Store and all refuge and “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge offices will be closed on Nov 28 for the Thanksgiving holiday Wildlife Drive, which reopened post-hurricane on Nov

23, and the Bailey Tract will remain open Also on Nov 23, Tarpon Bay Explorers resumed its tram tours The refuge is at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel The gate times for Wildlife Drive are 7 a m to 5:30 p m daily, but closed on Fridays TBE is at 900 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel

CITY OF SANIBEL

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

They will join Fisher, Armor Persons, Debbie Jordan and Jada Langford-Fleming

“A standing ovation, holy cow Thank you,” Carlin said after her husband, Honorable John S Carlin, swore her in. “To the voters of Lee County, this is the first time we have elected a superintendent of schools in 50 years I know you expect me to be accountable to you, and I promise you I will ”

Lee County voters approved changed the post from a board-appointed staff position to an elected office in 2022

There are five things Carlin said she was going to tackle starting on Nov 20 ensuring safe schools, making sure to increase student achievement, being fiscally responsible, teacher retention and recruitment, and empower the voice of parents

“I need your help. I am asking for your help today. Four years are going to go by very quickly,” she said “We are committed to make this happen, and we are going to make good things happen I look forward to moving it forward to the top of the state and nation We will be the best ”

She thanked “all mighty God,” as well as her husband Carlin also thanked her two sons, who are her inspiration for the superintendent role There were also two special guests in the crowd, her parents’ best friends, as she lost her mother very early on in life and her father passed away 13 years ago

C a r l i n e x t e n d e d a s p e c i a l t h a n k y o u t o i n t e r i m

Superintendent Dr Ken Savage, who she made her deputy superintendent

“I could not tell you how much I have learned from him You continue to come back,” she said, as he served as the interim superintendent twice “You put everything aside Thank you for loving our kids, caring for our staff and being true stewards for this community ”

There was also a number of elected officials in the crowd, whom she thanked, as they endorsed her and got more people involved in the race

Carlin also thanked her campaign manager as this was the first time she ran for office. She said she had no idea about politics, and he got her across the finish line

“I see the principals, district administrators, teachers, friends new and old My heart is full I see people standing at the back It makes my heart smile,” she said “We ran a very long campaign, 13 months Through it all I knew I kept my eye on the prize and knew what we had the privilege to do that was to serve you and over 100,000 students in the district I don’t take that lightly ”

Honorable Frank Porter swore in Giovannelli, who was surrounded by family

“I express my heartfelt gratitude in placing your trust in me once again,” Giovannelli said, adding that the support means the world to her “I promise to work tirelessly for the education and well-being of our students and children ”

She thanked her husband, two daughters, parents, as

well as the support of two outgoing board members Giovannelli also congratulated Carlin

“I support and welcome this much-needed change for accountability to the people we serve,” she said “We are lucky to have Dr Carlin as our newly elected superintendent Together, we are going to be a board who listens and respects those we serve I am honored to be a part of this new board truly a momentous day ”

Giovannelli recognized that she was there by grace

“God brought me to this moment. I know we can achieve important things together,” she said

Ribble was also sworn in by Honorable Carlin He was accompanied by his wife and daughter He said Wayne Smith called him more than 17 months ago, while enjoying a great retirement, for the school board opening

Ribble also thanked many people including his wife, as well as Gov Ron DeSantis for his great endorsement

“Thank you all for your support I appreciate that sup-

Freshwater habitats

of However, increasingly frequent and intense tropical storms have ushered in new times on Sanibel

During Hurricane Ian in 2022, the saltwater surge from the Gulf of Mexico spread over much of Sanibel and displaced freshwater Most of the island's lakes and wetlands instantly became saltwater habitats with salinities from 15 to 30 practical salinity units (PSU)

A salinity above 10 PSU is considered to be a “marine” habitat Along with the change came a massive die-off of freshwater fish, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates and freshwater-dependent vegetation

“The food supply for many creatures higher up on the food chain such as mammals, birds, and alligators disappeared so they left or died,” he said “In our lakes, some displaced saltwater fish survived for a while until poor water quality conditions caused fish kills ”

Above average rainfall revived habitats

The dry season at the beginning of this year supplied an unusual amount of precipitation to Sanibel and patches of freshwater began to appear again Precipitation continued at an increased rate during the wet season

Data from the SCCF Marine Lab's weather station shows precipitation in 2024 will be nearly 20 inches greater than the historical average range (39-45 inches)

From page 1

By July, the large volume of precipitation resulted in normalization of salinity in the slough and the average salinity of island lakes dropped from a post-Ian high of over 20 PSU to 9 PSU Freshwater habitat was returning along with associated flora and fauna

Three sur ge events since August

In August, Tropical Storm Debby passed nearby Sanibel and brought with it a localized saltwater surge event that covered many of the freshwater habitats near the island's Gulf of Mexico shoreline

Several formerly freshwater lakes (pre-Ian), such as those at the Casa Ybel resort, Jordan Marsh, and Bailey’s Pond, had their salinity significantly reduced during this year's precipitation but reverted again to near seawater strength after Debby

The East Basin of slough was also near being freshwater before Debby and the surge from Debby brought the saltiness back up to half seawater strength killing much the freshwater flora and fauna that was beginning to re-establish itself post-Ian The West Basin was not affected in the same way during Debby due to the surge being more localized to the East Basin

In September, Hurricane Helene passed within 150 miles of Sanibel and brought with it a more significant

port and continued support as we move forward,” he said Ribble said he has worked with the district on a volunteer basis for the strategic plan, which he said in the past year the board, and Savage’s leadership, the gap was closed on some things

“I am looking forward to being a part of a very civil and collaborative meeting,” he said

Chaviano, who was also sworn in by Honorable Carlin, and accompanied by her husband, daughters, mother and sister, thanked God first and foremost for his guidance throughout her journey

“I’m so grateful for his presence every step of the way,” she said

Chaviano went on to thank her husband her rock, family for their patience, friends for their support, and the public for placing trust in her

“Thank you all for being here today I am honored to serve,” Chaviano said

surge than Debby Both the east and west basins were impacted with salinity increasing to marine water levels

“The October arrival of the Hurricane Milton surge put an exclamation mark on converting the Sanibel

Thompson said

The salinity of both basins are now over 20 PSU, which means they are about two-thirds the saltiness of seawater A survey of local lakes after Helene and Milton has shown that they are also about the same salinity as the slough, which is about the same condition they were in after Ian

“In fact, lakes on The Sanctuary golf course have actually become more salty after Milton than they were after Ian, suggesting the surge from Helene and Milton affected a larger area of the island than Ian,” he said

To be able to irrigate a lawn without harming it, the salinity must be below 2 PSU Some native plants such as cabbage palm and spartina grass are able to survive periodic episodes of higher salinity conditions.

“They can separate freshwater from salty water for their survival But when the freshwater above ground and the aquifer below are both salty, it will take fresh precipitation to allow recovery, and this may take several years as we learned after Ian,” Thompson said

SCHOOL DISTRICT OF LEE COUNTY

Dr Denise Carlin was sworn into office on Nov 19 for the School District of Lee County She is the first elected superintendent of schools in 50 years.

An ode to crankiness

I think flowers are overrated Yes, they're colorful and pleasant to look at But think of all the work that goes into growing flowers As a city boy, I rarely had an opportunity to view a flower garden let alone grow one My world was street games I never got stung by a bee playing stickball

I think protein is overrated The nutritionists tell u s i n c e s s a n t l y t h a t t h e proper intake of protein leads to higher energy leve l s a n d l e a n b o d y f a t Hogwash (When was the last time you heard that word?) Balderdash (and that word, too?) I eat lots of food that contain protein I also used to make protein shakes. The only benefit I ever got out of all that protein was the ability to do one extra push up That was it I went back to eating lots of fat and carbohydrates and my life improved

I think getting a good education is overrated So many textbooks to read, term papers to write, homework to struggle over and apples to collect to become teachers' pets I think we should abandon formal education and focus on street smarts Street smarts are all that's needed to make it in the modern world A college degree? A waste of four years. What has a diploma gotten you that street smarts haven't? I've learned more from one of the bartenders at Doc Ford's than I ever did in my sociology class in college Wedding anniversaries are overrated After some years most people I know would rather forget that they're even married What wedding anniversary gifts can you continue to think of that your spouse doesn't already have? Unless it's a diamond studded tennis racket, an aircraft carrier, a horse of a different color or a velvet toaster I stopped giving my wife an anniversary present when the number of roses I had gotten her throughout the years added up to one thousand Personally, I manage to disappear for my entire wedding anniversary day I used to tell my wife that I was going hunting She never asked me for what NFL football games are overrated Pass or run Run or pass Boring There's no novelty in the game anymore Watching frog jumping contests is much more exciting How many potato chips, pretzels and beer can you possibly consume watching four NFL games every Sunday? The NFL has perfected the art of bonding men and subordinating women And it has managed to increase men's waist sizes beyond social acceptability. Bring back lions and gladiators. Roller coaster rides are overrated I'd rather jump out of a plane without a parachute I don't like screaming at the top of my lungs as the roller coaster plunges to the earth defying gravity I'd rather save my screams for more legitimate and timely reasons, like stubbing my toe

Christmas is overrated Christmas is an excuse to do caroling, buy unnecessary gifts, and be nice to people Everyone also prays for a white Christmas Folks, there's no snow on Sanibel nor will there ever be Stay home in Montana if you dream of a white Christmas And save your singing for a bar that offers karaoke. Just don't stand outside my window and entertain me with “Silent Night ” If you do then the garden hose I will aim at you will suspend any belief you have in a silent night

Sanibel is overrated Birds, geckos, alligators, blackened fish, sea shells You can find all of these in zoos, botanical gardens, the Discovery Channel and Times Square The only redeeming virtue of Sanibel is that there are no traffic lights Yes, there is no history of traffic tickets on Sanibel for going through a red light

Bob Dylan is overrated. I haven't been able to understand a word he sings for years now Does he do

See CRANKINESS, page 23

Sanibel Music Festival to return with globally praised performers

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The 38th annual Sanibel Music Festival will take place from March 1-22 on select Tuesdays and Saturdays at 7:30 p m at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ on Sanibel

reported

T

series will feature six programs, including a special benefit gala performance

“We believe the arts are a compelling force in the

Prior to the March kickoff, the festival will present the 50th Anniversary Luminary Concert, “All is Bright,” on Dec 6 from 4 to 6 p m at the church as part of the city's yearlong anniversary events

“Florida Gulf Coast University musicians will delight us with their music,” organizers shared

On March 1, a Gala Benefit “Celebrating Sanibel Music Festival's Return to the Island” will feature renowned pianist Wu Han and her husband, cellist David

F

Reception after the performance and a private home cocktail party on Feb 28 at 6 p m

F

America's Musicians of the Year Award, the highest honor bestowed by the organization They enjoy a multi-

recording and artistic direction Their concert activities have taken them from New York's stages to the most important concert halls in the United States, Europe and Asia. They regularly perform a wide range of music that includes the standard repertoire for cello and piano, commissioned works by living composers, and virtually the entire chamber music literature for their instruments

Continuing with the official concert series, the schedule is as follows:

∫ March 4 : Jon Nakamatsu

Since winning the gold medal at the 1997 Van Cliburn International Piano Competition, Nakamatsu has toured year-round to perform with today's leading conductors and orchestras, and he has appeared in recital and chamber collaborations at festivals and music centers w

Manasse, Nakamatsu regularly tours as a member of the

Frautschi/Manasse/Nakamatsu Trio He has also been

Emerson, Tokyo, Prazak, Escher, Jupiter and the Ying String Quartets, and he has toured extensively with the Berlin Philharmonic Wind Quintet In 2018, Nakamatsu was appointed artist-in-residence of the Chautauqua Institution Piano Program in New York State He has released 13 CDs

∫ March 8 : Horszowski Trio

Since its debut in New York City in 2011, the trio has toured extensively throughout North America, Europe, the Far East and India, traversing the traditional piano trio repertoire and introducing music it has commissioned and premiered The group takes its inspiration from the musicianship, integrity and humanity of the pre-eminent p

ensemble's pianist, Rieko Aizawa, was Horszowski's last pupil at the Curtis Institute Its debut recording an album of works by Fauré, Saint-Saëns and d’Indy on the Bridge label was released in 2014 and dedicated to Horszowski's memory The trio is ensemble-in-residence at the Leschetizky Association in New York City and L o n g y S

Massachusetts The group performs at many venues domestically and overseas

∫ March 1 1 : 2 0 2 5 Chopin

Piano Competition winner

The festival will present one of the first appearances of the gold star winner of the 11th National Chopin Piano Competition, taking place on Jan 4-12 in Miami The competition was established 50 years ago and is held every five years It is open to native-born and naturalized U S citizens ages 16-30 The winner receives a cash prize and is accepted into the international competition in

SANIBEL MUSIC FESTIVAL

The Sanibel Music Festival's Gala Benefit on March 1 will feature cellist David Finckel and pianist Wu Han.

Festival

The Isidore String Quartet will take the stage on March 22 at the

Warsaw

∫ March 1 8 : Opera Theater of Connecticut

For 40 years, composer John Kander and lyricist Fred Ebb worked side by side to create a brand of Broadway musicals packed with beauty and biting commentary. Their show “Chicago” is one of the longest-running shows in theatre history Their stage musicals include “ C

Scorsese's “New York, New York,” which spawned a signature song for Frank Sinatra, and Barbara Streisand's “Funny Lady ” The team also wrote prolifically for Liza Minnelli and Chita Rivera The duo is known for collaborations with various writers, directors, and actors, and their Broadway premieres continued even after Ebb's death at age 76 in 2004

∫ March 2 2 : Isidore String Quartet

Winners of a 2023 Avery Fisher Career Grant and

See SANIBEL MUSIC FESTIVAL, page 23

Art Stevens Shell Shocked

Jon Nakamatsu will perform on March 4 at the Sanibel Music

The Horszowski Trio will take the stage on March 8 at the Sanibel Music Festival.

The Sanibel Music Festival will present the 2025 Chopin Piano Competition winner on March 11

The Opera Theater of Connecticut will perform on March 18 at the Sanibel Music Festival.

Sanibel Music Festival.

Junonia found on Sanibel

Shell Find

Karen Eastman, of San Diego, California, found a junonia on the morning of Nov 17 at the Breakers West Condominium on West Gulf Drive on Sanibel She spotted the shell as the tide went out Her daughter, Christy Guerrero, reported that it was her mother's fourth and by far best trip to the islands with her friend, Robin Lusk “Karen and Robin are both friends and shell fanatics and travel to the island since it is rated, as my mom states, 'The best place to find shells in the world,'” she added To report a shell

f i n d , c o n t a c t 2 3 9 - 4 7 2 - 1 5 8 7 o r

trepecki@breezenewspapers com

Sanibel Music Festival

14th Banff International String Quartet Competition in 2022, the quartet was formed in New York City in 2019 with a vision to revisit, rediscover and reinvigor a

e p e r t o r y I n f l u e n c e d b y t h e Juilliard String Quartet, it adopts the idea of “approaching the established as if it were brand new, and the new as if it were firmly established ” The name “Isidore”

Crankiness

PHOTOS PROVIDED

From page 22

recognizes the ensemble's musical connection to the Juilliard Quartet: one of that group's early members was legendary violinist Isidore Cohen Its 2023-24 season featured appearances across the United States and Europe

Performance tickets are $50 for adults and $25 for students; discount packages are available

From page 22

that on purpose? Do his performances now require a libretto to understand the great man's lyrics? I attended one of his recent concerts at the Barbara Mann last winter and heard guttural sounds coming out of his mouth At first I thought that t h e r e w a s s o m e t h

sound system but when I noticed members of the audience attempting to adjust their hearing aids I knew I wasn't alone.

Exercising is overrated Instead of lift-

Instead of running on a treadmill I'd rather walk a plank Instead of stretching I'd

The Gala Benefit Pass, which includes the private home cocktail party, performance and AfterGlo Reception, is $250 per person Tickets for the performance and reception are $75 per person

Additionally, donations of $1,000 or more earns Encore Society status and other perks

“We are so grateful for your continued

rather shrink Who needs bulging biceps and a 32-inch waist? Why do some people consider it a badge of honor? As long as I can wear a barrel and take out the garbage I'll stay home and sit on the couch

There, it's all out of my system now

involvement and support,” festival organizers reported

For more information or tickets, visit www sanibelmusicfestival org

Church of Christ is at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

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

ISL AND HOME islander

Variegated ginger adds color to shady areas

The variegated ginger is a beautifully striped plant with green and yellow foliage that many homeowners and gardeners utilize as part of their landscape design

The flowers are pearly white with a touch of pink that bloom in the late spring or summer

The flowers are slightly fragrant, but when the l e a v e s a r e b r u i s e d o r crushed, they will emit a fresh spicy aroma.

Variegated ginger is a great choice to add color in a shaded area

A l t h o u g h t h e y w i l l grow in sun areas, they prefer at least some shade to prevent the leaves from burning They are a moderate grower, reaching maximum heights of about 5 feet, but will spread and will need plenty of room to grow Most often it is a great choice to fill around a shade tree or as an anchor plant within a garden Another great option for the variegated ginger is as a container plant within a patio or pool area The foliage also makes a great filler for tropical, fresh flower arrangements

While the variegated ginger prefers well drained soils, it is recommended to include peat moss or a good compost and topsoil when first planting They do not require much trimming other than some selective pruning and dead leaf removal

Overall, the variegated ginger is a great choice to add to the plant palette to create that tropical look within the landscape

In The Garden is provided by In The Garden, at 3889 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel For more information, contact 239-395-5859 or visit www facebook com/rswalshinthegarden

Noah’s Ark to reopen for season

Noah's Ark Thrift Shop, located at

reopen to customers on Dec 3

The store will be open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 a m to 1 p m

Operating for over 60 years, the thrift shop features clothes, jewelry, furniture, decor, art, shoes, books and more The donated items are sorted and

church The store is a mission of the

awarded to non-profits through a grant process

Donations will be accepted starting on Nov 29

sanibel.org/noahs-ark. People can also

thrift.sanibel/. Noah's Ark Thrift Shop is at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

S a n C a p P a k - N - S h i p o n Sanibel is offering free Letter to Santa kits for island youths It includes a decorative letter to send to Santa and addressed envelope with stamp Bring the envelope, with a return address included on it, back to the store and it will send it off in its special North Pole Postal Box Youths will receive back an official Santa letter before Christmas The kits are currently available for pick up; drop off will close on Dec 14 SanCap Pak-N-Ship is at 2422 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

Recipe of the Week: Polpette di Melanzana

You can serve your eggplant meatballs as is, either hot or at room temperature Served this way, they make a great antipasto or snack Alternatively, you can simmer them in a simple salsa di pomodoro (tomato sauce)

Makes 16-20 pieces. (Chef tip: Look for long, slender eggplants, as they have fewer seeds and are less bitter )

1 medium eggplant

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

1 egg

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

Bread crumbs, as needed

Olive oil, for frying

Loretta Paganini

Roast the eggplant, whole and unpeeled, in a 400°F oven for 15-20 minutes. Remove the eggplant from the oven and let it cool a bit Skin the eggplant and place the flesh into a food processor (If the flesh is watery, gently squeeze out the excess liquid with some paper towels ) Add the remaining ingredients, except bread crumbs, and process until well blended and fairly smooth

CROW Calendar

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife's Visitor Education Center, at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, will present the following:

∫ Today, Nov. 2 7

Program of the Week at 11 a m

T h e p r e s e n t a t i o n w i l l b e “ S p o o k y Wildlife Of Southwest Florida ”

∫ Friday, Nov 2 9

Program of the Week at 11 a m

The presentation will be the presenter’s choice

∫ Monday, Dec. 2

The presentation will be “Wildlife In A Hurricane ”

∫ Tuesday, Dec 3

The presentation will be “Ecosystems Of Florida ”

Who are your “balcony people”?

The renowned minister

a n d a u t h o r T o m L o n g recounts this story from a number of years ago when F r e d R o g e r s M i s t e r

R o g e r s s p o k e a t a National Press Club luncheon

L o n g s a y s t h a t w h e n Rogers stood up to speak, he said that he knew the room was filled with many of the best reporters in the n a t i o n , m e n a n d w o m e n who had achieved much

R o g e r s t h e n t o o k o u t a p o c k e t w a t c h a n d

Wednesday, Dec. 4

Admission is $12 for ages 13 and older, $7 for ages 4-12 and free for ages 3 and under In addition, CROW offers a Wildlife Walk Hospital Tour on Mondays through F r i d a y s a f t

Limited to 12 people; participants must be age 10 or older The cost is $25 per person; advanced registration and payment is required. To register, contact 239-4723644 ext 229 or reservations@crowclinic org

http://www crowclinic org/ or call 239472-3644

a n n o u n c e d t h a t h e w a s going to keep two minutes of silence, and then invited everybody in the room to remember during that time people in their past parents, teachers, coaches, friends and others who had made it possible for them to accomplish so much Then Rogers just stood there, looking at his watch, saying nothing

The room grew quiet, and as the seconds ticked away before Rogers put away his watch, one could hear all around the room people sniffling as they were moved by the memories of those who had made sacrifices on their behalf and who had given them many gifts

What Rogers was calling people to do that day was remember and honor their “balcony people ” That’s the term coined

Then, spoonful by spoonful, and using the pulse function on the food processor, mix in bread crumbs until the mixture holds together into a soft, workable paste (Use only as much as you need, no more ) Take a scoop of the mixture, about a tablespoon each, and form little “meatballs.” Shallow fry the meatballs in oil until golden brown on all sides

Pomodoro Sauce

2 pounds ripe Italian plum tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes

1 small onion, finely minced

1/2 carrot, grated

2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

2 cups tomato puree

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

In a large non-reactive saucepan, cook onion in olive oil until transparent Add carrot and garlic and saute for two more minutes Add chopped tomatoes and sauce

Season with hot peppers, salt and pepper

Simmer for 20 minutes to thicken at medium heat

Add basil and cook for a few minutes more.

Island Worship

∫ Bat Yam Temple of the Islands

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

Sabbath service on Friday at 7 p m and via Zoom Torah (Bible) Study on

batyamsanibel@gmail com

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

In-person service on Sunday at 11 a m through April Services will be videotaped and posted on the chapel's website and Facebook page Services from the past season can also be found online

∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida

P O Box 722, Sanibel, www chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida org

Shabbat service on Friday at 7:30 p m Torah Talk on Tuesday at 7:30 p m

There are also speakers, discussions and informal “schmoozes ” For Zoom links, email ChavuratShalom@gmail com

by the late national and i

Joyce Landorf Heatherly to describe those in our lives

w h o e

and try to help build and lift us up Heatherley contrasts “

those in our lives who do the opposite those who

dwelling on how and why w e can

h something, or far worse, not good enough as people

But as Heatherley, psy-

c h o l o g i s t s a n d s p i r i t u a l leaders regularly point out, that says a lot more about our “basement people” than it does about us And a lot less than God calls us to see in and be toward others.

In the Hebrew Scriptures, God calls on Moses to “encourage” Joshua be a “balcony person” for Joshua as the time approaches for Joshua to take over from Moses as leader of the Israelites And in the Christian Scriptures, the writer of 1 Thessalonians calls on the members

o f t h e e a r l y C h r i s t i a n c o m m u n i t y t o “encourage and build up one another ”

T h i s w e e k , a s w e c e l e b r a t e

T h a n k s g i v i n g , l e t ’ s c o n s i d e r t a k i n g a break from our culture’s far too often “basement” mentality its tendency to

∫ 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 Sanctuary Services will be recorded and posted on the SCC's YouTube channel

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

Sunday service at 10 a m in the Sanctuary

∫ Saint Isabel Catholic Church

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

Friday Mass at 9 a m Saturday Vigil Mass at 5 p m Sunday Mass at 10 a m

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

Saturday service at 5 p m in the Sanctuary, with a social to follow Sunday service at 9:30 a m , with a social to follow; service is available via livestream and the link on the website

want to focus on bringing or tearing others down Instead, let’s take two “Mister Rogers Minutes” to remember and be truly grateful for all the “balcony people” w

d , s u p p o

d a n d helped to build us up professionally, personally, emotionally and spiritually, in even the smallest way, throughout our lives

And in their honor and from that place of gratitude, do our best to be more “balcony” and less “basement” ourselves

The Rev Dr Mark Boyea is senior minister at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ.

Cheeburger Cheeburger, 1975 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

MudBugs

Cajun Kitchen, 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Old Captiva House at 'Tween Waters, 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva

RC Otter's Island Eats, 11506 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva

Traders, 1551 Periwinkle

islandBEAT islander

Santiva Islanders Calendar

The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength today, Nov 27, from 10 to 11 a m at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on Nov 29 from 10 to 11 a m at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

The Community House Calendar

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

Painting With Friends

Painting With Friends will take place today, Nov 27, from 9 a m to noon New painters welcome Bring your own supplies Cost is $10 donation at the door

Shellcrafters

The Shellcrafters will meet on Dec 2 from 10 a m to 1 p m in the lobby A shell crafting class will take place at 10 a m ; it is free and supplies range from $510 Items will be available for sale All sales benefit the operations of TCH

Painting With Friends

Painting With Friends will take place on Dec 4 from 9 a m to noon New painters welcome Bring your own supplies Cost is $10 donation at the door

Shell Critter Kits are available for purchase in a variety of different options Cost is $5 per kit with all of the supplies included, except for glue Order them in-person at TCH or call 239-472-2155

TCH office hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a m to 3 p m

For more information, visit www sanibelcommun i t y h o u s e n

for non-members

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on Dec 2 from 10 to 11 a m at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members.

Social Hour

Social Hour will be held on Dec 2 from 4 to 6 p m at Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, at 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Enjoy happy hour drink and appetizer specials Attendees will order and pay individually.

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on Dec 4 from 10 to 11 a m at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Bring water and a towel; no mat is required Light weights may be brought Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members

The Santiva Islanders serve all adult islanders and visitors, regardless of age The cost is $25 for an annual membership The Island Seniors raise funding to help defray the cost of the program activities

landers@gmail com

BIG ARTS Calendar

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

Workshop

Glass Fusing with Petra Kaiser will be held on Dec 4, 11 and 18 from 9:30 a m to 12:30 p m Cost is $108 for donors and $135 for non-donors The deadline to register is today, Nov 27

Workshop

Festive Seahorse Tea Towels with Sunny Krchmar will be held on Dec 5 from 9 a m to noon Cost is $58 for donors and $72 for non-donors The deadline to register is Nov 29

Workshop

Island Theme Serving Trays with Sunny Krchmar will be held on Dec 6 from 9

Al-Anon, Al-Ateen meetings

Are you concerned with a friend or family member's drinking? Let us help

Cost is $58 for donors and $72 for non-donors The deadline to register is Nov 30

Film Series

“A Thousand and One” (2023) will be shown on Dec 2 at 7 p m Tickets are $12

Workshop

Mosaic Holiday Tree with Nancy Mayhew will be held on Dec 9 and 11 from 9:30 a m to 12:30 p m Cost is $90 for donors and $112 for non-donors The deadline to register is Dec 2

Registration is required for workshops by calling 239395-0900

For more information or tickets, visit www.bigarts.org or call 239-395-0900

Way, Sanibel

Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

DDWS provides outreach update

On Nov 8, the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge team attended an event at the Mound House on Fort Myers Beach titled “Reel Injun to Real Indigenous: Native Art and Pop Culture ” Along with the film screening of “Reel

Miccosukee artists respond through their work “It was a powerful and intentional evening connecting with members of the

Urban Ranger Yvette Carrasco, who led the refuge team, said

From left, Captiva Chapel by the Sea's

Dr

with Bank of the Islands President Robbie Roepstorff and Chief Executive Officer Geoff Roepstorff.

Banks of the Islands provides lead gift

Bank of the Islands and its founders, President Robbie Roepstorff and Chief

Recovery Campaign The couple was married at the chapel, as was their son and daughter-in-law, Matt and Mairin

Due to damages from Hurricane Milton,

required for the chapel and its property

Associates, the building needs leveling, raising, a new foundation, stairs and

Australian pines must be taken down

removed from the property, including work to uncover the headstones buried

Thanks to its reserve funds, the work can begin immediately, but the restoration will deplete its reserves, so the chapel has launched a new campaign to replenish the funds The chapel's goal is to raise $150,000 To donate, visit

/ Checks can also be mailed to Captiva Chapel By The Sea Treasurer, Box 188, Captiva, FL 33924

BANK OF THE ISLANDS

the Rev

Doug Dortch

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA KIWANIS CLUB

From left, Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium

Executive Director Sam Ankerson and Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club

President Emily Ankerson.

Kiwanis holds monthly social

T

held its monthly social on Nov 7 at the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium on Sanibel Attendees were delighted as they mingled in the stunning

surroundings of the museum, where they were greeted by the vibrant colors of tropical fish, the grace of live seahorses and even a special visit from a curious octopus

S

Bank is a $5,000 platinum sponsor for the “Ding” Darling Wildlife

S o c i e t y - F r i e n d s o f t h e R e f u g e ' s

13th annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament on May 9 The event proceeds will support the work at the J N “Ding” Darling

Sanibel For more information or to register, visit https://dingdarlingsociety org/tarpon-tournament

Fifth graders at Lehigh Elementary School in Fort Myers recently had the opportunity to use the new, raised microscope station on the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife on Wheels (WoW) They observed and contrasted fish and shark scales The WoW will move on to Varsity Lakes Middle School in Lehigh Acres from Dec. 2-20.

SANIBEL CAPTIVA COMMUNITY BANK San Cap Bank to ser ve as sponsor

From left, Bank of the Islands Vice President David Lowden, FISH of Sanibel-Captiva Executive Director Maria Espinoza and bank concierge Kelsey Hamilton

Bank of the Islands donates to FISH

Bank of the Islands recently presented FISH of Sanibel-Captiva with a $2,500

island neighbors were encouraged to stop

by the bank's Sanibel lobby with canned food and dry goods for FISH's food pantry In recognition of their donations, the first 25 donors were honored with a $100 bank donation made in their name

Officer Kathryn Kelly and Annie

Bank of the Islands donates to foundation

Edison National Bank/Bank of the Islands donated $7,500 to The Heights Foundation to provide 300 frozen turkeys to the Harlem Heights community The donation supported the nonprofit's “Celebration of Giving Thanks” event on

Nov 16 at The Heights Center, which distributed turkeys to feed more than 1,000 residents for the Thanksgiving holiday season In addition, the bank’s staff volunteered to help distribute the frozen turkeys during the event

BANK OF THE ISLANDS

BANK OF THE ISLANDS

From left, Melissa Barlow, Bank of the Islands Vice President David Lowden, The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center President and Chief Executive

Campbell.

Chamber presents sponsors

The SanCap Chamber announced that Sanibel Captiva Community Bank is the p

LCEC and Lee Health are gold sponsors for the Luminary Stroll 2024 on Dec. 6. A community-wide kickoff highlight for the city of Sanibel's 50th anniversary celebration, event activities will include a live Nativity scene, guest of honor WINK

Chief Meteorologist Matt Devitt, Santa visits, live music, and treats and activities at island businesses and organizations The chamber will hand out a map of participating merchants that evening. For m

opportunities, contact Aaron Walton at aaron@sanibel-captiva org or 239-4728759

SANCAP CHAMBER

THE SANIBEL CAPTIVA TRUST COMPANY

From left, Ed Ciskowski, Mary Jane Vinson, Tony Lapi,

Lisenbee, Gaby Bell and Frances Steger