32 minute read
Island Faces
F.I.S.H. OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA/THE COMMUNITY HOUSE
F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva hosted a “Friendsgiving” celebration on Nov. 22 at The Community House on Sanibel. It provided a hot holiday meal with all the fixings to island residents and members of the city of Sanibel response team. Partners for the event included TCH, St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, Sanibel Community Church, Midwest Food Bank and Operation BBQ. In addition, F.I.S.H. partnered with Operation BBQ on Nov. 21 to distribute 350 Thanksgiving meal kits at TCH.
SANIBEL SEA SCHOOL Sanibel Sea School provides
post-storm update on facilities
On Nov. 22, the Sanibel Sea School reported that structurally, both of its buildings held up OK, and neither roof was damaged during Hurricane Ian. The interiors met a worse fate as a result of the surge.
The big blue front building facing Periwinkle Way on Sanibel experienced about 2 feet of flooding, with nearly all contentsaloss,aswellasmajortreedamagethat took out the power feed. The Kennedy Building had about 3 feet of flooding that submerged the electrical panel and caused the wood floors to buckle, one window was broken, and the fence surrounding the picnic table area was destroyed.
The Sanibel Sea School reported that its safety equipment, microscopes and program supplies were mostly destroyed. More difficult though were the archives of photos and art projects created by campers over the years. It lost an incredible collection of shells, bones, feathers and other treasures that students and staff have collected and sorted over time. Anything salvageable was removed from the campus and is being stored at an alternate location that was unaffected by the storm until it reopens.
Ian turned the island’s green vegetation brown and uprooted numerous trees on campus.TheSanibelSeaSchoollostalotofvegetation, including the large “handprint tree” in the picnic table area.
The storm surge also took out its fleet of vans and truck, with evidence of water coming up to the seats. The “Ripple Effect” pontoon boat floated off its trailer and into a nearby tree. The Sanibel Sea School reported that it is still not sure if it will be able to recover the vessel. The new mobile SEA lab was found a good distance away from where it was parked before the storm. It is likely a loss, and the Sanibel Sea School will have to start over with that program. Its kayak trailer andSUPtrailerwerealsoatotalloss.Twoof its kayaks were destroyed, but the rest of its paddle-craft survived.
The Sanibel Sea School reported that a contracted company began working in both buildings shortly after the storm to mitigate mold impacts and dry them out. The drywall has been cut in the front building. In the Kennedy Building, the wood floors were removed and the walls were cut halfway. It plans to save the wood from the Kennedy Building, treat it and creatively reuse it when it rebuilds.
To support the recovery efforts of the Sanibel Sea School, visit https://www.sanibelseaschool.org/support-the-cause.
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Christmas Carol Sing to raise donations for those in need
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com
The popular Christmas Carol Sing will return for its 31st annual year at the First Presbyterian Church in downtown Fort Myers with two sing-alongs on Dec. 6 to benefit Community Cooperative.
Doors will open 30 minutes before the 90-minute singalongs, which will be held at 3 and 7 p.m.
“It’s a feel-good event, ” Pastor Dr. Paul deJong said. “The price of admission is any canned food, dry goods, or toss what you can into the plate when it passes. Every cent goes to those in need right here in Fort Myers. As a church we don’t take one red cent. Everything they get goes to those in need right here. ”
“With what has transpired in the last several months, the community need has been in flux, so many in need that weren’t before, ” he added. “It is an easy, calm, pleasant way to do something to help our community who we all love. ”
Cash donations received can purchase five times as much food for the same amount residents spend at the grocery store. The canned, nonperishable goods will go directly to Community Cooperative.
Christmas Carol Sing is simple: Everyone gathers together to sing popular Christmas carols. The performance includes the First Presbyterian Church Choir and soloists, as well as other special guests.
“When my mother was growing up in the Netherlands, men used to walk down the street singing together. Now we have earbuds in our ears and we are listening to other people sing, ” deJong said. “I don’t care how poorly you can sing, you can belt out some Christmas music and it is just fun. It is a joy to sing together. When it is all of us together you can sing as much as you want. ”
Roger Peterson, minister of music at First Presbyterian, said they will sing advent songs such as “Joy to the World” and “Silent Night, ” as well as secular songs like “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire. ”
January will mark 21 years that he has been involved with the church.
“It’s a great way to get the community to come together. Where you worship on Sunday morning is not nearly as important as being part of a big family that loves the Lord and loves to sing, ” Peterson said. “Everybody is welcome. It’s carols that we all sing together and all fill our hearts with joy and that is why this season is so special. ”
In addition to the music, Santa will also be in attendance to listen to all the boys and girls, while offering an opportunity for attendees to take photographs.
The Christmas Carol Sing is sponsored by First Presbyterian and the Galloway Family of Dealerships.
Community Cooperative is a world-class organization that helps those in need, deJong said. It started in their church as a dream a few decades ago and has developed into an organization that is first-rate in helping those in need.
“When you are in the midst of recovering from a disaster storm, the need is more profound, more prolific and challenging in so many ways. They know how to get the gifts to those who need it most. They know how to get the gifts to those who need it most, ” he said. deJong said there were so many people in need before Ian impacted Lee County, meaning there are more people who are unexpectedly in need.
“It’s even more challenging to raise funds because so many who would otherwise give are now struggling themselves. An event like this is even more important, ” he said.
Community Cooperative provides over 26,000 meals each month through its programs Community Cafes, Meals on Wheels and school programs. In addition it distributes more than 1.4 million pounds of groceries through its Mobile Food Pantries and serves 9,000 individuals and families with homeless and comprehensive case management services.
For more information, call 239-334-2261 or visit fpcfortmyers.org.
First Presbyterian Church is at 2438 Second St., Fort Myers.
ABOVE: The Rev. Roger Peterson, First Presbyterian Church minister of music, leads the annual Christmas Carol Sing at a past event.
LEFT: First Presbyterian Church Pastor the Rev. Dr. Paul deJong and his daughter Sarah deJong.
SANIBEL & CAPTIVA ISLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Chief Executive Officer James Evans, third from left, with Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce Board Members Mark Blust and Ron Clayton, Chair Calli Johnson, President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai and Board Member JR Ramirez.
SCCF supports SanCapStrong campaign
The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce reported that the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation purchased five of its SanCapStrong performance shirts at the philanthropic rate of $1,000 each, for a $5,000 contribution. The design features the Sanibel Lighthouse, which was wounded in Hurricane Ian but still stands. The limitededition shirts are priced at $50 for long-sleeved and $30 for short-sleeved. All profits will support the recovery efforts of island businesses and organizations. The shirts will go on sale to the public through the chamber's e-commerce site launching later this month.
Lynyrd Skynyrd to headline benefit concert
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame group Lynyrd Skynyrd will headline the “Boots on the Sand: Hurricane Ian Benefit Concert” on Dec. 1 at 6:30 p.m. at the Hertz Arena, at 11000 Everblades Parkway, Estero.
It will also feature performances by Ira Dean, Gavin DeGraw, Brian Kelley, Tracy Lawrence, Ted Nugent, RaeLynn and John Rich. Naples resident comedian Jim Breuer will host the evening.
“YouknowweareaFloridabandand true Floridians, we have grown up with hurricanes being a part of our lives. Hurricane Ian did major damage and people lost loved ones and everything they had. The folks in Lee and Collier county, took the direct impact of the storm, guitarist Rickey Medlocke and our tour manager, both live in Fort Myers, ” Johnny Van Zant, of Lynyrd Skynyrd, said. “We couldn’t sit by and not try to help people in a time of need. Hopefully, we can raise a bunch of money for the victims of the storm, get some musician friends to come down and join us, and bring some smiles to the faces of those people that have lost so much. ”
Proceeds from the concert will be directed to disaster relief efforts through Volunteer Florida and Community Foundations of Southwest Florida.
“My better half, Jennifer Parisi, and her whole family are from Naples, so Floridaismysecondhome.Ithinkweall have seen the news footage of cars turnedupsidedown,butthisdoesn’tcapture the full picture down here. Spending a ton of time in Southwest Florida, I know that it is largely made up of blue collar, hardworking folks, ” Dean added. “I didn’t realize the devastation that Ian left in its path until I got down here to check on the house. I spent the week with Jennifer in Naples and saw people sleeping in their front yards, and witnessed people in tears that lost loved ones. ”
The event is produced by Live Nation and Dean, for Boots on the Sand.
For tickets or more information, visit Ticketmaster.com.com or https://hertz arena.com/.
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Gaillardia
PHOTO PROVIDED
Salt-tolerant gaillardia is blanket of sunshine
Gaillardia pulchella, gaillardia or blanket-flower is one of our fun Florida natives. It is a colorful flowering plant often found along dunes, coastal areas and roadsides. The plant thrives in full sun and open well-drained areas. It prefers sandy soil, is salt tolerant and is highly drought tolerant. Under natural conditions in South Florida, gaillardia is an annual with two germination cycles possible in one year. They usually begin germinating in February and then again in late summer, putting their peak flowering period from March into June. The plants may become more woody and sparse into the late summer, which a good trimming can address. If you can leave the spent flower heads on the ground you may be surprised by a second generation of plants. These are usually shorter lived plants and probably fewer flowers. You could also save the seeds from dry flower heads, store in a cool dry place and sow them in the spring for a new blanket of color.
The best part about the native is the showy blooms that remind you of a ray of sunshine. The petals of the flower even resemble a ray with their fringed edges and bright sunny colors. They come in all colors from solid oranges, pinks and yellows to multi-colored orange-red or reddish-purple with yellow tips being the favorite. The individual flowers are only 1 inch to 3 inches wide on slender stems. Their growth pattern is spreading and they look best planted in wide swaths or patches, giving them a wildflower appearance.
Pollination of the gaillardia is accomplished by non-specialist insects, including bees and a soldier beetle. So be kind to your garden insect buddies. They do a lot of the hard work needed to keep these flowers, and others like them, blooming.
In The Garden is a joint effort by all at the local garden center, at 3889 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel. For more information, contact 239-3955859 or visit www.facebook.com/rswalshinthegarden.
FEMA extends deadline to apply for disaster assistance
At the request of the state of Florida, Hurricane Ian survivors who suffered damage to their property have additional time to apply for federal disaster assistance.
FEMA has extended the application deadline to Jan. 12 for survivors in Brevard, Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Hillsborough, Lake, Lee, Manatee, Monroe, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns and Volusia counties.
There are Disaster Recovery Centers operating throughout the impacted areas. To find a center close to you, go online to DRC Locator or floridadisaster.org, or text DRC along with your zip code to 43362.
It is not necessary to visit a center to apply. Survivors can go online to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call 800-621-3362. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Help is available in most lan-
guages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. To view an accessible video about how to apply, visit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI. If you have insurance, you are encouraged to file a claim for damage to your home, personal property and vehicles before you apply for FEMA assistance. FEMA cannot duplicate other sources of assistance you may have received.
County launches improved hurricane debris website
Lee County has launched a new Hurricane Ian Debris website to better provide information to residents with features such as a one-stop location with tips, data, timelines, photos, videos and other important information about debris collection efforts.
At www.leegov.com/debris, residents can learn how types of debris are classified and how they should be separated at the curb. Residents can track Lee County’s progress in collecting debris from unincorporated areas and see how they can haul their own debris to one of four sites, if they choose to.
The site explains the process for getting debris collected from private or gated communities or from commercial property. Learn how the county’s partners are assisting with waterway and marine cleanup.
Site visitors can also connect with the Together, Lee Can campaign to
share inspiring stories and photos about how residents and businesses owners have worked together and joined with the Lee County Commission in the effort to rebuild and restore the community. For Hurricane Ian response updates and information, visit www.leegov.com/storm or follow “Lee County Government” on Facebook or at www.facebook.com /leecountyflbocc.
Mitigation experts offering storm rebuilding advice
As Floridians rebuild, survivors of Hurricane Ian can get free advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms.
FEMA mitigation specialists will be at several locations to answer questions and offer free home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. It will be information geared for do-it-yourself work and general contractors.
Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of a disaster. The FEMA specialists will be available at the following locations: ∫ Home Depot, at 11941 Bonita Beach Road SE, Bonita Springs 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday
∫ Home Depot, at 4040 Park Blvd, Pinellas Park 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday The FEMA Mitigation line is available to survivors who are interested in talking with a mitigation specialist about rebuilding stronger. Call 833-336-2487 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. FYZICAL collecting toys for Boys & Girls Clubs
Several FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers in Southwest Florida, including four locations in Lee County, are collecting toys to help brighten the holidays for local children and teens.
Now through Dec. 6, donations of new, unwrapped toys and gift cards can be dropped off at select clinics in Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties. The items will be brought to FYZICAL East Fort Myers for its grand opening celebration on Dec. 6 and provided to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County is requesting ageappropriate toys like learning tools, stuffed animals, sporting goods, board games, electronics, dolls and action figures, as well as gift cards for retail stores and online marketplaces. Donations can be dropped off at the following Lee locations: ∫ Bonita Springs: 25241
Elementary Way ∫ East Fort Myers: 10676
Colonial Blvd. ∫ West Fort Myers: 15620
McGregor Blvd., Suite 115 ∫ North Fort Myers: 16251 N. Cleveland Ave., Suite 3
By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI
Delicate cheese ravioli tossed with spicy vodka sauce is a dish served in many trattoria in Rome. Here is my version of this classical dish for you to enjoy. Serves eight. (Chef tip: Do not overfill your ravioli or they will open up while cooking.)
Dough: 2 cups 00 or all-purpose flour 1/4 cup dry white wine 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon sea salt
Filling: 2 pounds well drained whole milk ricotta cheese 1 tablespoon fresh Italian parsley, chopped 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
Sauce: 1 cup sofritto (finely chopped celery, carrots and onions) 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1/8 teaspoon Tabasco sauce 2 cups ripe tomatoes, seeded and chopped 2 cups tomato sauce 1 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup vodka 2 cups heavy whipping cream 1 teaspoon fresh basil, finely chopped
In a two-quart pot, blanch tomatoes in boiling water for a few minutes. Drain then peel. Discard the seed, chop and set aside.
In a four-quart non-reactive saucepan, saute sofritto: onion, celery, carrots and garlic in olive oil, cook until onion is soft and transparent, about five minutes.
Add prepared tomatoes, tomato sauce and red pepper flakes. Cook at medium heat for 20 minutes, or until reduced. Add heavy cream, vodka, basil and tabasco. Reduce for 10 more minutes. Taste for seasoning with salt and pepper, and reserve.
To make dough, place flour and salt on a wooden board and form into a mound. Make a deep well in the center and break eggs into it. Add wine. Use a fork to break up eggs and mix contents of the well. Slowly add flour, beginning at top of the well so the walls collapse and blend into the mixture. When flour is almost totally absorbed, begin kneading, pressing with palms of your hands. Knead dough for about 20 minutes, until it is smooth and elastic. (If dough is dry, add a few drops of water. If sticky, add a sprinkle of flour.)
Gather dough into ball, place in large bowl, and cover with plastic wrap. Let rest for 30 minutes. (To test for doneness, punch dough with index finger. If it springs back, it is done.)
To make filling, mix in a large bowl ricotta, Parmesan, parsley, eggs and garlic. Add salt and pepper and set aside.
Break dough into lemon-size pieces and roll each piece into a long, thin sheet. Place one teaspoon of filling every couple of inches on half of the sheet. Fold the other half of the sheet on top and seal the edges, removing all extra air. Use a ravioli form or a cutter to cut into individual 2-by-2-inch squares. Spread ravioli on parchment paper that has been lightly sprinkled with flour. Do not allow ravioli to touch. Bring a six-quart pot of water to boil. Add salt and ravioli and boil for four to five minutes. Drain ravioli with Chinese spider and place on a serving platter.
Top with vodka sauce and sprinkle with cheese. Serve immediately.
Chef Loretta Paganini
Lee County Parks & Recreation is offering seasonal events throughout December.
The schedule of events will include: ∫ Dec. 3: Community Yard Sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Veterans Park, at 55 Homestead Road South, Lehigh Acres
Clean out closets, garages and homes to turn trash into another’s treasure. Take advantage of the crowds that a community yard sale can generate or, if you do not have anything to sell, just stop by and shop. Pre-registration is required as spaces are limited. The price is $5 per space with a maximum of three spaces per person. Bring your own tables and chairs. Pre-register at www.leeparks.org/register. For more information, contact the Veterans Park Recreation Center at 239-369-1521. ∫ Dec. 3: North Fort Myers Breakfast with Santa from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the North Fort Myers Recreation Center, at 2000 N. Recreation Park Way, North Fort Myers
Come have breakfast with the jolly ol’ man himself. Enjoy making a holiday craft, playing reindeer games, writing a letter to Santa and taking a photo with him. Cost is $3 per plate. Pre-register at www.leeparks.org/register. For more information, contact the center at 239-533-7200. ∫ Dec. 9: Parents Night Out from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Olga Community Center, at 2325 S. Olga Drive, Fort Myers
The program is a chance for parents to get some Christmas errands finished. Participants will play indoor and outdoor games, make crafts, and enjoy pizza, popcorn and soda. Santa will ride in on a fire truck to welcome all participants at 6 p.m. Bring a camera and staff will take photos. Admission is $5 per child ages 6-11. Space is limited. Preregister at www.leeparks.org/register. For more information and to register, contact the center at 239-694-2291. ∫ Dec. 10: Winter Wonderland from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Veterans Park, at 55 Homestead Road South, Lehigh Acres
Come celebrate the season enjoying holiday crafts, letters to Santa, photo booths, reindeer games and a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus for photos. Each child will receive a gift. Hot chocolate, cookie treats and a tree lighting will end the celebration. Admission is $5 per child ages infant to 12. Pre-register at www.leeparks.org/register. For more information contact the Veterans Park Recreation Center at 239-369-1521. ∫ Dec. 17: Movie in the Park from 4 to 7 p.m. at Estero Park, at 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero
Watch a showing of the Christmas classic, “Dr. Suess’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas. ” Bring blankets, chairs and snacks to enjoy while watching the family favorite film. Attendees will be able to take photos with Santa during the event. The film will begin at 5:45 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, contact the Estero Recreation Center at 239-533-1470.
Island Worship
∫ Bat Yam Temple of the Islands 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel (Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ), https://www.batyam.org/, https://www.facebook.com/batyamsanibel/
Rabbi Stephen Fuchs and Cantor Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer
Sabbath service on Friday at 7 p.m. at the Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties, at 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, and via Zoom. For Zoom links, email batyamsanibel@gmail.com. ∫ Captiva Chapel by the Sea 11580 Chapin Lane, Captiva, 239-472-1646, https://www.captivachapel.com/, www.facebook.com/Captiva-Chapel-By-The-Sea
Rev. Larry Marshall
Sunday service available online; in-person services have been postponed until further notice. Services from the past season have been videotaped and posted on the chapel's website and Facebook page. ∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida www.chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida.org
Lecture and discussion on Thursday at 11 a.m. via Zoom. Torah Talk on the third Thursday of each month at 11 a.m. via Zoom. Friday Shabbat service at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Len Minsky Current Events discussion on Saturday at 11 a.m. via Zoom. For Zoom links, email ChavuratShalom@gmail.com. ∫ Sanibel Christian Science Church 2950 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239-810-1077
Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services. ∫ Sanibel Community Church 1740 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-2684, https://sanibelchurch.com/, https://www.facebook.com/sanibelchurch/
Pastor Jeramie Rinne
Sunday service at 10 a.m. in the SCC Historic Chapel. Sunday service at 5 p.m. at the Fort Myers Community Church, at 8440 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. Services will be recorded and posted on the SCC's YouTube channel on Monday. ∫ Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-0497, https://www.sanibelucc.org/, https://www.facebook.com/sanibelucc/
Senior Minister Dr. Mark Boyea
Sunday service at 10 a.m. at The Refuge Church, at 1901 Brantley Road, Fort Myers. ∫ St. Isabel Catholic Church 3559 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, 239-472-2763, https://www.saintisabel.org/, https://www.facebook.com/stisabelcatholicchurch/
Father Ed Martin
Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services. ∫ St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-2173, https://www.saintmichaelssanibel.org/, https://www.facebook.com/saintmichaelssanibel/
Rev. William “Bill” Van Oss
Service with optional healing prayers on Wednesday at 9 a.m. at the Peace Lutheran Church, at 15840 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Sunday service at 11:30 a.m. at the same location, followed by a coffee hour in Fellowship Hall.
GULF COAST SYMPHONY
‘Deck The Halls’ set for Barbara B. Mann
The Gulf Coast Symphony, joined by the Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers, vocalist Mark Sanders, the Kellyn Celtic Arts Dance Academy and Santa, will present “Deck The Halls” on Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m. at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, at 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers. The festive sounds of the season will ring as the symphony presents favorite pops medleys,fromLeroyAnderson’s“SleighRide”andamedley from Christmas movie classics, to the Mannheim Steamroller's “Silent Night” and more. Tickets range from $39-85. For more information or tickets, visit https://gulfcoastsymphony.org/.
Storm Smart to host hurricane benefit
Storm Smart will host a celebration, benefit concert, first responder salute and farewell to hurricane season on Dec. 3 from 5 to 10 p.m. at the Caloosa Sound Amphitheater in Fort Myers.
It will feature the music of Kat Epple, Rosada Project, and Deb & The Dynamics. There will be a ceremonial burning of hurricane flags at 8 p.m. A cash bar will be available. No coolers are allowed.
The proceeds of the benefit will go to the Harry Chapin Food Bank, Lee County Homeless Coalition, WHALE Waves of Change and WOLF Humanitarian Relief Missions.
General admission tickets are $20 at the gate and $15 in advance by today, Nov. 30. There will be lawn seating and attendees are asked to bring their own blankets and chairs. Patron VIP tickets are $100 at the gate and $90 in advance by today, Nov. 30. First responders and rescue heroes will be admitted free, with 250 VIP tickets to be distributed to deserving individuals.
For more information or tickets, visit EndOfHurricaneSeason.com.
The Caloosa Sound Amphitheater is at 2101 Edwards Drive, Fort Myers.
Alliance to host annual holiday sale
The Alliance for the Arts will host its annual Arts and Ends HolidaySaleonDec.3from9a.m. to 1 p.m. outdoors at its ArtsPark and GreenMarket grounds, at 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.
Localartistswillsellhand-crafted items in a wide variety of mediumsandstyles.Featuredartistswill include Alicia Schmidt, Anne Schroeder, Cynthia Porter, Doug MacGregor, Ella Ellis, Eunique Santiago, Fort Myers Beach Art Association, Gay Cable, Gloria Steier, Jayne Baker, Jill Keenley, Joyce Dinkins, Julia Sher, Laurel Weng, Lehigh Acres Art League, Mathew Halstead, Pamela Signorelli, Pat Collins, Pat Hart, Rose Jung, Ruth Taylor, Stacey Sawyer, Victoria Hahn and Wendy Drummond.
Members will receive a 10 percent discount on every purchase.
For more information or to apply, visit https://www.artinlee.org/event/artsale/.
Edison, Ford estates to offer art classes for adults
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers offers opportunities throughout the year to learn painting techniques, create floral arrangements or other pieces of artwork taught by local artists.
Classes scheduled for the month of December include the following: ∫ Dec. 3: Silk Scarf Painting with Marie Dyer at 10 a.m.
Marie Dyer has been teaching at the estates for years. Participants will paint a scarf that can be worn or hung as a piece of artwork. Participants of all experience levels are welcome. Cost is $90 for members or $100 for non-members; all materials are included. ∫ Dec. 10: Acrylic Landscape Painting with Marie Dyer at 10 a.m.
Impressionistic local artist Marie Dyer will guide participants in a plein air acrylic landscape painting workshop. She will cover the fundamentals of composition and structure, color creating, mood and mixing paints and will assist in developing a pallet that speaks to each participant. The workshop is for artists of all skill levels. Cost is $90 for members or $100 for non-members; all materials are included. ∫ Dec. 11: Gouache Painting with Renee Lammers at 10 a.m.
In a small group setting, participants will explore the world of Gouache painting. Instructor Renee Lammers will explore mixing colors and Gouache painting tricks and will complete a demonstration painting before participants create their own painting with her assistance. No experience is needed. Cost is $70 for members or $85 for non-members; all supplies, including a Gouache set, palette and brushes, are included.
Seating is limited and registration is required.
For more information or to register, visit EdisonFord.org.
The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is at 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers.å
The Southwest Florida Symphony made temporary changes to its afterschool music education programs due to impacts to The Heights Center in Fort Myers following Hurricane Ian.
Rehearsals will be held at the symphony’s Bell Tower space in Fort Myers until further notice. Practices will have updated hours, including String Quartet from 4 to 5 p.m., MOSAIC from 5 to 6:20 p.m. and Youth Orchestra from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Additionally, the concert planned for Nov. 14 was rescheduled to Dec. 5 at 6:30 p.m. at Bell Tower, at 13499 S Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers. Space is limited; guests are encouraged to bring folding chairs.
To learn more about music education programs, call 239-482-7706, ext. 4006.
EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES
Megan Kissinger teaches painting techniques at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers.
Symphony’s after-school programs temporarily relocate
Symphony to perform ‘Snowbird Follies’
The Gulf Coast Symphony will present “Snowbird Follies: A Holiday Musical” on Dec. 3-18 at the Music & Arts Community Center, at 13411 Shire Lane, Fort Myers. Nomads from the North have been flocking to the Sunshine State for well over 100 years. Enjoy a whimsical musical yuletide celebration with a winking nod to Fort Myers' original snowbirds, Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. From “Boogie Woogie Santa Claus” to “White Christmas, ” the revue is a playful journey through decades of holiday favorites, sprinkled with local history. Conceived and created by writer and Director DJ Salisbury and Maestro Andrew Kurtz, with arrangements created by Julie Carver. Tickets range from $39-50. For more information or tickets, visit https://gulfcoastsymphony.org/.
GULF COAST SYMPHONY
Rotary Happenings …
Rotarians learn about current state of U.S. economy
Today's economy seems to be changing daily, and not always in the direction we would like. SanibelCaptiva Rotary Club member John Silvia launched a consulting firm following his retirement as managing director and chief economist for Wells Fargo, a position he held since 2002. He shared his thoughts on the health of the current economy. Silvia spoke about the economic growth in relation to other countries and the associated drivers that are impacting their direction, inflation, Federal Reserve actions and corporate earnings growth. He offered monthly updates available to island Rotarians.
Silvia recently joined the Rotary Club. Previously, he was named one of the top 10 forecasters for the last four years by Bloomberg News in 2009 and the No. 2 forecaster by USA Today for 2008.
Prior to Wachovia/Wells Fargo, Silvia worked on Capitol Hill as a senior economist for the U.S. Senate's Joint Economic Committee and chief economist of the Senate's Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee. He has also served on economic advisory committees to the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and Public Securities Association.
Silvia holds a Bachelor of Arts and Ph.D. in economics from Northeastern University and has a master's degree in economics from Brown University. His first book, “Dynamic Economic Decision Making, ” was published in 2011.
John Silvia
The Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club holds a meeting on Fridays at 8 a.m. at The Heights Foundation, at 15570 Hagie Drive, Fort Myers, and via Zoom; doors open at 7:30 a.m. For more information, visit sanibelrotary.org or www.facebook.com/sancaprotary.
Can we still find goodness and hope?
After surviving our recent catastrophic weather event called Hurricane Ian, is it even possible to think about having goodness and hope? When your home has been washed away by the eight-foot storm surge, when you suddenly have unexpected skylights where the roof has been blown off, or even with two layers of hurricane-proof sliders, the outside layer crashes into the inside and pebbles of glass are scattered everywhere, in spite of all these tragic events, is it possible to find even tiny instances of goodness and hope?
It may not be the first thought that comes to mind, but of course the answer is a resounding yes! The things of good might be tiny and we might need to keep our eyes open and our thought expanded to be aware of this goodness, but it’s definitely there. Once we get past the sorrow of things lost, oftentimes we realize that these things weren’t really needed after all. And this realization frequently becomes a blessing in disguise. Who needs all these things, all this stuff, anyway?
As I was on hands and knees, sifting though glass pebbles under the crushed mattress and overturned dressers on our sodden bedroom carpet (thank you for safety glass!), beach shells start popping up and I remembered the antique glass column that held my favorites ones that I had set on my dresser for protection before evacuating before the storm. Even though my mother’s glass vase didn’t survive, discovering the shells crushed under fallen dressers and
intwined in a drenched recently purchased bedspread was the highlight of my morning. Certainly there will be more shells on our beaches, but finding my only junonia a second time was definitely a thrill. With our condo uninhabitable and praying to know where home might be next, the angel message came from a friend of a friend, saying “I have a place for Mary L. Miller you to spend the next few Faces months. ” Oh my, to a prayer! This the answer is certainly on Faith a more obvious bit of goodness than found shells, but being willing to listen to hear the message was the crucial part of this good. God is always whispering to us, sometimes even screaming to us, but we need to do our part and listen for the goodness in his messages.
During this Thanksgiving season and in these challenging times, recognizing every little bit of good is a blessing for ourselves and for each of our neighbors too. Sometimes it’s a challenge to realize that good abounds! But it does, and if we’re watching, we’ll find it both in unexpected places and also right in front of us. As a favorite psalm reminds us:
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. ” (Psalms 23:6) Let’s be alert and acknowledge each tiny bit of goodness, and allow the hope for Sanibel’s “Build Back Stronger” future to abound.
Mary L. Miller is affiliated with the Sanibel Christian Science Church.
Gulfshore to host Holiday Taste of Opera
The Gulfshore Opera will present its 9th Annual Holiday Taste of Opera on Dec. 1 at 6 p.m. at The Club at the Strand, at 5840 Strand Blvd., Naples. Enjoy an evening of holiday classics and opera favorites, along with a dinner hosted by Becky Wilder. Tickets are $150. For tickets or more information, visit https://www.gulfshoreopera.org/.
Red Sox seeking singers for Spring Training national anthem
The Boston Red Sox are currently looking for new talent to fill approximately 18 spots to perform the national anthem for the upcoming 2023 Spring Training season at the JetBlue Park in Lee County.
Auditions will be held at the JetBlue Park on Dec. 7-8 from 4 to 6 p.m.
All ages are welcome to audition.
Reservations must be made in advance by contacting Liah Lasval at llasval@redsox.com or calling 239-226-4735 to reserve a time slot. Space is limited. Those unable to attend the dates may contact Lasval about submitting an audio recording.
The JetBlue Park is at 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers.
