Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

VOLUME 61, NUMBER 3

Sanibel library reopens to community post-storm

The Sanibel Public Library has reopened with limited serv ices following Hurricane Ian

Effective Dec 1, library patrons can browse the book shelves, check out materials and use the public computers that are available on weekdays from 10 a m to 3 p m The drive up book drop located in the parking garage on the west side of the library is also open for returns

In addition, the library is offering curbside assistance on weekdays from 11 a m to 1 p m f r o m n o w t h r o u g h December To use the service, place items on hold online or make requests by calling the l i b r a r y a t 2 3 9 4 7 2 2 4 8 3 Patrons will then be notified when their items are ready for pick up

“People have been miss ing essential library services during this post hurricane recovery time,” Executive D i r e c t o r M a r g a r e t Mohundro said “We appreciate everyone's patience as we work to ensure service while maintaining safety for users and for staff ”

Currently, there will be no overdue fines assessed for materials returned late W i t h s u p p o r t f r o m t h e S a n i b e l P u b l i c L i b r a r y Foundation, the library has launched a series of virtual author talks to include bestselling authors and thought leaders The next lecture will be held on Dec 10 at 2 p.m. and will feature New York Times bestselling author Fredrik Backman

He is the author of “A Man Called Ove,” “My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry,” “Britt Marie Was Here,” “Beartown,” “Us Against You” and “Anxious People,” as well as two novellas and one work of nonfiction Backman's books are published in more than 40 countries

A question and answer session with the author will follow To register for the author talk, visit https://libraryc org/san lib/22347

In addition, officials reported that the library will be expanding its materials budget, thanks to grants from the

Winners” by Fredrik Backman

“In the coming months, we will see a lot of new titles in print and digital formats,” staffer Duane Shaffer, head of the library's collection development, said “We are very grateful for that additional support from the library foundation ”

Medical clinic at Sanibel fire station offers guidance

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District recently shared some safety information and advice from the medical professionals who are volunteering their time at the free medical clinic in front of Station 171

Officials passed along the fol lowing from the physicians:

∫ If you get a cut and it is open, clean it immediately with isopropyl alcohol, iodine, sani tizer or whatever is available At t h e h o s p i t a l , s t a f f a r e s e e i n g Vibrio and Ecoli and there have been amputations as there is bacteria in the water If you do not have any of the above, come to the clinic for help

∫ Try to wear a m a s k w h e n i n d o o r s , p r e f e r ably one that is an N95 There can be m o l d , a s b e s t o s , spores and fiber glass that you are inhaling indoors

S t a y s a f e There is nothing worse than ending up in the hospital a n d n e e d i n g a n a m p u t a t i o n o r dying of sepsis ∫ Those who have not had a tetanus shot in over 10 years or do not know should get one “If you need anything medical, we are

here to help,” the physicians added.

The city of Sanibel previously reported that the trailer clinic was established in a p a r t n e r s h i p b e t w e e n t h e L e e C o u n t y Medical Society, Lee Emergency Medical Services and Broward County Medical Corp

S e r v i c e s o f f e r e d b y t h e v o l u n t e e r physicians include free flu shots, includ ing the vaccine for those 65 and over, tetanus shots, wound care, and assessment and treatment of respiratory issues, like cough, flu, pneumonia and bronchitis. The tetanus and flu shots are available on Thursday from 10 a m to 1 p m

Hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a m to 4 p m and some Sundays from 8 a m to 4 p m

Station 171 is at 2351 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel.

New school board members are sworn in

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

Three new Lee County School Board members and an incumbent were sworn in on Nov 22 before the regularly sched uled board meeting for the School District of Lee County

Those board members included Samuel Fisher, District 1; Armor Persons, District 5; Jada Langford Fleming, District 6; and incumbent Debbie Jordan, District 4

“Thank you, thank you, thank you Is everyone excited tonight,” Fisher said after being sworn in “Thank you all for coming out tonight ”

Sandy Andrews Fund and proceeds from the foundation's Lunch with the Author series.

Fredrik Backman

Debbie Jordan District 4 Samuel Fisher District 1

Jada LangfordFleming District 6 Armor Persons District 5

Sanibel crews extinguish fire at hurricane debris site

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The

On Dec 2 at about 6 a m , fire crews and the Sanibel Police Department were

called to the city's hurricane debris site, where a debris pile had caught on fire The city reported that the site was secure, and fire crews were working to extinguish the flames while police were providing traffic control

CITY OF SANIBEL

SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT

Sanibel Fire and Rescue District recently responded to a debris fire on Island Inn Road.

Fire

From page 2

At the time, the SPD advised the public to avoid the area if possible

The fire district reported that the incident involved a large debris pile on fire. Crews were able to contain the flames to the debris pile, with no threat posed to any nearby structures at the time

District officials advised that Island Inn Road would be closed and the public should expect traf fic delays in nearby areas Local residents were told to expect smokey conditions for an extend ed period

At about 9:30 a.m., the city and district gave the all clear on the fire

“ F i r e i s o u t , ” t h e d i s t r i c t shared via social media “Crews will remain on scene for mop up ”

In its all clear update sent out to the community via email, the city added that Sanibel fire Capt J o h n D i M a r i a e x p l a i n e d t h e debris fire had likely been smol d e r i n g f o r h o u r s b e f o r e t h e flames surfaced

In responding to the incident, the district received assistance from local mutual aid partners

SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT

DDWS goes to bat for refuge disaster relief

By 'DING' DARLING WILDLIFE SOCIETY FRIENDS OF THE REFUGE

Along with the direct impact of Hurricane Ian on the entirety of Sanibel and Captiva islands, the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge was not spared, suffering more than an estimated $26 million in dam ages Government facilities around the coun try are “self insured,” which means that when natural disasters such as this occur, Congress supports damages through disaster relief funding appropriations

The “Ding” team hopes that Congress will support its request for these damages The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society Friends of the Refuge has contacted and requested sup port from Sen Marco Rubio, Sen Rick Scott and Congressman Byron Donalds to provide at least $26 million for the refuge in the next disaster relief portion of the FY2023 appro

priations

REFUGE/DDWS

Congress

The refuge was established in 1945 to protect one of the country's largest undevel oped mangrove ecosystems It is a crown

jewel of the National Refuge System; it is also a jewel to its surrounding community and one of Florida’s most popular birding destinations, attracting nearly 1 million visi tors annually The refuge is an important eco logical and economic resource in Southwest Florida and is in dire need of support through these federal funds Look for future calls to action, should we feel it is necessary to have all our “Ding” Darling friends appeal to their elected officials Thank you for caring for “Ding” Darling!

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society Friends of the Refuge is the nonprofit that financially supports nature conservation, wildlife protection and education efforts for the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge in Southwest Florida For more infor mation, visit www dingdarlingsociety org

Partnerships bring sweet dreams for Southwest Florida children

Hurricane Ian damaged a lot in Southwest Florida, but it didn't touch our spirit of com munity

In the two months since the storm, we've experienced the best in humanity neighbors helping neighbors, strangers helping strangers, and busi nesses helping anyone who needs a lift

Longstanding partnerships prove invaluable during times of crisis, and the United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades has been tapping into its vast n e t w o r k d a i l y O n e r e c e n t e x a m p l e i n v o l v e d m u l t i p l e partners

Guest Commentary

The School District of Lee County has its pulse on fami lies across the community Teachers, guid ance counselors and social workers have been speaking directly with students and par ents, learning that many are displaced In fact, the number of students experiencing homelessness spiked from 1,400 before the storm to at least 3,600 after the hurricane

“It’s been an around the clock effort to try to engage with those families, get them the support they need and connect them to resources in the community so these students can be successful in school,” school district Coordinator of Social Work Services Paul Milford said

Although school resumed in mid October, social workers and counselors learned that many students have been sleeping on sofas or floors because their beds were flooded or damaged The school district reached out to

the United Way, which then reached out to Rooms To Go, a Florida based company with a history of generosity after natural disasters “Rooms To Go has worked w i t h U n i t e d W a y o f L e e , Hendry, and Glades in the past, so when they called for mattresses to help kids who were sleeping on the floor, we w e r e m o r e t h a n h a p p y t o assist,” Rooms To Go Senior Vice President Janis Altshuler said. “We are grateful for the great work United Way does, f o r i t s q u i c k r e s p o n s e a n d thoughtful process of acquisi tion and distribution We are glad to do our part to help the c o m m u n i t y r e c o v e r a n d rebuild ”

Rooms To Go committed to providing 1,000 mattresses

Then, the United Way began searching for a partner to provide bed frames In stepped Amazon, which offered a corresponding number of platform frames

Next, the United Way tapped into the Southwest Florida Emergency Relief Fund to provide blankets, sheets and pillowcases

Once those items were secured, school staff began sending messages to impacted families, inviting them to select an appoint ment time to pick up items The school dis trict offered space for a distribution event, and just days later, trucks and SUVs flowed through the line as appreciative parents picked up new beds for their children. At two distribution events before Thanksgiving, par

ents also were handed a basket full of food and snacks to make their holiday meal a suc cess.

One of those parents was Roni Price, of San Carlos Park During the hurricane, her ceiling caved in, flooding everything inside her home She is temporarily living else where, but worried about furnishing her home once repairs are completed

“It’s like starting over with the things you would need to move into a new place beds, couches, mattresses, TVs, blankets,” Price said “I’m thankful that United Way is out here helping us out because we really do need it and it’s so much appreciated.”

We know the need is far greater than 1,000 mattresses Families need clothing, food, transportation, financial assistance and more, and the United Way will continue serv ing as a conduit to connect families with the resources they need

The United Way and School District of Lee County are planning an additional mat tress and supply distribution event on Dec 9 Parents in need of assistance are encouraged to speak with their child’s school counselor or social worker to register to attend.

Jeannine Joy is president and chief execu tive officer for the United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades Counties It is a volunteer driven organization dedicated to improving the qual ity of life for all people in the community through fundraising, fund distribution, com munity building, volunteer advancement, and information and referral For more informa tion, visit https://unitedwaylee org/ For more about the Southwest Florida Emergency Relief Fund, visit UnitedWayLee.org/hurricane ian relief fund

a phone number for verification purposes Letters considered

Letters to the Editor may be e mailed to Tiffany Repecki at trepec

newsroom at captivasanibel com; or mailed to 2340 Periwinkle Way,

bill or the next emergency supple mental disaster relief package that is brought before

Jeannine Joy

Naples spa owner accused of sex offenses found dead with gun

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

A Sanibel man facing sexual battery charges was found dead with a gunshot wound to his head

On Nov 28 at about 6:17 p m , the Collier County Sheriff's Office was dispatched to the area of 4898 Gail Blvd in Naples to conduct a welfare check on Eric Andrew Salata, 54. Salata was wearing an ankle monitor and no movement had been detected on it since about 10:18 a m , according to a report

Deputies contacted a woman, who advised that she found two notes left by Salata at his residence, along with his wedding ring and credit cards The company in charge of his ankle monitor reported that he parked his vehicle at home at about 10 a m and walked toward the Gail site at about 10:18 a m

According to the report, an area search revealed a boot sticking up out of a nearby wooded area. Deputies found Salata's body in a ditch with a gunshot to his head and a pis tol lying next to his leg

Detectives and CSI were notified and responded to the scene, assuming the investigation

Salata was facing two counts of sexual battery by person 18 years of age or older victim 18 years of age or older, according to records from the Collier County Clerk of the

County urges residents to use storm-season gasoline

Lee County reminded residents to use gasoline pur chased for hurricane readiness now that hurricane season has passed Gasoline naturally degrades and loses com bustibility over time, so it is not advised to store gasoline from year to year

Prior to Hurricane Ian, residents brought nearly 2,000 gallons of old gasoline to Lee County's household chem ical waste facility for safe, responsible disposal The county reported that using that gasoline now means it will not become part of the waste stream next hurricane sea son

Residents also are encouraged to bring leftover oil from holiday turkey frying to the Topaz Court Solid Waste Annex, at 6441 Topaz, Fort Myers The facility offers convenient drive through service and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a m to 5 p m and the first Saturday of each month from 8 a m to noon

DCF announces D-SNAP location, phone option

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

Secretary Shevaun Harris announced two opportunities for Lee County residents for the Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D SNAP)

Today, Dec 7, and Dec 11, there will be a phone D SNAP event On Dec 9 11, applicants unable to com plete their interview during the phone event will be able to complete their interview on site

D SNAP provides food assistance for individuals and families impacted by Hurricane Ian who are not receiving f o o d a s s i s t a n c e b e n e f i t s t h r o u g h t h e r e g u l a r

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

The DCF reopened pre registration for individuals who reside in Lee and did not previously pre register online or complete their phone interview before Oct 16 Individuals are encouraged to pre register online before coming on site or calling the D SNAP Call Center to complete their interview Pre registration will be avail able at www myflfamilies com/dsnap today, Dec 7, and Dec 9 11

∫ Phone interview

Pre register online: MyFLFamilies com/DSNAP

Call: 888 348 0408 or 855 278 7136

Today, Dec. 7, and Dec. 11 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

∫ On site location

Lee County Civic Center, at 11831 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers Dec 9 11 from 7 a m to 5 p m

∫ Current SNAP recipients are not eligible for D SNAP and should not attend the on site D SNAP loca tion

Circuit Court and Comptroller.

He was booked at the Collier County Jail on Nov 21 and later released on $100,000 bond

Salata had a felony arraignment set for Dec 19, according to court records

The Naples Police Department took Salata, of 1574 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel, into custody on Nov 21 at Pura Vida Medical Spa, at 350 5th Ave S , Suite 203, Naples which he owned and operated and charged Salata with two counts of sexual battery victim physically helpless male/female genital genital penetrate, according to a report He allegedly assaulted two women during their spa procedures

On Oct 24, a Naples detective responded to Project Help and met with a woman, 51, who stated that she was raped by Dr Eric Salata at the spa during an “ultherapy” cosmetic medial treatment on Oct 22

According to the report, when she arrived at the spa she took Alprazolam as prescribed and directed during her earli er consult with Salata In the procedure room, Salata was the only person present and he administered laughing gas He also offered her what he said was tequila for the pain, which she took

After the Alprazolam, gas and liquid, she said she was intoxicated and “blacked out ”

The woman reported that she woke to Salata performing oral sex on her She could not stop him and fell unconscious, according to the report She woke up again later and he was having sex with her

The woman told police that she was not dreaming and remembered everything that had happened when she was conscious She did not consent to Salata performing oral sex or having intercourse with her

On Nov 21, the detective responded to Project Help and met with a woman, 72, who stated that she was raped by Salata at the spa during a “cool sculpting” cosmetic medical treatment earlier in the day

According to the report, Salata offered her laughing gas for the pain and was “cranking” it up

The woman reported that he massaged her legs after the cool sculpting and, within seconds, Salata was lying on top of her, raping her She said she could not believe it because she is almost 73 The woman reported that she had a bruise on her lip where Salata kissed her and he also put her breast to his mouth

She said she was awake and alert the entire time and he was on top of her for 10 to 15 seconds

The woman told police she did not consent to Salata hav ing sexual intercourse with her

Both women participated in a Sexual Assault Nurse's Exam at Project Help and their clothing was collected for lab examination, according to the report One woman also pro vided a tissue for testing

Periwinkle Park provides post-stor m update

Periwinkle

shelter to electricians and debris removal crews General Manager David Muench can be found onsite daily mending broken waterlines, directing a multitude of service providers and comforting residents

∫ Applicants who were approved during the tele phone interview for D SNAP will receive their EBT card by mail and should not attend the on site D SNAP loca

Officials added that the park has been a part of the island for almost 60 years, thanks to the Muench family. Periwinkle Park is at 1119 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

tion

∫ Households that do not live or work in Lee will not be served at the on site D SNAP location

Eric Andrew Salata

PERIWINKLE PARK

General Manager David Muench at Periwinkle Park on Sanibel.

e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , D e c e m b e r

T h e C a p t i v a E r o s i o n P r e v e n t i o n D i s t r i c t r e p o r t o n N o v 3 0 t h a t t h e r e h a v e b e e n m u l t i p l e i n q u i r i e s r e g a r d i n g t h e r e c e n t a s s e s s m e n t l e t t e r s f o r t h e b e a c h r e n o u r i s h m e n t p r o j e c t a n d p r o p e r t y t a x b i l l s R e s i d e n t s m a y s t i l l s e

p a y m e n t s t o t h e C E P D a t t h e a d d r e s s t e d o n t h e l e t t e r P O B o x 3 6 5 , C a p t i v a , F L 3 3 9 2 4 A s p a y m e n t s a r e r e c e i v e d i n f u l l , a p r o c e s s i s s t a r t e d t o a m e n d t h e p r o p e r t y t a x b i l l f o r t h e a s s o c i a t e d p a r c e l w i t h t h e L e e C o u n t y a x C o l l e c t o r F o r t h o s e w h o v e n o t p a i d t h e i r t a x b i l l , t h e l i n e

i t e m f o r t h e p r o j e c t w i l l b e r e m o v e d F o r t h o s e w h o h a v e p a i d t h e C E P D a n d t h e c o u n t y t a x c o l l e c t o r , t h e y w i l l b e i s s u e d a r e f u n d f r o m t h e t a x c o l l e c t o r T h e o p t i o n t o p a y i n f u l l e n d s o n D e c 2 0 .

T h e C E P D a d d e d t h a t s i n c e t h e r e i s n o d i r e c t m a i l d e l i v e r y o n C a p t i v a , i t i s l e g a l l y o b l i g a t e d t o s e n d a n y m a i l e r s

r e g a r d i n g C a p t i v a p r o p e r t i e s t o t h e a d d r e s s o n f i l e w i t h t h e L e e C o u n t y P r o p e r t y A p p r a i s e r A c h a n g e o f a d d r e s s f o r m a i l e r s c a n n o t b e d o n e a t t h e C E P D o f f i c e ; a d d r e s s c h a n g e s m u s t b e f i l e d w i t h t h e p r o p e r t y a p p r a i s e r . T h e C E P D u t i l i z e d t h e m a i l i n g l i s t p r o v i d e d i n J u l y f o r t h e a s s e s s m e n t l e t t e r s

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

CCA

trepecki@breezenewspapers com

announces

o f f e r d r o p i n W i F i a c c e s s o n M o n d a y s , T u e s d a y s , T h u r s d a y s a n d F r i d a y s f r o m 1 1 a m t o 3 p m a t t h e C a p t i v a C i v i c C e n t e r f o r t h o s e w h o n e e d I n t e r n e t a c c e s s

T h e c e n t e r w i l l b e c l o s e d o n W e d n e s d a y a n d o v e r t h e w e e k e n d , u n l e s s o t h e r w i s e p o s t e d “ P l e a s e n o t e t h a t h o u r s w i l l b e a d j u s t e d a r o u n d t h e h o l i d a y s , ” o f f i c i a l s r e p o r t e d

R e g u l a r u p d a t e s a r e p o s t e d o n i t s F a c e b o o k p a g e a t h t t p s : / / w w w f a c e b o o k . c o m / C C A c a p t i v a .

County library system offering 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 vir tual programming:

Adult programs

∫ Today, Dec 7: Online English Cafe at 6 p m

The session will provide adult learners a n o p p o r t u n i t y t o p r a c t i c e s p e a k i n g English with native speakers Topics will i n c l u d e e v e r y d a y s i t u a t i o n s , c u r r e n t events and cultural areas Program pre sented in partnership with the School District of Lee County's Adult & Career Education Program

∫ Dec 13: Online Wellness Book Club at 12:30 p m

The Online Wellness Book Club will feature a variety of books on this month's topic, “Stress Management and Self Care ” There will be a brief guided medi tation, followed by a book discussion Participants are invited to share books that they have read related to the monthly t o p i c A d v a n c e r e g i s t r a t i o n r e q u i r e d before Dec 13 at 12:30 p m

For more information or to register, visit leelibrary librarymarket com

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

Download books, stream video and o t h e r o n l i n e c o n t e n t a t www leelibrary net

The Captiva Memorial Library is cur rently closed due to Hurricane Ian

L i g h t f a r e a n d b e v e r a g e s w i l l b e p r o v i d e d

H o w e v e r , t h o s e i n t e r e s t e d i n b r i n g i n g a n a p p e t i z e r o r t r e a t t o s h a r e c a n c o n t a c t t h e C C A

I n a d d i t i o n , t h e C C A c o n t i n u e s t o

T o c o n t a c t t h e C C A , c a l l 2 3 9 4 7 2 2 1 1 1 o r e m a i l i n f o @ c c a c a p t i v a o r g T h e C a p t i v a C i v i c C e n t e r i s a t 1 1 5 5 0 C h a p i n L a n e , C a p t i v a .

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a r y i s a t 1 1 5 6 0 Chapin Lane, Captiva

CCP provides more updates on recovery effort

but no firm date for restoration of services has been announced A phased restoration is expected Customers should keep checking their connection and reboot their system after electric power has been restored

∫ The Captiva Erosion Prevention District has estab lished a “Hurricane Ian Recovery” page on its website with information regarding sand cleanup, permitted activities and more Visit https://www mycepd com/hur ricane ian recovery for details

∫ Those who need help with debris cleanup can visit online at https://iandebriscleanup com/ to register with the state for assistance to remove debris from their pri vate residential or commercial property

Captiva Public Meetings

SanCapStrong shir ts available for sale

T h e S a n i b e l & C a p

d s Chamber of Commerce has launched its e commerce site with the SanCapStrong performance shirts The design on the limited edition shirt features the Sanibel Lighthouse, which was wounded in Hurricane Ian but still stands Profits will support the recovery efforts of island businesses and organizations The

shirts are available in small to XX large for the short sleeve for $30 and small to XXX large for the long sleeve for $50

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

SanCapStrong logo and the option to donate directly to the cause For more information, visit https://sanibel capti va.myshopify.com/.

snapper harvest

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will close recre ational lane snapper harvest in Florida Gulf of Mexico state waters starting on Dec 2 for the remainder of the year

Recreational harvest will reopen on Jan 1

The action is consistent with the clo sure of commercial and recreational har vest of lane snapper in federal waters of

Fisheries Service that was made effective on Nov 15 to prevent overfishing the stock.

For current recreational lane snapper regulations, visit MyFWC com/Marine and click on “Recreational Regulations” and “Snapper” under “Reef Fish ”

School district extends kindergarten pre-registration

The School District of Lee County reported that it has extended the online service for kindergarten pre registration until Jan 27 Parents no longer need to c o m e i n p e r s o n o r e m a i l S t u d e n t Enrollment, they simply need to use their FOCUS Parent Portal or create a parent portal if they are registering their first child

Instructions to pre register incoming kindergarten students are available on t h e d i s t r i c t ’ s w e b s i t e a t h t t p s : / / w w w l e e s c h o o l s n e t / o u r d i s trict/departments/academic services/stu dent enrollment/kindergarten pre reg istration The pre registration is for stu dents who will start kindergarten in August.

The documents required to pre regis ter include: ∫ Copy of parent photo ID ∫ Copy of birth certificate

∫ Physical health examination that has been dated within 12 months prior to registration

D H 6 8 0 F l o r i d a C e r t i f i c a t e o f Immunization, which can be obtained for free by taking immunization record to the Lee County Health Department, at 3920 Michigan Ave , Fort Myers, after making an appointment by calling 239 461 6100

Social Security Card (optional)

Custody documents (if applicable)

Proof of address

Once parents have all the necessary d o c u m e n t s t h e y c a n l o g i n t o t h e i r FOCUS Parent Portal or create one to register and enter the required informa tion for pre registration. After submittal a confirmation email will be provided to the parent with additional information

For questions, contact studentenroll ment@leeschools net

SANIBEL & CAPTIVA ISLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

San Cap Community Bank reopens main office on Sanibel

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank has reopened its main office at 2406 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

The bank had been offering its services in the office parking lot for the past several weeks due to hurricane damages The building experienced minor water damage and only required minimal water remediation Repairs are complete in the bank's boardroom, which will serve as a temporary branch while the remainder of the build ing continues to undergo renovations

Staff will be onsite Monday through Friday from 9 a m to 3 p m to provide residents and business owners who are existing customers with banking services. Safe deposit boxes formerly located in the main office have been safely and securely transported to the bank's Bridge Branch in Fort Myers and can be accessed during regular business hours

“We are delighted to be back in our main office on Sanibel,” Chief Executive Officer Craig Albert said

“Providing banking services out of our parking lot in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian was important so we could help our customers in their greatest time of need, but we are so pleased to get back in our building to establish some normalcy for our island customers ”

For more information or questions, call 239 472 6100

For operational updates and information, visit sancap bank com/hurricane ian recovery resources

CHR provides update on post-storm recovery

Community Housing and Resources offered an update on its recovery from the recent storm

On Nov 29, Executive Director Melissa Rice reported that CHR's 73 rental units were hit hard by Hurricane Ian's storm surge and winds Mitigation is almost complete, with restoration to begin soon

“The cost of reconstruction will be high, even with our insurance coverage,” she shared

An example of what CHR is facing is a deductible of close to $850,000, which will cut into its build back budget, along with the added expense of the uncovered replacement items needed before its resi dents can return home Rice reported that recovery donations will help CHR cover these costs and aid its displaced residents, who are struggling with losing personal belongings, housing and jobs

“As the island recovers, CHR's residents will be needed to fill the vital jobs that make Sanibel the com munity we all love,” she shared “Your donation today will make a big difference to CHR and assist our recovery ”

Chamber meeting covers Causeway reopening, 50 percent build-back

“So, the million dollar question is when are you going to open the causeway, when are you going to take down the gate, when are you going to take down the checkpoint? And I can honestly say to you now that I don’t know the date,” Sanibel City Manager Dana Souza said at the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce's meeting on Nov 30 a t t h e S a n i b e l H a r b o u r M a r r i o t t Resort

Souza was one of five panelists from the city and Lee County who addressed post hurricane issues at the first chamber business luncheon since Hurricane Ian hit on Sept 28 Other speakers included new Sanibel Director of Building/Chief Building Official Craig Mole', Lee County

“It’s not a willy nilly decision we’re going to make, we’re just not ready yet,” Souza continued, naming benchmarks that must be met before that can happen, including debris removal, completion of installing concrete electric poles, and making sure islanders and island property is safe

“We need to have a place for (vis itors) to go other than driving around and looking at rubble,” Mole' added “We need beach parks areas open, we need to have parking open for them ”

Building back and permitting was also a hot topic first broached by Mole'

“We are going to have real diffi culties meeting the 50 percent rule, and I’ll answer questions about that later,” he said. “But we also must depend on our Sanibel Plan when we rebuild ”

Caldwell also addressed build back, explaining how residents have been issued a tax rate appraisal letter at leepa org Panelists advised that those receiving tax rate appraisals lower than $400,000 may want to have a private appraisal to accommo date the 50 percent ceiling on build back improvements that will not require flood elevation compliance.

COMMUNITY

E c o n o m i c D e v e l o p m e n t O f f i c e

Director John Talmage, Sanibel City Councilmember Dr Scott Crater and Lee County Property Appraiser Matt Caldwell

SANIBEL & CAPTIVA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

A panel of five city and county officials shared facts, figures and hope with attendees at the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce's meeting on Nov. 30.

Chamber ribbon-cutting marks reopening of Sanibel Deli

A little over two months after Hurricane Ian decimat ed the Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory, along with most of the islands’ businesses and homes, owner Jeff Weigel and his team celebrated its reopening with a Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting on Nov 30

Despite the fact that the deli endured extensive dam age and lost about 80 percent of its equipment and all of its supplies, Weigel and his son, Noah, worked tirelessly nearly every day to rebuild

“Community support No waiting around No excuses Persistence and drive and planning,” he said of how he was able to open so quickly “We dictated the result The storm didn’t dictate our result ”

Known for its homemade soups, award winning pizza and popular Reuben sandwich, the Sanibel Deli has a strong following to encourage its recovery People stopped in to show their support and watch the progress, Weigel said

“Businesses reopening on the island is important to the community,” he said “It shows a commitment from business owners to the island It would be easy to pick up and just show up somewhere else, but opening up on the island shows a commitment to the island as well as your business We were fortunate to be able to have the oppor tunity to rebuild It proves it’s possible ”

“We stand behind Jeff and his strong commitment to seeing the island business climate edge toward normalcy, while maintaining a sense of community,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said “He sets a shining example ”

“The chamber, in promoting the businesses, will help revitalize traffic to the island,” Weigel said “The aware ness the chamber can create about the island and what’s here is going to help speed up recovery This has been a lot of work, and the emotional side has been hard. There are so many great people out there who have really risen to the challenge ”

Kiwanis holds meeting with speaker

Chamber meeting

“County tax appraisals are very taxpay er friendly and will not overshoot the mar ket,” he said “And it’s based on assess ments from Jan 1 A (higher) private appraisal will not affect your tax rate ”

Panelists and chamber representatives highlighted the positive developments as hurricane recovery moves forward.

Caldwell told attendees that the proper ty tax refund process for 2022 likely will be retroactive in 2023 for residential properties He urged residents to go the

From page 8

Ian webpage at leepa org to upload photos and describe home damage

Crater pointed to the tree lighting at the 'Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa as a sign of things getting back to normal Also, the Sanibel Recreation Center has reopened and 26 people recently attended a yoga class there.

Souza reported that Sanibel only rakes its beaches under catastrophic conditions, and will do so to remove hazards and hurricane debris from the sand to improve beach safe

ty for future users His announcement that the Sanibel Lighthouse is ready to be lit brought an enthusiastic round of applause He shared that the city will plan an event to celebrate the moment

“We’re going to be recreating our bar rier island sanctuary,” Souza said “That’s not going to change. The Sanibel Plan will not be in the back of our minds but in the front of our minds always ”

“That the islands are coming back to life has become more of a reality than it

has been for the last 60 days,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said “We’re going to celebrate the heck out every reopening It’s nothing short of a miracle that we have reopenings again, so we have to celebrate that ”

“The full room here today demon strates our chamber is more important than ever,” chamber Board Chair Calli Johnson said as she opened the meeting

Simple Social of Fort Myers sponsored the luncheon

The deli is serving a full menu daily, with plans to operate from 7 a m to 4 p m

The Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory is at 2330 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel

SANIBEL & CAPTIVA ISLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce representatives helped celebrate the reopening of the Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory with a ribbon cutting on Nov 30 on Sanibel

Sanibel Mayor Holly D Smith, left, was a guest speaker at the Sanibel Captiva Kiwanis Club's recent meeting.

SANIBEL CAPTIVA KIWANIS CLUB

Bank of the Islands, chamber hold ribbon-cutting for reopening

Bank of the Islands and the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce celebrated the return of full serv ices at the bank's Sanibel and Captiva offices with a rib bon cutting ceremony on Nov 30

“Bank of the Islands has been a rock for this commu nity since its opening more than two decades ago,” cham ber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said “Now, when the islands need them the most, it is gratify ing to feel their support and to celebrate their reopenings on both Sanibel and Captiva It marks a crucial milestone of SanCapStrong recovery ”

reopened after Hurricane Ian devastated the islands on Sept. 28. The Sanibel office is offering full banking serv ices on Monday through Friday from 9 a m to 4 p m out of its temporary operation at 1699 Periwinkle Way

Located next to the Captiva Post Office, the Captiva office is open on Monday through Friday from 9 a m to 3 p m at 14812 Captiva Drive

In addition, the Edison National Bank offices in Fort Myers welcome island customers

“This is indeed a milestone day for our bank and our island community, and we’re grateful our chamber col leagues are here to help us recognize how far we have

Executive Officer Geoff Roepstorff said. “The destruc tion caused by Ian is without precedent for Sanibel and Captiva We want every island business owner and resi dent to know we’re here to help in any way we can It’s our way of saying how grateful we are to be your island bank ”

As the oldest locally owned and managed community bank on Sanibel and Captiva, Bank of the Islands is cel ebrating its 25th anniversary and proud to be the winner of more than 50 “Best of the Islands” awards over two decades

FRLA selects Lai as regional director

The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association selected Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai to serve as regional director in Southwest Florida effective Jan 2

The Southwest Florida region of the FRLA encompasses Collier, Lee, and Charlotte coun ties

pdf

Lai currently serves on the Visit Florida executive board as second vice chair He also sits on the board of directors for Lee County Sports, serves as chair elect of the Florida Association of Chamber Professionals, and is past president of the Lee County Hotel Association and the Fort

Myers Conference and Convention Council.

Under Lai's supervision, Visit Florida named the chamber’s visitor center as one of 13 offi cial Florida Certified Tourism Information Centers He is also responsible for chartering the Southwest Florida Alliance of Chambers in 2018 in response to the water quality crisis Lai has been an active advocate for island economic health in Tallahassee and Washington, D.C.

Since the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, Lai has been instrumental in partnering with city, county and state factions to speed recovery He has become well known for his collaboration know how under current cir cumstances and where water quality is con cerned

BANK OF THE ISLANDS Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce representatives helped mark the reopening of the Bank of the Islands' Sanibel and Captiva offices with a ribbon-cutting on Nov. 30 on Sanibel.

John Lai

Chamber ribbon-cutting celebrates Keller Williams reopening

On Dec 1, the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce celebrated the post hurricane reopening of the Ashton Kirchner Group of Keller Williams Realty at the office’s original location on Sanibel, which first opened in 2020

Several inches of water had flooded the slightly raised office, but fortunately Chris Kirchner, real estate agent and co owner along with partner Sarah Ashton, was able to mit igate the damage days after Hurricane Ian hit on Sept 28 “As a result, we never had any mold, and we just have some rust spots on the floor from where the metal got wet,” Ashton said “Chris was also instrumental in working with our landlord to get an electrician out to the building to certi fy the safety of the wiring, so electric came back a week or so ago. We do not have air conditioning at this point as the compressor was flooded We are fortunate we are going into winter so having the doors open is sufficient to keep the office comfortable ”

School board

He went on to thank his friends and family for listening and supporting him during the campaign, as he could not do it without them Fisher said Nov 22 marked a new day for Lee County

“I am excited I am looking forward to working with the team to put students first, empower parents and support hard working teachers and staff,” he said “I want you to know that I will put in the hard work to make sure we are going to make this district even better Let’s get this going Thank you ”

Jordan followed and after being sworn in thanked her constituents for their confidence in re electing her for another four years

“I am humbled to continue to serve and do the work of the district As I embark on this journey, I look forward to moving this district forward with my colleagues and

Library

From page 1

The library’s eShelf and all online services continue to be available 24/7 Library cardholders can stream or down load eBooks, movies, music, newspapers, magazines and more For assistance with the services or a library card, contact

From page 1

“What a pleasure welcoming Sarah and Chris to the growing number of recovered, reopened businesses,” cham ber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said. “Our goal right now is to celebrate everything positive that points toward a return to normalcy ”

Since its pandemic time opening, the office has grown from two principals to include an administrative staffer and three additional agents Ashton said real estate services are in demand since the hurricane

“Property owners are looking for guidance as to what are the options for them going forward,” she said “We are get ting a number of clients asking about the benefit of remod eling their property and then selling or just selling now It is a very personal decision, and each situation is unique This is going to take a long time to sort out and to put the pieces back together again, and we want to be able to help ”

The office is open Monday through Friday from 10 a m to 2 p m

look forward to us working together and engaging in our strategic plan,” she said

J o r d a n t h a n k e d a l l o f t h o s e w h o knocked on doors with her, adding that together they will make the district great

P e r s o n s d a u g h t e r , J e n n a P e r s o n s Mulicka, swore him in, ending it with, “Congratulations daddy We are so proud of you ”

“I want to thank everyone There are a lot of pieces of the puzzle that has to come together To win the campaign the very important piece was my family They were all behind me The other piece of the puzzle was Gov. (Ron) DeSantis, his e n d o r s e m e n t w a s v e r y i m p o r t a n t , ” Persons said He said he also wants to make the peo ple who did not vote for him proud Langford Fleming was sworn in by her

notices@sanlib org

Also, if you have photographs taken dur ing Ian or of post storm damage or recovery in Southwest Florida, consider allowing the library to archive the images It is also look ing for photographs of the islands before the

“Folks can stop in for a water or some snacks, or to use the WiFi, or just to chat,” Ashton said “Sure, we can talk real estate too, but for right now we all need to know we are not alone in this journey, and if we can help in some way, all the better ”

“The chamber is critical right now,” she added “They have done an especially good job in trying to communicate resources and processes to help get our island businesses up and running The chamber is, as they always do under John Lai’s leadership, partnering with agencies and organizations to keep this situation at the front of folks’ minds so the help doesn’t stop Our business community is one of the reasons people love living here, and we need the businesses back so people will want to come back ”

The Ashton Kirchner Group of Keller Williams Realty is at 2440 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 5, Sanibel

f a t h e r , P a t L a n g f o r d , w h o s a i d , “Congratulations, I am proud of you I love you.”

She said if the audience looked to her left then they would see her reason for why she ran, her family

“Thank you so much for the communi ty that put the faith in me and elected me to this position This journey has been so tremendous and something I will never forget The number one reason I am run ning is for the students and I promise you I will not lose sight of that I could not have done this if it was not for my family, my wonderful husband. My children have sacrificed quite a bit,” Langford Fleming said, adding that her parents also men tored her “I am blessed to be here and I will fight for the children and fight to empower parents ”

During the meeting, the new chair and vice chair were elected by the board Persons was elected as chairman, while Fisher was elected as vice chair Board Member Melisa Giovannelli said she was excited for the new day and the new board She also expressed she is excited to work with the board to contin ue to do great things for the children in Lee County

B o a r d M e m b e r C h r i s P a t r i c c a expressed similar sentiments, sharing that it was wonderful to see the board mem bers with their families and children

“This is a full family commitment and it is going to be harder on your families than it is on you,” she said, adding that watching Persons daughter swear him in was a goose bump moment because it is all about family

causeway, during the land boom of the early 1920s, and of notable locals Images, videos and stories can be emailed to sanibelpubli clibrary@gmail com

T o b r o w s e t h e a r c h i v e s , v i s i t

sanlib org/archive Seed development for

the project is supported in part by the Roni Jo Freer Fund and library foundation

For more information, call 239 472 2483 or visit www sanlib org

The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

SANIBEL & CAPTIVA ISLANDS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce representatives were on hand to celebrate the Ashton Kirchner Group of Keller Williams Realty office reopening on Sanibel with a ribbon cutting and confetti cannon blast on Dec 1

PreserVInG ParadIse

Army Corps adjusts Lake Okeechobee releases to Caloosahatchee

y f r o m t h e W P F r a n k l i n L o c k a n d D a m ( S 7 9 ) a t a s e v e n d a y a v e r a g e p u l s e r e l e a s e o f 2 , 0 0 0 c u b i c f e e t p e r s e c o n d N o l a k e r e l e a s e s a r e p l a n n e d f o r t h e S t L u c i e E s t u a r y T h e C o r p s a d d e d t h a t a n t i c i p a t e s t h a t i t w i l l h a v e t o i n c r e a s e r e l e a s e s a g a i n a n d w i l l s p e n d t h i s w e e k l i s t e n i n g t o s t a k e h o l d e r s t h r o u g h o u t t h e s t a t e t o g e t t h e i r i n p u t a n d f e e d b a c k o n t h e b e s t w a y t o m a n a g e t h e n e e d s o f t h e e n t i r e s y s t e m , w h i l e a n t i c i p a t i n g p o t e n t i a l r i s k s t h a t m a y b e i n f r o n t o f i t L a s t w e e k ' s t a r g e t w a s s t i l l w i t h i n t h e R E s t o r a t i o n C O o r d i n a t i o n & V E R i f i c a t i o n ( R E C O V E R ) o p t i m a l f l o w e n v e l o p e f o r t h e C a l o o s a h a t c h e e W a t e r f r o m t h e l a k e w i l l o n l y b e r e l e a s e d i n a m o u n t s n e e d e d t o s u p p l e m e n t l o c a l b a s i n r u n o f f t o m e e t t h e t a r g e t o f 2 , 0 0 0 c f s , a n d t h e t a r g e t w a s c o n s i s t e n t w i t h t h e r e c o m m e n d a t i o n f r o m t h e S o u t h F l o r i d a W a t e r M a n a g e m e n t D i s t r i c t f o r t h e w e e k

“ L a k e O k e e c h o b e e c o n t i n u e s t o r i s e d u e t o H u r r i c a n e I a n a n d N i c o l e , ” J a c k s o n v i l l e D i s t r i c t C o m m a n d e r C o l J a m e s B o o t h s a i d “ B a s e d o n c o n d i t i o n s i n t h e l a k e , w e m u s t i n c r e a s e r e l e a s e s t o h e l p m a n a g e l a k e l e v e l s a n d p u t t h e l a k e i n t h e b e s t p o s s i b l e p o s i t i o n f o r t h e d r y s e a s o n a n d t h e n e x t w e t s e a s o n W e w i l l c o n t i n u e t o u t i l i z e o u r m a k e u p r e l e a s e t o o l w h i c h a l l o w s u s t o m a k e r e l e a s e s a t l o w e r l e v e l s a n d b a n k t h e v o l u m e n o t r e l e a s e d ” M a k e u p r e l e a s e s a r e a w a t e r m a n a g e m e n t t o o l w i t h i n t h e L a k e O k e e c h o b e e R e g u l a t i o n S c h e d u l e 2 0 0 8 ( L O R S 0 8 ) , w h i c h g i v e s w a t e r m a n a g e r s t h e f l e x i b i l i t y t o b a n k r e l e a s e s a l l o w e d u n d e r L O R S b u t n o t m a d e i n o r d e r t o r e l e a s e t h e m l a t e r w h e n t h e s c h e d u l e c a l l s f o r l o w e r r e l e a s e s L O R S 0 8 P a r t D g u i d a n c e c u r r e n t l y r e c o m m e n d s u p t o 4 , 0 0 0 c f s a t S 7 7 a n d u p t o 1 , 8 0 0 c f s a t S 8 0 T h e v o l u m e t r i c d i f f e r e n c e b e t w e e n t h e a c t u a l r e l e a s e s a n d t h e g u i d a n c e w i l l b e p u t i n t o a w a t e r b a n k A s c o n d i t i o n s i n t h e e s t u a r i e s r e c o v e r a n d t h e s c h e d u l e g o e s i n t o d r y s e a s o n m o d e , r e l e a s e s w i l l b e c o n t i n u e d u s i n g t h e a v a i l a b l e v o l u m e o f b a n k e d w a t e r . T h e i n t e n t i s t o r e l e a s e t h e v o l u m e a t b e n e f i c i a l l e v e l s d u r i n g t h e d r y s e a s o n T h e C o r p s i s c o m m i t t e d t o t r a n s p a r e n c y t h r o u g h o u t t h e i m p l e m e n t a t i o n o f m a k e u p r e l e a s e s

W i t h t h e l a k e o v e r 1 6 5 f e e t a s o f D e c 2 , t h e C o r p s h a s b e e n e x e c u t i n g i n s p e c t i o n s o f t h e s o u t h s i d e o f t h e l a k e f r o m M o o r e H a v e n t o B e l l e G l a d e w e e k l y a n d i n s p e c t i n g t h e r e m a i n d e r o f t h e d i k e e v e r y t w o w e e k s

T h e H H D w a s i n s p e c t e d t h o r o u g h l y b e f o r e a n d a f t e r I a n a n d N i c o l e , a n d n o p r o b l e m s w e r e i d e n t i f i e d .

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Shell museum receives accreditation, provides update

T h e B a i l e y M a t t h e w s N a t i o n a l S h e l l M u s e u m reported that it recently earned the honor and achieve ment of accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums

It earned the accreditation fol lowing a multi year application process The Sanibel museum is one of about 240 organizations accredited by the AZA and is one of about a dozen accredited both by the AZA and American Alliance of Museums, a distinction that the museum earned in 2010.

“Before we could announce this achievement, howev er, Hurricane Ian's flood waters destroyed our aquariums and the majority of the animals within them,” officials reported “This accomplishment is a testament to the vision and work of the museum staff, partners and volun teers, past and present ”

The AZA is an international non profit that upholds the highest standards for aquariums and zoos in opera tions, education, science and conservation

In addition, the museum shared that staff have worked for weeks to salvage as much of the aquarium equipment as possible for future use. Much was lost, including

DDWS helps to fund clean up at refuge

Working in part nership with the J N “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g N a t i o n a l W i l d l i f e Refuge, the “Ding” D a r l i n g W i l d l i f e S o c i e t y F r i e n d s o f the Refuge is helping to fund the work tak ing place by former fishing guide Ozzie Fisher and his team at FMT Hauling The DDWS reported that the team has been r e m o v i n g d e c k i n g material, boat docks, observation platform material and hurri cane debris, includ i n g m a t t r e s s e s a n d a l l o t h e r k i n d s o f trash, to clean up the e s t u a r y f o r t h e wildlife as part of the refuge's recovery

essential water quality testing and salt water making equipment, but some was saved and removed and is now being tested for functionality

“Fortunately, it appears the aquarium tanks them selves are intact,” officials reported

To support the museum's recovery efforts, visit https://donorbox.org/bmnsm greatest need.

BAILEY MATTHEWS NATIONAL SHELL MUSEUM

Full calendar planned for refuge’s WoW

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society Friends of the Refuge reported that following the Thanksgiving week end, the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife on Wheels was on the move again, parking at the Villas Elementary in Fort Myers from now through Dec 9

The team will then move on to James Stephens Elementary in the Tice community from Dec 12 21 They will help the school celebrate its Fall Fest on Dec 14, which is free and open to the public

Following winter break, the WoW will resume its school visits on Jan. 10 at the G. Weaver Hipps Elementary in Lehigh Acres, and has three other Title I schools scheduled leading up to spring break

While the refuge is closed to school groups due to hur ricane damage, the WoW is an important tool in the “Ding” repertoire for education and community outreach both crucial to the refuge mission

donate to support the upkeep and programming for

and lIVInG

SPD releases weekly blotter

As Sanibel continues to recover from Hurricane Ian, the Sanibel Police Department is committed to keeping the community safe and secure To support that effort, a weekly police blotter will be issued on Tuesday that will include real time information about law enforcement response to criminal activity

L a s t w e e k , t h e S P D p r o v i d e d t h e f o l l o w i n g updates:

Arrest repor ts

∫ Nov 23: A traffic stop resulted in the issuance of a Notice To Appear (NTA) for no driver's license, driver's license never issued and tag attached not assigned

∫ Nov. 25: Jorge Espana, 55, of 3700 Metro Parkway, Apt 1513, Fort Myers, was charged with probation violation

Other enforcement actions

∫ Additional residential and contractor hurricane passes were confiscated due to misuse.

∫ One misdemeanor summons request was in process

∫ One search warrant was in process

Enforcement operations statistics

Week to date for Nov. 22 28:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 14

∫ Non emergency calls: 10

∫ Traffic crashes: 1

∫ Traffic stops: 42

∫ Residential area checks: 722

∫ Business area checks: 329

∫ Total CAD calls entries: 1,462

Month to date:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 52

∫ Non emergency calls: 54

∫ Traffic crashes: 8

∫ Traffic stops: 165

∫ Residential area checks: 1,630

∫ Business area checks: 743

∫ Total CAD calls entries: 3,867

Reminders from the SPD

Food trucks are only allowed on island in associa tion with a special events permit However, existing island restaurants can apply for a temporary use per mit to work out of a temporary structure while their building is being repaired

Sanibel Residential Hurricane Passes are not trans ferrable In addition, Sanibel Commercial Reentry Passes are not transferrable; unauthorized use of pass es by individuals other than the contractor to whom a pass was issued will result in immediate revocation of the commercial entry pass Contractors from whom passes have been revoked will be ineligible to receive new passes

Multiple search warrants have been issued and executed as part of post hurricane investigations, resulting in the discovery of items that may be miss ing property Residents, property owners and business o w n e r s a r e e n c o u r a g e d t o r e v i e w p h o t o s a t http://www mysanibel us/police/property/ Residents who have reported missing jewelry are e n c o u r a g e d t o s u b m i t d e t a i l e d i n f o r m a t i o n a n d descriptions to Sanibel police investigators Solicitation is not allowed on Sanibel Please share a n y p h o t o s o f s o l i c i t a t i o n h a n g t a g s t o police@mysanibel com or use Tip411

City provides updates on storm recovery information, resources

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The city of Sanibel reported the following during its Facebook Live update on Nov 29:

∫ A town hall meeting with FEMA repre sentatives will be held on Dec 8 at 6 p m at BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel I will include presentations and a question and answer session, along with staffers available help with any issues

∫ The city has accepted an offer from Lee County to rake the beaches for hurricane debris

“We thought about it carefully because we don't rake our beach,” City Manager Dana Souza said, explaining that the city typically cleans the beach by hand when needed

“We'll likely go down 3 inches and see what kind of debris we pull up,” he said

Natural Resources Department staff and the Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation are supportive of the process, provided that the work ends by mid December when shorebird season is set to start

he city has also submitted a formal request to e state for assistance restoring the beaches and s waiting on a response. The city is seeking aid similar to what is being provided on Fort Myers Beach

∫ There is no date yet for reopening the Sanibel Causeway to the general public

∫ Missing a leg due to the hurricane, the ibel Lighthouse has since been stabilized

“We are getting ready, I'm told, to light the beacon,” Souza said, adding that the city will organize a commu nity event for that “It's a symbol of our recovery It's a symbol of our light to the future ”

∫ Construction on the East Periwinkle bridge is antic ipated to be finished by Dec. 17, then reopened to vehic ular traffic However, the pedestrian walkway will not be open as repairs still need to be made

∫ Natural Resources was able to recover all of the c i t y ' s w i l d l i f e c a m e r a s p o s t s t o r m D i r e c t o r H o l l y Milbrandt reported that they not only survived the hurri cane, they continued working afterward

IWA to resume billing for water service

T h e I s l a n d W a t e r A s s o c i a t i o n recently reported that it will resume water service billing the week of Dec 26, with members scheduled to receive their first water service bill in January

The IWA suspended water service bills for a 90 day grace period after Hurricane Ian in recognition of the damages and recovery efforts on Sanibel and Captiva Base charges, including the meter reading fee and demand charges, were also waived during the suspended billing period

The IWA reported that the bill will include base charges for the

billing month none for the 90 day grace period and charges for water consumed during the 90 day grace period, plus the current month All metered water consumption dur ing the 90 day suspension will be charged at IWA's lowest tier rate of $3 30 per 1,000 gallons The board of directors approved the temporary exception to IWA's increasing tiered rate structure to provide relief for accidental water usage due to storm damage Water service charges and billing will resume at normal tiered usage rates after the January billing For more information, call 239 4 7 2 1 5 0 2 o r v i s i t https://www islandwater com/

Tolls to resume on Sanibel Causeway at start of year

Lee County reported that it will resume normal toll operations on the third of its three toll bridges the Sanibel Causeway on Jan 1 at 6 a.m.

In November, the county restored tolls to the Cape Coral Bridge and Midpoint Bridge after the suspension of tolls on all three bridges shortly before Hurricane Ian’s landfall on Sept 28 The addition of the cause way will complete the restoration

The causeway, which received extensive damage during the storm, reopened on Oct 19 The city of Sanibel has a hurricane reentry pass p r o g r a m i n p l a c e ; v i s i t www MySanibel com to learn more about who is able to enter the islands of Sanibel and Captiva at this time

The county reported that its toll program called LeeWay will h o n o r i t s d i s c o u n t p r o g r a m s f o r island residents who had them prior to the storm through Jan 31 Island based LeeWay customers are asked to renew their programs for 2023 now Typically, the annual renewal

p r o c e s s t a k e s p l a c e i n O c t o b e r I s l a n d r e s i d e n t s w i t h p o w e r a n d Internet access can renew online at www leegov com/tolls A phone line for renewal is available at 239 533 9297 LeeWay will also email pro gram participants

Contractors doing work on the islands should visit the website to obtain a free LeeWay transponder and to deposit funds into an account to avoid paying the $3 administrative fee that is applied to those without

t r a n s p o n d e r s T r a n s p o n d e r s f r o m other entities, such as SunPass and E ZPass, also work For a complete list, visit www leegov com/tolls All three toll bridges are all electronic; no cash is accepted

F o r H u r r i c a n e I a n r e s p o n s e u p d a t e s a n d i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t w w w l e e g o v c o m / s t o r m o r f o l l o w “ L e e C

tyflbocc

Sanibel Public Meetings

2351 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel For more information or the agenda, visit www.sanibelfire.com.

FWC approves rule to modify shortfin mako bag limit

At its recent meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission approved a rule to set the Florida state waters recreational bag limit for Atlantic shortfin mako at zero

The rule will make Florida’s state regulations consis tent with federal regulations, address overfishing of shortfin mako and support coordinated U S and interna tional efforts to manage Atlantic shortfin mako

Commercial harvest of shortfin mako is already pro hibited in state and federal waters

Learn more about s hark regulations by vis iting MyFWC com/Marine and clicking on “Recreational Regulations” and “Sharks” under the “Regulations by Species General Species” tab or download the Fish R u l e s A p p a t I n s t a g r a m c o m / F i s h R u l e s A p p o r Facebook com/FishRulesApp

Refuge rangers earn archery certification

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society Friends of the Refuge reported that three J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge rangers recently attended the biennial U S Fish & Wildlife Service National Conservation T r a i n i n g C e n t e r ' s V i s i t o r S e r v i c e s a n d O u t r e a c h Workshop in West Virginia While there, rangers Jessica Barry, Katy Hosokawa and Tucker Phillips became certi fied as USA Archery Level I instructors through USA Archery, as part of overall education on engaging with the urban community

Prior to the half day long in person training, the team completed a four hour online course to familiarize them selves with archery equipment, safety procedures and the basic steps of setting up an archery range The in person training consisted of running drills as both “student” and “coach,” practice firing recurve and compound bows, and a how to for instructing a safe, basic level archery course for the public of all ages and abilities The team plans to take its skills into the community by eventually providing archery lessons for individuals and families

Starting on Nov 29, the Sanibel Recreation Center reopened to the community for free with lim ited amenities It is open Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a m to 5 p m and offers the following:

∫ Fitness Center with weights, cardio equipment and stretching area

∫ Restrooms and locker rooms with showers

∫ Community Room (Osprey Room) with com plimentary WiFi

∫ Free Yoga Class with Patricia Gennity on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9 a.m.

∫ Complimentary Youth Program on Dec 10 and 17 from 9 a m to 4 p m

C

m

The center will offer a free Saturday Fun Day program on Dec. 10 and 17 between the hours of 9 a m to 4 p m for children in grades K 8 Please make sure to send children with a bagged lunch, water and snack The program will include arts and crafts, games and more It is an opportunity for island youths to reconnect with friends, while par ents and guardians continue their personal recovery efforts

C o m m u n i t y H o l i d a y E v e n t

The center will host a Community Holiday Event on Dec 17 from 4 to 6 p m

In addition, the center will provide more infor mation on membership options for current members and potential members as it continues recovery and repair efforts to many amenities, such as the pools, tennis/pickleball courts and gymnasium

For questions, contact 239 472 0302 or 239 395 1860.

T h e S a n i b e l R e c r e a t i o n C e n t e r i s a t 3 8 8 0

Sanibel Captiva Road, Sanibel

REFUGE/DDWS

J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge Ranger Jessica Barry is ready to fire.

y CHUCK BALLARO

ews@breezenewspapers com

There will be a breakfast with Santa on Dec 18 Children 12 and under are $5 50 and adults are $8 95 Reservations are required and they are going fast. To reserve a spot, contact is 995 2141, ext 110

“Santa will be here on other dates, too So, check the website to see when he’ll be here,” General Manager Anne Sheridan said

In the Holiday House, there will be 20 percent off all collectibles throughout December

But the biggest event will be the Nature Park fundrais er at Scallywags Fun Park on Dec 17 from 11 a m to 3 p m Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under, and it includes a free carousel ride, free mini golf, free pass to the Nature Park when it reopens and the opportunity to see several of the animals up close, includ ing Hootie the Owl

ly makes this a bargain ”

All proceeds will go toward the rebuilding of the Nature Park, which was badly damaged during the storm and will take about $300,000 to repair Sheridan said they are looking for corporate sponsors, with three levels at which companies can participate

“A company may want to have their name on an enclosure, they can donate $5,000 or $3,000. We’ll take anything we need We hope to be open by Christmas,” she said

Tommy’s is open, the Southern Grill has reopened and The Players Circle Theater has shows on stage “The Lady with All the Answers,” a production about famed advice columnist Ann Landers, will run from now through Dec. 18.

him their gift ideas and take pictures with the jolly old elf

“We’re bringing the animals to the people The ani mals are fine, but their homes are messed up,” Sheridan said “With what you get for the price of admission real

For more information, visit www shellfactory com or call 995 2141

The Shell Factory & Nature Park is at 2787 N Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers

CFI recovery fund to match community donations

The Charitable Foundation of the Islands announced that its Sanibel Captiva Recov Fund created in the aftermath of Hurrican Ian to support island nonprofits and their employees will match up to $100,000 in donations from the community

A group of CFI donors will match every dollar raised by Dec 15 up to the $100,000

The CFI reported that it began leading biweekly Zoom meetings with the executiv directors of its nonprofit partners after Ian ma landfall In the meetings, it became aware critical need

“Many of our dedicated nonprofits' employees went

right to work to help their organizations respond to mmunity needs and put those needs ahead of heir own families,” Executive Director Dolly Farrell said. “This despite being displaced from their homes, losing their vehicles, pos sessions, clothing and furniture Our hope is that these funds help to put roofs over their heads and food on the table ”

The CFI reported that it is a reactivation of ts community emergency fund The fund was ated in the early 2000s after Hurricane ey when $85,000 was distributed within 48 hours The COVID 19 pandemic was the second time it was deployed In the wake of Ian, the CFI has activated the

fund again and renamed it the Sanibel Captiva

F I S H of Sanibel Captiva will distribute the assis tance to those who live or work on the islands.

“CFI is uniquely situated to provide structure and relief during the recovery efforts quickly, efficiently and with no administrative cost F I S H is the expert in overseeing this type of individual assistance program on our islands It’s an ideal alliance,” Board Chair Chip Roach said “The CFI Board of Directors voted unanimously to select F.I.S.H. to administer this program and distribute pay ments to those in need ”

To donate to the fund, visit https://givebutter com/SanCapRecovers

Recovery Fund

FILE PHOTO

Pam Cronin, owner of the Shell Factory & Nature Park, in the Holiday House.

Shell Point

to present Sandi Patty

The Shell Point Retirement Community will present world renowned vocalist Sandi Patty on Dec 8 at 7 p m at The Village Church, at 15100 Shell Point Blvd , Fort Myers As one of the most highly acclaimed performers with five Grammy awards, four Billboard Music Awards, three platinum records, five gold records and 11 million units sold, she is simply known as “The Voice ” Tickets are $47 For more information or tickets, visit https://www tribbyartscenter com/ or call 239 415 5667. SHELL POINT RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Lee County students to present ‘The Nutcracker ’

Its 20th year for the production, the North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts will per form “The Nutcracker” on Dec 7 at 7 p m at the Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, at 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers A spe cial production of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic, the two act ballet is a multi faceted arts educational experience for students of all ages and arts disciplines at the school and will feature over 200 students ages 6 14 on the stage. Tickets range from $15 35. The proceeds will support the arts education pro grams and special arts opportunities at the school For more information or tickets, visit w w w B B M a n n P A H c o m , c a l l 2 3 9 4 8 1 4849 or stop by the Mann Performing Arts Hall box office

Dress for Success kicks off online auction

Dress for Success SW Florida is hosting its “Season of Giving” online auction from now through Dec 10, featuring vacations, stay cations, designer accessories and tickets to concerts and sporting events

Some of the travel packages include:

∫ A Taste of New Orleans: Hotel accommodations, dinner and a cooking class

∫ E x p l o r e O l d S a v a n n a h : H o t e l a c c o m m o d a t i o n s , d i n n e r , walking tour and cemetery tour

∫ Monserrat Caribbean Villa: T h r e e b e d r o o m , t h r e e b a t h r o o m mountain and ocean view suite with private pool and terrace

∫ Nashville Fine Dining: Hotel accommodations, dinner and dis tillery tour

“The last few months have been c h a l l e n g i n g f o r e v e r y o n e i n Southwest Florida, which is why this holiday season is so impor tant,” Executive Director Nickole Hendra said “‘Season of Giving’ offers an opportunity to show our loved ones how we really feel by giving them a truly unique gift, w h i l e s i m u l t a n e o u s l y p r o v i d i n g resources to a nonprofit that serves so many women in our communi ty ”

T h e p r o c e e d s w i l l s u p p o r t Dress for Success' mission to pro mote the economic independence of disadvantaged women by pro viding professional attire, a net work of support and career devel opment tools to help them thrive in work and in life Programs help women find and maintain employ ment, as well as achieve health and wellness, as they address social and economic needs

For more information or to bid, v i s i t o n e b i d p a l n e t / s e a s o n o f g i v ing22

PHOTOS PROVIDED

The full auction lot catalog will be revealed Dec. 4, but several travel packages have already been unveiled, including:

TOP: A Taste of New Orleans: Hotel accom modations, dinner and a cooking class

ABOVE: Explore Old Savannah: Hotel accommodations, dinner, walking tour and cemetery tour

BELOW: Monserrat Caribbean Villa: 3BR, 3BA mountain and ocean view suite with private pool and terrace

BOTTOM: Nashville Fine Dining: Hotel accommodations, dinner and distillery tour

Refuge, DDWS present sponsor for tour ney

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society Friends of the Refuge announced that Bass Pro Shops is a premiere level sponsor for the 11th Annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament set for May 19, which will benefit the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge The opening for event registration has been postponed until further notice To become an event sponsor, contact April Boehnen at aprilb@dingdarlingsociety org

Isl and HOMe islander

FEMA reaches storm survivors

FEMA reported that it is reaching Hurricane Ian sur vivors where they are to help jumpstart their recovery, including on Sanibel. FEMA teams are going door to d o o r i n h a r d h i t c o m m u n i t i e s , o p e r a t i n g o n e s t o p Disaster Recovery Centers and supporting community outreach

As of Nov 29, FEMA had provided $771 million in grants to 538,028 applicants for the Individuals and H o u s e h o l d s P r o g r a m , t h e U S S m a l l B u s i n e s s Administration had provided $1 billion in disaster loans, the National Flood Insurance Program had paid $793 million in claims and FEMA had provided $358 million to Florida for emergency response Disaster Survivor Assistance teams had visited 261,000 homes and inter acted with 129,000 individuals, and over 1,800 house holds were sheltered in hotels at FEMA's expense

FEMA also reported that it has extended the applica tion 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

In addition, there are Disaster Recovery Centers oper ating throughout the impacted area To find a center, 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

Salt-tolerant Old Man Palm named so for bearded trunk

The Old Man Palm (Coccothrinax crinita) is native to Cuba and is well known for its unique trunk, with its thick covering of fibers that resembles an old man’s long beard We typically use it as an ornamental accent in our gardens, but it can also be grown in a container indoors

The palm tree is typi cally under 20 feet tall It is so slow that it would take approximately 10 years to grow 5 inches. But in the summer, a long stalk with yellow flowers can reach 5 feet above the fronds, followed by dark purple rounded fleshy fruit

It can tolerate partial shade to full sun, and cold temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit Along with a strong tolerance for drought and salt, the Old Man Palm is a perfect accent palm for the seashore areas of Sanibel and Captiva

So, if you are looking for that special accent piece or conversation starter in your landscape, we recom mend this palm as a key focal point

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

County announces closure of two debris drop-off sites

Lee County reported that the pub lic drop off sites for Hurricane Ian s t o r m d e b r i s a t t h e B r o o k s Community Park, at 50 South Road, F o r t M y e r s , a n d L e e C o u n t y Mosquito Control, at 1840 Gunnery Road, Lehigh Acres, will close on Dec 9 at 5:30 p m

The sites opened to allow free dis posal to those who chose to self haul storm debris

The county reported that more

than 4,600 people have visited the sites, but both are closing due to diminished use The Brooks Park site initially saw days with more than 100 visitors and then averaged 66 people per day. Recently, that aver age dropped to 38 The Mosquito Control site, which accepted only vegetative debris, saw an average of 28 people a day with a recent daily average of 12 The following county sites will

continue to operate through Dec 21: ∫ S a n C a r l o s U t i l i t y S i t e , a t 18078 Cypress Point Road, Fort Myers

∫ S h e l l F a c t o r y , a t 2 8 0 5 N Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers

F o r H u r r i c a n e I a n r e s p o n s e u p d a t e s a n d i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t w w w l e e g o

San

Hendry St , Fort Myers

Gateway Branch, at 11691 Gateway Blvd., Fort Myers The toys collected will be distrib uted at the 107th Annual Dr Piper Center Christmas Day Celebration on Christmas morning, when the center will open its doors to over 400 children from the Dunbar communi ty and all over Lee County to “shop” for gifts in its version of Santa’s Workshop

Sanibel Captiva

PHOTO PROVIDED Old Man Palm

FEMA/JOCELYN AUGUSTINO A FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team vis its a neighborhood on Sanibel impacted by Hurricane Ian, talking with resident about the FEMA assistance available

Recipe of the Week: Orange Crepes Suzette

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

Delicate and so delicious, I love to make crepes with my grandchildren They have become experts at flipping the crepes and catching them with cheering from the whole family Crepes can be made ahead and kept frozen for up to three months; alternate parchment paper in between the layers before freezing them Serves 10 (Chef tip: To clarify butter, place butter in a small pan and melt at low heat Gently poor liquid butter out of the pan into a liquid measuring cup, leaving the milk solid at the bottom of the pan behind )

For crepes:

1 cup milk

4 large eggs

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour, sifted

1 tablespoon sugar

3/4 teaspoon salt

Clarified butter, for pan

For crepes suzette:

2 large oranges (2/3 cup juice)

2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

1/4 cup sugar

3 tablespoon Grand Marnier or other orange liqueur

3 tablespoons powdered sugar

For flambéing:

1/3 cup orange liqueur

1/3 cup brandy

Candied orange peel, for garnish

Combine one cup of milk and eggs in blender Add flour, sugar and salt Blend on low speed until very smooth, stopping occasionally to scrape down sides of container Pour batter into a medium bowl Let stand at room temperature at least one hour and up to two hours, stirring occasionally.

Heat a 10 inch nonstick skillet over high heat Brush very lightly with butter Transfer three tablespoons of batter to small cup Working quickly, pour batter into cen ter of skillet; tilt and shake skillet to spread batter into seven inch round Reduce heat to medium high and cook crepe until bottom is speckled brown, about 45 seconds Loosen sides of crepe with spatula and turn out onto a paper towel, cooked side up Cover with paper towel Repeat with remaining batter, brushing pan occasionally with oil and layering crepes between paper towels

Zest the oranges and place in a bowl Juice the oranges and strain (you should have 2/3 cup) Add the lemon juice and set aside

Place the butter and 1/4 cup of sugar in bowl of mixer and beat until very soft Gradually add the zest, juice and three tablespoons of orange liqueur until well blend ed.

Place a crepe on work surface and spread a light coating of orange butter on crepe Fold crepe in half and spread top with butter; fold into triangles by folding again, spreading a little more butter on surface (use a total of one tablespoon of butter for each crepe) Repeat with remaining crepes

Place remaining orange butter in a large pan and heat until melted and bubbling

Place the crepes in the pan and heat for a few minutes, spooning the butter over the crepes Remove from heat and sprinkle with powdered sugar

Place the liqueur in a sauce pan with a long handle (you can also use a large ladle) Heat until very hot and starting to flame (you may need to tilt the pan slightly or use a long match to ignite the liqueur) Pour over the crepes and allow the flame to extin guish

Serve crepes garnished with candied orange peel.

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

LCDAS plans ‘Flip This Kennel — Christmas Edition’

Lee County Domestic Animal Services will hold its 2nd annual “Flip This Kennel Christmas Edition” competition on Dec 10 at 5600 Banner Drive in Fort Myers, when the outside of a dog kennel or cattery will be decorated in holiday themes to help bring attention to adoptable pets

The public can stop by to vote for their favorite kennel or cattery. All the pets in a decked out run will have adoption fees waived that day with an approved applica tion People also may vote on Animal Service’s Facebook page by liking the pic

ture of their favorite Winners will be announced on Dec 11

Valued at $600, the adoption package includes spay or neuter, microchip, up to date vaccinations, county license and a 10 day health guarantee

Volunteers and staff are ready to intro duce a new family member Visit the adoption center from Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers

To see pets available for adoption or for an application, visit www leelost pets com

b a c k p a c k s , h a t s a n d b i k e s I t e m s m u s t b e n e w a n d u n w r a p p e d

∫

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.saintis abel org/, https://www facebook com/stisabelcatholicchurch/

Father Ed Martin

Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services

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

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

Chef Loretta Paganini

MCG METROCREATIVECONNECTION COM

e

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA SYMPHONY

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

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

f

o r m s t h e “ 1 2 D a y s o f F L O R I D A C h r i s t m a s ”

∫ Dec 11 at 4 p m at the Gulf Theater, at 900 West Marion Ave , Punta Gorda

Symphony, ballet to per for m 'The Nutcracker'

∫

Dec 13 at 7 p m at the First Presbyterian Church, at 9751 Bonita Beach Road S.E., Bonita Springs

For more information or tickets, visit swflso org/tickets/

The Gulfshore Ballet and Gulf Coast Symphony will present “The Nutcracker” on Dec 8 at 3 and 8 p m at the Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, at 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers A Tchaikovsky holi day classic presented with new choreogra phy by Gulfshore Ballet Artistic Directors Iliana Lopez and Franklin Gamero, it will

feature Miami City Ballet Principal Dancers Katia Carranza and Luiz Silva The two act ballet is based on a story by E T A Hoffmann that centers on a family’s Christmas Eve celebration Tickets range from $24 85 For more information or tick ets, visit https://gulfcoastsymphony org/ GULF COAST SYMPHONY

United Way campaign to kick off annual campaign

United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades will host its annual campaign kick off on Dec 14 at the Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall at Florida SouthWestern State College in Fort Myers.

Networking and light breakfast items will be available at 8:30 a m The pro gram will start at 9 a m

i

a

with

kickoff event

“United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades is our United Way,” Jackson said “With one gift, you can help 90 agencies and over 260 programs that make a dif ference to people from early childhood

through senior life One person, one donor, one volunteer can make a differ ence in the lives of many of our friends and neighbors We want United Way to be your way to make a difference.”

“Being the chair of the United Way Campaign is an honor and a challenge,” Humphreys added “It is a huge responsi bility to raise nearly $11 2 million for our United Way, especially in the aftermath of a disaster, but I will pursue the goal with passion and enthusiasm When people ask me why I support our United Way, I answer that it is one of the most efficient, effective and compassionate ways to give back to the community I love It is the best way to connect people who need help with people who can help ”

A two year lease for a 2022 Acura

from Scanlon Auto Group will be given away to an annual contributor of $240 or more from the 2020 21 United Way Campaign Five donors to the campaign will be drawn at random, and one will dis cover the keys in a gift box at the event

All money raised for the United Way campaign stays in the local community to help support the local human service net work Partner agencies and initiatives include The Alvin A Dubin Alzheimer’s R e s o u r c e C e n t e r , P a r t n e r s f o r B r e a s t Cancer Care, Harry Chapin Food Bank, Boys and Girls Clubs and United Way 211, to mention a few

Tickets are $15 and are available at https://bit.ly/UWKickoff22 23.

For more information, call 239 433 2000 or visit www UnitedWayLee org

Edison, Ford estates to host wine and dessert pairing

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates is partnering with The Wine Room and Banyan Café to offer an opportunity to sam ple dessert and sparkling wine on Dec 16 from 6 7:30 p m in the river pavilion, along the Caloosahatchee River, in Fort Myers

Each attendee will receive four, two ounce sparkling wine tastings Prosecco, Red Lambrusco, Grapefruit Spritzer and Rosé Prosecco and four dessert samples An instructor from The Wine Room will dis cuss the wines, and the owner of the Banyan Café will provide an overview of the

EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES

desserts

Attendees will also get to listen to holi day music and can stroll the decorated grounds after the event

Tickets are $100 for non members and $90 for members and include Holiday Nights admission

Registration is required by Dec 12; space is limited

For more information or to register, visit EdisonFord org

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

The concerts will be held on:

Symphony to perform Holiday Pops concerts

hundreds of United Way supporters U n i t e d W a y C a m p a i g n C o C h a i r s Sally

will lead the

to the goal of $11,186,558 The theme of this year’s campaign has shifted to “United More Than Ever ”

Attendees enjoy beverages and a sunset along the Caloosahatchee River at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers

‘The Parking Lot’ to open at Alliance theater

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Free autism screening for young children

In partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities of S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a , t h e Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida offers a free monthly autism spectrum disorder screening for toddlers 18 months to 5 years of age

The next screening will be held on Dec 9 from 9 a m to 2 p m a t t h e P e d i a t r i c Specialist Office, at 15901 Bass Road, Suite 102, Fort Myers

The ASD screening is con ducted by the children’s hospi tal The screenings are admin i s t e r e d b y a n A d v a n c e d P r a c t i c e R e g i s t e r e d N u r s e , who has extensive training and e x p e r i e n c e i n t y p i c a l c h i l d development and developmen tal disorders

A physician referral is not required

To schedule a screening or f o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , c a l l 239 343 6838

Alzheimer's Association to hold virtual event

T h e A l z h e i m e r ' s A s s o c i a t i o n w i l l h o s t a v i r t u a l B r a i n B u s e v e n t , c a l l e d “ U n d e r s t a n d i n g A l z h e i m e r ' s a n d D e m e n t i a , ” o n D e c 1 3 f r o m 1 1 a m t o n o o n v i a Z o o m

Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging L e a r n a b o u t t h e i m p a c t o f A l z h e i m e r ' s , d i f f e r e n c e between Alzheimer's and dementia, stages and risk fac tors, current research and treatments available for some symptoms, and Alzheimer's Association resources

T o r e g i s t e r , v i s i t h t t p s : / / a l z o r g z o o m u s / m e e t i n g / r e g i s t e r / t J I r c O 6 o r z I i G N T y E E 7 2 j J u c

j J O 8

‘The Passionate Evacuee to His Beneficiary: Return We Must to Sanibel’

Return we must to Sanibel And live again it's magic spell We’ll help our paradise isle revive When our insurance checks arrive

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

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

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

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

So come, once more we’ll ride And watch the pelicans dip and glide Along the causeway then we’ll begin With our high rise bridge back in

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

Poetic License

I t w a s a v e r y q u i e t T h a n k s g i v i n g f o r V i c k i e and me In contrast to the boisterous full family gath e r i n g s a n d t h o s e w i t h friends in other years, it w a s j u s t t h e t w o o f u s together But that was per fect for this year

B e c a u s e h e r c a n c e r treatments compromise her immune system, it would b e u n w i s e f o r u s t o b e together with others at an i n d o o r g a t h e r i n g a t t h i s time

Gratitude

Still, it was a very spe cial time for the two of us because we have so much to be thankful for Vickie’s latest PET scan showed a full response to treatment We could not have hoped for a better response

Faces on Faith

There are still two more chemo infu sions and many tests ahead of us, so we do not consider the battle won and won’t for some time Nevertheless, we rejoice in the successful way she has battled her disease to this point. I am filled with admiration at her courage and determination

It was a joy for me to be her sous chef, peeling and washing and helping her pre pare a special Thanksgiving dinner for two As we enjoyed our meal together, we had ample opportunity to reflect on the many blessings in our lives Among them:

∫ Her wonderful progress on her jour ney back to full health

∫ Our three children, each of whom has taken time away from his/her busy life to spend important time helping us out here in Florida

∫ The love we share with our chil dren’s spouses and our nine grandchil dren

∫

The pulpit partnership I have shared with Cantor Murray Simon these past five years This past Yom Kippur with Murray and T o b y S i m o n o f f e r i n g u s their home as a Zoom wor s h i p s i t e w i t h S i m o n accompanying the cantor in h i s f i n a l s e r v i c e b e f o r e retirement was an inspir ingly beautiful way to bring their work for Bat Yam to its conclusion

∫ Our wonderful Bat Yam community that has been so caring and support ive of us during this diffi cult time

∫ The determination of Bat Yam to stay together despite the ravages of Hurricane Ian

∫ In the five plus years I have served as rabbi of Bat Yam, our community has endured two hurricanes, the pandemic, and the reality that these things have kept some of our members from returning to the island We are so grateful for our out standing lay leaders who have enabled us to navigate these challenges successfully

∫ The ruach (spiritual energy) and joy t h a t o u r n e w c a n t o r , R a b b i S u n n y Schnitzer, and his wife, Yaffah, bring to our community

∫ The fact that though it will take many months our Sanibel home is repairable and that we can look forward to returning to live on the island

Despite the challenges I mentioned above, we have persevered, we have endured, and with God’s help we will thrive now and for many years to come

Rabbi Stephen Lewis Fuchs is with the Bat Yam Temple of the Islands

Joe Pacheco

Rabbi Stephen Lewis Fuchs

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