Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

WEEk OF DECEMBER 20, 2023

VOLUME 62, NUMBER 5

Sanibel beach project begins

Fire board OKs new truck and fire station demo contract

The city reported last week that contractors were mobilizing equipment and preparing for the first truckloads of sand to begin arriving on Dec. 19 for the Sanibel Island Post Hurricane Ian Emergency Berm/Beach Recovery Project.

Starting Dec. 19, crews will place sand from the Donax Road Access Beach west to the Gulfside City Park (Reach 4) and from the Tradewinds Drive Access west to Bowman's Beach (Reach 1). The Gulfside City Park beach parking lot will be closed temporarily for about one week effective Dec. 18. The Donax Road Beach Access will also be closed until further notice.

The city reported that the hurricane's landfall flattened Sanibel's beach and dune areas. As the storm surge receded, significant erosion occurred resulting in the creation of channeled gullies along the

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

T

he Sanibel Fire and Rescue District's commission approved the purchase of a replacement brush truck and the demolition contract for the storm-damaged fire station on Sanibel-Captiva Road at its recent meeting, as well as held pinning ceremonies for three staffers.

On Dec. 13, the commissioners voted unanimously 3-0 on a resolution to buy the new truck from Warrior Manufacturing for a not-to-exceed amount of $195,807. As recommended by staff, $100,000 of the cost will be covered by impact fees, with the remaining $95,807 coming from the general fund.

Prior to the vote, Assistant Fire Chief Chris Jackson explained that the

See BEACH PROJECT, page 22

IslanderInsIde

See FIRE BOARD, page 21 From left, recent promotions for Sanibel Fire and Rescue District Assistant Chief Chris Jackson, Lt. Cliff Steele and Capt. Mike Martin were recognized during a pinning ceremony at the Dec. 13 meeting of the fire commission.

SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT

School board to vote on proximity plan for middle schools

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

The School District of Lee County’s plan to allow middle schoolers to attend campuses closer to home has been honed a bit to better accommodate students on Pine Island.

The middle school proximity plan was recently modified to have Pine Island Elementary School “feed” to its nearest middle school, Trafalgar Middle School in Cape Coral.

“During our previous adjustment to middle school zones in Cape Coral we unintentionally disconnected Pine Island Elementary from its nearest middle school, Trafalgar,” Planning, Growth & Capacity Director Dr. Adam Molloy said. “Recognizing this oversight, we have proposed a solution that Pine Island fifth-graders will now transition to Trafalgar Middle School, establishing a feeder pattern for the barrier

island.”

Transportation would be provided for the 60 current Pine Island students at Trafalgar and incoming sixth-graders.

“This adjustment not only restores the connection but helps ease transportation issues on the island. Families on Pine Island that prefer not to attend Trafalgar can submit a choice application,” he said.

Lee County School Board Chair Sam Fisher thanked district staff for the work they have done, especially for District 1, as there are many middle schools clusSee PROXIMITY PLAN, page 22

alsOInsIdetOday Guest Commentary........................4 Web Poll.........................................4 Captiva Current..........................6-7 Business......................................8 Preserving Paradise.....................16 Island Living................................18 Sports.........................................20 Classifieds 31

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Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 2 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

FDOT issues Growth brings money traffic advisory crunch for school district for causeway

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

nance expenditures by expanding rotation cycles and eliminating some planned enhancements, which increases the risk of The School District of Lee County may critical failures and possibly increases need to decrease the number of new operational costs. schools and student seats needed to meet ∫ Restructure, increase, debt to provide projected student enrollment over the next more funds.

10 years. ∫ Explore additional revenue streams.

That could mean larger schools, less “The capital plan as currently structured maintenance, finding new revenue streams does anticipate the expiration of the half and more debt. cent sales tax in 2028 and does not anticiWhat comes next will come down to pate any additional funding sources funding. beyond what we currently have,” “It is still not a great picture. We are defDesamours said. initely looking at some critical decisions Dr. Christopher Planning Growth & Capacity Director moving forward,” Superintendent Dr. Bernier Dr. Adam Molloy began the presentation Christopher Bernier said at the school by sharing the enrollment from 2003 to the board meeting on Dec. 5. “The sales tax, if not renewed, runs out in 2028. There will still be residual dollars projected enrollment of 2033 — 58,438 students to because it is a trailing fund. Some money takes us 114,563 students. The district’s current seat capacity is through 2029. With what we build in 2029, we are in 91,773 students.

If the projected 114,563 students in 2033 comes to pretty good shape by 2030. That is a pretty critical point where we still don’t know. Anything projected beyond fruition, then the district would face a 16,539-seat short2030 is an increase level of risk of what will transpire.” fall.

The district took a proactive approach with a 10-year Faced with a projected enrollment of more than 114,000 next year, staff is maximizing its time between now and plan, which was introduced to the board on Aug. 16 and included 17 new school district facilities to accommodate January on components of the district’s capital plan.

“It is a living document, but it shouldn’t be able to the growth with 28,380 student seats, which would posichange by either staff changing it alone, or an individual tion the seat excess of 5,642 in 2033. It had an estimatboard changing it alone. It has to be the seven individu- ed cost of $2,173,966,000.

With board direction, the district crunched more numals that occupy the seats,” Bernier said.

Chief Financial Officer Dr. Ami Desamours said the bers and decreased the new facilities to 12 with 17,780 district’s initial 10-year plan was out of balance by $1.9 new student seats, decreasing the estimated cost to billion. Staff reduced the working forecast by $900 mil- $1,484,852,592.

“Today we are adjusting the capital 17,780 seats at a lion with new construction, facilities and expansions, falling from 17 to 12 with a reduction of almost $700 cost of $1.4 billion with 12 school district facilities. This modification reflects a reduction of over 10,000 student million.

In addition, the plan seats,” Molloy said.

The presentation also focused on the 2024 capital reduced planned property purchases by $10.4 million plan prototypes which would design larger middle and and proposed maintenance high schools to allow the district to resolve the capacity issues sooner. The proposed increase for middle schools by about $200 million.

“The capital plan in would go from 1,200 current capacity to 1,800 student front of you is also contem- seats. The high school would increase from 2,000 to plating taking on additional 2,800.

This provided some pause for board members with debt, or revenue in the form of debt of about a bil- some asking if they could have more K-8 school buildlion in a 10-year span,” ings.

Bernier said a K-8 school does not help as it does not Desamours said.

The presentation includ- grow enough of the middle school population in the areas it is needed the most. ed five recommendations: An elementary school has 1,000 seats, middle school ∫ Increase school size at the secondary level — 1,800 seats and a K-8 has 1,600 seats.

“It may be a great learning environment, but not necmiddle and high school. ∫ Reduce the number essarily the capacity for our students,” Molloy said.

Read the full article for free online by visiting of new buildings. ∫ Decrease mainte- www.captivasanibel.com. news@breezenewspapers.com

On Dec. 11, the Florida Department of Transportation reported that crews are working extended hours to substantially complete roadway work on the Sanibel Causeway before the end of the year.

For the remainder of December, motorists crossing the causeway should expect periodic lane closures and traffic shifts during the nighttime/overnight hours of 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. throughout the week. Flaggers will control traffic during the closures. Motorists should plan for traffic delays and allow additional travel time if crossing the causeway after 7 p.m.

Motorists should continue to expect a daily lane closure on weekdays from 6 a.m. to noon on eastbound McGregor Boulevard between the toll plaza and Port Comfort Road for material delivery. The closure is not anticipated to affect traffic and will be removed if causing delays.

Asphalt crews will pave the remaining portions of the rebuilt roadway as sections are ready, weather permitting. Once it is completed, crews will shift vehicles onto the permanent roadway. The contractor expects to open two westbound lanes through the toll plaza once this goal is achieved.

Bicyclists are encouraged to utilize another mode of transportation to travel the causeway and pedestrians are not permitted. Lanes are narrowed to 10-feet in some locations. Expect shoulder closures throughout the project. Motorists are reminded to obey the posted speed limit of 20 mph. Use caution and watch for workers and construction vehicles entering and leaving the roadway.

Collaboratory scholarship application now open Collaboratory’s scholarship application for the 2024-25 school year opened on Nov. 1.

Scholarships are available for students seeking or continuing education at vocational and technical colleges, community colleges, and state colleges and universities.

Applicants may apply for multiple scholarships and can upload a transcript, letter of recommendation and the Free

Application for Federal Student Aid Student Aid (FAFSA) Submission Summary, which is a summary of the data provided on the FAFSA form, at https://collaboratory.org/.

All scholarships require the FAFSA form at www.fafsa.gov, which opened in December.

The scholarship application process will close on Jan. 12 at 11:59 p.m.

Page 3 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

Report your news to CAPTivASAnibEl.COm

Worst fears confirmed for community

By PROTECT CAPTIVA COALITION On Dec. 14, South Seas announced that it is seeking to amend its current zoning to radically increase its allowable building heights and density. With its planned rezoning application now filed with the county, South Seas has confirmed the Captiva and Sanibel communities’ worst fears — fears that the Lee County Board of County Commissioners would never acknowledge.

Currently, South Seas is permitted three units per acre for a total of 247 units — consisting of a combination of hotel rooms and condominium units. Its rezoning application seeks 272 multi-bedroom condominiums and up to 435 hotel rooms. The application reflects an increase from 247 units to 707 units — a radical increase in density. ∫ The plans show new beachfront condos and a new hotel at the south end of the resort, as well as new bayfront condos and a new hotel at the north end of the resort. ∫ The plans also reflect a radical increase in intensity of use. The current 247 units consisted of 140 units of employee housing at the south end and 107 hotel rooms at the north end.

See WORST FEARS, page 5

captivasanibel.com

Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 4

OPINIONS

Guest Commentary

PROTECT CAPTIVA COALITION

Island Reporter

Six steps to avoiding holiday package theft

Web Poll Previous Web Poll Question Are you attending the “mini” luminary events this season? ∫ Yes, all of them, 80% ∫ Yes, some of them, 0% ∫ No, none of them, 20%

Current Web Poll Question Are you planning to make new Year's resolutions for 2024? ∫ Yes. ∫ Maybe/undecided. ∫ No. Share your opinion at captivasanibel.com

By BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU The rise of online marketplaces and expedited delivery services is convenient for many consumers nationwide, allowing shoppers to search for the perfect gift for friends and family. Unfortunately, purchasing and having the item delivered to the proper address does not guarantee you will receive it. According to a Security.org study, approximately 79% of consumers experienced package theft in 2022.

Package thieves, also known as “porch pirates,” often take advantage of an opportunity and may frequent a neighborhood or community multiple times before moving on to another. They will often target houses that provide a quick in-and-out route, especially if the porch or area where packages are delivered is within 25 feet of the street and is easily visible.

As a crime of opportunity, preventing or discouraging package theft can be accomplished in several ways, depending on the location of your residence, type and community. For instance, preventing package theft at an apartment complex in the middle of the city differs from a suburban residential community. However, consumers can use specific strategies to discourage the act no matter

Guest Commentary where they live.

The Better Business Bureau provides the following tips to prevent package thieves from affecting your plans: ∫ Check with neighbors.

Sometimes, your package may not be stolen simply at the wrong address. Before filing a report or contacting the sender, check with your neighbors and see if the delivery service may have dropped off your package at the wrong address. Many delivery companies will take pictures of your package in the designated location — be sure to check for the photo and verify it is at the right spot. ∫ Don’t leave unattended packages.

When possible, do not leave delivered packages unattended for long periods. If you are expecting a package, attempt to schedule its delivery when you know you will be home. Ask your neighbors if they mind holding on to packages delivered if you plan to be gone for an extended time. ∫ Ship to store.

If purchasing an item from a retailer with a physical location near your home, consider shipping it there instead. Retailers will

require proof of purchase or identification before releasing packages they have received, and this is a sure way to avoid porch pirates. ∫ Use a security camera.

Installing a home security system with cameras or a camera-enabled doorbell is a great way to deter package theft, especially when highly visible. Consider including a sign that specifically states that the residence is under surveillance. Even if a package is stolen from your porch, the video evidence will help law enforcement track down the thieves (but be wary of the risk of Internetconnected devices and research before you purchase). ∫ Require a signature.

Many delivery companies include the option to require a signature before leaving a package, letting you take physical possession of the item as soon as it is delivered. While this option works well for those often at home, especially for expensive items, it may create difficulties in receiving packages if your schedule and the delivery service differ.

See PACKAGE THEFT, page 15

We want your opinion The views expressed on the Opinions Pages are just that — opinions. These pages are intended to convey a range of viewpoints; opinions printed on these pages do not necessarily reflect the views of The island Reporter. Opposing views are welcome. All letters must be signed and must contain a phone number for verification purposes. letters considered for publication must relate to subjects of public interest. letters to the Editor may be e-mailed to Tiffany Repecki at trepecki@breezenewspapers.com; posted to the virtual newsroom at captivasanibel.com; or mailed to 2340 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, Fl 33957. letters are due no later than noon Thursday. The island Reporter reserves the right to edit or reject any submission.

Page 5 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Worst fears From page 4

The Protect Captiva Coalition was established by concerned citizens and organizations in opposition to increasing building height and density on Captiva. It includes over 13,000 residents, organizations and other individuals. For more information, visit https://protectcaptiva.org/.

captivasanibel.com

∫ The proposed development will replace the low-density employee housing and hotel rooms with 272 multi-bedroom condominiums — increasing the population of the island significantly. Then — there are the additional 435 hotel rooms of unknown size.

In order to increase the density to this extent, South Seas is proposing all of its buildings have three floors of guest rooms above lobbies and parking areas with building heights up to 64 feet in flood zone areas — significantly taller than any other buildings on South Seas or Captiva.

It is obvious that these plans were not developed overnight. However, they were not shared with the community before or during the public hearings on the county's Land Development Code and Comprehensive Plan amendments that opened the door to this increased development.

The board of county commissioners, county attorney’s office and anyone else who claimed that the Code and Plan changes were not about increasing density on South Seas was dead wrong. The warnings issued by the Protect Captiva Coalition were correct from day one.

The fight to protect Captiva is far from over and the coalition will do whatever is possible to prevent this over-development from taking place. Please watch for our continuing efforts — legal, legislative and political — in the coming weeks and months. The community’s continued participation and support will be needed.

PROTECT CAPTIVA COALITION

Island Reporter

WEEK OF DECEMBER 20, 2023

CEPD approves firm for bayside project, more

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

The Captiva Erosion Prevention District's commission picked an engineering firm for the Bayside Adaptation project at its recent meeting, as well as approved moving forward with the bid process for the post-hurri-

cane Beach Nourishment project.

On Dec. 11, the commissioners voted 4-1 to award the bayside project to APTIM. Chairman John Wade, Vice Chairman Rene Miville, Treasurer Dick Pyle and Commissioner Bob Walter voted to accept the results of an earlier ballot vote favoring the

firm, while Secretary Linda Laird dissented.

Minutes before during the ballot vote, Wade, Miville, Pyle and Walter selected APTIM as their top pick for the project.

Laird voted for Cummins Cederberg, the only other firm that was up for consideration.

Prior to passing out the ballots, staff reiterated that the commission had

reviewed and discussed the proposals from APTIM and Cummins Cederberg last month. However, some commissioners had additional questions or sought clarification and asked staff to obtain the information from the firms.

Executive Director Daniel Munt reported that consultant Paul Tritaik performed an analysis of the additional See CEPD, page 7

CCP updated on LDC and Plan changes, more

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

The Captiva Community Panel was updated on the county's Lee Plan and Land Development Code amendments during its recent meeting, plus approved a second term for a current panel member.

On Dec. 12, Vice President and Government Affairs Committee Chair David Mintz reported that the Lee County Commission voted 4-1 to approve the proposed changes to the Captiva chapter of the county's comprehensive plan at its Zoning and Comprehensive Plan Amendment Hearing on Dec. 6.

See CCP, page 7

Fire board OKs recovery funding and new policies

By TIFFANY REPECKI

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

Captiva library, county system offer programs Part of the Lee County Library System, the Captiva Memorial Library is offering the following free programming:

Children programs ∫ Today, Dec. 20, to Dec. 22: Snowman Clip Bookmark Craft (daily during operating hours) Create a cute snowman clip bookmark.

Adult programs ∫ Today, Dec. 20, to Dec. 22: 1920s Murder Mystery (daily during operating hours) You received a formal invitation to Z. Fitzgerald's soiree for eccentric minds. While mingling at the soiree, the lights suddenly go out and the only thing left where Z. Fitzgerald was standing is a set of footprints, a broken tea cup and suspicious red blotches. Solve the disappearance of Z. Fitzgerald and win a prize.

The library is open on Mondays through Fridays from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. It will be closed on Dec. 23 and 25 for the Christmas holiday.

For more information about a program or to register, call 239-533-4890.

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

The Captiva Memorial Library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva.

The Captiva Island Fire Control District's commission signed off on three resolutions at its recent meeting, as well as heard an update on the possible lift for the fire boat and about a state bill.

On Dec. 12, the commissioners voted unanimously 3-0 on a resolution to accept $350,000 in grant funds from the Florida Division of Emergency Management as part of the 2023-24 hurricane legislative appropriation program, which the district had applied for through the Hurricane Recovery Program.

Before the vote, Fire Chief Jeff Pawul explained that the funding will be used for operations.

Also during the meeting, the commission voted separately 3-0 on two resoluSee FIRE BOARD, page 7

Most Lee County administrative operations will be closed on Dec. 22 and 25 in observance of the Christmas holiday.

The county's holiday schedule adjustments are as follows: ∫ Domestic animal services The Lost & Found Pet Center and Pet Adoption Center, at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers, will be closed on Dec. 23. Normal hours will resume on Dec. 26. Should you be separated from your pet, check the lost pet pages on social media.

Call 239-533-7387 to complete a missing pet alert and keep an eye on www.leelostpets.com. ∫ LeeTran There will be no bus, trolley, Ultra on-demand or Passport services on Dec. 25. Normal service will resume on Dec. 26. Administrative offices at LeeTran’s

headquarters on Metro Parkway will be closed on Dec. 22. For specific route and schedule information, visit www.rideleetran.com. ∫ Parks & Recreation Beaches, boat ramps, parks and preserves will remain open from Dec. 22-25. Pools will be closed from Dec. 23-26; normal hours will resume on Dec. 27. The administration office will be closed on Dec. 22 and 25; normal hours will resume on Dec. 26. The recreation centers — North Fort Myers, Veterans and Estero — will be closed from Dec. 23 to Jan. 7 for scheduled annual maintenance; they will reopen on Jan. 8. For alternative parks sites, visit www.leeparks.org. ∫ Solid waste All garbage, recycling and yard waste collections in

unincorporated Lee County, the city of Bonita Springs and town of Fort Myers Beach will take place one day after the regularly scheduled collection day for the entire week beginning on Dec. 26. If the regular collection day is Monday, the collection truck will pick up that material on Tuesday.

Christmas trees that have had the stand and all lights and decorations removed, including tinsel, can be set out with regular yard waste and will be ground into mulch. All wrapping paper, except metallic, is recyclable — along with all the boxes. Plastic ribbons and bows are not recyclable.

Solid Waste offices and the Topaz Court Solid Waste Annex will be closed on Dec. 22 and 25. The Resource Recovery Facility in Buckingham will be closed on Dec. 25, but open on Dec. 22-23. The LeeHendry Landfill and the LaBelle Transfer Station will be open on Dec. 22 from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Dec. 23 from 7 a.m. to noon.

Page 7 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023

County reports on schedule for upcoming holiday

CEPD From page 6 During their discussion, a few commissioners pointed to the long-standing working relationship between the CEPD and APTIM. Laird shared there were issues when she worked closely with it on a vulnerability assessment and she is not confident in its ability to do a different area, the bayside.

Laird added that she thinks Cummins Cederberg has done more similar projects

to what they need.

Also at the meeting, the commission voted 4-0 for APTIM to put the beach nourishment project out to bid by Jan. 4.

Attending remotely, Laird lost Internet connection and missed the vote on the motion.

In other news ∫ At the start of the meeting, the com-

mission selected the organization of the board for the new year. Wade was approved as chairman in a 3-2 vote, with Pyle and Laird dissenting. Miville was approved as vice chairman in a 4-1 vote, with Walter dissenting. In separate motions but unanimous 5-0 votes, Pyle was approved as treasurer and Laird was approved as secretary. Walter will serve as a commissioner.

captivasanibel.com

responses, while staff requested reference letters for past projects undertaken by both.

“Both firms are very on par, getting excellent references,” he said.

Present for the meeting, Tritaik provided an executive summary of his analysis.

He walked the commission through the questions asked of both firms and provided an overview of his critiques.

CCP From page 6 defined,” he said of the plan moving forward.

Mintz also noted a proposed state bill to create a Captiva Island Conservation Area, which Rep. Adam Botana has offered to sponsor. It would put the decision in the hands of voters as a ballot referendum.

He continued that at some point, South Seas will submit an application with the county for its new planned development, and stakeholders will have the opportunity to intervene in that process.

Mintz added that the coalition will keep the community updated.

President Jay Brown reiterated that the panel recently researched alternative governance options for the island, rather than being part of unincorporated Lee. He reported that one option was annexation with Sanibel, which the panel did not think was a good idea, however it may deserve being looked at further.

“So that's one of the things that will be going on in addition to what David mentioned,” Brown said.

Also at the meeting, the panel voted unanimously to approve a second term for Panel Member Linda Laird, whose seat expires at the end of the year. She is again an appointee to one of the panel seats.

Prior to the vote, Brown reiterated that the panel had decided at a recent meeting to not form a Nominating Committee for her seat and to instead approve a second term to maintain consistency.

He also reiterated that the Captiva Property Owners Association had two appointments. It decided to reappoint Secretary Bruce McDonald and appoint Ken Suarez to Panel Member Bob Walter's seat.

In other news ∫ Brown provided an update on Verizon and the project to improve service across the island. All five small cell towers have been installed, with full operations expected by the end of the first quarter. ∫ Captiva Island Fire Control District

Fire Chief Jeff Pawul urged the community to be careful with their holiday decorating, such as lights, and to ensure any outside items are rated for outdoor use. ∫ Lee County Sheriff's Office Lt. Mike Sawicki reported that it would be his last meeting.

He explained that he will be transferring to Boca Grande around about the first of the year. Sgt. Richard Zeltman, who has worked on Fort Myers Beach and is currently on Pine Island, will replace Sawicki.

After the meeting, the Captiva Civic Association shared that it will host a sendoff party for him on Dec. 21 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Captiva Civic Center, at 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva. It will be an opportunity for the community to thank Sawicki for his more than 15 years of service on the island.

Soft drinks, cake and light refreshments will be provided.

For more information, contact the CCA at info@ccacaptiva.org or 239-4722111.

Fire board From page 6 tions that approved a new administrative Procurement Policy and a new administrative policy — Emergency Financial Plan.

Prior to the vote, Pawul reported that the two policies were related in addressing future funds.

He explained that the state is changing its model for how entities will apply for funding following a natural disaster, and with the change, the distribution of the funds is supposed to happen quicker than in the past. Basically, eligible entities submit the required paperwork now rather than after the disaster.

“They want us to submit all of our stuff

ahead of time,” Pawul said.

Also at the meeting, he provided an update on the possibility of installing a boat lift at McCarthy's Marina for the fire rescue boat to get it out of the water and help extended its life. County officials are OK with the idea so far as long as the lift does not impede any kayak activity at the nearby launch.

“So we're still moving forward with that,” Pawul said.

Also during the meeting, he told the commission about a proposed bill (HB 7013) brought forward by the Local Administration, Federal Affairs & Special Districts Subcommittee. It pertains to spe-

cial districts and would set up new requirements, including that the state performance review be conducted annually now, a referendum for the district to continue operating and term limits for commissioners.

“It literally came up last week,” he said. “As that develops, I'll let you know.”

In other news ∫ Pawul reported that he has begun observing unsafe golf cart behavior again as traffic returns to the island, like people driving with small children on the front seat or in their laps. He reminded the public that a driver's license is required to

operate a golf cart. Pawul also urged the public to practice safety. ∫ The district responded to 32 calls for service in November.

“As you can see, they are starting to pick up,” Pawul said. “There's been a few nighttime calls.” ∫ Pawul reported that South Seas received its demolition permit for the Harbourside Hotel and he is reaching out to the resort in the hopes that it will allow the district to conduct training at the site.

Pawul also heard about a home that is planned for demolition and will reach out to the owner.

Captiva Current

The amendments eliminated language calling for “one and two story building heights” for the island, removing the existing height limitations despite opposition from Captiva and Sanibel stakeholders.

Commission Vice Chairman Kevin Ruane cast the sole dissenting vote.

“So now we have to take stock of where we are,” Mintz said.

He reported that the attorneys for the Protect Captiva Coalition, a group of organizations and individuals opposed to increasing building height and density on the island — which the panel is a member of — are looking into and considering a variety of potential litigation options to take.

Mintz continued that one may be to show how the approved changes violate the Lee Plan, while another may be to show how they violate Florida’s Community Planning Act. He also pointed to a possible equal protection claim for resorts located outside of the South Seas' gates versus inside.

“So there are litigations that will be

Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 8

Report your news to CaptiVaSaNiBel.Com

She Sells Sea Shells on Sanibel made its reopening official with a SanCap Chamber ribbon-cutting on Dec. 7.

SANCAP CHAMBER

Chamber ribbon-cutting marks iconic shop reopening She Sells Sea Shells turned a tongue-twister and Sanibel’s shelling reputation into a family-owned and operated business in 1976. After opening more stores on

Island Reporter

captivasanibel.com

BUSINESS

Vicki and Dale Hansen

the islands — up to five at one point — the iconic shell shop brand suffered from Hurricane Ian, but it has reopened its flagship shop on Sanibel. A SanCap Chamber ribbon-cutting on Dec. 7 dedicated the occasion.

“The Joffe family are proud to have a positive impact on Sanibel Island,” Tamara Joffe said. “Giving back to the community is a core value of She Sells Sea Shells and has been an ongoing practice for its 48-plus successful years on Sanibel.”

Anne Joffe, the “she” in She Sells Sea Shells, and her husband, David, originally founded the store. They and their son Michael, store co-owner/manager, and daughter Tamara currently operate it as they continue its restoration following severe damage from wind and 5 feet of flood water.

“We put up metal storm shutters in the front glass, windows and door before we evacuated, and the force of the water broke the glass and pushed shells out from under the metal into the parking lot,” Tamara Joffe said.

“We had wind and water damage in the back wall of our upstairs office that caused water to pour through the ceil-

Business Notes

REFUGE/DDWS

Refuge welcomes resident volunteers The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge reported that another couple, out of three, recently arrived to work as Resident Volunteers this season at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel.

The refuge welcomed Vicki and Dale Hansen on Nov. 27, arriving from their hometown of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Vicki Hansen, a retired paralegal at a law firm, and Dale Hansen, a former union pipefitter doing HVAC building automation, have been traveling from California to Florida as resident volunteers. Recently, they did a stint at the Big Cypress National Preserve in Florida, where Dale Hansen tracked pythons with biology rangers and Vicki Hansen did environmental education.

At the refuge, Vicki Hansen will work in visitor services and Dale Hansen in maintenance.

“We just got here, and the enthusiasm of the people we have met so far has been awesome,” she said.

Although Hurricane Ian caused intense destruction to the maintenance area where Resident Volunteers park their RVs in exchange for helping out with workloads, three spots remain with utilities.

ing in the back of our store, and the ceiling came down.”

Their warehouse off-island also flooded, and the family laundered and donated much of their clothing stock.

While restoring the Periwinkle Way shop on their own, they unofficially opened to the public for the Fourth of July, due to the curiosity of visitors who were stopping by. “(Restoration) was a daunting task, and a symbol of hope for our family and the community,” Michael Joffe said. “People tell us every day how it inspires them, and encourages other businesses to reopen. We were committed to continuing on and reopening for our employees, who all expressed interest in returning.”

“We are so happy to formally welcome She Sells She Shells back to the islands,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said. “It just wouldn’t be Sanibel without the Joffe family providing this iconic opportunity to buy seashells, jewelry, books, craft supplies, novelties and, especially this time of year, their treasured Christmas ornaments.”

She Sells Sea Shells is at 1157 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Chamber to host webinar on projects The SanCap Chamber will present a Sanibel Causeway and Sanibel Beach Renourishment webinar today, Dec. 20, at 10 a.m. via Zoom.

Florida Department of Transportation's Sanibel Causeway Community Liaison Jennifer Dorning and Sanibel Natural Resources Department Director Holly Milbrandt will provide updates regarding the FDOT's causeway construction and city's upcoming beach renourishment.

For more information or to register, visit https://us02web.zoom.us /webinar/register/WN_3 HfxB7fmQQqyHPzJRD QlFA#/registration.

SHELL POINT

Shell Point introduces 3-D virtual tour Shell Point recently unveiled a 3-D virtual tour for Vista Cay, its collection of 59 new luxury independent living residences within the Island neighborhood in Fort Myers.

Visitors can explore floor by floor, using the tour's interactive elements to select their ideal residence from 15 distinct floorplans, which range from 1,500 to 2,700 square feet and include lofts, midrise residences and penthouse residences. A social room and terrace on

the first floor will enhance life with space for special gatherings and events.

Experience the tour at https://tour.meetvistacay.or g/. A gallery of detailed renderings complements the tour, showcasing the building's designed living spaces and communal areas.

Page 9 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 10 captivasanibel.com

Chamber cuts ribbon at two local businesses As high season approaches in Southwest Florida, SanCap Chamber ribbon-cuttings are reflecting a robust return to a strong economy. Dec. 12 saw the reopening of a longtime Captiva dining fixture, the Sunshine Seafood Cafe and Wine Bar, and opening of a new Clive Daniel Home showroom in Fort Myers.

Sandy Stilwell Youngquist has been synonymous with Captiva dining for more than 20 years, and she was determined not to let Hurricane Ian’s ruthless damage to her restaurants and inn change all that. The Sunshine Seafood Cafe was her second island restaurant, purchased in 2004. Her first, the Keylime Bistro, is set to reopen by Christmas. The Cantina Captiva will also come back this month, and RC Otter’s Island Eats opened in June.

Despite total flooding and loss of all furniture and equipment, Sunshine Seafood returns with much the same feel, a new design and some changes in color schemes.

The biggest difference happens in the kitchen, where locally loved chef Ryan Kida has taken the helm and reinvented the menu with some legendary dishes from his former Yabo restaurant in Fort Myers, along with new creations.

“The island restaurants have worked together very well in helping one another out and supporting one another,” Youngquist, who was able to support the Captiva Island Fire Control District and state law enforcement with the use of her vehicles that survived the storm, said.

She loaned them her S-CAR-Go snail Jeep and another to use until they airlifted or ferried over vehicles.

“Sandy is a pillar in the island business community and a shining example of how working hard and together gets results,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said. “We welcome back the lively vibe her restaurants have come to define as the Captiva dining scene.”

Clive Daniel Home opened in Naples in 2011. Its Fort Myers showroom debuted in October as the design firm’s fourth location, including Boca Raton and Sarasota. It

SANCAP CHAMBER

Island Reporter

The SanCap Chamber celebrated the reopening of the Sunshine Seafood Cafe and Wine Bar on See CHAMBER, page 11 Captiva with a ribbon-cutting on Dec. 12.

Page 11 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Chamber From page 10

captivasanibel.com

offers the same comprehensive selection of furniture, lighting, rugs, window treatments and accessories, along with the services of 15 professional interior designers.

“Fort Myers has been home since 1978,” Clive Daniel Home Chief Executive Officer Daniel Lubner said. “So many of our core memories were created on Sanibel and Captiva.

After the storm, it felt like too much of a burden to have our clients drive all the way to Naples. We wanted to create a hometown location to match our commitment to see the islands come back stronger.”

“Daniel and his father, Clive, who serves as chairman, have a strong affinity for the islands that shows clearly in their generous support of the chamber and other island businesses,” Lai said. “The fact their corporate headquarters and warehouse are in Fort Myers demonstrates their commitment to the community, and we thank them for helping to bring it back to full bloom.”

The Sunshine Seafood Cafe and Wine Bar is at 11508 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva.

The Clive Daniel Home is at 8650 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers.

SANCAP CHAMBER

The SanCap Chamber celebrated the opening of a new Clive Daniel Home showroom in Fort Myers with a ribbon-cutting on Dec. 12.

Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 12 captivasanibel.com

VIP Realty Group announces top producers for month VIP Realty Group announced its top producers for the month of November.

Mary Morris had the top sales. A full-time licensed Realtor since 1999, her professional expertise includes Certified Residential Specialist, Graduate Real Estate Institute, E-Pro (Internet Marketing Specialist), Senior Real Estate Specialist, and At Home with Diversity Certified. Morris is a graduate of Indiana University and holds a Master of Science from Butler University.

Teresa Baker had the top listings. She holds a degree from the University of Tennessee in merchandising and moved to Sanibel in 1986. Baker has her real estate/Broker's license, Graduate Realtor Institute designation and Sanibel Captiva Island Specialist designation.

Karen Bell and the Bell Team, which includes John Bates, Holly Peeples and Sherrill Sims, were the top producer. Since 1986, Bell has been a prominent broker in the region. She was recognized as the “Best of the Islands” Best Realtor in 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2017.

Teresa Baker

The Bell Team was recognized as the “Best of the Islands” Best Real Estate Team in 2009, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2021 and 2022.

The Bell Team of Sherrill Sims, Holly Peeples, Karen Bell and John Bates.

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

VIP Realty Group is at 1560 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Hearing for removal of Chiquita Lock postponed On Dec. 11, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported the hearing to remove the Chiquita Lock in Cape Coral had been postponed to an unknown future date after petitioners highlighted major gaps in monitoring water pollution from the city. Petitioners also pointed out that the city has long held a permit to update the lock with improvements that would benefit wildlife, boaters and water quality.

About the Chiquita Lock case The SCCF reported that the Chiquita Lock helps send the city's — often polluted — canal water through mangrove wetlands instead of directly into the Caloosahatchee.

The city wants to remove the lock entirely,

Island Reporter

Mary Morris

rather than fix and update it for improvements that would benefit boaters and wildlife.

In August, the SCCF and other nonprofits that joined together to oppose the lock's removal needed to withdraw as petitioners from the legal challenge, but they have continued to support keeping the lock in place.

Additional petitioners were granted permission to continue their case against the lock removal.

The hearing began on Nov. 29, before recently being postponed pending the presentation of rebuttal testimony from the city and Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

The SCCF reported that petitioners in the

trial support a compromise to removing the dysfunctional lock, which is to construct a high-speed two-way lock. In 2006-07, the city applied for and received a permit to replace the lock with a dual lock system. The city extended the permit an additional five years; however, the system was never built.

In 2022, the city produced an estimate of $30,933,968 to build the new lock system.

A review of the city's income from property taxes revealed that in 2018, the city

realized $86 million from property taxes. It anticipates receiving $132 million from property taxes in 2024. At the end of most budget years in the past decade, the city has generally realized a surplus of $10-20 million.

The SCCF reported that petitioners also pointed to how much water pollution the Cape is contributing to each year, including discharging 923,703 pounds of nitrogen in See HEARING, page 22

Educational sunset birding cruises planned Captiva Cruises and the SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation will offer a series of educational sunset birding cruises, departing from McCarthy's Marina, at 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva.

While cruising the Pine Island Sound, participants will hear about the

ecology of the back bay estuary, learn about the SCCF's shorebird monitoring program, watch birds coming in to roost for the night, identify birds seen along the way and receive updates on the islands' bird populations.

The following cruises are planned: ∫ Jan. 20 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. ∫ Feb. 16 from 4:45 to 6:45 p.m. ∫ March 4 from 5 to 7 p.m.

Tickets are $45 per person and $35 for ages 2-12.

The proceeds will help to support the SCCF’s shorebird program.

For more information or reservations, call Captiva Cruises at 239-472-5300 or visit https://sccf.org/calenSANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION dar/.

Page 13 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 14 captivasanibel.com

Local Red Sox scholarship Development assistant application now open joins DDWS staff

The Boston Red Sox Foundation will award $5,000 scholarships in the spring to one deserving student from each of the 15 public high schools in Lee County. Lee County charter and ALS schools are also included with one $5,000 scholarship to be awarded, for a total of 16 scholarships worth $80,000.

The scholarships are for academically talented students who have shown a commitment to community service and are pursuing a two- or four-year degree at any

college or university.

Scholarship funds are raised annually from proceeds of the Red Sox annual Swings for the Sox Golf Tournament. To date, it has raised $530,000 for the scholarship program.

Applications are open at https://www.redsoxfoundation.org/leecou ntyscholarship/.

Applications should be submitted to flscholarships@redsox.com.

The deadline to apply is Jan. 12.

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge recently welcomed Alex Fuentes to the position of executive development assistant in its work supporting conservation, land acquisition and education for the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel.

“Alex is invaluable as a ‘jack of many trades’ for DDWS,” Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman said. “His main contribution is processing donations, but he also steps in to help with general IT tasks, art exhibitions and a thousand other things — always willing to help wherever we need it.”

Fuentes grew up in Collinsville, Illinois, and Fort Myers. Prior to joining the DDWS, he worked as an accounting clerk for the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel and, before that, general cashier for South Seas on Captiva.

“The people are great at ‘Ding’ Darling, and I welcome the considerable reduction in stress compared to a corporate position,” Fuentes said. “I enjoy sending donor acknowledgments and

REFUGE/DDWS

Alex Fuentes manages donor records and general support duties for the DDWS. recognizing what a generous support base DDWS has in its mission.”

Report your news to THE REPORTER:

Island Reporter

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As the holiday season approaches and we near the end of another semester, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the accomplishments and challenges we have faced together as a community. It has been a year of determination, resilience, and growth for our students, parents, teachers and staff.

Firstly, I would like to express my gratitude to each and every member of our community for their unwavering support. Your dedication to education has been instrumental in creating a positive learning environment for our children. It is through your efforts that our schools continue to thrive.

As we enter the holiday season, it is important to take a moment to celebrate the joy and togetherness that this time of year brings. Our schools have planned several festive activities and events to foster a sense of community and unity among our

Melisa W. Giovannelli

Guest Commentary

students and their families. From holiday concerts and performances to charitable initiatives, there will be plenty of opportunities for everyone to participate and spread cheer.

Furthermore, I want to highlight the incredible achievements of our students throughout this semester. Their hard work, curiosity and enthusiasm have not gone unnoticed. From academic achievements to artistic endeavors, our students have shown exceptional growth and talent. As a community, we can be proud of their accomplishments and encourage them to reach even greater heights in the future.

As we prepare for the well-deserved winter break, let us also keep in mind the importance of self-care and relaxation.

The holidays provide an opportunity for our children and educators to recharge, spend quality time with loved ones, and

engage in activities that bring them joy. It is crucial for everyone to take this time to focus on their personal wellbeing, ensuring that they return in the new year refreshed and ready to continue their educational journey.

Looking ahead, the new semester brings with it new opportunities and challenges. Our commitment to providing a world class education for our students remains steadfast. We will continue to work towards creating a safe and inclusive learning environment, where every child can thrive and reach their full potential.

I would like to extend my warmest wishes to all members of the community during this holiday season. May it be filled with joy, happiness, and peace. Let us cherish the moments spent with loved ones and embrace the spirit of giving and gratitude.

Thank you once again for your ongoing support.

Together, we will make the future brighter for our children.

Melisa W. Giovannelli holds the District 2 seat on the Lee County School Board.

Page 15 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023

New semester, year and opportunities

Package theft From page 4 away from your home that you can access with a key or code. Some independent businesses also specialize in this service, allowing you to designate a different delivery location for your packages and the ability to pick them up on your way home.

If you fear your package being stolen,

file a report with your local police department and the delivery company.

Depending on your delivery service, they may offer insurance or other policies to reimburse you for your losses. For more online shopping resources and tips, visit BBB.org/OnlineShopping.

Report scams to the BBB Scam

Tracker at https://www.bbb.org/scamtracker.

The Better Business Bureau is an unbiased non-profit organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior. For more information, visit https://www.bbb.org/.

captivasanibel.com

Be sure to check with the delivery company on their policy for packages that are not signed for; they may return it to the sender after a certain number of attempts. ∫ Consider a package receiving service.

Some major retailers, such as Amazon, offer secure package-receiving locations

Your views on the editorials, letters and the guest opinions that appear on The Reporter opinion pages can be shared on-line. Tell us what you think. Share your opinion at: captivasanibel.com.

Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 16

PRESERVING PARADISE

Island Reporter

captivasanibel.com

REFUGE/DDWS

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Visitor & Education Center and administrative offices will be closed on Dec. 25 for the holiday. Wildlife Drive and the Bailey Tract will remain open for normal operating hours.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

DDWS reports SCCF leads Florida Master Naturalist Course on refuge programming and more The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge provided the following updates for the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel: ∫ The refuge will offer Free Winter Programs daily from Jan. 8 through March 30 for groups of 20 people or less, to include Beach Walks, Wildlife Drive Caravans, Medicinal Plants of the Refuge and Lakes Park Nature Explorations. ∫ The Winter Lecture Series will return from Jan. 18 through March 21. ∫ Wellness in Nature @ “Ding” will take place at the refuge and beyond on Jan. 18-21. ∫ Author David Rahahę· tih Webb will make a free presentation on Jan. 22. ∫ A free Estate Planning Seminar will be held on Jan. 30. ∫ The Go Wild for “Ding” — Into the Night fundraiser is slated for Feb. 7. ∫ The refuge will host a unique Solar Eclipse Viewing on April 8. ∫ The “Ding” Darling Day Conservation Carnival will be held on April 20 at Lakes Park in Fort Myers. ∫ The 12th annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford's Tarpon Tournament will take place on May 10.

Twenty participants joined the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation over the last month as part of a Florida Master Naturalist Course in Coastal Systems, which Adult Education Director Jenny Evans led in partnership with the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

“The Florida Master Naturalist Coastal course is a great way to immerse participants in our local habitats on Sanibel and the barrier islands,” she said.

The 40-hour course included a mix of instruction, hands-on activities, field trips and student presentations to deliver a full understanding of the habitats, flora and fauna of Sanibel and Captiva and the surrounding coastal communities.

“This has been one of the best Master Naturalist courses I’ve taken,” participant Evan Kuperman said.

“SCCF and the scientists they’ve brought in to talk about their different areas of expertise have been great. I’m happy I came down here, because the field trips in this location have been incredible for nature and wildlife observation.”

One of the course’s field trips took students to Bunche Beach in Fort Myers, where they heard from Sanibel Sea School educators and SCCF shorebird staff and observed olive snails, brittle stars, Florida fighting conchs, sunray venus clams, horseshoe crab molts and shorebirds, including a wintering American avocet.

“For this course we wanted to expose students to everything that SCCF works to protect, so in turn, they begin to understand and love the environment, which creates new stewards to care for our coastal ecosystems,” Evans said.

Participant Kathryn Brintnall said she was lucky to have discovered and enrolled in the course.

“It’s been phenomenal, and I’ve learned so much. I had some background in the area already, but my respect for the work SCCF has done has just skyrocketed,” she said. “It’s so important to protect these barrier islands and our coastal communities.”

SCCF: Are there indigo snakes on Cayo Costa?

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's Pine Island Sound Eastern Indigo Snake Project began monitoring and researching the remaining populations of the rare and protected snakes in 2012.

The SCCF reported that unfortunately, they were found to be extirpated — or no longer in existence — on Sanibel and Captiva early on, but there was evidence of a remaining population on Pine Island, North Captiva and Cayo Costa.

Pine Island and North Captiva were found to have small but reproducing populations that were able to be studied.

However, Cayo Costa — which has the largest, non-bisected natural habitat of the five main islands of the Pine Island Sound — produced the lowest success.

“Roads and traffic, which are not an issue on Cayo Costa, are the usual cause of Eastern indigo snake decline and loss from an area,” Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz

said. “Instead, the main reason for their rarity on Cayo Costa was concerning and was thought to be due to the feral hog population that has plagued the island for decades.”

It is believed that the hogs were brought there by locals to hunt many decades ago. The presence of the feral hogs had drastic implications for the flora and fauna of the mostly undeveloped island, which was designated as the Cayo Costa State Park in 1976. The hogs were

finally eradicated in 2018 by the state park system. By removing them, it was thought that would allow many species, including the Eastern indigo snake, to increase their numbers if enough individuals survived.

The SCCF will return to Cayo Costa this season to resume surveys that lapsed in 2016, due to the lack of samples. There have been undocumented reports of indigo snakes since then, but there has been See INDIGO SNAKES, page 17

The SanibelC a p t i v a Conservation Foundation's Coastal Watch is signing up volunteers to help plant mangrove seedlings on Dec. 21 from 8:30 a.m. to noon on the shoreline of Hemp Key in the Pine Island Sound.

Transportation to the restoration site will be provided. For more information or to sign up, visit https://dash.pointapp.org/events/105436.

Students take part in native plant education Recently, the Sanibel Sea School spent the day with first-graders at The Sanibel School. Its marine science educators taught the class all about native plants and their importance to the environment. The students used magnifying glasses to get an up-close look at the plants, and they even drew their own plant masterpieces.

SANIBEL SEA SCHOOL

Indigo snakes From page 16 no definitive proof of their continued existence. The SCCF reported that the snakes face many threats throughout their range and are in major decline throughout most of their range.

“Viable island populations are even rarer these days, so it is very important

that we document all the information we can and educate people about this gentle giant that is disappearing quickly,” Lechowicz said.

If you see an Eastern indigo snake on any island in Pine Island Sound, report it to indigo@sccf.org.

Page 17 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Volunteers sought for restoration trip

captivasanibel.com SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Island Reporter

Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 18 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

Island lIvIng

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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.

Arrests ∫ Tason Baby Conner, 41, of 1448 55th St., Des Moines, Iowa, was charged on Dec. 11 with one count each of battery touch or strike, aggravated assault with deadly weapon without intent to kill and resist officer obstruct without violence.

Enforcement operations statistics From Dec. 5-11: ∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 5 ∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 13 ∫ Traffic crashes: 4 ∫ Radar details: 41 ∫ Traffic stops: 54 — Citations issued: 17 — Written warnings issued: 9 — Verbal warnings issued: 29 ∫ Residential area checks: 414 ∫ Business area checks: 168 ∫ Total area checks: 830 ∫ Reported burglaries: 1 ∫ Reported thefts: 1 ∫ Total CAD calls: 1,106 December 2023 to date: ∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 9 ∫ Non-emergency calls: 18 ∫ Traffic crashes: 4 ∫ Radar details: 67 ∫ Traffic stops: 73 — Citations issued: 24 — Written warnings issued: 13 — Verbal warnings issued: 37 ∫ Residential area checks: 712 ∫ Business area checks: 279 ∫ Total area checks: 1,439 ∫ Reported burglaries: 1 ∫ Reported thefts: 1 ∫ Total CAD calls: 1,863

Important reminders

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Sanibel Public Library's display cases offer a peek at unique collections.

Sanibel library offers range of programs and topics The Sanibel Public Library provides a variety of programming for adults and children.

Family Storytime for ages 5 and under will be held on Dec. 21 from 5 to 6 p.m. and Dec. 22 from 10:30 to

City outlines do’s and don’ts for recycling center The city reported that the Sanibel Recycling Center on Dunlop Road is for residential use only. It provides a convenient location to neatly dispose of household trash and recyclable items.

Commercial/contractor use is strictly prohibited.

Those who violate city rules may be subject to fines for illegally disposing of materials at the site. City staff will check IDs to enforce resident-only use.

Permitted items include: ∫ Trash: Only sealed household trash bags are to be placed into the trash dumpsters. ∫ Cardboard: All cardboard must be broken down and placed in the cardboard dumpsters. ∫ Recycling: Only recycling items are to be placed in

The city of Sanibel's 2021 and 2022 Hurricane Re-entry Passes are still valid. If you have one, you do not need to re-apply for a new pass.

Updated information on the Sanibel Boat Ramp: ∫ The boat ramp is open to permit holders on weekdays, weekends and holidays. ∫ The boat ramp is open to the public (non-permit holders) on weekdays that are not holidays for a $40 daily fee. ∫ Commercial use of the boat ramp is prohibited. ∫ Fines for violations at the boat ramp are $250.

Roadside parking on Sanibel is not allowed except in the case of special events requiring a permit. It is enforced and can result in a $150 fine.

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

Students of the Month announced

Reporting suspicious activity

The Students of the Month for November are: Sienna Weisblatt in kindergarten; Indira Conner in first grade;

Anonymous tips regarding crimes or suspicious activity can be submitted via Tip411: ∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411.

See BLOTTER, page 19

11:30 a.m. with Megan Willis. Literacy is a family bonding experience with stories read aloud, followed by early literacy centers of play to flex minds, develop motor See LIBRARY, page 19

the recycle dumpsters. No plastic bags are permitted.

Prohibited items include: ∫ Bulk items, such as appliances, electronics and construction materials ∫ Vegetative waste ∫ Hazardous waste of any kind, such as paint, oil and car batteries All trash, cardboard and recyclable materials must be placed inside the dumpsters. Any person who discards items outside of the dumpsters or leaves any prohibited items is subject to potential fines and criminal penalties.

The center's hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Sanibel School The Sanibel School, at 3840 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, reported the following:

Nolan Larimore in second grade; Brendan Reilly in third grade; Avalon Vinciguerra in fourth grade; Savannah Lastinger in fifth grade; Valentina Bell in sixth grade; John Harris in seventh grade; and David Lusk in eighth grade.

For more information, call 239-472-1617 or visit sbl.leeschools.net.

Sanibel Public Meetings The following public meetings/hearings are scheduled: ∫ Dec. 21: Sanibel Public

Library District meeting at 9 a.m. at the library, at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel. For more information or the

agenda, visit https://spldboard.specialdistrict.org/governance.

skills and increase creativity. The program will include an art/craft center.

On Dec. 27, Escape the Library: Family Edition will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. It is an escape room designed for families and friends to tackle together.

Each party will get 30 minutes to escape the abominable Snowman and help Santa deliver presents on time. Advance registration is required by contacting Willis at mwillis@sanlib.org or 239-472-2483.

Youth programs are designed for children and accompanying adults.

The library's display cases offer a peek at unique collections. Past displays have included antique toys, vintage German glass ornaments, World War II collectables and more. Those who have a collection to share can contact Duane or Beth at the library at 239-472-2483.

From now through Dec. 30, the

Sanibel-Captiva Art League has an exhibit on display. “Resilience & Recovery” features 20 pieces by 16 artists. Locals are invited to submit art that “portrays the struggles, emotional experiences, spectacular outcomes and beauty emerging from sudden, life-altering change.”

The library is also hosting “In the Wake of the Flood: Community Photos of Hurricane Ian and Its Aftermath,” an exhibit curated by the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum. It features photos of Ian's aftermath taken by island residents and others living in Southwest Florida. Photographs from the exhibition will be digitized and added to the library's digital archive at sanlib.org/digitalarchive.

Library cards are available to residents of Sanibel and Lee County at no charge.

Visitor library cards are available for a

$10 annual fee.

The Sanibel Public Library is open Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It will be closed on Dec. 23 and 25 for the

Christmas holiday.

For more information, call 239-4722483.

The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.

Blotter From page 18 The SPD's non-emergency line is 239472-3111.

Find the SPD on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SanibelPolice.

captivasanibel.com

∫ Web tips can be submitted at https://www.tip411.com/tips/new?alert_g roup_id=22450. ∫ Use the free “Sanibel PD” app for your Android or iOS device.

Page 19 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Library From page 18

Island Reporter

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Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 20 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

SPORTS

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F.I.S.H. OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

The 15th Annual F.I.S.H. 10K/5K was held on Dec. 2 at The Community House on Sanibel.

CITY OF SANIBEL

Rec center provides update on activities and events The Sanibel Recreation Center reported on the following upcoming programming.

Throughout December, Wild Card Wednesday will be offered on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon.

Access an array of card and board games. Free for members; non-members must purchase a pass.

A Wonka Winter Camp will be held on Dec. 2629 from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It will offer a variety of candy-themed crafts, field trips, games and swim time. Enrollment is open for kindergartners through eighth-graders. Each child will need to bring a lunch, water, swimsuit, goggles, towel and sunscreen. Cost is $135 for members and $170 for non-members.

Led by the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium, the center will offer Shelling Like A Pro on Dec. 28 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Bowman's Beach on Sanibel. Bring a water bottle and sunscreen.

Cost is $10 for members and $12.50 for non-members. Reservations required at 239-472-0302.

The center is open on Mondays through Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A variety of memberships, passes and punch cards are available.

It will be closed on Dec. 25 for the Christmas holiday.

For more information, visit https://www.mysanibel.com/government/recreation2.

The Sanibel Recreation Center is at 3880 SanibelCaptiva Road, Sanibel.

TBE reports on holiday schedule Tarpon Bay Explorers on Sanibel will be open from Dec. 26-30. There will be Kayak Trail Tours available daily, along with Tram Tours on Dec. 26 and 28 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Concession for the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, TBE offers recreation activities like guided tours and kayak and paddlecraft rentals; reservations are recommended for the tours. Its normal operating hours are Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with rentals stopping at 3 p.m. TBE also features a nature-themed gift shop. For more information or reservations, visit www.tarponbayexplorers.com or call the gift shop at 239-472-8900. TBE is at 900 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel.

Race returns with record participation, added events F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva reported that a recordbreaking number of registered runners — 530 — signed up for the 15th Annual F.I.S.H. 10K/5K on Dec. 2 at The Community House on Sanibel. Approximately 90% of the runners came from all over the state of Florida, but the race also drew participants from the United Kingdom and Germany, as well as 25 other states.

“We weren’t quite sure what to expect as many of us are still recovering from Hurricane Ian,” Race Committee Co-chair Diane Cortese said. “The support from island businesses as sponsors was second-to-none, and we are so grateful for everyone’s support.”

Immediately following the race, community partner the Sanibel Recreation Center held a Holiday Event & Youth Reindeer Run at the center. That evening, the inaugural F.I.S.H. Sound+Waves Music Festival took place at the 'Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa on Captiva, which included fireworks.

“Being new to the experience, I was overwhelmed by the generosity of F.I.S.H. supporters and cooperation of the city, volunteers and community partners,” Race Committee Co-chair Leah Winkler said. “It was a great learning experience, and I’m already looking forward to making 2024 bigger and better.”

This year’s race and festival was sponsored by a total of 85 local businesses, organizations and individuals at various levels. Over 120 volunteers signed up to help make the race a success.

Money raised during the race and festival will help fund services provided by F.I.S.H. “We are extremely proud of everyone who has helped us with another successful event. We had a fantastic runner turnout this year and enormous support from sponsors,” F.I.S.H. Executive Director Maria Espinoza said.

“We would like to thank our committee members and TRC Race Management for their superb technical direc-

tion and assistance both before and during the race.”

“Thank you to everyone who helped us raise the funds that will allow us to continue to provide a full range of human services and disaster recovery assistance to our neighbors,” she added. “We couldn’t ask for better support from the city of Sanibel, police department, service organizations and our sponsors and, notably, our great staff and volunteers who helped bring all of this together.”

Shell museum to host guided walk The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum will host a guided Snail Search and Biodiversity Walk today, Dec. 20, from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Wild Turkey Strand Preserve, at 11901 Rod and Gun Road, Fort Myers. Participants will search for land snails, document their sightings for the benefit of science, and explore the flora and fauna. The community science program teaches the use of the wildlife observation app iNaturalist and techniques for observing and recording nature to share with scientists. The walk is free, but advance registration is required. For more information or to register, contact Jorden Falker at jfalker@shellmuseum.org.

Sanibel Fire and Rescue District Capt. Mike Martin is pinned by his wife at the Dec. 13 meeting of the fire commission.

SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT

related to traumatic injuries as rebuilding continues on Sanibel. ∫ The following staff were recognized for their years of service: Jackson for 20 years; firefighter Arian Moore for seven years; and firefighter Todd Walter for eight years.

In other news

Sanibel Fire and Rescue District Assistant Fire Chief Chris Jackson is pinned by his wife at the Dec. 13 meeting of the fire commission.

∫ Barbot reported that the administrative staff recently met with the district's lobbyist and state legislators. The district is seeking an appropriations request from the state for $2.1 million. ∫ The district has responded to about 878 calls this year, compared to about 1,470 for 2022.

“The dynamic of these calls are changing quite a bit,” Deputy Fire Chief John DiMaria Sanibel Fire and Rescue District Lt. Cliff Steele is pinned said, adding that crews are seeing more calls by his wife at the Dec. 13 meeting of the fire commission.

Island Reporter

On a related note, Jackson provided an update on the station rebuild at the meeting.

He explained that the district had to request variances from the city for the reconstruction design. The Sanibel Planning Commission considered the four deviations — related to front yard setbacks, coverage, vegetation removal and developed area, and location and size of vegetation buffers — at its Dec. 12 meeting. They were approved unanimously 7-0, with 10 recommended conditions by staff.

“It's done and it's all passed,” Jackson said.

Also during the meeting, the commissioners voted 3-0 on the following additional resolutions: ∫ To accept legislative appropriation funds from the state in the amount of $6 million for the reconstruction of Station 172. ∫ To accept legislative appropriation funds from the state in the amount of $2 million to offset the revenue loss, due to the property valuation decline, for use for general operating expenditures. ∫ To accept the Community Disaster Loan administrated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in the amount of $1,597,423, which will be used as a revolving line of credit for operating expenditures on an as needed basis. ∫ To approve the state-mandated performance review conducted by the BJM Group, which will be submitted to the Florida Attorney General's Office and the Florida Auditor General's Office.

Also at the meeting, separate pinning ceremonies were held for recently promoted Assistant Chief Chris Jackson and Capt. Mike Martin, as well as Lt. Cliff Steele, who will assume the role in January.

captivasanibel.com

current truck is a military surplus light medium tactical vehicle that was loaned to the district by the Florida Forest Service. In 2017, it was converted into a brush truck, but it is no longer adequate due to age, wear and more.

He continued that the district sent out the request for proposal for the replacement truck to 15 manufacturers across the country and received six bids. Those were then scored and ranked based on four categories with a total score of 100 possible and Warrior came in on top with 92.5 points.

The other bids included: ∫ Watts Manufacturing with a total score of 73.9 and cost of $203,951 ∫ Weis Fire Safety with a total score of 70.6 and cost of $218,850 ∫ South Florida Emergency Vehicles with a total score of 47.3 and cost of $252,781 ∫ BFX Fire with a total score of 45.9 and cost of about $244,887 ∫ QTAC Fire with a total score of 43.3 and cost of $246,550 Jackson noted that the truck will be “bare bones” and built specifically for the district's needs.

“This is the truck's purpose,” he said of the design.

“This is what we want it to do.”

Also during the meeting, the commission voted 3-0 on a resolution to award the demo contract for Station 172 to Triple D Land Clearing and Development for a not-toexceed amount of about $39,488.

Prior to the vote, Fire Chief Kevin Barbot explained that the contract had to go out as a bid rather than as a request for proposal because both state and federal funds are being used to procure the service. Fifteen contractors received the bid and five responded, but one of them did not meet the requirements.

He continued that the contract is awarded to the lowest bidder, which was Triple D. The other bids included: ∫ Extreme Demolition & Land Clearing for $45,298 ∫ Remove It Pros for $49,000 ∫ Wreck-IT Demolition for $49,142 ∫ Honc Industries for $60,800

Page 21 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Fire board From page 1

Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 22 captivasanibel.com

Beach project From page 1 island's coastline. The project will place about 400,000 tons of sand to restore the beach berm (dune) and fill gullies created by the receding storm surge. ∫ What is the timeline for the project to be completed?

The project is anticipated to be completed in early April. ∫ How much sand will be brought to the beaches of Sanibel?

Approximately 400,000 tons of sand will be brought in to renourish the beaches. ∫ How many trucks each day will haul sand and how many loads a day will be brought to the island?

Between 120 and 160 trucks will haul two to three loads of sand to the island each day. ∫ What times/days of the week will the work be carried out?

Work will be carried out Monday through Friday between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., with some work being completed on Saturdays as needed. ∫ Will there be any impact on traffic?

Motorists may notice a larger concentration of trucks early in the day as they arrive on the island with the first loads of the sand, but the trucks will be spread out along the routes as the day progresses. ∫ How many sections of the beach are being worked on, and is the project being completed in phases?

There are five stretches of beach where sand will be hauled in. One to two stretches may be worked on simultaneously throughout the duration of the project. Once the section(s) are complete, crews will move on to the next. ∫ Will any beaches be open for the duration of the project, and how will beach-goers be affected?

The sections of beaches being worked on will be tem-

CITY OF SANIBEL

The projected timeframe for each area of the Sanibel Island Post Hurricane Ian Emergency Berm/Beach Recovery Project, as well as the truck routes. porarily closed, while the other areas of the beach will remain open. There will be plenty of places for residents and visitors to enjoy Sanibel’s beaches during the project. ∫ Where is the sand coming from?

The sand will be hauled from Vulcan Materials Company in Moore Haven. ∫ Can Gulf-front property owners still submit a

Temporary Beach Management & Access Easement?

Yes. Scan and email your completed form to sandnr@mysanibel.com or deliver to the Sanibel City Hall, at 800 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.

For project updates, visit www.mysanibel.com.

Proximity plan From page 1 Island Reporter

tered nearby.

The proposed middle school proximity zones are:

Proximity Zone AA ∫ Challenger Middle School ∫ Mariner Middle School

Obituaries

Proximity Zone D/DD ∫ Alva School ∫ The Sanibel School Proximity Zone HH ∫ Lehigh Acres Middle ∫ Lemuel Teal Middle ∫ The Sanibel School ∫ Veterans Park Academy

∫ The Sanibel School

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

Proximity Zone BB ∫ Gulf Middle ∫ The Sanibel School ∫ Trafalgar Middle Proximity Zone MM ∫ Cypress Lake Middle ∫ Lexington Middle ∫ The Sanibel School Proximity Zone JJ ∫ Harns Marsh Middle ∫ Oak Hammock Middle ∫ The Sanibel School ∫ Varsity Lakes Middle Proximity Zone CC ∫ Caloosa Middle ∫ Diplomat Middle

∫ North Fort Myers Academy ∫ The Sanibel School Proximity Zone GG ∫ Bonita Springs Middle ∫ The Sanibel School ∫ Three Oaks Middle The Sanibel School is listed in each of the proximity zones for parents to be able to select, but the parent is responsible for transportation.

The school board is expected to vote on the proximity plan at its Jan. 9 meeting.

Open enrollment will begin on Jan. 16 and run through Feb. 29, providing families the opportunity to rank their school in their proximity zone.

Families can select to remain at their current school as long as they submit a continuation form, which includes a document that accepts the responsibility to transport their student to school and promises to get them there on time.

For those families that do not submit a school choice, or continuation form for their child, will be entered into an assignment lottery.

This will be done to ensure all students that have a registration in the district will be enrolled in a school by the end of the lottery.

Hearing From page 12 2019. The numbers go against targets laid out in the city's Basin Management Action Plan — a plan governed by the FDEP to help clean up waterways.

“The pollution in our waterways in Southwest Florida cause huge issues to visitors, residents and wildlife by feeding harmful algal blooms and introducing toxins into our environment. Petitioners of the Chiquita Lock case are standing up for clean water by holding Cape Coral accountable for the pol-

lution they are adding to the Caloosahatchee estuary,” SCCF Environmental Policy Director Matt DePaolis said. “I’m glad to see the expert witnesses giving a thorough explanation as to why removing the lock will be harmful to surrounding ecosystems and will have a negative impact on wildlife and our tourism-based economy. Hopefully the evidence presented will compel a finding in support of protecting our environment.”

WEEK OF DECEMBER 20, 2023

CHR hosting ‘Hearts On Exhibit,’ gala fundraiser Page

24 aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday Shell Find . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Island Worship . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Island Beat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 In the Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Recipe of the Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Santiva Islanders Calendar . . . . . . . . 28 CROW Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 BIG ARTS Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 The Community House Calendar . . . . 28

Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 24 captivasanibel.com

LEFT: WHITNEY HACKETT AND JUAN PABLO 'J.P.' ALMONACID “Amor Florido” CENTER: KYM MASON “Birds of a Feather” RIGHT: RACHEL PIERCE “For the Love of San-Cap”

CHR launches hearts exhibit with gala set for next year

By TIFFANY REPECKI

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

Residents and visitors are invited to take part in an adventure that raises awareness for Community Housing & Resources, supports local artists and celebrates the artistic community of the islands.

Last month, CHR kicked off its “Hearts On Exhibit” by setting up 15 heart sculptures across Sanibel and in Fort Myers that have been turned into one-of-a-kind works of art by 16 area artists. Later in February, the pieces will be auctioned off for its “Give Your Heart To CHR Gallery Gala” fundraiser.

“We are incredibly grateful to all the artists who have contributed their time and creativity to CHR,” Executive Director Nicole Decker-McHale said.

“Their dedication and artistic vision have transformed our community into an open-air gallery, showcasing the beauty and creativity that thrives on our island.”

Many of the participating artists either work or live on the islands.

“They are all local artists and most of them have a connection with Sanibel,” CHR Executive Administrative Assistant Savannah Miller-Berg said.

Sculpted in Miami, the hearts are each about 3 feet by 4 feet. The pieces include: ∫ “Amor Florido” by Whitney Hackett and Juan Pablo “J.P.” Almonacid ∫ “Birds of a Feather” by Kym Mason ∫ “For the Love of San-Cap” by Rachel Pierce ∫ “HeART of Sanibel” by Kristina Jackson ∫ “Miracle Maker” by Anna Hicks ∫ “Pollinator Perseverance” by Toni Westland

∫ “Sanibel Bliss” by Arlene Stigum ∫ “Sanibel Oasis” by Taryn Manning ∫ “Sanibel Strong … Our Beat Goes On” by Lacy McClary ∫ “Sea Turtles — Sand to Sea” by Mary Harriman Klunk ∫ “Spirit of Sanibel” by Eric Riemenschneider ∫ “Silver Lining” by Ginny Simpson Dickinson ∫ “We, Too, Shall Rise” by Erica Sharp ∫ “Wild at Heart” by Rena Martinson ∫ “You Are My Sunshine” by Cheryl Logan “They are all Sanibel-themed and most of them are motivation after Hurricane Ian,” she said.

Miller-Berg pointed to “We, Too, Shall Rise” by Sharp, art teacher at The Sanibel School.

“That just kind of brings motivation by looking at her artwork,” she said.

“And I think it kind of allowed her to escape to a different realm after the hurricane and through the recovery.”

She noted the positivity radiating off Logan's “You Are My Sunshine.”

“It has bright colors, and it just shows the hope on Sanibel,” MillerBerg said.

Another sculpture was finished before Hurricane Ian struck. In creating “For the Love of San-Cap,” island artist Pierce spotlighted the Sanibel Lighthouse, which has become more iconic post-Ian. “It's now a big symbol for Sanibel because it withstood the storm,” she said.

“Pollinator Perseverance” crafted by Toni Westland, supervisory refuge ranger at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, highlights the recovery of the fauna and flora that was wiped out.

See HEARTS, page 25

COMMUNITY HOUSING & RESOURCES

Shell Find Junonia found on Sanibel

REFUGE/DDWS

Butcher will mount about 50 of her original works and prints. Prints will be available for sale through the Refuge Nature Store, whose profits benefit education and conservation at the refuge.

The DDWS support the refuge exhibitions.

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel.

Karon Hyde, of the United Kingdom, found a junonia on Dec. 4 at Pass on Blind Sanibel. She and her husband have been regular visitors to the area for years and visited their favorite spot to shell hunt. Hyde reported that it was a wonderful surprise when she saw the most perfect junonia rolling in the surf while walking, jumping into the water when she saw PHOTO PROVIDED the flash of brown spots. “I ran up the beach to show my husband and he still cannot believe I found another. I was fortunate to have found one back in 2010 at Bowman's Beach so never expected to find another,” she said. “It will take pride of place with the last find on display in our lounge. I really think you never find one of these special shells, rather they find you.” To report a shell find, contact 239-472-1587 or trepecki@breezenewspapers.com.

Hearts From page 24

Give Your Heart To CHR Gallery Gala The gala will be held on Feb. 3 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at The Community House on Sanibel. The proceeds will support CHR's mission to provide affordable housing and

resources to the Sanibel community.

“Ever since Hurricane Ian, I think housing has been on the minds of almost everybody, especially affordable housing.

With the causeway traffic, I know a lot of people experience frustration with their commute,” she said. “It really emphases how important affordable housing is for the community.”

All of the 15 pieces will be on display and exhibited together for attendees to view. The highlight for the evening will be the auctions, which will led by renowned, local auctioneer Tommy Williams.

“Ten of our hearts are going to be silent auction, and then we're going to have five hearts that will be live auction,” Miller-Berg said, noting that bids will be able to be placed in-person and via online.

The event will feature live music.

“We have a deejay and we're going to have all heart-themed songs,” she said.

Catering by Leslie Adams will curate a special meal.

“We're going to have a bar, as well,” Miller-Berg said. “So we'll have drinks and food.”

There will also be a raffle, with tickets for $100 each.

“We have two different baskets, and they're filled with lots of good prizes,” she said.

Those interested in the raffle but not in attending the gala will have an opportunity to purchase tickets on Jan. 14 at the Sanibel Island Farmers Market. CHR will have a booth set up and will sell them.

Attendees are asked to dress in festive white attire.

Event tickets are $150 each and are available at https://sancapchr.org/.

Miller-Berg noted that they were about halfway sold out as of Dec. 13.

“We're predicting that our tickets are going to sell out fast,” she said, recommending that those interested in attending secure their tickets soon.

The community is invited to grab their spots and enjoy the night out.

“This gala is going to be like nothing CHR has done in the past,” Miller-Berg said. “It's going to be very fun, elegant and just a really good time, while educating people about affordable housing.”

For more information, visit online or call 239-472-1189.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Miller-Berg at savannah@sanibelchr.org.

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

“So it's bringing back the wildlife and pollination,” Miller-Berg said. “She's emphasizing how important that is for our environment.”

The pieces are anticipated to be on display through the last week of January.

Two of the pieces will change venues after two months. The sites include businesses, attractions, restaurants and more.

“The locations are spread throughout the island, except for Congress Jewelers,” she said.

They include BIG ARTS, Cielo, Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille, Jerry's Foods, MudBugs Cajun Kitchen, Old Captiva House, SanCap Chamber, SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation's Bailey Homestead, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, Sanibel Public Library, Sanibel Recreation Center, The Community House, The Sanctuary Golf Club, The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company, The Sanibel School and Traders 2 on Sanibel, along with Congress at the Bell Tower in Fort Myers.

“We tried to do it where we would get tourists but also locals,” Miller-Berg said.

In addition to enjoying the sculptures, people can take part in the #CHRHeartSelfie campaign.

“We're trying to do a sort of fun game out of it,” she said. “If they take a picture with all 15 hearts and use that hashtag, they may receive a prize.”

The public is encouraged to get out and see the creations.

“The Hearts On Exhibit is a fun thing,” Miller-Berg said. “You can experience different businesses you may not have thought to go into before, but you also get to experience these beautiful heart pieces.”

captivasanibel.com

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel will host Niki Butcher's “Daydreaming” exhibition in the free Visitor & Education Center Auditorium from Dec. 21 through Feb. 25.

She specializes in hand-painted black-and-white photography glorifying nature’s beauty. Spouse of worldrenowned wildlife photographer Clyde Butcher, Butcher has made a name for herself capturing the splendor and authenticity of special places and people. She finds beauty not only in nature but also in the historical buildings and interesting people who inhabit the landscapes.

Inspired by the hand-painted postcards of the 1930s, Butcher's first started painting her black-and-white photographs in the 1980s. Using her own photographs, oil paints, Q-tips and cotton balls, she turned landscapes into dreamscapes and reality into fantasy.

Today, Butcher uses a similar technique to paint digitally.

“This is Niki’s first traveling exhibit, and we are the second showing of it,” “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman said. “It is a unique opportunity to view this exhibition before it begins its touring exhibition schedule.”

Page 25 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Refuge to host ‘Daydreaming’ exhibit

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

Report your news to CApTIvASANIBEL.CoM

Bank of the Islands donates to F.I.S.H. Bank of the Islands recently presented F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva with a $2,500 donation. In the days before Thanksgiving, customers and island neighbors were encouraged to stop by the bank's Sanibel lobby with canned food and dry goods for F.I.S.H.'s food pantry. In recognition of their donations, the first 25 donors were honored with a BANK OF THE ISLANDS $100 bank donation made in their F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva Disaster Administrative Director name.

Manuela Martinez and Executive Director Maria Espinoza with Richard Shera, Greg Blurton and David Lowden, of Bank of the Islands.

captivasanibel.com

Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 26

ISLAND HOME

islander

Sanibel Captiva

FAR LEFT: Sanibel Fire and Rescue District staffers Stephen Bledsoe, Arian Moore, Lt. Brian Howell and Dayan Concepcion.

LEFT: Sanibel-Captiva Lions Club members Tom Nachazel, Sharon Miller and Jerry Miller.

Florida peperomia

PHOTO PROVIDED

Florida peperomia is ideal for carefree gardeners Florida peperomia (Peperomia obstusifolia) is a native groundcover primarily used for natural landscapes and shade gardens in Southwest Florida.

The unique species is an epiphytic herb with thick succulent leaves 26 inches long. The plant grows 6-9 inches in height and spreads and forms clumps broader than it is tall. Preferring shade environments, the plant does best in moist, less fertile and well drained environments that mimic the moist hammocks and swamps where they are found naturally.

The plant is ideal for carefree gardeners as it is very easy to take care of once established.

Characterized as a slow growing groundcover, the plant can be spaced close together to encourage them to fill in faster.

The plant is classified as endangered in its natural environment as its numbers have declined due to poaching, exotic species invasion and habitat loss.

The peperomia plant can be propagated by cuttings, which makes the plant all the better to share with friends.

The plant will cascade over the side of a hanging basket or planter, making for a beautiful shade ornamental piece. The peperomia also comes in nonnative variegated varieties that tolerate a few hours of sunlight.

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.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA LIONS CLUB

Lions call holiday tradition a success The Sanibel-Captiva Lions Club sold out of trees for its annual Christmas Tree Fundraiser in about two weeks. It reported that it ordered a reduced number this year because of not knowing how many people would be on the islands and have an interest. The club expressed its appreciation to those who bought trees,

adding that it hopes it brought back a little normalcy and joy. It also thanked the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District for providing the muscle to help unload the trees, The Community House for letting it use the back parking lot as a tree lot, and the Lions and other volunteers who helped with the tree sales.

F.I.S.H. to hold distribution event In partnership with the United Way's Gifts-in-Kind Program, F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva continues to distribute furniture and rebuilding supplies through its Hurricane Ian Point of Distribution (POD) program. The next event will take place on Dec. 22 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Walk-In Center, at 2430 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. The program is available to Sanibel and

Captiva residents and workers; recipients must show proof of residency or employment. Available items

include furnishings, doors, windows, cabinetry, linens, microwaves and more. Recipients should bring a vehicle large enough for the items and some extra hands to lift them.

For more information, contact Disaster Administrative Director Manuela Martinez at 239-472-4775 or manuela@fishofsancap.org. For more information about F.I.S.H., visit https://www.fishofsancap.org/.

Quailberry is very drought tolerant

By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION A very attractive, yet underutilized native plant, quailberry (Crossopetalum ilicifolium) is a great groundcover that is very drought tolerant once established. It can also be used as a border plant along sidewalks or driveways — best planted in groupings for a nice effect. The quailberry's distinctive features are its festive holly-like leaves, as well as its showy red berries which birds like. It likes full sun to partial shade conditions, as well as dry soils.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Quailberry

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI A wonderful fall salad that is perfect for the approaching holiday season. Serve it hot or cold for lunch or dinner. Easy to make, it will keep in your refrigerator for several days. Serves eight. (Chef tip: Chop a few slices of bacon and toss them in for a richer flavor.)

1 small butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut in one-inch pieces, blanched 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and cut in half, blanched Juice of one lemon 1/4 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese 1/2 teaspoon fresh sage, minced

2 cloves garlic, minced 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Loretta Paganini

CROW Calendar The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW.

Love came down at Christmas John, on the other hand, Several years ago, I had expands his explanation of the chance to take one of Jesus’ special character by those Christmas tests that going back to the beginare designed to show how ning of creation and much of the Christmas describing Jesus as the story we’ve committed to “Logos,” the unifying prinheart comes from carols ciple to all existence. But and traditions more than it’s in the third chapter Holy Scripture. where I see John underFortunately, I didn’t scoring the truest and deepembarrass myself with the est meaning of this season results. I’d hate for the of the year in that passage word to get out that as a that was probably the first minister I didn’t score well Rev. Dr. Scripture verse we comon such a test, tricked up as Doug Dortch mitted to heart: “For God it may have been. But the so loved the world that He experience did get me to gave His Only Begotten thinking how important it is Son, that whosoever to pay close attention to believeth in him should not what the Bible has to say about the significance of perish, but have everlasting Jesus’ birth and to allow such truth to life” (Jn. 3:16). While there’s so much in form both our understanding of it and our that one verse for us to contemplate, the first part is especially meaningful in this commitment to it.

It wasn’t on the test I took, but one Christmas season. “For God so loved the question that might have been is: “In what world that He gave His Only Begotten two Gospels do we find the stories sur- Son” — herein lies the most profound rounding Jesus’ birth?” And of course, the purpose for Jesus’ birth: Jesus is the reveanswer to that question would be, lation of God’s love for the entire cre“Matthew and Luke.” Mark and John ation. Jesus’ birth is all the evidence we don’t contain birth narratives … or do need for how God does not give up on his wayward creation and in Jesus he has they?

Mark begins his Gospel with the sim- taken the initiative to reconcile the world ple affirmation that he is recording the to himself.

If you need any more biblical support, “good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.” In that one sentence Mark tips his then go to 2 Corinthians 5:17-21, where hand on how highly he esteems Jesus as the Apostle Paul expounds upon this gift the fulfillment of Messianic promises and of reconciliation and how Jesus is the the unique revelation of the divine nature bridge between a holy God and a fallen in the human Jesus. Jesus is for Mark the world. Then notice also how you and I, as ambassadors for Christ, have been granted “God/man.”

Faces on Faith

∫ Bat Yam Temple of the Islands 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel (Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ), https://www.batyam.org/, https://www.facebook.com/batyamsanibel/ Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer Sabbath service on Friday at 7 p.m. and via Zoom. 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. Dr. Doug Dortch In-person service on Sundays at 11 a.m. through April. Services will be videotaped and posted on the chapel's website and Facebook page. Services from the past season can also be found online. ∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida www.chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida.org Classes 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.

An informal “schmooze” session on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. For Zoom links, email ChavuratShalom@gmail.com. ∫ 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 Sanctuary. 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 Rev. Dr. Mark Boyea Sunday service at 10 a.m. in Fellowship Hall. ∫ Saint Isabel Catholic Church 3559 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, 239-472-2763, https://www.saintisabel.org/, https://www.facebook.com/stisabelcatholicchurch/ Father Edward Martin Friday Mass at 9 a.m. Weekend Masses on Saturday at 4 p.m. and Sunday at 10 a.m. ∫ Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-2173, https://www.saintmichaelssanibel.org/, https://www.facebook.com/saintmichaelssanibel/ Rev. William “Bill” Van Oss Advent services on Dec. 23 at 5 p.m. and Dec. 24 at 8 and 10:30 a.m. Christmas services on Dec. 24 at 4 and 8 p.m. and Dec. 25 at 10 a.m. Services will take place in the Sanctuary. the privilege of joining with Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John in announcing God’s reconciling intentions to the entire world.

If one of the deepest needs each of us has is to be loved, then Christmas is confirmation that the God who created us does so without our showing any reason for him to do so. Like all genuine gifts, God’s coming to us in the Bethlehem baby is an act of unmerited favor that gives us the chance of being made complete. All that is required is that we accept it and then order our lives around it.

So, I invite you to choose that answer in this yuletide season of the year and you will find the key to passing the most

important test of all, the test of redemption, which, when passed, brings the fullness of God’s favor to bear on every aspect of life here on earth and the assurance of eternal glory in the life that is to come. Simply put, how we receive Jesus is a question that none of us can ever really afford to miss.

“These (things) are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:31).

The Rev. Dr. Doug Dortch is the pastor at the Captiva Chapel by the Sea.

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

Admission to the center is currently free. Admittance includes the above daily presentations, and no reservations are required to attend.

In addition, CROW offers a Wildlife Walk Hospital Tour on Wednesdays through Fridays after the daily presentation. Limited to 12 people; participants must be age 10 or older. The cost is $25 per person; advanced registration and payment is required. To register, contact 239472-3644 ext.

229 or reservations@crowclinic.org.

For more information, visit http://www.crowclinic.org/ or call 239472-3644.

Island Worship

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The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife's Visitor Education Center, at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, will present the following: ∫ Today, Dec. 20 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW. ∫ Thursday, Dec. 21 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW. ∫ Friday, Dec. 22 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The program will cover a variety of topics related to wildlife and patient care at CROW. ∫ Wednesday, Dec. 27 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add squash and cook until just fork tender. Remove squash and then add Brussel sprouts. Cook Brussel sprouts for five minutes.

Heat olive oil in a large saute pan. Turn heat up to medium-high and add blanched butternut squash and Brussel sprouts to the pan; cook until the edges are browned and crispy. Add garlic and sage and cook two to three more minutes, keeping all of the vegetables moving in the pan so as not to burn them.

Add lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Serve topped with ParmigianoReggiano cheese.

Page 27 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023

Recipe of the Week: Sauteed Brussel Sprouts and Squash Salad with Sage

Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 28 captivasanibel.com Sanibel-Captiva Islander

islandBEAT islander Sanibel Captiva

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Cielo, 1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

MudBugs Cajun Kitchen, 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

SLIMTRONIC5000 5 to 8:30 p.m.

YARD DOG CHARLIE 5 to 8:30 p.m.

PRESTON HAMILTON 5 to 8:30 p.m.

BRIAN BEARDEN 5 to 8:30 p.m.

ROY SCHNEIDER 5 to 8:30 p.m.

J.D. INGALLS 5 to 8:30 p.m.

ANTHONY PICONE 5 to 8:30 p.m.

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

ROYCE ALLGOOD noon to 4:30 p.m.

FRANK THOMSON 5:30 to 10 p.m.

SAMUEL FELKER noon to 4:30 p.m.

PAT McCUNE 5:30 to 10 p.m.

ARON SEYFFERTH noon to 4:30 p.m.

FRANK THOMSON 5:30 to 10 p.m.

ROYCE ALLGOOD noon to 4:30 p.m.

FACE2FACE RENITA AND PAUL 5:30 to 10 p.m.

SAMUEL FELKER noon to 4:30 p.m.

GEO RODERICK 5:30 to 10 p.m.

ROYCE ALLGOOD noon to 4:30 p.m.

PAT McCUNE 5:30 to 10 p.m.

ROYCE ALLGOOD noon to 4:30 p.m.

GEO RODERICK 5:30 to 10 p.m.

JOHN McLANE 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

DANNY MORGAN 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Rosalita's Cantina, 975 Rabbit Road, Sanibel

SCOTT McDONALD 5 to 8:30 p.m.

MARIACHI VILLA DE GUADALUPE 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Traders, 1551 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

PETER REDPATH 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

DANNY MORGAN AND JOHN McLANE DUO 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

CHRIS WORKMAN 6 to 9 p.m.

JENNY VE 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

DANNY MORGAN 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

PETER REDPATH 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

JOSH ROWLAND AND DANI LIGHTNER 6:30 p.m.

KARAOKE 8 to 10 p.m.

SCUCC to host annual Messiah Sing The Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ will presents its third annual Messiah Sing, “Messiah Unplugged,” on Dec. 26 at 3 p.m. in its Fellowship Hall, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Attendees will be invited to sing-along with an organ to the complete Christmas portion of George Frideric Handel's “Messiah — Part I.” It will be followed by the last two movements,

“Worthy is the Lamb” and “Amen,” and will conclude with the “Hallelujah Chorus.” Because the Sanctuary remains under reconstruction, there is no room for an orchestra this year.

Also, soloists will provide special musical interludes, and a reception will follow.

For more information, contact the office at 239-472-0497.

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

“The Polar Express”

Registration is required for workshops by calling 239-395-0900.

For more information or tickets, visit www.bigarts.org.

“The Polar Express” will be shown on Dec. 21 at 6:30 p.m. The event is free, but tickets are required.

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

Painting with Friends Painting with Friends will be held today, Dec. 20, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Bring you own supplies. Cost is $10 donation; register and pay at the door. For more information, contact Jane Hudson at janehudsonpainter@yahoo.com.

Painting with Friends Painting with Friends will be held on Dec. 27 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Bring you own supplies. Cost is $10 donation; register and pay at the door.

For more information, contact Jane

Hudson at janehudsonpainter@yahoo .com.

Shell Critter Kits are available for purchase in a variety of different options. Cost is $5 per kit with all of the supplies included, except for glue.

Order them in-person at TCH or call 239-472-2155.

TCH is accepting art vendors for the 87th Sanibel Historical Annual Shell Festival on March 7-9. Reservations are available for 8-foot tables for $150 and include all three days.

TCH office hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For more information, visit www.sanibelcommunityhouse.net or contact 239-472-2155 or office@ sanibelcommunityhouse.net.

Keep Sanibel beautiful...

Please recycle!

MICHAEL DAVID 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

LAST CALL TRIVIA 7 to 9 p.m.

Santiva Islanders Calendar The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

Coffee Bistro Coffee Bistro will be held on Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Coffee and other beverages will be served.

Volunteers will be available to answer questions, register new members, offer signups for activities and more. Enter off of Dunlop Road.

Stretch and Tone Mahnaz Bassir will host Stretch and Tone on Dec. 21 from 1 to 2 p.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. It will involve toning exercises, balance movements and total body stretches. Bring water and a towel; the exercises are done standing or sitting in chairs, so no mat is needed.

Cost per class is $5 for members and $10 for non-members. Enter off of Dunlop Road.

Coffee Bistro Cardio and Strength Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio and Strength on Dec. 21 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. It will involve light to moderate aerobics, strength and balance exercises, and stretching. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required. Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $40 per month for members or $10 per class and $80 per month for non-members.

Enter off of Dunlop Road.

Mahjong Mahjong will be held on Dec. 21 from noon to 2:30 p.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. For more information, contact Robin Christian at fwrobin01@att.net. Enter off of Dunlop Road.

Bridge Bridge will be held on Dec. 21 from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Chicago scoring will be used, and pairs will rotate tables every four or six hands. For more information, contact Bryant Korn at bryantekorn@gmail.com. Enter off of Dunlop Road.

Coffee Bistro will be held on Dec. 26 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Coffee and other beverages will be served.

Volunteers will be available to answer questions, register new members, offer signups for activities and more. Enter off of Dunlop Road.

Cardio and Strength Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio and Strength on Dec. 26 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at The Gathering Place @ St. Michael's at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. It will involve light to moderate aerobics, strength and balance exercises, and stretching. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required. Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $40 per month for members or $10 per class and $80 per month for non-members.

Enter off of Dunlop Road.

The Santiva Islanders serve all adult islanders and visitors, regardless of age.

The cost is $25 for an annual membership.

The Island Seniors raise funding to help defray the cost of the program activities.

For more information, visit https://santivaislanders.org/ or contact santivaislanders@gmail.com.

Wines in the Wild a glowing success

Fort Myers and The Sanibel School, promoting good health, exercise and getting outdoors. In addition, the DDWS donated award medals for the Tice winners.

REFUGE/DDWS

Wines in the Wild co-founder Linda Uhler and Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Chief Executive Officer James Evans.

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge reported that J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge education team recently assisted with Turkey Trot runs at Tice Elementary in

captivasanibel.com

Refuge outreach update

A sold-out crowd attended the Conservation Sanibel-Captiva Foundation's 14th annual Wines in the Wild on Nov. 17 at the Bailey Homestead Preserve on Sanibel.

Presented by Bank of the Islands, the event raised a record-breaking amount of sponsorship fees, ticket sales and auction proceeds, netting out to over $110,000. Of that amount, $42,785 was raised to help replace the Native Plant Propagation Facility at the Native Landscapes & Garden Center, bringing the SCCF within $35,000 of its total campaign goal for the project. The facility was under construction before Hurricane Ian destroyed it in September 2022. The balance of about $67,000 from the fundraiser will support the annual operating budget and the SCCF's work across all of its program areas.

Page 29 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

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Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 30

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Sanibel-Captiva Islander

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Week of Wednesday, December 20, 2023 ■ Page 32