Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

WEEk OF DECEMBER 27, 2023

VOLUME 62, NUMBER 6

Lee Health sets town halls on structure of governance

By MEGHAN BRADBURY

news@breezenewspapers.com

Fire district holds awards, staff appreciation banquet

By TIFFANY REPECKI

T

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

he Sanibel Fire and Rescue District recently celebrated its dedicated staff and their achievements throughout the year, as well as thanked island entities and others that helped after Hurricane Ian. The district hosted its Annual Awards/Employee Appreciation Banquet on Dec. 2 at The Community House on Sanibel. Last year's event was canceled due to the storm, so it was a night to remember.

“We have, historically, done the annual banquet to kind of give thanks to our staff and our team,” Fire Chief Kevin Barbot said, explaining that it is typically a district event attended only by employees.

“This year, we decided to extend it and invite all the playmakers who were there for us after Ian,” he added, noting that the district recognized those who assisted with the post-hurricane operations, volunteered their time or donated resources.

During the event, a video about Ian was played, which stirred up emotions among those attending.

“People are still mentally grasping with what we went through,” Barbot said.

Lee Health board members and senior leaders are gearing up to hold town hall meetings to answer the public’s questions regarding the system’s exploration of becoming a private nonprofit.

It is now one of the largest not-forprofit public health systems in the country.

President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Larry Antonucci said what makes Lee Health unique under its current structure is that although public, it does not have taxing authority in a state where 28 hospital districts do and so receive sales tax or ad valorem revenue to help support operations.

“We don’t have that advantage. It doesSee LEE HEALTH, page 22

IslanderInsIde

See BANQUET, page 21 The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District held its Annual Awards/Employee Appreciation Banquet on Dec. 2 at The Community House on Sanibel SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT

CROW announces winners of Annual Taste of the Islands The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife recently announced the winners of the 42nd Taste of the Islands — REBUILDING, which featured on- and off-island restaurants with the goal of rebuilding after Hurricane Ian. Local judges Sanibel City Councilmember Holly Smith, NBC2 News Anchor Peter Busch, local Chef Jarred Harris, Edison National Bank/Bank of the Islands Chief Executive Officer and President Geoff and Robbie Roepstorff, National Food, Wine, & Travel writer Gina Birch, and Chef Derek Stone rated See CROW, page 22

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife recently announced the winners of the 42nd Taste of the Islands — REBUILDING. CLINIC FOR THE REHABILITATION OF WILDLIFE

alsOInsIdetOday Guest Commentary........................4 Web Poll.........................................4 Captiva Current..........................6-7 Business......................................8 Preserving Paradise.....................14 Island Living................................18 Sports.........................................20 Classifieds 31

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Week of Wednesday, December 27, 2023 ■ Page 2 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

Hearing on removal of Chiquita Lock concludes

By CJ HADDAD

cjhaddad@breezenewspapers.com

A hearing to determine whether the state should issue a permit allowing the city of Cape Coral to remove the Chiquita Lock concluded on Dec. 20.

The next steps will be post-hearing briefs of the parties filed in late January or early February, followed by a written decision by Administrative Law Judge Suzanne Van Wyk, which will be a recommended final order.

The parties may then file written exceptions to all, or parts of the recommended order. The final order, with exceptions, will then go to the Secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for review and final say.

The hearing will determine whether the FDEP can move forward with its announced intent to issue the permit to allow the removal of the lock based on a plan the city says will improve the quality of water that flows into the South Spreader canal.

“The final administrative hearing pertaining to the petitioner’s challenge of the city’s Environmental Resource Permit (“ERP”) for the removal of the Chiquita Boat Lock was concluded on December 20, 2023, and the Administrative Law Judge (“ALJ”) will be issuing her recommended order to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (“FDEP”),” the city said in a provided statement on Dec. 21. “In consideration of the factual and expert testimonial evidence that was presented at the final administrative hearing by the city and FDEP, the city is opti-

FILE PHOTO

mistic that this evidence has established a clear legal right and entitlement to the ERP and that the ALJ’s recommended order will support its issuance to the city.”

The challenge was filed by the Matlacha Civic Association and other parties who oppose the water retention device’s removal. The petitioners contend the application “fails to meet any of the standards required under Florida Law.” “Your readers are getting a glimpse of what I would call the ‘Pollution Industry,'” Michael Hannon, president of the Matlacha Civic Association and the attorney representing the challenging parties, said. “Florida’s rules and procedures are now Byzantine and arcane, formulated by lawyers and bureaucrats who are inbred in the Pollution Industry. When ordi-

nary citizens challenge any environmental permit, they are met by high-priced lawyers and experts and a hearing process which has its own rules.”

Calusa Waterkeeper Emeritus John Cassani, in testimony at the trial on the removal of the Chiquita Boat Lock, exposed major failings in the FDEP which allow the city to “continue polluting the waters of Matlacha Pass and the Caloosahatchee River without adverse consequences,” he added.

At the trial, Cassani discussed the department’s major tool intended to clean up the waters of the state, the Basin Management Action Plan, referred to as BMAP. Hannon said the BMAP for the Cape sets a target for removal of nitrogen from the surrounding waters at 38,965 pounds of nitrogen per year. FDEP and the city claim to have overachieved this target, relying on “credits” assigned by the department to off-set the municipality’s yearly goal.

Cassani said the problem is that the goal was established in 2012, and that the FDEP has never updated the goal consistent with data collected on a timely basis

in the waters around the Cape.

Hannon said that in so doing, the BMAP program only falls further behind while creating the illusion that restoration of water quality is on track.

“This process is truly unfortunate,” Hannon said. “Florida, the city of Cape Coral, and businesses in our state have plenty of money to develop prudently and protect the environment at the same time.

Advancements in environmental protection are available to keep our waters clean. Under the processes created by the ‘Pollution Industry,’ there is no incentive to do so.”

According to public records, the city has paid attorneys handling the Chiquita Lock case $1,038,804 from September 2020 to this past September. Additional fees in the six-figure amounts will be incurred from experts, and additional attorney costs from October to December.

“I estimate that Cape Coral will have paid its attorneys nearly $1.5 million before the case is over,” Hannon said.

“The fees to experts will likely approach $500,000.”

Read the full article for free by visiting it online at www.captivasanibel.com.

FDOT provides update on causeway project The Florida Department of Transportation reported that as part of the emergency restoration of the Sanibel Causeway, crews continue work on McGregor Boulevard and the causeway from Port Comfort Road to Sanibel. The causeway islands surrounding the temporary roadway are an active work zone and are currently closed for public access, including from the water.

Effective Dec. 23, motorists should expect smoother, less restrictive travel with two, 12-foot lanes with shoulders on the majority of the causeway.

Motorists should continue to expect a daily lane closure on weekdays on eastbound McGregor between the toll plaza and Port Comfort for material delivery.

The closure is not anticipated to affect

traffic and will be removed if causing delays.

Through the end of the year, motorists should expect isolated flagging operations, an uneven road surface, periodic shoulder closures, workers and equipment close to the road, and numerous dump trucks entering and exiting Punta Rassa to deliver project supplies.

Many oversized vehicles are crossing the causeway to assist with recovery efforts on the island. The FDOT asked that motorists be patient as travel may be slower than usual. Bicyclists are encouraged to utilize another mode of transportation to travel the causeway and pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway.

Motorists are reminded to obey the posted speed limit of 20 mph.

Correction In the Dec. 20, 2023, issue of the Sanibel-Captiva Islander, it was incorrectly reported that F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva will hold its next Hurricane Ian Point of Distribution (POD) event on Dec. 22.

The correct date is Dec. 29 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Walk-In Center, at 2430 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Page 3 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 27, 2023 captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

Report your news to CAPTIvASAnIbEl.CoM

Construction on Sanibel Causeway Sanibel is founded on severthrough the Florida al shared values. One of those Department of Transportation, shared values is community — has been successful in rebuild“Sanibel is and shall remain a ing the causeway in record small town community whose time. As the FDOT has worked members choose to live in harto reach substantial completion mony with one another and of the roadway in recent with nature, creating a human weeks, lane closures have been settlement distinguished by its required daily. These lane clodiversity, beauty, uniqueness, sures are necessary to mostly character and stewardship.” complete the travel lanes and Without question, Hurricane provide more predictable drive Ian has posed many challenges times on the causeway by the to our community since the end of 2023. The resulting powerful storm made landfall effect is congestion on the Dana Souza on this sanctuary island in mainland side of the causeway September 2022. Collectively, in the morning hours and conhowever, Sanibel’s residents, gestion on Sanibel during the businesses, visitors, employees, evening hours. and contractors have worked While the travel time hand-in-hand to overcome the between the island and the physical, emotional, spiritual, personal, and mainland has taken more than an hour and structural losses this community has endured. sometimes more in recent days, there is a light While the recovery for some is further along at the end of the tunnel. As it stood as of Dec. than others, together, those who live, work, 21, the FDOT expected two, 12-foot travel and recreate on Sanibel have been steadfast in lanes to be open by the end of Dec. 22. fostering the slow but steady recovery efforts.

As frustration builds among residents and One of the most significant challenges Ian commuters, tempers have gotten the best of inflicted on Sanibel, has been the reconstruc- some people and they have displayed this tion of the Sanibel Causeway. Much has been anger toward each other, toward the city’s trafaccomplished on this critical connection fic aides and Sanibel’s police officers. This between Sanibel and Captiva, and the main- behavior is not acceptable, and regardless of land of Lee County. our individual level of frustration, I ask that Immediately following the storm, Gov. you all remain patient as the FDOT completes Ron DeSantis committed that the causeway its work over the next few days. would be reconstructed with temporary repairs Please remember that Ian is the cause of the to ensure traffic could flow to and from traffic problems we face. The FDOT staff and Sanibel and Captiva while long-term and per- contractors performing the construction on the manent repairs were undertaken. The state, causeway and the police personnel working to

Guest Commentary

Island Reporter

captivasanibel.com

Week of Wednesday, December 27, 2023 ■ Page 4

OPINIONS

manage the traffic congestion on Sanibel are performing their jobs under very difficult circumstances. They are people who deserve our appreciation for their efforts and should not be subject to outbursts of anger and dangerous behaviors. Those who violate traffic laws will be cited. Those who threaten police personnel will face possible arrest.

Sanibel is a community where people live and work in harmony with each other — and this island settlement has a long history of lifting each other up to overcome adversities. As you travel to and from Sanibel in the upcoming days, please understand there is the potential for significant travel delays and be patient.

If you can leave Sanibel or Captiva early to avoid the evening rush hour traffic, please do so. If you need to be off island for a time specific, please be sure to plan your departure time accordingly. Apple, Google, and Waze GPS mapping systems can provide you with good information on travel time to and from Sanibel. Please consider downloading the Sanibel Bound mobile app on your smart phone too as it will provide you with live camera views of traffic at key intersections on the island. You may also access Sanibel Bound on your computer by visiting https://www.mysanibel.com/live-street-cams.

While I cannot provide an absolute guarantee that the traffic congestion will return to pre-storm conditions in January, I do feel confident that the impacts from causeway roadwork will be lessened.

I wish you and your families the very best this holiday season.

Dana Souza is the city manager for the city of Sanibel.

A teacher’s impact goes beyond classroom

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

For all my life, I’ve wanted to be a teacher. Growing up in Puerto Rico, my fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Morales, was my biggest inspiration. She made learning a fun experience for us, and her approach to teaching encouraged me to pursue the profession.

Through the years, I remained on that path, which has led me to where I am today.

The School District of Lee County has been my home for the last 31 years. I was a classroom teacher at Lehigh Acres Middle and Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle, then transitioned to a role at the district office to continue enhancing ESOL resources for area students. While I have loved every moment of being a teacher and administrator, this past summer, I decided it was time to close this chapter of my life and retire. Soon after, I received a phone call that changed everything.

My loving family threw me a party to celebrate my retirement. During the festivities, I received a Facetime call from a previous student, Jose Palma, who is now pursuing acting in England. He expressed the impact I’ve had on his life and how grateful he was. He said, “Thank you for being a second mother to me. I am so proud of you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you’ve done for me. You have been one of the most influential mentors I have ever had.”

As teachers, we never expect to hear such a heartfelt thank you from our students.

We do our job because we love

Dr. Evelyn Rivera

Guest Commentary

it and want to see children succeed. Still, he reminded me of how my teaching contributed to his accomplishments, and those of all my other former students. When Jose shared this experience with me, he made me realize that I’m not ready for my teaching career to be over. I know I can still make an impact on more students’ lives.

Teaching has been the most rewarding experience for me. I started my career impacting students’ lives, and See TEACHER’S IMPACT, page 7

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 27, 2023 captivasanibel.com

Island Reporter

WEEK OF DECEMBER 27, 2023

CIHS to honor Anders with Betty Anholt award

By STAFF REPORT

trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

An upcoming celebration will recognize the contributions of an island historian and educator.

The Captiva Island Historical Society will present Kristie Anders with the second Betty Anholt Guardian of History Award on Jan. 7 starting at 6 p.m. at a tented reception at McCarthy's Marina on Captiva. The event will feature a video tribute and testimonials, honoring her contributions and accomplishments in fostering and preserving island history.

The Captiva Island Historical Society will honor Kristie Anders with the Betty Anholt Guardian of History Award on Jan. 7 at a tented reception at McCarthy's Marina on Captiva.

CAPTIVA ISLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY

“As an island historian, conservationist, educator and past member of the CIHS board of directors, Anders has freely shared her time and vast knowledge over decades,” it shared. “The track record she has built through her educational efforts is remarkable.”

“Anders is a living model of the Captiva Island Historical Society's mission of gathering, preserving, interpreting and sharing history,” the CIHS added.

She has been a ranger and interpretive naturalist for the National Park Service, as well as served as executive See CIHS, page 7

County reports on schedules for upcoming holiday Most Lee County administrative operations will be closed on Dec. 29 and Jan. 1 in observance of the New Year's 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. 30.

Normal hours will resume on Jan. 2.

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 ondemand or Passport services on Jan. 1.

Normal service will resume on Jan. 2. The Blue and Gold River District Trolley Lines See SCHEDULES, page 7 SOUTH SEAS

Rendering of the Redfish Grill restaurant.

South Seas announces proposed redevelopment plan South Seas recently unveiled its redevelopment plan, adding that it maintains the historic character and coastal charm that defines Captiva, while modernizing the property to enhance the guest experience.

“Our goal is to preserve and celebrate the history of South Seas, while adding amenities, building more current hotels, luxury residential and improving overall aesthetics,” South Seas Ownership Group President Greg Spencer said in a prepared statement. “It's a thoughtful fresh approach that will restore a sense of coastal grandeur.”

The zoning application — a requirement as the resort rebuilds after Hurricane Ian — proposes that structures

Annual reading festival to welcome bestselling authors Rendering of The Clutch clubhouse. would be rebuilt up to 45 feet above the minimum permittable habitable floor and include up to three stories over parking or commercial space. South Seas reported that its commitment to environmental sustainability and conservation will be reflected in the building and golf course design, restoration of the Red Fish Pass revetment, reconstruction of the fishing pier and other initiatives. The proposed plan also maintains all existing preservation space and wetlands.

Spencer presented the redevelopment plan to owners on Dec. 14, prior to submitting the zoning application to Lee County. The new structures would be built to withstand

Rendering of The Beach House beachfront restaurant.

See REDEVELOPMENT PLAN, page 7

The Lee County Library System, of which the Captiva Memorial Library is a part of, will host 30 bestselling authors during its 25th annual Southwest Florida Reading Festival on March 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the outdoor campus of the Fort Myers Regional Library, at 2450 First St., Fort Myers.

At the free event, authors for all ages will meet with fans and showcase their books.

The outdoor celebration will give fans the opportunity to meet a diverse line-up of bestselling authors, get books signed, and discover the latest books and digital resources offered by the library. In addition, there will be storytelling, a book giveaway for children and teens, youth See READING FESTIVAL, page 7

director of the “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge for six years. For 30 years, Anders served as education director for the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation. During that time, some of her additional titles included: ∫ Coastal ecosystems instructor for the Florida Master Naturalist Program ∫ Board member and newsletter editor of the League of Environmental Educators in Florida ∫ Instructor for the Academy of Realtors, Fort Myers ∫ Primary study leader for the Smithsonian Associates Program and Elderhostel ∫ Board officer of the Sanibel-Captiva Audubon

Society ∫ Contributing writer for local, regional and national films, publications and websites Anders has earned many awards for her efforts, including “Citizen of the Year,” “Woman of the Islands,” and both state and national designations of the “Take Pride in America” Award.

“Kristie shares her comprehensive knowledge of Florida history through presentations sparked with personal experience and lively stories,” the CIHS reported.

The Betty Anholt Guardian of History Award honors a “Guardian of History” for their “Lifetime achievement in interpreting and sharing history of the islands.” The

first one went to Anholt.

Tickets are $50 and include a barbecue dinner, wine, beer and soft drinks.

As of Dec. 19, about 45 tickets were available.

To reserve a ticket, visit http://www.captivaislandhistoricalsociety.org/ or call 239-472-2323.

The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company is the presenting sponsor for the CIHS season.

For more information, contact mail@captivaislandhistoricalsociety.org or call 239-472-2323.

McCarthy's Marina is at 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva.

Redevelopment plan From page 6

South End ∫ New Captiva Landing amenity with water slide, lazy river, cove pool, Flippers restaurant, arcade and Camptiva kids’ club ∫ Captiva Landing marina with water sports programming and potential for interpretive trail ∫ Centralized resort services building

∫ Beachfront condominium ∫ Hotel with event space ∫ Eco-friendly, all-electric golf cart rental space ∫ New concept for Shops at South Seas with mix of national retailers and local businesses

North End ∫ Hotel ∫ Beachfront condominium ∫ Bayfront condominium ∫ Newly envisioned short golf course, The Clutch ∫ South Seas Spa & Fitness Center ∫ Beachfront restaurant, The Beach House ∫ Re-engineered stormwater and drainage system The resort added that some redevelopment initiatives were in the planning phase prior to Ian. Under its new leadership, the resort's investment in the proposed improvements would reach the high nine figures.

“We desire to be the No. 1 family

captivasanibel.com

185 mph winds, with ample flood protection.

South Seas reported that under the proposal, it would maintain its existing approval to develop up to 272 residential units by building new waterfront condominiums. It would include the construction of the north hotel with 185 to 225 hotel keys, replacing the Harborside Hotel, and the south hotel with 180 to 210 hotel keys, replacing the conference center. Both of those buildings were damaged during Ian. The plan breaks down the proposed enhancements into two areas:

SOUTH SEAS

Rendering of the Scoops & Slices shop. resort not just in Florida, but throughout place as the favorite vacation destinathe nation,” Spencer said in the state- tion of families for generations to ment. “Some of these proposed come.” upgrades were years overdue, but our South Seas is at 5400 Plantation vision for South Seas is to recapture our Road, Captiva.

serves will remain open from Dec. 29 to Jan. 1. Pools will be closed from Dec. 30 to Jan. 2; normal hours will resume on Jan. 3.

The administration office will be closed on Dec. 29 and Jan. 1; normal hours will resume on Jan. 2. The recreation centers — North Fort Myers, Veterans and Estero — will be closed from now to Jan. 7 for scheduled annual maintenance; they will reopen on Jan. 8. For alternative parks sites, visit www.leeparks.org. ∫ Solid waste There will not be any regular garbage,

recycling and yard waste collection on Jan. 1 for unincorporated Lee County, the city of Bonita Springs and town of Fort Myers Beach. If the regular collection day is Monday, the collection truck will pick up that material on Tuesday. The regular collection schedule will resume on Jan. 8.

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. 29 and Jan. 1. The Resource Recovery Facility in Buckingham will be closed on Jan. 1, but open on Dec. 29-30; it will also be open on Jan. 6. The LeeHendry Landfill and the LaBelle Transfer Station will be open on Dec. 29 from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Dec. 30 from 7 a.m. to noon.

year’s authors can attend “An Evening with the Authors” on March 1 at the historic Burroughs Home and Gardens on the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers. The signature fundraising event gives attendees time to mingle with the authors, while enjoying dinner.

For more information about the festi-

val, author lineup and more, visit Readfest.org.

The Southwest Florida Reading Festival is free and community-supported through donations, sponsorships and grants. To support the event, visit www.ReadFest.org or contact 239-5334832.

more and explore opportunities at the school district. It has a variety of positions open, allowing you the chance to discover your passion. A job in the district could turn into a life-long career like it did for me. Teaching has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and I truly could not imagine myself doing anything else.

Dr. Evelyn Rivera has led a 31-year career as an educator in Lee County and is a teacher at Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle. For more information about careers with the School District of Lee County, visit LeeSchools.net/Careers.

Reading festival From page 6 writing award presentations, arts and crafts and more. Food truck vendors will be available at the event.

“We are so excited to celebrate the festival’s 25th anniversary,” festival coordinator and library system Manager of Programming and Community Outreach Melissa Baker said. “Throughout the years,

the festival has attracted many authors at different stages in their careers.”

The first festival in 2000 was held at Centennial Park in Fort Myers. With over 12,000 attendees, the event featured 28 authors including journalist Carl Hiaasen as the keynote speaker.

Attendees wanting more access to this

Teacher’s impact From page 4 I now know that is how I want to end my career, too. The classroom is my home, and I’m so glad I’ve made the decision to return.

Through these past 31 years, I have seen the district change and grow so much. Our students come from all over the world with different language proficiencies and academic levels. Seeing them

succeed is so rewarding. My former students are doing some incredible things and I’m so grateful that I am able to witness that. Watching my students grow into adults who are positively changing the world with their different talents is one of the biggest blessings I will ever know.

If you are interested in making this type of impact, I encourage you to learn

Captiva Current

Schedules From page 6 will run until 1 a.m. on Jan. 1 to accommodate celebrations. For specific route and schedule information, visit www.rideleetran.com. ∫ Library system All library branches will be closed on Dec. 30 and Jan. 1, including the Captiva Memorial Library. Library administration and Home Borrower Services will be closed on Dec. 29 and Jan. 1. The library is always open online at leelibrary.net. ∫ Parks & Recreation Beaches, boat ramps, parks and pre-

Page 7 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 27, 2023

CIHS From page 6

Week of Wednesday, December 27, 2023 ■ Page 8 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

BUSINESS

The 2024 “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge Board of Directors include, from left, front, Robin Cook, Barb Bluedorn and Nancy Felker; back, Phyllis Gresham, Immediate Past President Wendy Kindig, Secretary Mark Heiman and President Bill Harkey. Not pictured are Vice President Bill Millar, Treasurer Bill Valerian, David Jeffrey, Dick Levinson and Stuart Sergeant.

REFUGE/DDWS

Marley Mech will help out with STEM curriculum in the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Wildlife on Wheels mobile outreach classroom.

Refuge hires new environmental educator Marley Mech, a former science teacher at Gateway Charter Elementary School in Fort Myers, has joined the education team at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel as a part-time educator for the Wildlife on Wheels mobile outreach classroom.

Originally from Noblesville, Indiana, she has lived in Florida since 2008, and taught fourth- and fifthgraders at Gateway from 2019 to 2022.

“My favorite things to teach about are plants and animals,” Mech said. “What excites me most about working with the WoW team is that I get to reach so many people with conservation education. This is my passion and what I absolutely love to teach, especially in this beautiful state I call home. I look forward to working with a diverse population of students teaching concepts that I value.”

The WoW reaches more than 7,500 students each year, targeting Title I schools in the Tice and Lehigh Acres communities to teach about refuge wildlife and habitat and water quality in accordance with STEM and Sunshine State standards.

“We welcome Marley and already value her as an important asset to our team, which school administration and educators hail for its effectiveness in getting students excited about natural science and general learning about health and related topics,” Urban Education leader Melissa Maher, who heads the team, said.

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge supports both Mech's and Maher's positions, along with interns, maintenance and operation for the WoW.

Business Notes CHR welcomes new bookkeeper Community Housing & Resources recently announced Kim Jacobson is its new bookkeeper.

A Minnesota native, she moved to Fort Myers Beach in 2021 after serving 25 years as chief financial officer and managing partner for TEAMAbsolute, a software consulting company.

See BUSINESS NOTES, page 12

Report your news to CaPTIVaSaNIBEL.COM

REFUGE/DDWS

DDWS elects new emeritus, board officers The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge held its annual meeting on Dec. 6 at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel.

Among the reports and other business items on the agenda, the board of directors voted Past President Sarah Ashton to the emeritus board.

Following the meeting, the board of directors met to elect officers for 2024. The officers are: President Bill Harkey, Vice President Bill Millar, Secretary Mark Heiman and Treasurer Bill Valerian.

Immediate Past President Wendy Kindig and “Ding”

Darling Complex leader Kevin Godsea reviewed a year that concentrated on hurricane recovery and a gradual return to normalcy. He also reported on upcoming projects, including control structures on Wildlife Drive to improve water quality.

“I really can't thank you enough for what the society has done in the past year,” Godsea said. “It’s been a wild year. The board took quick action to get cleanup started in a very timely manner.”

To access the DDWS 2022-23 annual report, visit dingdarlingsociety.org/articles/about-us.

Island representatives appear before special state committee On Dec. 11, three members of the Sanibel community appeared before the Florida House of Representatives' Select Committee on Hurricane Resiliency and Recovery in Tallahassee to present updates and need assessments to the 15-person committee.

Representing the island were City Councilmember and former Mayor Holly Smith, SanCap Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai and and restaurateur Marty Harrity. Town of Fort Myers Beach Mayor Dan Allers also took part.

The committee, formed following Hurricane Ian, heard updated reports on the status of Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel and Captiva, including the economic impact the hurricane continues to have on the barrier island communities, gratitude for earlier assistance and requests for further financial aid.

“Right now, our goal is to make sure every single business that opens stays open, and that we expedite a five-to-10-year (recovery) timeline to a three-to-fiveyear timeline,” Lai, who also represents the Southwest Florida chapter of the Florida Lodging & Restaurant Association, said.

He reported the chamber currently has 104 business members — including boat captains, wedding photographers and other businesses not occupying brick-and-mortar storefronts — and 50 visitors to the chamber welcome center on an average per day. It compares to 541 business members and 219 daily chamber visitors preIan. Lai concluded with “three asks” of the committee: a state-level equivalent to ineffective federal Small Business Administration loans as a recovery mechanism; help with property insurance shortcomings; and a look at upcoming legislation resulting from Florida's Surfside

Holly Smith John Lai Condo 2021 collapse, which would require steep reserve funds and increased homeowner association dues.

Smith, who repeatedly commended the state's quick action and robust support, added to the wish list requests for a resilient state transportation system, underground power lines and permanent barge landings.

“We agree with the Legislature that for a temporary period, our Code should foster development while maintaining the local small-town and sanctuary qualities of Sanibel,” she said.

Smith, Lai and Allers shared charts showing statistics on how the communities have suffered financial losses.

The graphics are available for viewing in the committees section at myfloridahouse.gov.

Rep. Adam Botana, committee co-chair and local district representative, closed the meeting by thanking the committee and offering a ray of optimism.

“Our district is very resilient, and we're going to fight back and be bigger and better than ever,” he said.

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Island Reporter

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Week of Wednesday, December 27, 2023 ■ Page 10

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Business Notes From page 8 Since then, has Jacobson worked as a financial controller at local businesses, while running Kimmy's Ice Cream Treats.

Displaced by Hurricane Ian, she eventually shut down her ice cream business.

Kim Jacobson Jacobson has served on several boards, including in officer roles. She has also volunteered as a middle school diving coach, fastpitch softball coach, a certified ski and snowboard instructor, and she has taught line dancing.

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San Cap Bank promotes Bell, Becker

SCIAR releases market report

Island Reporter

The Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors released its market report for the islands for October. The figures are based on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) as of Dec. 10.

S a n i b e l C a p t i v a Community Bank recently announced the promotion of Gabriela Bell to office manager of the McGregor Branch in Fort Myers, as well as the promotion of Kim Becker to assistant com-

Gabriela Bell

pliance officer.

Bell is an assistant vice president, previously served as the branch's assistant office manager and will continue to oversee the staff, work with customers and lead the retail team in strategizing how to cultivate branch success.

Bell joined the bank in 2006 as a teller at the McGregor location. Over the years, she has served in several roles, including head teller, customer service representative and assistant branch manager at the Main Office on Sanibel and the McGregor Branch.

Bell is an active community member and is a committee member for The Florida Hurricane Disaster Fund.

In her new role, Becker will support the compliance officer in administering, testing, reporting and disseminating compliance-related information.

Additionally, her role is pivotal in executing, monitoring and enhancing Kim Becker the compliance management program.

Becker joined the bank in 2016 as a compliance quality analyst and has been instrumental in the daily compliance monitoring process, various audits and FDIC examinations.

See BUSINESS NOTES, page 13

The city of Sanibel's Administrative Offices will be closed on Jan. 1-2 in observance of the New Year's holiday. They will resume regular office hours on Jan. 3. For more information, contact City Hall at 239-472-3700.

Refuse, recycling and vegetation waste collection will not have trash pick-up on Jan. 1, resulting in a one-day delay to the schedule. For more information, contact Waste Management at 239-334-1224.

The Sanibel Recreation Center will be closed on Jan. 1. It will resume regular operating hours on Jan. 2. For more information, contact the center at 239-472-0345.

be open on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It serves burgers, hotdogs and specials.

There are TVs available for sports. The Post is open to the public. Membership applications are also available. For more information, call 239579-0130 or visit American Legion Post 123 Sanibel Florida on Facebook. Post 123 is at 4929 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel.

Business Notes From page 12

The SanCap Chamber hosted a Sanibel Causeway and Sanibel Beach Renourishment webinar on Dec. 20, featuring representatives from the Florida Department of Transportation and city of Sanibel.

The speakers gave presentations on the progress of the Sanibel Causeway project and the city's Beach Renourishment Project.

A question and answer session followed.

To watch the webinar, visit https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/play/quLeTkG

bqRz_gryIFfgLtkMRJReChwlN1HWc6um JupLQONQaCmNceNrAMc73RTgsCb7jQ MSqtQabHwVO.ooW7gH5Cg2dOqoR0?c anPlayFromShare=true&from=share_recor ding_detail&startTime=1703082713000 &componentName=recplay&originRequestUrl=https%3A%2F%2 Fus02web.zoom.us%2Frec%2Fshare%2F XlNEWU4QZNGlRNRMJgO2tsRioBAe sH2NHLOzKC6xj9_K5lHWXL8Cuhx5f ovQFJ21.SZAQLeoDCEnZt1N6%3Fstar tTime%3D1703082713000.

For more information about the causeway project, visit www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway.

For more information about the city's project, visit mysanibel.com.

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Chamber hosts webinar on projects

Page 13 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 27, 2023

City reports on American holiday operation Legion hours, refuse American Legion Post 123 collection reported that the Tiki Hut will

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Week of Wednesday, December 27, 2023 ■ Page 14

PRESERVING PARADISE COTI Conversation addresses resiliency and aesthetics

Island Reporter

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REFUGE/DDWS

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's Visitor & Education Center and administrative offices will be closed on Jan. 1 for the holiday. Wildlife Drive and the Bailey Tract will remain open for normal operating hours.

DDWS reports 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. ∫ Photographer-artist Niki Butcher “Daydreaming” exhibition has been postponed until the late fall.

The Committee of the Islands hosted its COTI Conversation on Dec. 13 at The Community House on Sanibel.

For the program “Rebuilding Sanibel: Aesthetics and Resiliency — a Balancing Act,” speakers and attendees focused on: What is resilience, how is the city addressing it as Sanibel rebuilds and how will it affect the way the city looks over time?

COTI Board Member and SanCap Resilience Co-chair Bob Moore explained that resilience embraces more than just taller buildings.

“Climate resilience requires us to look at adaptation strategies, like hardening buildings and infrastructure, as well as mitigation strategies, like energy efficiency and renewable energy, that reduce the future impacts of climate change,” he said.

“If we don’t address the causes of COMMITTEE OF THE ISLANDS climate change and create a more The Committee of the Islands' featured speaker at its COTI sustainable future … we won’t be Conversation on Dec. 13, local architect Joyce Owens shared a able to adapt our way out of the chal- rendering of her firm's concept for the Shalimar Beach Resort on Sanibel. lenges we’ll face.”

COTI President Larry Schopp more suggestive. acknowledged that resilience means more than just taller “The Sanibel Plan upholds a respect for our diversity, buildings. history, built environment and fragile surroundings,” “But the requirement of taller buildings may be caus- Owens said. “The well-written descriptive rules in place ing some anxiety these days,” he said. “The popular per- offer flexibility, addressing context, light, air and environception of Sanibel as a community of low-rise buildings ment, instead of prescribing specific design solutions.” will be tested as older resorts and homes — many built at She described techniques that she uses with a view to ground level and destroyed in the storm — are replaced building on a barrier island, where wind and storm surge by taller ones that meet current flood elevations of up to are an ongoing threat. Owens also displayed buildings 18 feet.” recently designed for clients, including the Shalimar Schopp continued that though the island has seen only Resort. modest increases in permitted building height thus far, “When crafting the new Shalimar Resort on Gulf the process is ongoing.

Drive, we navigated the Codes and were able to ensure “More Code changes will be required as Sanibel the outcome was appropriate for our climate, future rebuilds resiliently. It may take years, but that’s how resiliency,and our client needs,” she said.

Sanibel will remain a viable barrier island community,” Optimistic about the future, Owens said that over time he said, adding that the island's overall height limit of she envisions Sanibel with new buildings that are not three stories is not at risk. “It was made part of the city only built resiliently, but also with the casual island style charter in 2005 and may not be changed without voter for which it is so well known. approval.”

“Moving forward, by understanding the ‘spirit’ of Local architect Joyce Owens addressed the anxiety these regulations … we can fortify and intelligently some people may feel about taller buildings by describ- rebuild our islands, staying true to the Code’s intent and ing her approach to designing for resiliency, without sac- preserving the natural sanctuary of the islands that so rificing the aesthetic values reflected in the Sanibel Plan many have fought to uphold,” she said. and Vision Statement. She praised the city for recently The program was followed by a question-and-answer making its architectural standards less prescriptive and session.

FWC approves changes for snook in state waters During a recent meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission approved new management regions and regulations for snook in state waters following the final rule hearing.

“Through innovative management strategies like this, which allow us to be agile in our response to concerns, we are ensuring that Florida’s future generations of anglers will have access to this iconic fishery,” FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto said.

Effective Jan. 1, the regulations will: ∫ Establish nine snook management regions.

∫ Establish open seasons as well as bag and slot limits for each region.

The seasons and limits for each region are as follows: ∫ Panhandle, Big Bend, Tampa Bay and Sarasota Bay Open season: March through April and September through November Bag limit: One fish Slot limit: 28-33 inches ∫ Charlotte Harbor and Southwest Open season: March through April and October through November

Bag limit: One fish Slot limit: 28-33 inches ∫ Southeast, Indian River Lagoon and Northeast Open season: February through May and September through Dec. 14 Bag limit: One fish Slot limit: 28-32 inches As part of the new management approach, FWC staff intends to monitor and evaluate the regulations annually. To see the latest snook annual reviews, which provide a summary of the snook fishery status in each management region, visit MyFWC.com/Snook.

FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION

SOUTH FLORIDA WATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT

From left, Hendry County Commissioner Ramon Iglesias, LaBelle City Commissioner Hugo Vargas, Hendry County Commissioner Emory “Rowdy” Howard, Hendry County Vice Chair Mitchell Wills, Hendry County Chairperson Emma Byrd, South Florida Water Management District Governing Board Chairman Chauncey Goss, state Rep. Adam Botana, Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, SFWMD Director Drew Bartlett, state Sen. Jonathan Martin, SFWMD Board Member Charlette Roman, Sanibel City Councilmember Holly Smith, Hendry County Commissioner Karson Turner, LaBelle Mayor Julie Wilkins, Florida Department of Environmental Protection Deputy Secretary Adam Blalock, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District Maj. Cory Bell and SFWMD Board Member Ben Butler.

(CERP) with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to ary. restore the environment and make water resources more ∫ Enhance the resiliency of our water resources.

The C-43 project is a key component of the joint state- resilient. federal Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan

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On Dec. 19, the South Florida Water Management District joined federal, state and local officials to celebrate the completion of a new pump station for the Caloosahatchee (C-43) Reservoir Project in Hendry County.

“Today is another massive step forward to further improve our waters here in Southwest Florida and support the restoration of America's Everglades,” SFWMD Governing Board Chairman Chauncey Goss said.

“Southwest Florida knows how important our water quality is to our way of life, our estuary and our local economy. Once this reservoir comes online, there will be billions of gallons of water storage available that will protect the delicate balance of fresh and salt water in the Caloosahatchee Estuary.”

The C-43 reservoir is an 18-square-mile water storage project that provides water storage and supports healthy salinity levels in the Caloosahatchee Estuary. It will reduce harmful flows of water to the estuary from Lake Okeechobee and the local watershed during the wet season and provide beneficial freshwater flows to the estuary in the dry season. It will hold approximately 170,000 acre-feet of water, which is about 55 billion gallons.

The new pump station, one of the largest pump stations in the state, is the main inflow structure for the reservoir. It has the capability to move more than 650,000 gallons of water per minute from the Caloosahatchee into the reservoir using four large pumps.

The reservoir also includes 19 miles of dam embankments, 15 miles of perimeter canals, 14 major water control structures and more. The remaining portions of the project are expected to be substantially complete by 2025, and the reservoir is expected to begin initial operations in 2025.

Once online, the reservoir will: ∫ Store excess freshwater from the local watershed and Lake Okeechobee before it can reach the downstream estuary. ∫ Help sustain a healthy nursery for fish in the estu-

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SFWMD, officials celebrate pump station completion

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Island lIvIng

Report your news to caPtivaSanibel.com

SPD releases weekly blotter Sanibel library offers range 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 ∫ Darrell Wayne Bales, 55, of 47 Nicklaus Blvd., North Fort Myers, was charged on Dec. 12 with one count of out-of-county warrant. ∫ Jeffrey Michael Watt, 45, of 780 10th Ave., Apt. 23, Naples, was charged on Dec. 14 with one count each of DUI unlawful blood alcohol DUI damage to property or person of another and DUI unlawful blood alcohol refusal to submit DUI testing.

Other enforcement actions ∫ On Dec. 12, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed. The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for driving with an expired license and a warning for the speed. ∫ On Dec. 13, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for failure to stop at a stop sign. The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued and a warning for the stop sign. ∫ On Dec. 13, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed. The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for never having a driver’s license issued and a warning for the speed. ∫ On Dec. 15, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for passing another vehicle over a double yellow line.

The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for tag attached not assigned to vehicle.

Enforcement operations statistics From Dec. 12-18: ∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 6 ∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 5 ∫ Traffic crashes: 0 ∫ Radar details: 43 ∫ Traffic stops: 58 — Citations issued: 0 — Written warnings issued: 6 — Verbal warnings issued: 29 ∫ Residential area checks: 517 ∫ Business area checks: 185

∫ Total area checks: 1,040 ∫ Reported burglaries: 0 ∫ Reported thefts: 3 ∫ Total CAD calls: 1,304 December 2023 to date: ∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 15 ∫ Non-emergency calls: 23 ∫ Traffic crashes: 4 ∫ Radar details: 110 ∫ Traffic stops: 131 — Citations issued: 54 — Written warnings issued: 139 — Verbal warnings issued: 66 ∫ Residential area checks: 1,229 ∫ Business area checks: 264 ∫ Total area checks: 2,479 ∫ Reported burglaries: 1 ∫ Reported thefts: 4 ∫ Total CAD calls: 3,167

Important reminders 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.

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.

of programs and topics

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

On Dec. 28, a Teen Study Session will take place from 4 to 7:30 p.m. Come to the library after school for study hall. Snacks will be provided and attendees can receive volunteer hours for participating.

A Teens-Escape the Library: Santa's Workshop will be offered on Dec. 28 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Escape room designed for teens to tackle with friends. Groups of four to seven participants at a time. Advance registration is required by contacting Megan Willis at mwillis@sanlib.org or 239-472-2483.

On Dec. 29, Family Storytime for ages 5 and under will be held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. with Willis. Literacy is a family bonding experience with stories read aloud, followed by early literacy centers of play to flex minds, develop motor skills and increase creativity. The program will include an art/craft center.

Youth programs are designed for children and accompanying adults.

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

From now through Dec. 30, the SanibelCaptiva Art League has an exhibit on dis-

play. “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 Jan. 1 for the New Year's holiday.

For more information, call 239-4722483 or visit https://sanlib.org/.

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

Reporting suspicious activity Anonymous tips regarding crimes or suspicious activity can be submitted via Tip411: ∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411. ∫ Web tips can be submitted at https://www.tip411.com/tips/new?aler t_group_id=22450. ∫ Use the free “Sanibel PD” app for your Android or iOS device.

The SPD's non-emergency line is 239-472-3111.

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

Report your news to THE REPORTER:

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THE COMMUNITY HOUSE

Free book library set up at TCH The Community House on Sanibel recently announced that it has a new, free book library. The community is welcome to check it out, take a book or leave a book. It is also seeking donations of books for the free library. TCH is at 2173 Periwinkle Way.

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Week of Wednesday, December 27, 2023 ■ Page 20 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

SPORTS

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CITY OF SANIBEL

Rec center provides update on activities, 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.

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.

A Wonka Winter Camp will be held on Jan. 2-5 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.

A Fun Day will take place on Jan. 8 from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It will offer a variety of fun craft activities, 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 $30 for members and $40 for nonmembers.

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 Jan. 1 for the New Year's holiday.

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

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

Recreational harvest of flounder reopens The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported that the recreational harvest of flounder in all state and federal waters reopened on Dec. 1. The minimum size limit is 14 inches total length and the daily recreational bag limit is five fish per person. To learn more about current recreational flounder regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine, click “Recreational Regulations” and “Flounder” or download the Fish Rules App.

County taking registrations for annual senior games Lee County Parks & Recreation welcomes senior athletes to participate in the 2024 Lee County Senior Games, themed “Fitness Matters,” which will feature social, recreational and competitive activities.

The games will be held from Jan. 26 through March 16, with eight sports in various locations throughout the county.

The Florida Games Series Qualifier Events will include: ∫ Table tennis ∫ Archery ∫ Pickleball ∫ Basketball shooting ∫ Basketball 3V3 ∫ Billiards ∫ Swimming

∫ Tennis To be eligible, participants must be 50 years or older

by Dec. 31, 2024.

Medals will be presented to the first-, second- and third-place finishers of each event.

Qualifying event top finishers will be eligible to compete in the 2024 Florida Senior Games.

Registration is $15 per event.

Participants will receive one shirt that will be distributed at the event site.

To register, visit www.leeparks.org/register or call 239-533-7275.

For more information or the schedule, visit www.leeparks.org.

Refuge welcomes resident volunteers The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel welcomed back Resident Volunteers Lisa and Tony Kirby, who arrived here from the Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming on Nov. 11.

Tony Kirby, who has retired from the Federal Aviation Administration, helps out the maintenance staff. Lisa Kirby

Dunes to hold holiday golf scramble The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club will host a New Year's Eve Scramble on Dec. 31.

The 18-hole golf scramble is open to the first 60 players that register. For more information or to sign up, contact Chris Pais at cpais@theinnsofsanibel.com. The Dunes is at 949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel.

formerly worked as a site coordinator for a K-4 school and assists in Visitor Services.

The couple have been full-time resident volunteers for almost seven years.

This is their second year.

“The amazing staff and dedicated fellow volunteers are why we are happy to return,” Lisa Kirby.

Lt. Brian Howell

Capt. Mike Martin

Assistant Fire Chief Chris Jackson

Lt. John Reitenbach

Banquet From page 1 ence that she's been able to amass. Some people are able to rise up to challenges and some people fail,” he said, noting that she rose and succeeded.

“She's had the right mindset, she loves the agency, she loves the people that work within this agency and she loves Sanibel,” Barbot added. “I would not allow for her not to get that award this year.”

When employees reach their 20-year milestone, they are recognized with the Time In Service Award.

Assistant Chief Chris Jackson and Lt John Reitenbach were each honored with the special plaque.

The Selfless Hero Award was presented to the Dirty South Rescue Team, of Fort Lauderdale.

He explained that it is a group of homegrown individuals who volunteer their time assisting citizens affected by natural disasters. They self dispatch and show up, offering help to those who will accept it.

“What they did for the island, not just the Sanibel fire district,” Barbot said, explaining that they helped with search-and-rescue, fixed flat tires on vehicles, assisted with cleanups and more for about a week.

“There was no task too small or beneath them that they did not want to help out with,” he added. “The amount of assistance that we got from this crew was unbelievable. They are amazing individuals.”

Sanibel resident George Baumgartner was honored with the Hometown Hero Award.

Barbot explained that he lives on the east end and just showed up at the boat ramp after the storm and started assisting. He helped people and assisting agencies on and off the boats, even picked up supplies.

“He was there every single day,” he said. “Even though his own home was completely ravaged.”

When Barbot finally asked Baumgartner why he was there, he got a surprising answer.

“He said, 'Because it's the right thing to do. What am I going to do? Sit at home?'” he said. “He, literally, looked at his assistance and contribution as someone doing the right thing.”

“He is an awesome citizen,” Barbot added.

Also during the banquet, the district recognized several on- and off-island entities and staff family members with the Fire Service Appreciation Award for helping it and the community post-Ian. “For making sure we were going to recovery just a little bit quicker,” he said.

The award was presented to: the city of Sanibel; Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation; ARS / Global

captivasanibel.com

“The closure's not there,” he added.

For the 2023 awards, Firefighter of the Year went to Capt. Rob Wilkins. Barbot explained that the recognition is a peer-selected award through nominations for exemplary work on and off duty.

Lt. Brian Howell received the Leadership Award, which is determined by the administrative staff.

“It's someone who has been really a team player not just for their subordinates, but for the administration,” he said.

The Fire Chief Award went to both Administrative Assistant Greta Fulkerson and Capt. Mike Martin.

“Normally, there would be one,” Barbot said. “But I couldn't just pinpoint it to one.”

He explained that the dealings with FEMA after the hurricane added significantly to his workload and Martin jumped in to help, creating spreadsheets, making payroll reports and joining FEMA meetings.

Barbot noted that the district will soon be 100% reimbursed.

“That would not have happened without his continued assistance,” he said.

For Fulkerson, Barbot explained that she was “very very green” when she was hired full-time.

“The amount of knowledge and the amount of experi-

Page 21 ■ Week of Wednesday, December 27, 2023

Capt. Rob Wilkins

Administrative Assistant Greta Fulkerson

See BANQUET, page 22

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Week of Wednesday, December 27, 2023 ■ Page 22 captivasanibel.com Island Reporter

Lee Health From page 1 n’t give us significant advantages in being public,” he said.

The system’s previously state-required Certificate of Need was repealed in 2019, which provided an ease for the expansion of services for most health systems.

“We began looking at how can we best maintain our mission as a safety net organization knowing the landscape was going to change dramatically,” Antonucci said of other hospitals coming to the region.

This began an exploration of trying to get the state Legislature to allow Lee Health to work outside of the boundaries of Lee County, which Legislature was not going to do, he said.

“Your only option is to convert to a private not-forprofit. Legislation was passed last year to allow the board to explore conversation for private not-for-profit to meet the needs of our community,” Antonucci said.

Not a new structure For the first 50 years of its history, Lee Health operated as a private nonprofit entity. In 1968, Lee Health operated as an independent special healthcare district created by the Legislature and governed by an elected board of directors.

The conversion from a private nonprofit to a public nonprofit occurred when many hospital districts were

being established.

Antonucci said they thought at the time it would be the best way to ensure the public would be served, and a safety net for care could be provided.

“There is a significant amount of the population that is underinsured or not insured. Legislation wanted to make sure they were taken care of,” he said.

The law requires Lee Health to bring in an independent third party to do a six-month assessment to determine what is in the best interest now.

“We are about two months away from that report,” Antonucci said.

Although the legislation only requires one meeting to be held with the public, Lee Health’s board of directors wanted to hold a community town hall in each of the districts.

The town hall schedule is as follows: ∫ Jan. 4 at 6 p.m. at Lehigh Acres Municipal Services Improvement District, at 601 E. County Lane, Lehigh Acres ∫ Jan. 5 at 6 p.m. Quality Life Center, at 3210 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Fort Myers ∫ Jan. 8 at 6 p.m. Lakes Regional Library, at 15290 Bass Rd., Fort Myers ∫ Jan. 9 at 6 p.m. Cape Christian Church Student

Center, at 2110 Chiquita Blvd. S., Cape Coral ∫ Jan. 10 at 6 p.m. Fort Myers Downtown Library, at 2450 First St., Fort Myers ∫ Jan. 11 at 6 p.m. Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel The purpose of the town halls is to explain the process, so the public can ask questions about how it works and how the legislation is laid out.

“There haven’t been any decisions regarding conversions, or any recommendations from administration or the board,” Antonucci said. “We are waiting for the assessment.”

Once it receives the assessment, the hospital board will have 120 days to review it, analyze it and ask any questions before making a decision to either proceed with the process of conversion or not.

“The community is invited and encouraged to come and ask questions about the process,” he said. “The board has to decide what structure would best serve the people in this community and the health system continues its safety net mission and maintain local control.”

For more information, visit www.leehealth.org/lookingahead. There is an option for the public to send questions via the website if someone is unable to attend a town hall meeting and has questions.

CROW From page 1 the restaurants' offerings in a variety of categories.

Also, participants voted for their favorite restaurant to win the People's Choice Award.

The Taste of the Islands winners are as follows: ∫ Best Breakfast: Artichoke Chorizo Benedict, The Shipyard ∫ Best Appetizer: Shrimp Cargot, MudBugs Cajun Kitchen ∫ Best Meat: Burnt Ends, Southern Grill ∫ Best Seafood: Pan Seared Alaskan Sablefish, Cielo ∫ Best Vegetarian: Carciofo Fritti, Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen ∫ Best Dessert: Carmel Apple Ice Cream, Love Boat Ice Cream ∫ Best Adult Beverage: Serpent Bearer, Cielo ∫ Taste of Taste: Pan Seared Alaskan Sablefish, Cielo ∫ People’s Choice: Cielo CLINIC FOR THE REHABILITATION OF WILDLIFE CROW reported that despite traffic issues, its CROW Cielo won Taste of Taste and Best Seafood with its MudBugs Cajun Kitchen won Best Appetizer “Crawl” on Nov. 18 was a huge success. Trolleys, donat- Pan Seared Alaskan Sablefish. with its Shrimp Cargot. ed by the Sanibel Sea School, shuttled attendees to participating restaurants. CROW held interactive educational programs at its Visitor Education Center, with appearances by Animal Ambassadors Talon, the red-tailed hawk and Mina, the great horned owl.

The event raised just under $100,000.

“As the longest-running Taste in the Lee County area and the longest fundraiser for CROW, we are blessed to have the support and partnership of the restaurants and sponsors for this year’s Taste,” Executive Director Alison Charney Hussey said. “We are all rebuilding, and we are so thankful to have the support of our partners. Thank you to all who participated and made it such an amazing success to CROW and our island restaurants.”

CROW thanked Bank of the Islands/Edison National Bank for returning as the presenting sponsor, along with: People’s Choice Award sponsor Siesta Pebble Pools; lead media sponsor ABC7; Waste Management, VCA Animal Hospital, Scalon Auto Group and Gavin’s Ace Hardware as sous chef sponsors; The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company, Superior Title, Spivey Law Firm, LCEC, Kingfisher Real Estate, Rosier Insurance and Patriot Disaster Specialist as sommelier sponsors; and Rapid Response Team, Cathie Lewis, and Island Law Office of Janet Strickland as maitre d’ level sponSouthern Grill won Best Meat with its Burnt Ends. sors.

Banquet From page 21 Emergency Management; World Central Kitchen; Rob Doerr; Chris Boveda; Kyler DiMaria; Derek Ward, of the San Carlos Park Fire Protection and Rescue Service District; David Treglown; Mike Erbaio; and the Barbot family.

Barbot explained that ARS / Global Emergency Management provided free

diesel to the district to keep the emergency generators going, and World Central Kitchen kept the first responders and others fed.

He also highlighted the city and SCCF. Prior to the hurricane, the district removed all of its assets from the island, per protocol. When the Sanibel Causeway gave

out, there were no vehicles for operations.

“That's where the city of Sanibel and SCCF came in,” Barbot said.

Both entities offered the district the use of their vehicles that had been left on the island and weathered the storm. The district and assisting agencies used those to evacuate survivors, get around and more.

“If it wasn't for their assistance, it would have made our job really really hard,” he said.

The district thanked the IonaMcGregor Fire District for covering the island during the banquet.

The event was funded by the district's sale of challenge coins and T-shirts.

WEEK OF DECEMBER 27, 2023

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and Players Circle Theater organized an “All Good Things Must Begin” performance on Dec. 12 at the SCCF's Bailey Homestead on Sanibel.

SCCF, Players Circle take part in global festival 24 Page

aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday aLSOinSidetOday Shell Shocked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Island Worship . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Santiva Islanders Calendar . . . . . . . . 28 In the Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Recipe of the Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 The Community House Calendar . . . . 28 CROW Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Island Beat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Poetic License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Week of Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023 ■ Page 24 captivasanibel.com Sanibel-Captiva Islander

What to do with unwanted Christmas gifts 'Tis the season for festive cheer, twinkling lights and, of course, that awkward moment when you unwrap a gift that makes you question the very fabric of your relationship with the giver. Fear not, for in the spirit of goodwill (and perhaps a dash of mischief), let's explore the myriad ways to handle those unwanted or downright puzzling Christmas gifts.

Firstly, embrace the art of re-gifting. It's the circle of gift life. That porcelain cat figurine with the laser beam eyes might not be your cup of tea, but it Art Stevens could be Aunt Mildred's ticket to bliss. Just remember the cardinal rule of re-gifting: remove any trace of the original wrapping paper and ensure the gift doesn't do a boomerang back to the original giver. Trust me; they'll never suspect that the scented candle they gave you is now gracing the mantle of your second cousin twice removed.

If re-gifting feels too sneaky for your taste, consider repurposing. That tacky sweater your well-intentioned friend thought was the epitome of fashion can be reborn as the comfiest pajamas known to mankind.

Cut, stitch, and voila! You've turned a fashion faux pas into bedtime couture. Bonus points if you wear it proudly during your next video call, just to keep the humor alive.

Alternatively, transform the unwanted gift into an objet d’art. Got a questionable painting that's more eyesore than masterpiece? Channel your inner Picasso and paint over it. Create a new masterpiece that speaks to your soul, or at least, won't leave your guests questioning your taste in art. If questioned, you can always claim it's a bold statement on post-modernism; they'll be too confused to argue.

For those with a penchant for culinary adventures, consider edible experimentation. That fruitcake that's been passed down through generations as the ultimate gag gift? Turn it into a game. Challenge friends to a fruitcake toss, with the farthest throw earning a dubious prize (which might just be another fruitcake). Or, if you're feeling brave, attempt to rebrand it as a trendy new dessert. Introducing: Fruitcake Fusion — because everything is better when it's “fusion.”

Of course, you can always embrace the age-old tradition of regifting, with a twist. Host an Unwanted Gift Exchange party. Invite friends and family to bring their most peculiar presents and trade away.

Who knows, you might leave with a garden gnome wearing a tutu, but at least it won't be that hideous tie with a pattern that defies description. The joy of giving and receiving will take on a whole new meaning.

For the eco-conscious among us, consider upcycling your unwanted gifts. Turn that bizarre sculpture into a quirky planter or repurpose the novelty mug as a pencil holder. Not only are you decluttering your living space, but you're also saving the planet, one illconceived gift at a time. Mother Earth would be proud.

If all else fails, embrace the power of donation.

That singing fish plaque that left you questioning the sanity of your distant relative could bring joy to someone else's life. Thrift stores, shelters and charitable organizations are always in need of donations. Just imagine the delight when someone discovers your donated item and marvels at the eccentric taste of the previous owner. It's the gift that keeps on giving, in the most unexpected ways.

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and Players Circle Theater took a creative leap toward solutions to climate change with two recent programs. More than 100 community members attended “All Good Things Must Begin,” which included theater and community conversation.

“Thanks to everyone who participated in our inaugural Climate Change Theatre Action event,” SCCF Adult Education Director Jenny Evans said. “We were excited by your enthusiasm and willingness to share your experience.”

The performances were part of a global festival of short plays by playwrights from all around the world focusing on the overarching theme of climate change.

The Climate Change Theatre Action plays are presented every other year to coincide with the United Nations Climate Change Conference.

Produced by Players Circle co-founder and Producing Director Carrie Lund Cacioppo, performances of eight plays from this year’s “All Good Things Must Begin” collection were staged at the Players Circle Theater in Fort Myers on Dec. 11 and at the SCCF’s Bailey Homestead on Sanibel on Dec. 12.

More than 70 similar events took place across the globe as part of the festival.

“I started doing research before we began this project and it showed there’s a lot of climate change anxiety,” Cacioppo said. “It’s been found that getting together with like-minded people can actually inspire and energize people to find creative ways of solving this problem.”

The SCCF reported that the plays dealt with topics such as the deeply personal response of a teacher to Hurricane Andrew and the inspiring response of her students, polar bears who discuss their hunger caused by the lack of seals due to climate change and ways to take action, as well as the benefits of responsible foraging and how it can contribute to the preservation of public lands and native species.

Following the plays, Evans led a panel discussion that

See CHRISTMAS GIFTS, page 25

Joann Haley and John McKerrow perform “Polar Bears” by Nicolas Billon.

Shell Shocked

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

The Sanibel performance was part of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's Evenings at the Homestead series, which will focus on creative responses to climate change for the 2023-24 season.

Community engages in creative response to climate change focused on positive ways to cope with climate change and hope for the future.

“The experience we’ve all collectively had tonight gives me hope,” panelist and SCCF Youth Education Director Shannon Rivard said. “We all imagined alternative futures and what it could look like, and we talked about creative solutions, and that’s what it’s all about.”

Cacioppo gathered actors from the community to perform the plays. Two were high school students who both acted and served on the panel, including Paige Howard, who spoke about how the arts can be more effective than political debates.

“I think making emotional connections instead of radical conversations and just slowly inching the way there is the way that we change people’s minds because they’re not going to change overnight,” she said. “You have to slowly get them used to the idea of climate change.”

SCCF Environmental Policy Director Matt DePaolis also served on the panel and spoke about how the community is positioned to lead by example.

“Specifically in Southwest Florida, we are in this unique nexus of people who are incredibly blessed where we are in the world today, but also we’re on the forefront of these climate issues,” he said. “I think we should really take advantage of this opportunity to show the rest of the world what they should be doing and can be doing.”

The panelists emphasized taking small actionable steps in daily life.

“In the spirit of action, we’re including some ideas for small steps that individuals can take to collectively work towards mitigating climate change,” Evans said. “Thanks to our friends at The Climate Reality Project for sharing their information.”

For more information about those small changes, visit https://sccf.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/SmallChanges-Big-Results.pdf.

The Sanibel performance was part of the SCCF's Evenings at the Homestead series this year, which is focusing on creative responses to climate change for the 2023-24 season.

The SCCF extended its thanks to the Players Circle Theater, participating actors, directors, production volunteers, the Arts & Climate Initiative, and The Flourish Fund for making the event possible.

August, the resiliency projects include improving the CECI's playground area and Thompson Hall, while the scholarship fund ensures that all students have access to nature-based early education, regardless of income.

Christmas gifts From page 24 In the spirit of holiday mirth, why not organize an Unwanted Gift Olympics?

Invite friends over for a series of hilarious competitions featuring the most absurd gifts. From a wrapping paper unraveling race to a blindfolded “Guess the Gift” challenge, turn the burden of undesirable presents into an evening of laughter and camaraderie. Bonus points if you can convince Uncle Bob to wear that neon green, light-up tie for the duration of the festivities.

Remember, the holiday season is about spreading joy and goodwill. While the

perfect gift is a rare gem, the imperfect ones can become the stuff of legend. So, when faced with the perplexing, the bizarre, or the downright odd, approach it with a twinkle in your eye, a dash of creativity, and a hearty dose of humor. After all, the ability to find joy in the quirks of life is truly the greatest gift of all.

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

Special awards created for F.I.S.H. race F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva held its 15th Annual F.I.S.H. 10K/5K on Dec. 2 at The Community House on Sanibel. New this year, age group awards were handed out that were designed and assembled by locals Rachel Pierce and Rachel Tritaik. Tritaik explained that all of the shells were found on Sanibel's beaches and donated by TCH. They were then cleaned, painted, drilled, strung and decoupaged with Pierce's Lighthouse design by a group of volunteers, including the Sanibel Spoonbills Run Crew.

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

The Sanctuary Golf Club Foundation recently presented the Children's Education Center of the Islands on Sanibel with a $250,000 grant for resiliency projects and a $61,570 check for a scholarship fund. Previously announced in

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

From left, Rachel Pierce and Rachel Tritaik with the new age group awards.

captivasanibel.com

Foundation awards funds to CECI

CHILDREN'S EDUCATION CENTER OF THE ISLANDS

Page 25 ■ Week of Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023

The Sanctuary Golf Club Foundation's board presents the Children's Education Center of the Islands with a $250,000 grant for resiliency projects and a $61,570 check for a scholarship fund.

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

Report your news to CAPtIvASANIBEL.COM

DOH-Lee encourages safe holiday season The Florida Department of Health in Lee County encourages the public to enjoy a safe and healthy holiday season. From traveling to decorating and cooking, the holidays are time for family and friends to come together and celebrate. The DOH-Lee offered the following safety tips:

ice or gel packs while in the car.

Decoration safety

Food safety ∫ Thaw meat in the refrigerator or in a sink filled with cold water before cooking. The water needs to be changed every 30 minutes. Do not thaw it on the counter, as foodborne bacteria can quickly grow. ∫ Keep raw foods separate from cooked foods and wash your hands, utensils and surfaces frequently to avoid cross contamination. ∫ Use a food thermometer to ensure foods are cooked to proper internal temperatures. ∫ Once the food is prepared, keep hot foods above 140 degrees Fahrenheit and cold items below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. ∫ Hot and cold leftovers need to be refrigerated within two hours of being served. ∫ Do not consume raw batter or dough that is made with flour or eggs to avoid harmful bacteria like E. coli and salmonella. ∫ Keep hot foods insulated and place cold foods on

captivasanibel.com

Week of Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023 ■ Page 26

ISLAND HOME

islander

Sanibel Captiva

Jamaican caper

PHOTO PROVIDED

Jamaican caper is beautiful to the nose, eyes Jamaican caper (Capparis Cynophallophora) is a great native plant with a beautiful scent. Originating in the Caribbean, it's a perfect fit for our South Florida climate.

I recently noticed an impressive stand of this native plant when walking through a property on Woodring Road. It has to be the largest Jamaican caper I’ve seen growing wild on the island. It stood at approximately 12 feet high and 6 feet wide and full of white to light purple flowers.

The flowers produce an intense, sweet honey fragrance that draws bees and other beneficial insects, as well as provides the homeowner with a beautiful scented garden. The plant’s blossoms are as lovely to look at as they are to smell. Each one is a little four-petal bloom with up to 24 stamens spilling out of the center, ranging in color from light pink to light purple. While the plant blooms mostly in the spring to early summer, with our high temperatures this fall and winter, I’ve notice them blooming even at this time of year.

The leaves also possess a natural beauty that cannot be underestimated. The leaves are alternately spaced along the stem and are evergreen with an almost leatherSee JAMAICAN CAPER, page 29

∫ Avoid placing poisonous plants in areas accessible to children and pets.

Holly berries, mistletoe, amaryllis and English ivy are a few poisonous plants that are popular around the holidays. ∫ Secure and cover extension cords to prevent trips and falls. ∫ Place candles where they cannot be knocked over. If a fire occurs, do not pour water on the candle. Have a fire extinguisher nearby to use instead. ∫ Be cautious when using spray-on artificial snow. Inhalation can cause irritation to the lungs. ∫ Keep fireworks away from people, houses and flammable material. Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

Travel safety ∫ Ensure that children have proper car seats. Set up a seat check by visiting https://www.floridahealth.gov/ programs-and-services/safe-kids-florida/index.html#sk Worldwide. ∫ Make sure to be well rested before getting behind the wheel. ∫ Designate a sober driver.

Decal program results in donation Bank of the Islands recently made a donation through its We Love Our Islands program.

Winner Wendy Harris was spotted with the program's decal on her vehicle, winning her the chance to decide which local non-profit would receive a charitable contribution. She chose to donate $400 to F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva. The bank has donated $103,400 to date through the program. All BANK OF THE ISLANDS islanders are invited to visit the bank’s branches to pick up a From left, Richard Shera of Bank of the Islands, Emery Lowden decal and learn more about the with F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva, winner Wendy Harris, and Kelsey Hamilton and David Lowden with the bank.

We Love Our Islands program.

New requirements for recording property deeds Beginning on Jan. 1, there will be new requirements when recording property deeds.

The statewide change is a result of HB 1419, which Lee County Clerk Kevin Karnes and state lawmakers initiated to make it harder to file fraudulent deeds.

Currently, deeds require two witness signatures to be recorded, with the name of each witness to be legibly printed, typewritten or stamped immediately below the signature.

Beginning on Jan. 1, the post office address of each witness will also be required and must be legibly printed, typewritten or stamped on the deed.

“This is just one more layer of protection for property owners,” Karnes said. “Criminals shouldn’t be able to steal your home or your property. I’m optimistic that this new requirement, along with the property fraud prevention pilot program, is a positive step in preventing property fraud in Lee County.”

The Title Fraud Prevention Through Identity Verification Pilot Program, which requires all persons listed on a deed to provide a government-issued photo ID before the deed is processed, is also a part of HB 1419. Lee County was chosen to be the state’s pilot location for the

program, and the Lee Clerk’s office launched it over the summer. The ID requirement through the program will make it easier for law enforcement to verify the identity of the parties engaged in a property-related transaction and investigate fraudulent activity.

Property owners are also encouraged to sign up for the Lee Clerk’s free Property Fraud Alert service, which notifies them when a deed, mortgage or other document with their name has been recorded.

For more information, visit www.leeclerk.org/fraudalert.

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI A popular appetizer served at restaurants all over Italy, it is usually made for special occasions. It is very similar to a souffle that does not have to rise. I had this version at a restaurant in the Franciacorta Wine region in northern Italy during one of my gastronomic tours. The delicate flavor and creamy texture made it so delicious that it was all gone before I knew it. Makes 12. (Chef tip: Make sure that your water is not too high in your water bath or it will soak your little timbales.)

3 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons olive oil 1 shallot, minced 2 whole cloves garlic 1 carrot, minced 1 stalk celery, minced 1 whole rosemary sprig 2 bay leaves 1/4 cup dry white wine Salt and freshly ground pepper

1 cup Swiss chard, chiffonade 1 pound butternut squash, roasted 2 eggs Freshly grated nutmeg 2 cups fresh ricotta cheese, well drained 1/2 cup Fontina cheese, grated 12 (1/2 cup) timbale molds, double buttered

Loretta Paganini

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

The season of hope It is the season of hope. return.

Christmas, Chanukah, Jews are waiting for the Diwali, Kwanzaa … the first coming. Every year at messages of our winter solthe Passover Seder, the stice holidays in their door is opened so that the essence are the same. Hope prophet Elijah who for a better future. Be it announces the coming of through the agency of a the Messiah may enter our divine Messiah or heroes homes. As the door is who shine a light against opened hearts fill with the darkness that threatens anticipation. Will this be our human family, it is the year that Elijah arrives? faith, holy rituals and comChanukah kindles the light munity that have the power that guides Elijah to our Rabbi Sunny to unite us. doors.

Schnitzer A Baptist minister, with On Diwali, Hindu celewhom I studied 35 years brants light clay lamps, ago, once said: “All of us said to represent the are waiting for the same destruction of anything thing, we just wait differnegative in one's life and ently.” There is a deep truth celebrate the goddess in that statement.

Lakshmi, who is purported to bring Christians are waiting for the heralded wealth and good fortune. second coming of the Messiah born at this The African American Festival of time of year, under the light of the bright- Kwanzaa centers upon the Nguzo Saba est star, some 2000 years ago in a small (The Seven Principles), celebrating traits Middle Eastern town. For believers, all such as Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia prayers, devotions and actions are direct- (Self-determination), Ujima (Collective ed to a single purpose. To prepare the work and responsibility), Ujamaa way, by bringing human will and divine (Cooperative economics), Nia (Purpose), will into alignment to allow the Messiah’s Kuumba (Creativity) and Imani (Faith).

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 Saturday service at 5 p.m. in the Sanctuary, with a social to follow. Sunday services at 8 and 10:30 a.m., with a coffee hour to follow each.

All the attributes needed to live fuller lives and bring about a better world.

We are all waiting. But waiting does not mean merely sitting in our churches, synagogues, temples, and homes, praying and waiting for something to happen.

There is a teaching in the Jewish mystical tradition; “The Messiah will arrive one moment after they are no longer need-

ed.” Meaning that it is up to us to strive every day to build a world that brings forth the long-awaited Day of the Lord.

And as Tom Petty taught us; “The waiting is the hardest part.”

Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer is with the Bat Yam Temple of the Islands.

Report your news to THE ISLANDER: captivasanibel.com

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@crow clinic.org.

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

Island Worship

captivasanibel.com

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife's Visitor Education Center, at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, will present the following: ∫ Today, Dec. 27 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. 28 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. 29 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, Jan. 3 Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Arrange oven rack in lower third of the oven. Place the buttered molds in a deep roasting pan. Bring a teapot of water to a boil.

Place olive oil and butter in a large frying pan and saute garlic, shallot, carrot and celery. Add Swiss chard. Saute until shallots are transparent. Add rosemary, bay leaf and wine and cook for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove garlic, bay leaf and rosemary.

Spoon roasted squash into a food processor. Add the Swiss chard mixture, eggs and seasoning and process in bursts to combine well. Add the ricotta and Fontina cheese and process until smooth.

Spoon filling into timbale molds. Place the roasting pan on the oven rack and carefully pour boiling water around the molds to a depth of 1/2 inch. Slide the timbales into the oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the filling is set. Timbales will hold in hot water for 30 minutes. Invert molds onto platter or hot plates and serve.

Page 27 ■ Week of Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023

Recipe of the Week: Butternut and Fontina Timbales

Week of Wednesday, Dec. 27, 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.

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

LAST CALL TRIVIA 7 to 9 p.m.

Santiva Islanders Calendar

Sanibel club takes part in food packing event The Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club reported that members of the Interact Club at The Sanibel School participated in a food packing event in November at the Hope City Church in Bonita Springs.

They helped pack over 108 boxes, which is 23,328 meals that can feed 63 children

a meal a day for a year. The Interact Club is a Rotary-sponsored service club that gives students the opportunity to participate in fun and meaningful service projects, while developing leadership skills and meeting new friends.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA ROTARY CLUB

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

Painting with Friends Painting with Friends will be held today, 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.

Oil Painting Class Suzette Heeres will host an Oil Painting Class on Jan. 2 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. The subject will be “Avocet in Water.” Cost is $55 for members and $65 for non-members; all supplies included.

To register, visit https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/WebLink.aspx?name =sanibel&id=73.

Painting with Friends Painting with Friends will be held on Jan. 3 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 inperson 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 239472-2155 or office@sanibelcommunityhouse.net.

The Santiva Islanders will present the following:

at bryantekorn@gmail.com. Enter off of Dunlop Road.

Coffee Bistro

Stretch and Tone

Coffee Bistro will be held on Dec. 28 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.

Mahnaz Bassir will host Stretch and Tone on Dec. 28 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.

Cardio and Strength Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio and Strength on Dec. 28 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. 28 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. 28 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

Happy Hour at MudBugs Happy Hour at MudBugs will be held on Jan. 1 from 4 to 6 p.m. at MudBugs Cajun Kitchen, at 1473 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Enjoy happy hour drink and appetizer specials. Participants will order and pay individually.

Cardio and Strength Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio and Strength on Jan. 3 from 11 a.m. to noon in the Parish Hall 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.

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.

(Year of My Quintuple Bypass) I thought at first The cataracts had come back — the sun glinting cold and yellow over the tennis courts brought out the Boll .

Nor was noon better — the sun still low and stuck in time as I drove on the causeway to and from the mainland mall madness, gray Gulf and sky, whatever was left of day shrouded in jaundiced twilight.

JOYCE CURVIN

Tower Gallery announces new artist The Tower Gallery announced that paper mache and mixed media artist Joyce Curvin recently joined its co-op. She combines materials — bottles, paper, cardboard and other items usually destined for the recycling bin or landfill — into the armatures for her dogs, cats and birds. The “skeleton” is then coated with layers of paper

mache and various textures. Sometimes the piece is inspired by a shape or bend in the materials, and others times Curvin begins with a character in her head. For more information, call 239-579-0659 or visit www.towergallery.net. The Tower Gallery is at 751 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel.

Poetic License

From darkest day had come most shining night and on this longest night of my longest year — the promise of ever-brightening days waiting to rise above my horizons.

captivasanibel.com

JOYCE CURVIN

So that for once I was relived to see night begin with Venus burning bright and low like a jetliner and even lower on the horizon — the thin crescent of moon slivering into renewal.

Joe Pacheco

Page 29 ■ Week of Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023

‘Winter Solstice 2003’

Rotary event raises funds for wheelchairs at 100 miles, followed by Paul Prestis with 77 miles and John Danner with 72.5 miles. Danner founded the fundraiser in honor of his father, the Rev. Howard S. Danner Jr., a pastor and college professor who was struck by a drunk driver while biking and was paralyzed from the waist SANIBEL-CAPTIVA ROTARY CLUB down, leaving him in a wheel- Participants in the Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club's 5th Annual Howard S. Danner, Jr. chair for his remaining 17 years. Wheels for Wheels Cycling Challenge on Nov. 4 raised $30,000 for the Wheelchair Foundation.

Jamaican caper From page 26 like texture. The upper side of the leaf is dark glossy green and the underside is covered with tiny tan epidermal scales, with new leaves emerging in a bronze color. The shape of the shrub is usually a large oval or triangular shape. As it ages, it can take on a tree shape with a broad trunk base. You will

commonly see them as large trees in the Caribbean islands.

This native is slow growing and can tolerate a lot of salt, wind and poor soil conditions. No wonder it likes the islands and sandy beaches. It will flourish in full sun and survive in lower light, and it

prefers the warm climate of the islands. It does not like the cold weather.

The plant fits in well as a buffer planting, a specimen or accent plant. While the Jamaican caper is related to the Mediterranean caper used in cooking, this variety is not edible. It does, however, make

a great addition to any tropical garden.

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

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

The Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club hosted its 5th Annual Howard S. Danner, Jr. Wheels for Wheels Cycling Challenge on Nov. 4, with riders and their sponsors raising $30,000. The proceeds will benefit the Wheelchair Foundation, enabling it to purchase 300 wheelchairs for those who cannot afford one.

Club President Don McDonald rode the most miles, clocking in

Week of Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023 ■ Page 30 captivasanibel.com Sanibel-Captiva Islander

Holiday celebration, butterfly release a success with The Partnering Community House, F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva hosted a Thanksgiving Celebration and Butterfly Release on Nov. 17 at TCH on Sanibel. More than 500 community members took part and enjoyed a traditional holiday meal provided by Jerry's Foods.

The event also included the release of 300 Zebra longwing butterflies to symbolize the community's transformation since F.I.S.H. OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA Hurricane Ian.

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Page 31 ■ Week of Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023

Office Sale/Lease

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

Sanibel-Captiva Islander

captivasanibel.com

Week of Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023 ■ Page 32