Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

REFUGE/DDWS

Patriot Elementary students winners of refuge’s contest

By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers com

Three fourth-grade students at the Patriot Elementary School in Cape Coral were selected as the winners of the J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's annual Conservation Cartoon Contest

T h e w i n n e r s i n c l u d e f i r s t p l a c e Ochun Lopez Valdez, second place winner Karolina Machado and third place winner Brody Howdyshell The three

students were chosen from more than 160 entries

S u p e r v i s o r y R e f u g e R a n g e r T o n i Westland said Lopez's “message 'we can work together' seems just so appropriate right now, and I talked to the students how people are working together to bring the refuge back, so it was a great teaching moment ”

The winners were chosen from staff at the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, which is now part of the greater

“Ding” complex The students were awarded mouse pads with their art printed on them, along with art supplies The artwork will be hung on the walls of the refuge's Visitor & Education Center once the facility reopens

“We go to the schools when school starts and explain about 'Ding' Darling the man and current conservation issues that affect our world,” Westland, who has been overseeing the contest for more

City council proceeds with slated opening for causeway

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

During a special meeting, the majority of the Sanibel City Council supported staff's recommendation to end the requirement for city-issued hurricane reentry passes at Sanibel Causewa starting Jan 2

On Dec 20, the council voted 4-0 to remove the pass requiremen for entry onto th islands

While Mayor Holly Smith, Vice Mayor Richard Johnson and Councilmembers Mike Miller and John Henshaw were physically present and voted in favor of the recommendation, Councilmember Dr Scott Crater expressed concerns and voted no; he was attending via phone, though, so his was not an official vote

Prior to the vote, Crater pointed out that the majority of public letters received on the topic opposed the slated reopening He noted a recent rise in burglaries and that people have no place to go on-island

Crater added that he would be more comfortable with a 12-month security plan and beach parks opened

In press releases issued after the meeting,

By CJ HADDAD cjhaddad@breezenewspapers com

If you want to be home on time for the holidays, forecasters warn to give yourself plenty of time this year

Record numbers are anticipated this year, as AAA estimates 6 3 Floridians will journey at least 50 miles from home during the holidays from Dec 23 through Jan 2 That number marks an increase of nearly 108,000 people over last year and a new record-high for the year-end holiday travel period in the Sunshine State N a t i o n a l t r a v e l n u m b e r s a r e a l s o expected to grow from last year, though remain slightly lower than pre-pandemic levels, according to AAA They estimate 112 7 million American will travel this holiday season, an increase of 3 6 million from last year and the third busiest since AAA began keeping track in 2000

“Despite inflationary pressures, consumers remain resilient and dedicated to travel this year, and the holidays will be no different,” Debbie Haas, vice president of Travel for AAA The Auto Club Group, said “Americans are spending more on travel than any other time in the past two years The good news is the cost for a holiday road trip will be less expensive than anticipated, now that gas prices are on the way down ”

Across the board, 90% of holiday travelers will drive to their desired location In Florida, AAA said nearly 5 8 million will take at least one holiday road trip, which is 110,000 more than last year and a 2% bump from 2019

AAA predicts a 14% increase in air travel from last year, with more than 7 2 million Americans expected to take to the skies

“Flights and airports will be packed this holiday season, reminiscent of prepandemic days,” AAA officials said

AAA expects that, despite high ticket prices, the number of people taking holiday flights this season will be similar to n u m b e r s i n 2 0 1 9 w h e n 7 3 m i l l i o n Americans traveled by air

“If the distance is not reasonable to drive, more people are flying to maximize the time spent at their destination,” Haas added “Conversely, if the travel distances are reasonable and more than one or two people in the household are taking the trip, it may be more cost-effective to drive rather than buy multiple air tickets and rent a car ”

AAA said other modes of transportation are also rebounding in a big way, as travel by bus, rail, and cruise ship are

FWC offers guidance after gator incident on Sanibel

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

T h e F l o r i d a F i s h a n d W i l d l i f e

Conservation Commission recommended precautionary measures for people when near alligators, including in or near water, after a man was recently bitten by one

“Serious injuries caused by alligators are rare in Florida,” Senior Officer Adam Brown said.

He offered the following suggestions to reduce the chances of conflicts with alligators:

∫ Keep a safe distance if you see an all gator If someone is concerned about an al tor, they should call FWC's toll-free Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-3924286), and it will dispatch a contracted nuisance alligator trapper to resolve the situation

∫ Keep pets on a leash and away from the water's edge Pets often resemble alligators' natural prey

∫ Swim only in designated swimming areas during daylight hours and without your pet Alligators are most active between dusk and dawn

∫ Never feed an alligator It is illegal and dangerous

Contest winners

than 20 years, said “We usually award the winners at our annual October event, which was called off this year because of the hurricane So, instead we went to Patriot Elementary and made a celebration of it with cookies for everyone and t h e k i d s d o

announced the winners It was very exciting The winners were all so well-spoken explaining their cartoons Kudos to art teacher Angela Johnson for getting her

en fed, alligators can lose their natural ariness and instead learn to associate people with the availability of food This can l e a d t o d a n g e r o u s c i r c u m s t a n c e s f o r yourself and other people who could encounter the alligator in the future

“The FWC places the highest priority o n p u b l i c s a f e t y a n d a d m i n i s t e r s a Statewide Nuisance Alligator Program The goal is to proactively address alligator threats in developed areas, while c o n s e r v i n g a l l i g a t o r s i n a r e a s w h e r e t h e y n a t u r a l l y o c c u r , ” B r o w n s a i d SNAP uses contracted nuisance alligator pers throughout the state to remove alligators believed to pose a threat to people, pets or property ”

On Dec 15 at 11:06 a m , the Sanibel Police Department received a 911 call about a man who was bitten by an alligator in a pond that is adjacent to the location of 2477 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

The FWC reported that the victim was a 25-year-old man

When officers arrived, it was determined that the man was using the pond to wash his hands when he was

From page 1

students excited about the contest and conservation.”

She said every year the theme is conservation, based on current events This year, the visitor services team created a video that they showed the students when they introduced the contest at the beginning of the school year

The contest, which began more than 30 years ago, was meant to honor the legacy of Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling as

bit, police reported The man was able to free himself from the alligator and call 911.

Individuals on scene were able to apply a tourniquet until medical assistance arrived

Police reported that it was determined that the man had sustained a serious injury to his right forearm from the alligator He was subsequently transported to a hospital for treatment by Lee County EMS

The victim's medical status was unknown as of press time

The FWC reported that a contracted trapper was dispatched to the scene, where an alligator measuring 9 feet 2 inches was removed from the property It was humanely killed by the trapper and processed.

Responding assisting agencies included the SPD, Sanibel Fire and Rescue District and Lee EMS, plus m e m b e r s o f t h e O r l a n d o P o l i c e D e p a r t m e n t , Jacksonville Beach Police Department, Panama City P o l i c e D e p a r t m e n t a n d S t P e t e r s b u r g P o l i c e D e p a r t m e n t w h o w e r e a s s i s t i n g i n p o s t - h u r r i c a n e efforts

“Our paradise island is shared with various wildlife species Please remember to be careful and respect our wildlife in all bodies of water,” the fire district shared “These types of incidents are preventable ”

a Pulitzer-winning political cartoonist of the last century. Local editorial cartoonist Doug MacGregor helped teach cartooning at the participating schools in the early years of the contest Before COVID, fourth-graders in six local elementary schools participated and were judged as a whole

This year, Patriot Elementary School and The Sanibel School participated, and first, second and third place winners were

chosen at Patriot Elementary School

The winning students at The Sanibel School have not been chosen yet, as all of the entries have been locked in the school since Hurricane Ian impacted the island Westland said the Sanibel School will not be able to access the entries, if they survived, until early to mid-January

She said the refuge is looking at ways to evolve the contest in the coming years

REFUGE/DDWS

Patriot Elementary School student Karolina Machado won second place in the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's annual Conservation Cartoon Contest.

Patriot Elementary School student Brody Howdyshell earned third place in the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge's annual Conservation Cartoon Contest.

DeSantis signs bill to expand Toll Relief Program for residents

The Office of the Governor reported that Gov Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 6A on Dec 15, establishi n

The program will give Floridians with 35 or more toll transactions per month a 50% credit to their account The legislation, originally proposed in September, was passed during the recent Legislative Special Session. The Toll Relief Program will begin on Jan 1 and will run through Dec 31 “I promised Floridians that I would find additional w a y s t o p r o v i d e t o l l r e

F

o

o

d a f a m i l i e s , ” DeSantis said “With this legislation, we are keeping that promise to help hardworking families keep more money in their pockets I applaud the Florida Legislature for prioritizing this during the special session ”

Under the Toll Relief Program, drivers who use toll transponders, such as SunPass or other Florida-based transponders, and have 35 or more qualifying toll transactions per month will receive a 50 percent credit to their account The program is expected to benefit approximately 1 2 million drivers and will save the average commuter nearly $400 in the 2023 calendar year

City council

From page 1

the city reported that the police checkpoint at the causeway will be deactivated in the early morning on Jan. 2. However, the city's curfew will remain in effect between 9 p m and 6 a m daily and the police checkpoint will be in place during those curfew hours

“The city of Sanibel asks that non-residents respect and understand the fact that Sanibel is still actively working to recover from Hurricane Ian,” it reported. “While the requirement for re-entry passes will no longer be necessary on Jan 2, we are discouraging visitors at this time and look forward to welcoming back visitors later in our recovery.”

The city also noted the following:

∫ Beaches and beach parks, including the Sanibel Lighthouse, remain closed Sanibel is not open to beach visitors The mayoral proclamation extending the city's State of Emergency prohibits non-residents from being on the beach.

∫ The fishing pier and boat ramp are closed

∫ The Shared Use Path still has stacked debris waiting for pick up in many places Nails from debris that could cause flat tires may exist on the bike path The city is discouraging people from using it

∫ Debris collection from individual lots and the city’s rights-of-way is still ongoing Trucks collecting debris will interrupt traffic flow at times and may cause travel delays

∫ Most businesses are closed.

∫ There is nothing to see or do yet

∫ Residents and contractors with reentry passes should continue displaying their passes at all times on their vehicle’s dash-

Travel

board to assist police

∫ During the hours the curfew is in place, vehicles with the following credentials will be allowed through the checkpoint: Sanibel and Captiva residents with a resident re-entry pass and valid driver’s license, and the name on the license must match the name of the person who the pass is issued to; and guests of Sanibel and Captiva resorts with a printed reservation confirmation, where the name on the reservation matches the name on the person’s driver’s license

∫ People driving on Sanibel between the hours of 9 p m and 6 a m should expect to be stopped by police patrols to verify residency or resort guest status All persons leaving the island after 9 p m should expect to be stopped by police at the causeway checkpoint

∫ Residents and business owners who observe any suspicious activity at any time should report the activity to the Sanibel Police Department immediately by calling 911

The city reported that the decision to eliminate the pass requirement was made to assist residents, business owners and the community recover from Ian, as the following benchmarks were met:

∫ Eighty percent of the debris placed in the city's rights-of-way was collected

∫ East Periwinkle Way bridge is open to traffic

∫ LCEC completed pole replacements on the main roadways

∫ Any increase in traffic will not interfere with the Florida Department of Transportation's causeway construction

project

∫ Police security is sufficient on the island as other communities continue to send officers from their jurisdictions to assist the Sanibel police The Lee County Sheriff’s Office also continues to assist by assigning deputies to patrol the island

The city also reported that it stopped distributing hurricane passes on Dec 23

In other news

∫ The council voted 4-0 to waive the requirement for a vegetation permit to remove, prune or trim native tree, as required in the Land Development Code during the current Local State of Emergency, and to include the provision for the waiver in a mayoral proclamation, provided the activities comply with the Natural Resources Department's “Vegetation Recovery Tips and Permitting Post Hurricane Ian” document that was issued on Oct 21

∫ The council authorized the Finance Department to prorate dwelling rental license renewal fees for 2023 only to assist owners of short-term rental properties in recovering from Ian

∫ The council referred the “Combined Residential and Commercial Development” section of the Land Development Code to the Sanibel Planning Commission for Review. Miller proposed the action to ensure the Code does not create a disincentive to develop affordable or below market rate housing units in mixed-use development projects

∫ The council authorized City Manager

Dana Souza to approve special event permits for 2023 only to assist applicants in planning and scheduling their events on an expedited timeframe due to Ian

∫ A first reading was held for an ordinance relating to building fee discounts for residents and contractors who use private provider services for building inspections It also adds a provision that allows the waiver of building fees by resolution following a natural or man-made disaster

The second reading will take place on Jan 17

∫ A first reading was held for an ordinance relating to temporary use fee discounts for residents and contractors who use private provider services for building inspections It also adds a provision that allows the waiver of temporary use fees for the placement of a recreation vehicle or park trailer on a residential lot by mayoral proclamation or council resolution after a natural or man-made disaster

The second reading will take place on Jan 17

∫ A first reading was held for an ordinance to update the Resort Housing Development regulations

The second reading will take place on Jan 17

∫ A first reading was held for an ordinance to amend the off-street parking requirement and land use regulations within the Resort Housing District.

The second reading will take place on Jan 17

From page 1

expected to rise to 3 6 million this holiday season, a 23% increase from last year and nearly 94% of 2019’s volume

Savings at the pump

According to AAA, Florida gas prices dropped 12 cents-per-gallon last week,

marking the fifth consecutive week of declining averages

On Dec 18, Florida gas prices averaged $3 04 per gallon, the lowest daily average price since September 2021 That state average was almost 20 cents less than what motorists paid at the pump last

Christmas

“The plunge at the pump is the result of falling oil prices, which have plummeted primarily due to market concerns about a g l o b a l e c o n o m i c r e c e s s i o n , ” M a r k

Jenkins, public relations manager for AAA The Auto Club Group, said

“Lower oil prices lowers the cost of producing gasoline These low gas prices should hang around through the end of the y e a r , u n l e s s o i l p r i c e s u n e x p e c t e d l y rebound ”

AAA officials said before the down-

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Map of included toll facilities in the program.

Guest Commentary

SCCF urges water managers to lower Lake O

By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSEVATION FOUNDATION

There has been little change to water quality over the past couple of weeks since red tide has subsided, and flows have increased to the Caloosahatchee to 2,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) At the beginning of the month, the U S Army Corps of Engineers began a water banking program that banks water that could be released under LORS08 (up to 4,000 cfs) but is held back to reduce harmful flows during red tide blooms and during recovery from Hurricane Ian.

“This tool has been beneficial for the estuary by maintaining a healthy salinity and reducing nutrient loading that could feed red tide blooms,” Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Research & Policy Associate

Okeechobee is still too high for this time of year at 16 42 feet, which puts it in the intermediate sub-band ”

As of Dec 21, approximately 150,000 cfs had been banked, which is about 8 inches of water on Lake Okeechobee. The banked water will be used to provide beneficial releases during the dry season up to 2,800 cfs at S-79

With a series of significant rainfall events during last week, with rain predominantly around the lake, the lake is in danger of becoming even deeper There are many con-

By SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

Did you know that certain life changes can affect your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments? Sometimes your circumstances may change after you apply for or begin to receive SSI When that happens, it’s important for you to tell us about these changes This will ensure that you receive the benefits to which you’re eligible.

Here are some common changes you must report if you have applied for or receive SSI:

Changes in income, wages, or selfemployment income

Starting, stopping, or changing jobs

Changing your address or persons moving in or out of the household

Changes in marital status, including any same-sex relationships

Having more than $2,000 if you are single or $3,000 if you are married in resources that you can cash in, sell, or use to pay for food and shelter

Changes in resources, including money in financial accounts and buying or selling

How to repor t changes

Repor t changes in a timely manner

a phone number for verification purposes Letters considered

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

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

From page 4

sequences of a deep lake during this time of the year

Fast recession rates which are bad for endangered snail k i t e ( R o s t r h a m u s s o c i a b i l i s ) nesting success could occur if releases need to be made quickly before the start of the wet season

“Submerged aquatic vegetation and short hydroperiod wetlands are negatively affected by high lake levels,” Reidenbach said “If the lake level is still too high by the beginning of the wet season, we could be in danger of having another year of high lake levels with no recovery for the lake’s ecosystem ”

The SCCF encourages the Corps and the South Florida Water Management District to explore all available outlets to decrease lake levels and avoid d a m a g i n g d i s c h a r g e s t o t h e northern estuaries

F o u n d e d i n 1 9 6 7 , t h e

Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation's mission is to prot e c t a n d c a r e f o r S o u t h w e s t Florida’s coastal ecosystems F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t www sccf org

Travel

From page 3

turn in pump prices, the price of oil settled at $92 61 per barrel on Nov 4 Since that time, oil declined by as much as 23% AAA said recently, the price of crude increased 5% The Dec 16’s daily settlement of $74 29 per barrel was $3 27 per barrel more than the week before

“While that could slow the rate of falling prices at the pump, it’s unlikely to be enough to cause a significant increase,” officials said.

Best and worst times to travel (subhead)

AAA said drivers should prepare for delays, especially in and around major metro areas Nationwide, drivers could see travel times increase by up to 25%, according to INRIX, a provider of transportation analytics and insights

According to INRIX, the road times travelers will see the most congestion is the Friday before Christmas Dec 23 and Dec. 27-28 and Jan. 2.

INRIX predicts the single-busiest travel day to be Dec 27 Officials said the best way to avoid congestion is by leaving early in the morning or later in the evening

Other tips include:

∫ Leave early so you are not in a rush

∫ Watch the weather Consider an alternate route or adjust your departure time

∫ Never drive distracted Pre-program you GPS and do not use your cell phone while driving

∫ Wear a seatbelt and never drive impaired

RSW

The Lee County Port Authority offered tips for those traveling out of Southwest Florida International Airport this holiday:

∫ Arrive early Officials expect a busy Christmas and New Year’s holiday at RSW and want travelers to plan ahead Passengers are asked to be in line at their security checkpoint at least two hours

prior to flight departure

∫ LCPA is expecting heavy passenger traffic this holiday season, which means the airport is anticipating higher parking volumes Parking lots at RSW may fill up quickly between now and Jan 4 Officials cannot guarantee you will find a parking spot Passengers are asked to consider alternative ways to get to RSW, such as being dropped off by friends or family or using commercial transportation. LCPA will post parking updates on the airport’s w e b s i t e a t f l y l c p a c o m , F a c e b o o k , Instagram and Twitter throughout the holiday to keep travelers informed on airport parking availability

∫ Local roads are extremely busy during the holidays, so allow extra time to get to the airport To avoid congestion, use the I-75 Direct Connect to get to and from RSW

∫ If there is inclement weather forecasted at destination or connecting airports, travelers should check with their air carrier to see if there are any changes to their flight schedules

∫ Visit the Transportation Security Administration’s website at tsa gov for tips about what you can and cannot bring through the security checkpoint

For more airport information, visit flylcpa com or facebook com/flyRSW

Season of safety

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and its division of the Florida Highway Patrol are promoting safety by issuing reminders on how to stay safe on the roads during the busiest long-distance travel period of the year.

In December 2021, there were 35,859 crashes on Florida roadways that took the lives of 325 people and injured 1,524 according to FLHSMV In more than 28% of those crashes, the driver action reported for at least one of the drivers involved was operating a motor vehicle in

a careless or negligent manner

“Tragic crashes are unfortunately all too common, and often caused by someone who chose to not follow the law,” Executive Director Terry L Rhodes said “We see the heartbreak these crashes cause to families, friends, and communities; but seldom do we hear of the many crashes that are prevented by motorists who are courteous, sober, and focused on the road and their surroundings. These are the drivers that keep us safe and the type of driver all motorists should aspire to be this holiday season and into the new year ”

According to FLHSMV, in December 2021, there were 917 alcohol-confirmed crashes, 96 drug-confirmed crashes, and 86 drug- and alcohol-confirmed crashes, for a total of 1,099 crashes involving alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both in Florida Under Florida law, DUI is an offense, proved by impairment of normal faculties by any substance or unlawful blood alcohol or breath alcohol level of 08 or above If you see an impaired driver on the road, don’t hesitate to contact l o c a l l a w e n f o r c e m e n t o r d i a l * F H P (*347)

“A call could save a life,” officials said

“Please remember to drink responsibly and make good decisions this holiday season,” FHP Director Col Gene Spaulding in a prepared statement. “Not only your life but the lives of others are in jeopardy if you decide to drink or use drugs and drive FHP troopers will be aggressively enforcing impaired driving laws to ensure the safety of the citizens and visitors of Florida ”

FHP will be out in force on the highways to aid motorists and remove dangerous drivers from the road FHP Auxiliary Troopers will also volunteer to augment FHP during the holiday period FHP’s increased presence throughout.

“Florida helps to deter traffic viola-

tions and enhances services to motorists who need assistance while traveling,” officials said

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t www flhsmv gov

Tow to Go

AAA will be working to keep impaired drivers off the road during the year-end holidays The Auto Club Group will activate its Tow to Go program, which provides transportation for the would-be impaired driver and their vehicle Tow to Go will be active now through Jan 2 at 6 a m

When someone calls Two to Go, AAA dispatches a tow truck to transport the would-be impaired driver and their vehicle to a safe location within a 10-mile radius The service is free for anyone, however AAA asks that it be treated as a last resort

Crash data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that combining cocktails with crowded roads can be deadly According to NHTSA statistics, from Christmas to New Year’s in 2020, there were 209 drunk-driving related fatalities nationwide.

“‘Tis the season for gathering with friends and family and AAA is proud to offer this service to help everyone make it home for the holidays safely,” Megan Cooper, spokeswoman for AAA The Auto Club Group, said “The greatest gift you can give this holiday season is your presence, so be sure to plan for a safe ride h o m e b e f o r e t h e c e l e b r a t i o n s b e g i n

Alcohol, drugs and even prescription medications can affect your ability to drive and cause unnecessary risks for everyone on the roadway If you’re tempted to drive impaired, call AAA instead and we’ll transport you and your vehicle to a safe location ”

For Tow to Go services, call (855) 2TOW-2-GO or (855) 286-9246

e

LCSO: Tips on how to stay safe after the storm

f r o m t h e r o a d a n d n e i g h b o r i n g p r o p e r -

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

∫ L o c k d o o r s a n d o w s .

∫ S e c u r e p e r s o n e r t y a n d d o n o t l e a i n p l a i n v i e w M a n y h o m e s a r e n o w

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

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

∫ E n s u r e c a m e r a s c u r i t y s y s t e m s a r e l . Q u a l i t y s e c u r i t y a r e n o w i n e x p e nd e a s y t o i n s t a l l s w i l l h e l p p r o t e c t r o p e r t y f r o m t h e f t

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

∫ D o n o t f o r g e t t o i n c l u d e s i d e y a r d s , d o c k s a n d w a t e r f r o n t a c c e s s p o i n t s i n y o u r p r e p a r a t i o n s .

∫ O n l y h i r e l i c e n s e d c o n t r a c t o r s U n l i c e n s e d c o n t r a c t o r s a r e o p e r a t i n g i l l e g a l l y N o n - p e r m i t t e d w o r k c a n c a u s e t r o u b l e w i t h y o u r i n s u r a n c e a n d l i m i t l e g a l r e m e d i e s i f t h e w o r k i s u n f i n i s h e d o r e x e c u t e d p o o r l y

∫ V e t c o n t r a c t o r s t o e n s u r e q u a l i t y w o r k a n d t h e s e c u r i t y o f y o u r p r o p e r t y D o n o t b e a f r a i d t o a s k a b o u t t h e i r p r a c -

t i c e s a n d t o c h e c k r e f e r e n c e s f r o m p r ev i o u s c l i e n t s M a k e y o u r e x p e c t a t i o n s a b o u t w o r k a n d p e r s o n a l c o n d u c t o n y o u r p r o p e r t y c l e a r B e “ c h o o s e y ” a b o u t w h o y o u i n v i t e i n t o y o u r h o m e , e s p ec i a l l y i f t h e y w i l l b e u n s u p e r v i s e d

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

S a w i c k i a d d e d t h a t h e a n d d e p u t i e s C h r i s L u s k a n d C h r i s t i n e Z u m b r u m a r e a v a i l a b l e t o a s s i s t

P e o p l e c a n a l s o r e c e i v e a s s i s t a n c e t h r o u g h t h e L C S O n o n - e m e r g e n c y l i n e a t 2 3 9 - 4 7 7 - 1 0 0 0

F o r e m e r g e n c i e s , d i a l 9 1 1

County library system offering virtual programming

The Lee County Library System, which includes the Captiva Memorial Library, is offering the following free virtual programming:

Adult programs

∫ Today, Dec 28: Online Book

Discussion for Adults at 10 a m

Calling all readers! A live virtual

book discussion for adults There is no assigned title Instead, participants take turns sharing about the latest books that they have read Advance registration required before today, Dec 28, at 10 a m

For more information or to register, visit leelibrary librarymarket com

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

Download books, stream video and

o t h e r o n l i n e c o n t e n t a t w w w l e e l i

The Captiva Memorial Library is currently closed due to Hurricane Ian.

The Captiva library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva

Services resume at Post Office located on-island

The United States Postal Service reported that retail operations and Post Office Box service has resumed at the Captiva Post Office, which had been suspended due to Hurricane Ian

The retail hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a m to 2 p m

The Captiva Post Office is at 14812 Captiva Drive, Captiva.

Among the facilities that remain temporarily suspended until further notice are:

∫ Sanibel

Customers normally served by the Sanibel Main Post Office should temporarily pick up their mail at the Fort Myers Processing & Distribution Center at 14080 Jetport Loop, Fort Myers Retail services are available at the Mobile Retail Unit in the parking lot The retail hours are Monday through Saturday from 9 a m to 4:30 p.m.

The USPS reported that efforts continue to restore service as quickly as can safely be done

Customers affected by Ian are reminded that the most important step they can take now is to file a Change of Address A COA can be filed online at www usps com or in person at the nearest operational post office Filing a COA ensures customers can receive their mail, packages, prescriptions and other important items as timely and efficiently as possible.

Customers can contact the Customer Care Centers at 800-ASK-USPS (800275-8777) The hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8 a m to 8:30 p m and Saturday from 8 a m to 6 p m

County reports on schedules for upcoming holidays

Most Lee County administrative operations will be closed on Dec 30 through Jan 2 in observance of the New Year's holiday The holiday adjustments include:

∫ Domestic animal services

Lee County Domestic Animal Services, at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers, will be closed on Dec 30-31 Normal hours for the Lost & Found Pet Center and the Pet Adoption Center will resume on Jan 2 For more information, visit www LeeLostPets com

∫

LeeTran

LeeTran will not run bus, trolley or Passport service on Jan. 1. Normal services will resume on Jan. 2. The Blue and Gold River District Trolley Lines will run until 1 a m on Jan 1 to accommodate New Year's Eve celebrations Route schedules and maps are available at www rideleetran com

∫

Library system

All libraries will be closed on Dec 31 through Jan 2 They will resume regular hours on Jan. 3.

Administrative offices and Talking Book Library will be closed on Dec 30 and Jan 2 They will resume normal operating hours on Jan 3

The Lakes Regional Library, which is currently serving as a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center, and the Captiva Memorial Library remain closed post-Hurricane Ian

The online library is always available at www leelibrary net/online

∫ Parks & Recreation

The Lee County Parks & Recreation administration office will be closed on Dec 30 and Jan 2 It will resume normal operating hours on Jan 3

Some boat ramps, parks and preserves will be open on Dec. 30 through Jan. 2. For the list of open locations, visit www leeparks org All beach parks remain closed at this time

Pools will be closed on Dec 31 through Jan 2 Some will resume normal operating hours on Jan 3 For the list of open locations, visit www leeparks org

The three recreation centers North Fort Myers, Veterans and Estero will be closed from Dec. 24 through Jan 8 for scheduled annual maintenance They will reopen on Jan 9 For alternative parks sites, visit www leeparks org The Wa-Ke Hatchee Recreation

Center remains closed at this time

∫ Solid waste

All garbage, recycling and yard waste collections in unincorporated Lee County, City of Bonita Springs, Village of Estero and Town of Fort Myers Beach will continue on the regular collection days through the holidays.

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 cardboard boxes. Plastic ribbons, bows and lights are not recyclable

Administrative offices and the Topaz Court facilities will be closed on Dec 30 and Jan 2 They will resume normal operating hours on Jan 3

On Dec 31, the disposal facility hours for the Buckingham facilities will be from 6 a m to noon and for all Hendry County facilities from 7 a.m. to noon.

Topaz Court will be open on Jan 7 from 8 a m to noon

BUsIness

Chamber celebrates two businesses seeing islands through recovery

Post-hurricane business reopenings continue to inspire ribbon-cutting celebrations for the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce On Dec 15, The Shack of Sanibel and the Sanibel Captiva Community Bank's main office brought the community out to honor the occasions

“Ice cream and money!” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said “Of course, we would celebrate the return of two such important institutions on Sanibel Island They were both highly present and community-supportive on the island since the hurricane Congratulations and thanks to all involved ”

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank never really closed; it only suspended banking services for seven days On

SANIBEL & CAPTIVA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Shack of Sanibel and Sanibel Captiva Community Bank celebrated their reopenings with ribbon cuttings and biodegradable cannon confetti on Dec. 15 with representatives from the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce.

DOH-Lee reports on holiday closure

Business Notes

Lai steps into past chair position

S a n i b e l & C a p t i v a I s l a n d s Chamber of Commerce President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai s e r v e d a s c h a i r f o r t h e F l o r i d a A s s o c i a t i o n o f C h a m b e r P r o f e s s i o n a l s f o r 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 a n d recently stepped into the position of past chair.

The statewide chamber agency installed its 2022-23 board of directors at its annual conference held on Dec 6-8 in Ocala Along with Lai, t h e b o a r d i n c l u d e s : T a m a r a Fleischhaker, with the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership, as chair; Dan Lindblade, with the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of C o m m e r c e , a s c h a i r - e l e c t ; J o h n N e w s t r e e t , w i t h T h e O s c e o l a Chamber, as treasurer; and Tammy C Bracewell as president and chief executive officer

“I am highly honored and humbled to have served as board chair for an organization of such import to our state and the chamber of commerce industry,” Lai said “I look forward to strengthening the islands’ standing and continuing to strengthen the voice of the business community with my ongoing involvement ”

The board is the governing body responsible for overseeing the operations of FACP, whose mission is to advance excellence in chamber management in the state As chair, Lai led the board during the past year and oversaw its direction in providing development skills for professionals within the chamber of commerce

industry

Lai has served at the chamber's helm since his appointment in 2017 He has led members through toxic w a t e r q u a l i t y i s s u e s , p a n d e m i c upheaval and post-catastrophic hurricane recovery during that time

Lai was instrumental in bringing t o g e t h e r t h e S o u t h w e s t F l o r i d a

Alliance of Chambers and in seeing the chamber's visitor center modernized and named by Visit Florida as one of 13 official Florida Certified Tourism Information Centers.

Vidal to speak at leadership forum

LCEC Chief Executive Officer Denise Vidal will co-lead a session at t h e F l o r i d a ’ s W o m e n i n E n e r g y Leadership Forum on Jan 4-6 in Tampa to discuss the collaboration and mutual aid that fueled the postH u r r i c a n e I a n p o w e r r e s t o r a t i o n process in Southwest Florida S h e w i l l b e j o i n e d b y D u k e

Energy Florida President Melissa Seixas in a morning session titled, “ R e f l e c t i o n s : F r o m T r a g e d y t o Collaboration and Mutual Aid ”

Vidal will also discuss infrastructure improvements that were made since earlier storms and how those improvements, along with innovative partnerships and mutual aid, dramatically changed the landscape of postdisaster power restoration, creating a model for future use.

The three-day event highlights women leaders in the energy industry

F.I.S.H. among grant recipients

Verizon Business recently awarded grants totaling $250,000 to 25 small businesses in Southwest Florida, including F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva, for their recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Ian

It partnered with Collaboratory and Florida TaxWatch to create the $10,000 grant program

Verizon reported that Collaboratory and Florida TaxWatch worked with community leaders to select the final grant recipients from the hundreds of applicants and nominees

In addition to hurricane relief efforts, Verizon is providing assistance to small businesses through Verizon Small Business Digital Ready, a free comprehensive online curriculum focused on helping small businesses with digital transformation

Gover nor appoints Adler

On Dec 12, Gov Ron DeSantis a n n o u n c e d t h e a p p o i n t m e n t o f Daniel Adler to the Lee Memorial Health System Board of Directors Adler, of Fort Myers, is the direct o r o f l e g a l c o m p l i a n c e f o r Millennium Physician Group He w a s p r e v i o u s l y a p p o i n t e d a s a Special Assistant General Counsel for the White House

A d l e r e a r n e d h i s b a c h e l o r ’ s degree from Rollins College, his master’s degree in law from George Washington University, and his juris doctor from Appalachian School of Law

Lee Health: Report illustrates commitment to community

L e e H e a l t h ’ s A n n u a l S t a t e m e n t o f C o m m u n i t y B e n e f i t f o r f i s c a l y e a r 2 0 2 1 w a s r e c e n t l y p u bl i s h e d , r e v e a l i n g $ 2 4 2 9 m i l l i o n i n c o m m u n i t y b e n e f i t s b y t h e h e a l t h s y s t e m

T h e r e p o r t i s a n a t i o n a l s t a n d a r d o f m e a s u r em e n t t h a t d e t e r m i n e s a m o n e t a r y v a l u e f o r t h e h e a l t h s y s t e m ’ s c o m m u n i t y c o m m i t m e n t a n d t h e f i n a n c i a l i n v e s t m e n t s i t m a k e s t o h e l p s t r e n g t h e n h e a l t h a n d h u m a n s e r v i c e s .

E a c h y e a r , L e e H e a l t h i n v e s t s a s i g n i f i c a n t a m o u n t o f t i m e , t a l e n t , m o n e t a r y f u n d s a n d o t h e r r e s o u r c e s o n i t s c o m m u n i t y b e n e f i t i n i t i a t i v e , s p ec i f i c p r o g r a m s o r a c t i v i t i e s t h a t p r o v i d e t r e a t m e n t a n d / o r p r o m o t e h e a l t h a n d h e a l i n g a s a r e s p o n s e t o i d e n t i f i e d c o m m u n i t y n e e d s

B o t h 2 0 2 0 a n d 2 0 2 1 w e r e u n p r e c e d e n t e d y e a r s m a r k e d w i t h s i g n i f i c a n t c h a l l e n g e s r e l a t e d t o t h e C O V I D - 1 9 p a n d e m i c D u r i n g t h i s t i m e , L e e H e a l t h w a s a b l e t o c o n t r i b u t e m o r e t h a n $ 2 0 9 3 m i l l i o n i n c o m m u n i t y b e n e f i t i n 2 0 2 0 a n d $ 2 4 2 9 m i l l i o n i n 2 0 2 1 .

“ A s o n e o f t h e l a r g e s t p u b l i c h e a l t h s y s t e m s i n t h e c o u n t r y , L e e H e a l t h c o n t i n u e s t o p r o v i d e h e a l t h c a r e s e r v i c e s w i t h o u t a n y d i r e c t c o m m u n i t y t a x s u p p o r t , ” P r e s i d e n t a n d C h i e f E x e c u t i v e O f f i c e r D r L a r r y A n t o n u c c i s a i d “ O u r p r e s e n c e a l s o g o e s w e l l b e y o n d m e d i c a l c a r e W e c o n t r i b u t e g r e a t l y t h r o u g h e d u c a t i o n a l p r o g r a m s a n d l o c a l p a r t n e rs h i p s w i t h a v a r i e t y o f o r g a n i z a t i o n s f o r t h e b e t t e rm e n t o f t h e e n t i r e c o m m u n i t y ”

K e y h i g h l i g h t s o f t h e 2 0 2 1 r e p o r t i n c l u d e :

∫ E s t a b l i s h i n g a m o b i l e p e d i a t r i c v a c c i n a t i o n c l i n i c t h a t f r o m t h e s t a r t o f t h e p r o g r a m i n M a y t h r o u g h S e p t e m b e r ( t h e e n d o f L e e H e a l t h ’ s f i s c a l y e a r ) v i s i t e d 7 9 l o c a t i o n s a n d v a c c i n a t e d 1 , 8 2 8 p e o p l e

e e k o f W e d n e s d a y , D e c e m b e r 2 8 , 2 0 2 2 b r e e z e n e w s p a p e r s . c o m

Oct 11, it reopened in the main office parking lot under a tent with limited cash services and access to safe deposit boxes For the next seven weeks, staff was present on the island several days a week The bank's renovated boardroom opened on Nov 7 to serve as a temporary branch until the rest of the building is completed

During the days and months following the storm, the bank supporte d t h e c o m m u n i t y i n n u m e r o u s ways It ran boat trips to the island while the Sanibel Causeway was closed to help employees and customers start the rebuilding process Staff immediately began working on forbearance requests for loan customers affected by Hurricane Ian a n d h a s a l r e a d y a p p r o v e d a n d processed tens of millions of new loan requests directly related to the storm

The bank donated $100,000 to 13 nonprofit organizations to assist with hurricane relief and recovery e f f o r t s E m p l o y e e s h a v e v o l u nteered at various nonprofits They have served more than 1,500 hot dogs and hamburgers, often jumping in a bank truck to deliver them all over the island to residents, business owners and recovery workers

“Sanibel and Captiva islands are our home and where we started this b a n k , ” C h i e f E x e c u t i v e O f f i c e r Craig Albert said “To immediately begin helping any way we could in the aftermath of such a devastating storm was second nature for us We were determined to not skip a beat t a k i n g c a r e o f o u r c u s t o m e r s , employees and island communities It's what we do and who we are.”

“SanCap Bank helped out nonprofit organizations whose offices were damaged or destroyed in the storm including the chamber with the use of office space and conference rooms,” Lai said “Always a team player above and beyond ”

“ W e b e g a n b y h a n d i n g o u t G a t o r a d e t o r e s i d e n t s c y c l i n g o r pulling wagons,” The Shack owners Chuck and Lisa Whitman said “We used a friend's grill and cooked up some hot dogs, and it morphed into 25, 50, 100, 200, 400, 800, with a h i g h s e r v i c e d a y o f o v e r 1 , 5 0 0 meals Initially, it was all transported by boat until the bridge opened We wanted to help residents and first responders by bringing a hot meal and a bit of community ”

Because it was a new build, The Shack which first opened in May 2021 had relatively minimal

d a m a g e I t r e q u i r e d e l e c t r i c a l repairs, landscape cleanup, pressure washing, refrigeration cleaning and the typical interior mucking

For the community, which supported the business with donations p o s t - h u r r i c a n e , I a n b r o u g h t w e lcome changes to the operation It has added lunch items and Snow Shacks, its rendition of Hawaiian shaved ice. The Snow Pack specialty couples a scoop of The Shack’s signature custard with shaved ice

“What a welcome addition The Shack has become to the island b u s i n e s s l a n d s c a p e , ” L a i s a i d “Their hot meals literally sustained residents and business owners when all seemed so despairing out on the island ”

S a n i b e l C a p t i v a C o m m u n i t y B a n k ' s m a i n o f f i c e i s a t 2 4 0 6

Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

The Shack of Sanibel is at 1219 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

∫ D r i v e - t h r o u g h t e s t i n g s i t e s a n d v a c c i n a t i o n c l i n i c s w e r e s e t u p a t v a r i o u s l o c a t i o n s i n F o r t M y e r s a n d C a p e C o r a l a n d t h e y d e l i v e r e d 1 6 7 , 9 4 7 C O V I D t e s t s a n d v a c c i n a t e d 3 2 , 9 5 0 p e o p l e

∫ A t o t a l o f 3 , 9 2 1 p a t i e n t s w e r e s e r v e d v i r t u a ll y L e e H e a l t h e l i m i n a t e d t h e c o s t s o f i t s 2 4 / 7 L e e T e l e H e a l t h p l a t f o r m t o e n c o u r a g e t e l e m e d i c i n e u s a g e d u r i n g C O V I D - 1 9 s u r g e s

∫ L e e C o m m u n i t y H e a l t h c a r e , w h i c h p r o v i d e s p r i m a r y m e d i c a l c a r e t o m e d i c a l l y u n i n s u r e d a n d e c o n o m i c a l l y d i s t r e s s e d c o m m u n i t i e s , a d d e d e i g h t p e d i a t r i c a n d t w o s p e c i a l t y c a r e p r a c t i c e s , c o n d u c te d 1 7 5 , 7 7 5 o f f i c e v i s i t s a n d s e r v e d 5 3 , 3 8 2 p a t i e n t s

P r o g r a m s o r a c t i v i t i e s m u s t m e e t a t l e a s t o n e o f t h e f o l l o w i n g c r i t e r i a t o q u a l i f y a s c o m m u n i t y b e ne f i t : i m p r o v e a c c e s s t o h e a l t h c a r e s e r v i c e s , e n h a n c e t h e h e a l t h o f t h e c o m m u n i t y , a d v a n c e m e d i c a l o r h e a l t h k n o w l e d g e , o r r e l i e v e o r r e d u c e t h e b u r d e n o f g o v e r n m e n t o r o t h e r c o m m u n i t y e f f o r t s .

F o r t h e f u l l r e p o r t , v i s i t w w w l e e h e a l t h o r g / a b o u t - u s / c o m m u n i t y - a f f a i r s / c o m m u n i t y - b e n ef i t s

I s l a n d R e p o r t e r

The Florida Department of Health in Lee County will be closed in observance of the New Year holiday All

DOH-Lee sites will be closed on Dec 30 and Jan 2 All services will resume on Jan 3

Island partners take part in annual Christmas Bird Count

Christmas Bird Count is one of the longest-running citizen science efforts in the world, with over 120 years of data on bird populations in the western hemisphere

The annual bird census is collected by thousands of volunteers, who tally all the birds they see or hear in a day from Dec 14 through Jan 5 in designated 15mile circles Typically, SCCF staff have joined the Sanibel Captiva Audubon Society to conduct the local CBC surveys, and last year, the SCCF was asked to take on the role of compiling the 123rd CBC for 2022

“Though we knew it would be challenging for people to participate due to Hurricane Ian’s massive destruction on the islands, everyone involved recognized the importance of continuing this citizen science effort,” shorebird biologist Audrey Albrecht said “Despite all this, our staff, volunteers, and partners were able to cover many areas though some sites were inaccessible or unsafe to enter ”

Captiva Audubon Society, city of Sanibel and J N “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge As of Dec 20, SCCF biologists were tallying the count results

For more information about the Christmas Bird Count, visit https://www audubon org/conservation /join-christmas-bird-count

CROW treats juvenile heron found stuck in glue trap

By STAFF REPORT trepecki@breezenewspapers com

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife recently admitted a little blue heron for treatment at its temporary off-island clinic after the bird was discovered in a pool with a glue trap stuck to it

CROW reported that the Fort Myers homeowners returned from vacation to find the juvenile bird in their pool with the trap stuck to its feet Glue was covering its wings, tail, legs, chest and stomach

Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation shorebird biologist Audrey Albrecht came to the rescue and quickly transported the heron to CROW's drop-off site at the BluePearl Pet Hospital in Fort Myers

Hospital staff placed the bird under anesthesia, then began removing the glue Using natural peanut butter and Dawn dish soap, they removed the glue revealing skin tearing and feather damage Staff then administered antibiotics and pain medication, and they placed a heat lamp and warming unit on the heron to dry off and maintain body temperature

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

CLINIC FOR THE REHABILITATION OF WILDLIFE

Monthly water sample results

County board ratifies reimbursement grant to clear beaches

On Dec 20, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted to ratify acceptance of a grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for reimbursement of services associated with the recent red tide event up to the maximum of $90,000

The grant provides funds to the county for the purpose of assisting with the cleanup of the large quantities of

dead fish and marine life on the county’s beaches and in its waterways The Florida Department of Health in Lee County issued red tide alerts in November in several areas from Bonita Beach north to Boca Grande Pass Those alerts were lifted earlier this month

Lee County Parks & Recreation has completed cleanup in areas most heavily impacted, including

Captiva and the county portions of Gasparilla Island More cleanup is possible

The eligible expenses for reimbursement are staff overtime hours, including fringe benefits, contractual expenses related to the biological debris removal services, rental of equipment, and landfill fees

SFWMD to begin effort to reduce debris and vegetation

The South Florida Water Management

D i s t r i c t ' s G o v e r n i n g B o a r d r e c e n t l y authorized staff to begin a rulemaking process to reduce trash, debris and vegetation in district waterways

Officials reported that the rulemaking process initiates public engagement with local drainage operators, local governments, landowners, stakeholders and the public to develop a new regulatory rule

CROW

From page 12

CROW reported that the next day, the bird was much improved and it was standing a n d a l e r t , b u t t h e h e r o n w o u l d n e e d a n o t h e r b a t h Staff will continue to provide supportive care as the bird recovers

“Please do not use glue traps They are cruel and i n e f f e c t i v e d e v i c e s , ” i t s h a r e d v i a s o c i a l m e d i a “There are many alternatives t o e n s u r i n g i n s e c t s a n d rodents stay clear of your structures ”

C R O W r e c o m m e n d e d soaking cotton balls or washcloths in a strong peppermint oil dilution and placing them

aimed at reducing trash, debris, and vegetation in district canals

Once the new rule is developed, it would allow the district to require local canal operators to take proactive measures to reduce the amount of litter, vegetation and debris that enters district canals

Officials reported that many of South and Central Florida's waterways are interconnected Trash, debris and vegetation

around the problem areas as one cruelty-free alternative It also reminded the public to make sure that there is nothing left out that may entice s u c h c r i t t e r s , i n c l u d i n g garbage and food

“Do not attempt glue trap removal on any wild anim a l s , ” C R O W a d d e d “ A l w a y s b r i n g t h e m t o a wildlife rehabber, so the animal can be placed under gene r a l a n e s t h e s i a t o r e d u c e s t r e s s a n d i n c r e a s e t h e i r c h a n c e s f o r r e c o v e r y a n d survival ”

CROW's wildlife hotline is open daily from 8 a m to 5 p m at 239-472-3644

can make their way into local waterways and canals and can eventually end up in district canals District canals often move water into bays and lakes, and trash, debris, and vegetation in these waterbodi e s c a n c a u s e n e g a t i v e w a t e r q u a l i t y impacts Keeping district canals free of debris and vegetation allows for more e f f i c i e n t w a t e r m a n a g e m e n t a n d a l s o r e d u c e s t h e n e g a t i v e w a t e r q u a l i t y

impacts associated with litter and debris.

The rulemaking process will involve a series of public workshops over the next several months In addition to the rulemaking effort, the district installed additional debris-collecting booms throughout its water management system to prevent debris from entering lakes and bays, including Biscayne Bay

The Calusa Waterkeeper recently released it and the Florida Department of Health's water sample results for

fecal indicator bacteria for the month of December. For m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n a n d a n i n t e r a c t i v e m a p , v i s i t

h t t p s : / / c a l u s a w a t e r k e e p e r . o r g / i s s u e s / b a c t e r i a - m o n i t o ring/ CALUSA WATERKEEPER

SPD releases weekly blotter

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

Arrest repor ts

∫ Kamyar Eric Sadegi, 29, of 13227 Heather Ridge Loop, Fort Myers, was charged on Dec 13 with one count each of DUI unlawful blood alcohol DUI influence of alcohol or drugs, flee elude police law enforcement officer with lights siren active, reckless driving, resist officer obstruct without violence and driving while license suspended revoked revocation equivalent status

∫ M i c h a e l E r n e s t S m e t a n a , 3 7 , o f 1 4 7 3 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, was charged on Dec 13 with two counts of drugs possess controlled substance without prescription and one count of DUI unlawful blood alcohol DUI influence of alcohol or drugs

Enforcement actions

∫ On Dec 15, officers responded to a 911 medical call in reference to a man bit by an alligator The victim was treated by Lee County EMS and transported to the hospital Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission alligator trappers responded for capture and removal of the alligator ∫ On Dec 19, two men were observed picking through bagged items in front of a business that was not their job site Their hurricane pass was confiscated due to misuse and they were escorted off island without incident ∫ Multiple Violation of City Ordinance (VCO) citations were issued for dewatering of a pool and illegal dumping ∫ Residential and contractor hurricane passes continue to be confiscated due to misuse

Enforcement operations statistics

Week to date for Dec 13-19: ∫

Alarm calls (business and residential): 1 ∫ Non-emergency calls: 16 ∫ Traffic crashes: 0 ∫ Traffic stops: 43 ∫ Residential area checks: 1,015 ∫ Business area checks: 236 ∫ Field interviews: 18 ∫ Total CAD calls: 1,639 Month to date: ∫

Alarm calls (business and residential): 12

Non-emergency calls: 52

Traffic crashes: 2

Traffic stops: 102

Residential area checks: 2,241

Business area checks: 813

Field interviews: 42

Total CAD calls: 4,189

Reminders from the SPD

All beaches, beach parking and the Sanibel Lighthouse fishing pier are currently closed Anyone found in these areas may be subject to trespassing charges Dewatering of a pool or spa directly into a water-

Sanibel library continues to provide some services

The Sanibel Public Library Foundation is offering limited services following the recent storm

Patrons can browse the bookshelves, check out materials and use the public computers. The drive-up book drop located in the parking garage on the west side of the library is also accepting returns

Currently, overdue fines are not being assessed for materials returned late

In addition, it is offering curbside assistance on weekd a y s f r o m 1 1 a m t o 1 p m f r o m n o w t h r o u g h December To use the service, place items on hold online or make requests by calling the library at 239-472-2483 Patrons will then be notified when their items are ready for pick up

The library’s eShelf and all online services are available 24/7. Library cardholders can stream or download eBooks, movies, music, newspapers, magazines and

more For assistance with the services or a library card, contact notices@sanlib org

If you have photos taken during Ian or of post-storm damage or recovery in Southwest Florida, consider allowing the library to archive the images It is also looking for photos of the islands before the causeway, during the land boom of the early 1920s, and of notable locals Images, videos and stories can be emailed to sanibelpubliclibrary@gmail com

The Sanibel Public Library is open Monday through Friday from 10 a m to 3 p m

It will be closed on Jan 2 for New Year’s

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

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

The Sanibel School

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

Enrollment waivers to open

The Sanibel School reported that student enrollment waivers will open in January

Off-island families who have a child in kindergarten through eighth grade and would like their child to

attend the island school can contact the School District of Lee County's Student Assignment Office.

The school noted that it cannot give tours of the campus yet, but will provide an update when that is an option

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

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

Island boat club donates pillowcases to hospital

Over the past three years, members of the America’s Boating Club of Sanibel-Captiva have sewn more than 1,000 pillowcases for patients at the Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida

They recently donated another collection, which were holiday-themed sets

The club reported that each of the pillowcases is given to a child who has to spend time in the hospital undergoing lengthy treatments Called Ryan’s Cases for Smiles Project, the national program came about because of a boy named Ryan who was ill and hospital-bound for several weeks At one point, he mentioned to his mother that everything in his room was all white and boring His mother designed a couple of pillowcases for him, and he loved them. After Ryan passed, his mother and her friends went on to establish a program donating pillowcases to children's hospitals, ultimately, across the country

Ryan's Cases for Smiles Project has grown over the years Now, hospitals also u s e t h e p i l l o w c a s e s f o r t h e i r i n f u s i o n patients, as well as for mothers who spend time in the Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit

The club reported that three times a year, it hosts a sewing session where six to 18 members gather to sew and contribute their skills, such as pinning, ironing, folding, washing and preparing the pillows During the pandemic, members took pillowcase kits home and made them up Despite Hurricane Ian, a special effort was made to get several dozen pillowcases made up and delivered to the local hospital

The fabric for the cases is funded by cash and fabric donations from members

For more information about the project, contact Commander@scsps org

DeSantis signs disaster relief, property insurance bills’

The Office of the Governor reported that Gov Ron DeSantis signed two bills on Fort Myers Beach on Dec 16, one providing disaster relief and the other intended to address the property insurance crisis

The first was Senate Bill 4-A, which provides $750 million for additional disa s t e r r e l i e f t o F l o r i d i a n s f o l l o w i n g Hurricanes Ian and Nicole. The second was SB 2-A, which proponents describe as “the most significant property insurance reform bill in recent history which helps to stabilize our property insurance m a r k e t , i n c r e a s e c o m p e t i t i o n , a n d strengthen consumer protections ”

“We have taken an all-hands-on-deck approach to cut through bureaucracy to h e l p o u r c o m m u n i t i e s r e c o v e r f r o m

Hurricanes Ian and Nicole,” DeSantis said “I want to thank the Legislature for bringing additional disaster relief to communities across the state as we continue our historic recovery

“The issues in Florida’s property insurance market did not occur overnight, and they will not be solved overnight,” he

Blotter

added “The historic reforms signed today create an environment which realigns Florida to best practices across the nation, adding much-needed stability to Florida’s m a r k e t , p r o m o t i n g c o m p e t i t i o n , a n d increasing consumer choice ”

SB 4-A Disaster Relief provides property tax relief for homes rendered uninhabitable due to the storms. Additionally, it provides $750 million for the communities impacted by them, including:

∫ $350 million to support the portion of local government match for FEMA Public Assistance, freeing up local funds to undertake additional hurricane recovery and mitigation projects The matching money may provide up to $7 billion in r e c o n s t r u c t i o n a n d r e c o v e r y p r o j e c t s undertaken by local governments depending on the applicable federal cost share

∫ $ 1 5 0 m i l l i o n t o t h e F l o r i d a

Department of Environmental Protection to support local beach renourishment projects and a new Hurricane Restoration Reimbursement Grant Program to assist homeowners with coastal hardening and

f o r t i f i c a t i o n t o p r o t e c t t h e i r p r o p e r t y against the severe coastal erosion from Ian and Nicole The bill also authorizes the FDEP to waive local match requirements for beaches in the impacted areas

∫ $100 million to the FDEP to repair and reconstruct community stormwater and wastewater infrastructure that was damaged by Ian or Nicole.

∫ $150 million to continue efforts to support homeowners and renters impacted by the storms through the Hurricane Housing Program and Rental Recovery Loan Program

A c c o r d i n g t o t h e O f f i c e o f t h e Governor, the property insurance legislation is intended to strengthen Florida’s property insurance market by “eliminating one-way attorney fees for property insurance claims, which will disincentivize frivolous lawsuits, and realigning Florida’s market to best practices that will promote more market competition in the private insurance industry ”

“This bill reins in the incentive to litigate,” DeSantis said

He cited one example of a $50,000 claim which resulted in $1 million in attorney fees, fees the governor said get passed on to policy holders in the way of higher premiums

“Now we’re more in line with what the rest of the county is doing,” he added

A c c o r d i n g t o t h e O f f i c e o f t h e Governor, SB 2-A also will:

∫ Reduce the burden of excessive and predatory litigation will help bring down costs for homeowners

∫ Enhance the Office of Insurance Regulation’s ability to complete market conduct examinations of property insurers following a hurricane to hold insurance companies accountable and prevent abuse of the property appraisal process

∫ Reduce timelines for insurers to get payments out the door and back into the hands of policyholders as they rebuild their lives

∫ Build on reforms passed earlier this year by committing additional funding to provide temporary reinsurance support to help stabilize the state’s market

From page 14

body, into the city’s stormwater system or onto any third-party’s property without the third party’s consent is expressly prohibited.

Sanibel Residential Hurricane Passes are not transferrable In addition, Sanibel Commercial Reentry Passes are not transferrable; unauthorized use of passes by individuals other than the contractor to whom a pass was issued will result in immediate revocation of the commercial

entry pass

Contractors from whom passes have been revoked will be ineligible to receive new passes

Multiple search warrants have been issued and executed as part of post-hurricane investigations, resulting in the discovery of items that may be missing property Residents, property owners and business owners are encouraged to review photos at http://www mysanibel us/police /property/

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

Repor ting suspicious activity

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

∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411

∫

com/tips/new?alert g roup id=22450

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

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

F i n d t h e S P D o n F a c e b o o k a t

https://www facebook com/SanibelPolice

AMERICA'S BOATING CLUB OF SANIBEL-CAPTIVA

FWC announces Triple Threat Throwdown challenge

T h e F l o r i d a F i s h a n d W i l d l i f e C o n s e r v a t i o n

Commission’s saltwater angler recognition program, Catch a Florida Memory, will give away a fully outf f i s h i n g k a y a k t o o n angler in its first-ever T r i p l e T h r e a t Throwdown

The challenge will r u n f r o m J a n 1 through Sept 5, and it will be an exclusive raffle opportunity for T r i p l e T h r e a t C l u b m e m b e r s t o w i n a Bonafide SS127 fishing kayak, fully outfitte with an accessory pac from YakAttack To enter, participants must qualify for a Catch a Florida Memory recognition between Jan 1 and Sept 5 and be a member of the Triple Threat Club at the time of the raffle drawing, which will take place after all submissions from the challenge period have been processed.

Triple Threat Club status is awarded to anglers who have qualified for recognition in all three Catch a Florida Memory programs This means the angler has caught a Saltwater Grand Slam, a Saltwater Reel Big Fish and has qualified for at least the Saltwater Life List 10 Fish Club Anglers only need to qualify for the Triple Threat Club once and membership never expires

Catch a Florida Memory’s saltwater angler recognition program rewards anglers for their fishing efforts while encouraging them to target a diversity of species. Anglers do not have to harvest their fish to be eligible for prizes and are encouraged to use proper fish handling techniques

L e a r n m o r e a n d s u b m i t c a t c h e s a t

CatchaFloridaMemory com Check out the latest catches and see your achievements highlighted by following the Catch a Florida Memory Facebook page at Facebook com/CatchaFLMemory View angler catches and much more on Instagram and Twitter by following @MyFWC

F o r q u e s t i o n s a b o u t t h e p r o g r a m , c o n t a c t AnglerRecognition@MyFWC com

County board approves agreements for beach and shoreline projects

On Dec 20, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve interlocal agreements to fund 14 Lee County Beach and Shoreline projects using more than $5 78 million in Tourist Development Tax revenue

The interlocal agreements are between the county and t h e B a r r i e r I s l a n d P a r k s S o c i e t y , C a p t i v a E r o s i o n Prevention District, city of Cape Coral, city of Sanibel, town of Fort Myers Beach, and Florida Department of Environmental Protection

The projects primarily allow for maintenance of beach park facilities, including public accesses, parking lots, restrooms and equipment in Boca Grande, Cape Coral, Captiva, Sanibel and Fort Myers Beach Capital improvement projects include restrooms and shoreline monitor-

Periwinkle Park provides poststor m update

Periwinkle Park recently reported that a week after Hurricane Ian ravaged Sanibel, General Manager David Muench and his crew arrived to begin the long recovery process With no services on-island, he and his wife, Marisa, began providing lunches daily in their home for workers and residents Though providing lunches daily to 30 or more people is a daunting prospect, the Muenchs are happy to be a part of the island's recovery As of Dec 15, they had served more than 1,400 meals. Periwinkle Park is at 1119 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

ing and expansion in Cape Coral

The Beach and Shoreline funding is an annual program, with the application deadline early in the calendar year The applicants receiving funding this year all remain committed to the identified projects following Hurricane Ian’s landfall in September Beach and shoreline project funding accounts for 26 4% of the proceeds from the Tourist Development Tax assessed on short-term lodging such as hotels, resorts and vacation rentals

The agreements are part of more than $15 million in projects using Tourist Development Taxes, including a $4 million allocation for beach nourishment

For more information, visit www leevcb com/funding-programs/beach-and-shoreline

TBE shares possible reopening date post-stor m

T h e c o n c e s s i o n a i r e t o t h e J . N . “ D i n g ” D a r l i n g N a t i o n a l W i l d l i f e R e f u g e o n S a n i b e l , T a r p o n B a y E x p l o r e r s r e c e n t l y r e p o r t e d t h a t i t h o p e s t o r e o p e n f o r b u s i n e s s i n F e b r u a r y I t e x p l a i n e d t h a t H u r r i c a n e I a n c a u s e d e x t e n s i v e d a m a g e t o a v a r i e t y o f e q u i p m e n t , s o i t w i l l o n l y h a v e c e r t a i n r e n t a l s a n d t o u r s a v a i l a b l e d u r i n g l i m i t e d d a y s t h r o u g h o u t t h e w e e k w h e n i t d o e s

T B E i s w o r k i n g w i t h t h e r e f u g e ' s r a n g e r s a n d s t a f f t o e n s u r e t h a t t h e s i t e ' s s a f e t y c o nc e r n s a r e a d d r e s s e d a n d c o m p l e t e d b e f o r e v i s i t o r s a r e a l l o w e d t o r e t u r n a n d e n j o y T a r p o n B a y F o r u p d a t e s , f o l l o w o n F a c e b o o k @ T a r p o n B a y E x p l o r e r s I n c o r I n t a g r a m @ t a r p o n b a y e x p l o r e r s F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t w w w t a r p o n b a y e x p l o r e r s c o m

County board pursues two Conservation 20/20 purchases

In November, the Lee County

B o a r d o f C o u n t y C o m m i s s i o n e r s voted to pursue the purchase of two parcels through the Conservation 20/20 program; both are adjacent to already preserved land.

The parcels are:

∫ 1 99 acres at 5031 Pine Island Road N W , Bokeelia The land is near the county-owned Buttonwood Preserve in Bokeelia

∫ 0 23 acres located within an

existing Conservation 20/20 pres e r v e b o u n d a r y k n o w n a s t h e Caloosahatchee Creeks Preserve

The Conservation Land Acquisition and Stewardship Advisory Committee unanimously recommended approval of both parcels

The Lee County Conservation 20/20 program acquires land from willing sellers for resource-based recreational opportunities such as hiking, birdwatching, nature study, pho-

tography and paddle craft launches

The program for environmentally sensitive land acquisition and management has preserved more than 30,000 acres since its inception

In addition to recreation, conservation lands help the county to protect drinking water, enhance water quality, protect areas from flooding and provide wildlife habitat

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t www

PERIWINKLE PARK

CROW

Tickets are on sale now for the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife's fundraising event, “WILD About CROW,” on Jan. 20 from 6:15 to 9:30 p.m. at the Burroughs Home and Gardens in Fort Myers

“Hurricane Ian will not spoil our fun or stop us from continuing CROW's mission to save wildlife and educate others on what they can do to save them too,” Executive Director Alison Charney Hussey said “We are thrilled to bring back WILD About CROW for another year and provide an opportunity for those in the community to enjoy themselves, as well as supporting our rebuilding efforts ”

The “animal print attire optional” event will feature a sit-down dinner, behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the CROW Clinic and fun surprises for attendees The night will include a live auction and, for the first time ever, a silent auction with virtual bidding for out-of-town participants

Edison National Bank is the Golden Bald Eagle presenting sponsor “

pleased to be able to support CROW's rebuilding

on

the aftermath of Ian, CROW is working to rebuild the Sanibel campus

CLINIC FOR THE REHABILITATION OF WILDLIFE

Tickets are on sale now for the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife's fundraising event, “WILD About CROW,” on Jan. 20 from 6:15 to 9:30 p.m. at the Burroughs Home and Gardens in Fort Myers.

St. Michael and All Angels holds monthly gathering

St Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church hosted its Messy Church on Dec 18 from 4 to 6 p.m. at its temporary location at the Peace Lutheran Church in Fort Myers

The event featured making Christmas crafts, ornaments and gifts, including a wooden Sanibel lighthouse, along with

games, a retelling of the Christmas story, singing carols and a meal

Held on the second Sunday, Messy Church is for all ages and family types Attendees can choose to take part in themed activity stations and crafts, plus a c t i v i t i e s , g a m e s a n d a c o m m u n i t y meal

From page 18

Tickets are $250 each for those attending in-person Virtual attendees can register to bid on silent auction items or make a onetime donation Attendees also have the

ST MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS EPISCOPAL CHURCH

Isl and HOMe islander

Salt-tolerant prickly pear is like candy for tortoises

tortoises

The prickly pear cactus (Opuntia spp ) is from the Cactaceae family and is native to Florida and the deserts of the American S o u t h w e s t A l t h o u g h they look like they only belong in the deserts, there is a variety that loves the sandy shores of the island beaches They are highly drought tolerant, of course, but also have developed a good salt tolerance

There are many varieties of the prickly pear cactus, but the one seen on the islands may range in height from 1-foot to several feet tall They form clumps or shrub-like mounds and have a very course texture The actual leaves of the cactus are unnoticeable; it is the plate-like stems of the plant that are often thought of as the leaves These sections are the fleshy plates that reach a length of 2 inches to 6 inches, are green and covered with 3inch-long spines, so watch your step

The prickly pear cactus mainly blooms in the summer with flowers ranging in color from orange, red and purple, to white It will bloom over a period of several weeks, but the individual flowers will only last for one day. The fruit of the cactus is oval in shape and about 1 inch to 3 inches long, fleshy and purple in color The plant grows well in full sun

The best part of having the prickly pear cactus in your yard or along your beach is the gopher tortoises They love to eat the flowers, fruit and even the spiny plates of the plant It is a favorite in their diet You have to wonder how they manage to eat something so prickly Gopher tortoises do not have teeth, but they do have a beak to break off foliage and food They also get their water from the plants they eat and that may be why they are willing to brave the stickers for some prickly pear cactus.

In The Garden is a joint effort by all at the local garden center, at 3889 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel For more information, contact 239-3955859 or visit www facebook com/rswalshinthegarden

Local ar tist suppor ting recover y fund

T h e C a p t i v a C i v i c Association reported that local artist Paul Arsenault is donating all of the proceeds from the sale of his giclee prints from his “ S h o r e l i n e s ” c o l l e c t i o n f r o m now through Jan. 31. The funds w i l l b e n e f i t t h e C h a r i t a b l e F o u n d a t i o n o f t h e I s l a n d s ' Nonprofit Employee Assistance Program to help island employe e s w h o w e r e i m p a c t e d b y Hurricane Ian For more information or to view the collection, v i s i t h t t p : / / w w w a r s e n a u l tg a l l e r y c o m / s h o r e l i n e s - - - c a p t iva--pine-island-sound html

County enhances outreach for residents in need of assistance

Officials recently reported that L e e C o u n t y H u m a n & V e t e r a n Services enhanced its resources in an effort to reach out to those who may need assistance with resources after Hurricane Ian

T h e d e p a r t m e n t ’ s C o o r d i n a t e d

Entry team was expanded to help complete assessments for those experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness as a result of the storm The phone number remains the same, but new resources are available It is critical because some residents who previously were not familiar with services may now need them postdisaster and may be new to the process

Officials reported that coordinated entry is the gateway to all housing

and services for persons who are experiencing homelessness in Lee County To access street outreach services, emergency shelter, rapid reh o u s i n g o r p e r m a n e n t s u p p o r t i v e housing, call 239-533-7996 The number is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week People also can visit the Homeless Resource Day Center at the Salvation Army, at 2450 Edison Ave , Fort Myers

Another tool Lee County Human & Veteran Services developed and launched post-Ian is the Lee REACH app for the local community It was created to deliver information to the community quickly via a preferred form of notification among county residents People with the app can connect with resources at the click of

a button The app is available from the Apple App Store and Google Play

Residents can find applications for help with rent, electric, water, housing rehabilitation and downpayment assistance They can find their closest food pantry along with directions There also is a schedule for mobile food pantries Persons experiencing homelessness can sign up for push notifications for severe weather outreach, such as cold fronts this winter The push notifications also help residents learn about events happening throughout the county for those in need of services

For more information, call 2395 3 3 - 7 9 0 0 o r v i s i t www leegov com/dhs

Salt-tolerant prickly pear is like candy for

PHOTO PROVIDED Prickly pear cactus

PAUL ARSENAULT “Back of the Bubble Room”

“Beach Flowers, Sanibel”

PAUL ARSENAULT

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

Indulge in this quick appetizer and celebrate the holidays with this fabulous dish I make it for all of our clients and it is a big hit at all of our catering events Let the good times roll at your next party with these delicious shrimp fritters. (Chef tip: Make the batter the same consistency as a thick pancake batter )

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic minced

Whole milk as needed

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 cup shredded zucchini, shredded on the large holes of a cheese grater

1/2 cup potato, shredded on the large holes of a cheese grater

2 cups canola oil

1 pound large shrimps, peeled and deveined and chopped 1/4 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder and eggs While whisking, add enough milk to form a fairly loose, sticky batter Set aside

In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, potato, shrimp, butter, garlic, Parmigiano and salt and pepper to taste. Mix just enough to combine all ingredients.

In a tall-sided pot, heat the canola oil over high heat to 375 degrees F Dip the vegetable mixture, by the tablespoonful, into the batter, making sure to coat all surfaces of each fritter Drop the fritters into the hot oil, a few at a time, and cook until deep golden brown Remove from the oil, and allow to drain on a plate lined with paper towels

Sweet and sour dipping sauce:

1 cup canned pineapple juice

3/4 cup packed light brown sugar

1/3 cup rice vinegar

3 tablespoons ketchup

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water

Place all of the ingredients, except for the cornstarch slurry, in a small saucepan and bring to a boil Stir in the cornstarch slowly and simmer for another minute until thickened, stirring constantly Let the sauce cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for two to three weeks

New guide for advanced lung care patients, caregivers

Hope Healthcare recently released a new guide that may improve the quality of life for people living with advanced lung disease Produced in collaboration with the National Partnership for Healthcare and Hospice Innovation and American Lung Association, the “Advanced Lung Care Patient and Caregiver Guide” is a helpful resource available to families at no cost.

The publication contains the collective input of more than 90 advanced illness and hospice care organizations, including tips for symptom management, self-care, medications, diet and advance care planning It serves as a valuable resource for people experiencing severe symptoms from chronic obstructive pulmonary dise a s e , c h r o n i c b r o n c h i t i s , e m p h y s e m a , asthma, cystic fibrosis, bronchiectasis,

p u l m o n a r y f i b r o s i s , s a r c o i d o s i s , p u lmonary hypertension or lung cancer

“An important part of living with chronic lung disease is finding the right support, both for the patient and the caregivers,” Deb Brown, chief mission officer for the American Lung Association, said “Whether you have COPD, lung cancer, interstitial lung disease or another type of chronic lung disease, this guide will help you learn new home care strategies to manage symptoms ”

Lung disease often represents an outsized burden on strained healthcare systems In 2016, there were more than 2 million emergency department visits and more than 650,000 hospitalizations related to COPD alone Using the best practices in the guide, patients may be able to m a n a g e s o m e r e s p i r a t o r y s y m p t o m s ,

reduce or prevent unnecessary medical visits and continue to receive support at home

“It’s easy to take every breath for granted, unless you have advanced lung disease,” Hope Healthcare President and C h i e f E x e c u t i v e O f f i c e r S a m i r a K

Beckwith said “Every person coping with these difficult symptoms deserves our utmost compassion and, when appropriate, our comforting care ”

The guide is available for download at HopeHCS org/Guides

Island Worship

∫

2050

the Goodwill Community Resource Center, at 5100 Tice St , Fort Myers

∫ Wednesdays at 6 p m at the Lehigh Acres Community Center Building, at 201 Plaza Drive, Suite 103, Lehigh Acres ∫ Thursdays at 2:30 and 6 p m at the Sally J Pimentel Deaf & Hard of Hearing Center, at 1860 Boy Scout Drive, Suite B208, Fort Myers

O n l i n e c l a s s e s v i a Z o o m w i l l b e offered on Wednesdays at 2, 4 and 6 p m Each course is taught in a fun and

i w a y b y q u a l i f i e d ors

udents will receive ertificate of comletion at the end Cost is $75 for t h e f i v e - w e e k course, with discounts for hard of hearing indiv i d u a l s a n d immediate family members of a deaf person The lasses are free for e deaf

We are so grateful ted Way of Lee, nd Glades, which has allowed us to expand our ASL p r o g r a m b y c o l l a b o r a t i n g w i t h o t h e r United Way partner agencies,” Executive Director Amy Turner said “ASL is key for communicating with deaf or hard of hearing individuals. And it also gives your brain a workout, introduces you to a new culture and community, and gives you a new way to meet people and make new friends ”

For more information or to register, visit www dhhc life or call 239-4610334, ext 6

Sabbath

on

at 7 p.m. at the

Charlotte Counties, at 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, and via Zoom For Zoom links, email batyamsanibel@gmail com

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

Rev Larry Marshall

Sunday service available online; in-person services have been postponed until further notice Services from the past season have been videotaped and posted on the chapel's website and Facebook page

∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida www chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida org

Lecture and discussion on Thursday at 11 a.m. via Zoom. Torah Talk on the third Thursday of each month at 11 a m via Zoom Friday Shabbat service at 7:30 p m via Zoom Len Minsky Current Events discussion on Saturday at 11 a m via Zoom For Zoom links, email ChavuratShalom@gmail com

∫ Sanibel Christian Science Church 2950 West Gulf Drive, Sanibel, 239-810-1077

Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services

∫ Sanibel Community Church 1740 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, 239-472-2684, https://sanibelchurch com/, https://www facebook com/sanibelchurch/ Pastor Jeramie Rinne

Sunday service at 10 a m in the SCC Historic Chapel Sunday service at 5 p m at the Fort Myers Community Church, at 8440 Cypress Lake Drive, Fort Myers. Services will be recorded and posted on the SCC's YouTube channel on Monday

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

Sunday service at 10 a m at The Refuge Church, at 1901 Brantley Road, Fort Myers

∫

St. Isabel Catholic Church 3559 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, 239-472-2763, https://www saintisabel org/, https://www facebook com/stisabelcatholicchurch/ Father Ed Martin

Due to the hurricane, it is not currently holding services.

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

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

Chef Loretta Paganini

Bat Yam Temple of the Islands

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

service

Friday

Jewish Federation of Lee &

Kiwanis presented with donations

The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club was recently presented with checks amounting to $7,500 from Cielo General Manager The donations will be directed toward the club's mission of providing grants and scholarships to the young adults of the islands

BIG ARTS launches outreach initiative post-hurricane

Always part of its long-term planning, BIG ARTS will use the window of time post-Hurricane Ian to reach a broader audience in Lee County by launching a new initiative, “BIG ARTS on the Road.”

Its initial foray into the outreach program will be a series of plein air works h o p s a t t h e B e r n e D a v i s B o t a n i c a l Gardens in Fort Myers, under the direct i o n o f W o r k s h o p M a n a g e r A i m e e H a r r i s o n T h e y w i l l f e a t u r e s o m e o f Southwest Florida's popular instructors, including visiting artists Douglas Davis, Jane Slivka and others

In addition, BIG ARTS will host a free open house on Jan 18 from 4 to 6 p m on its campus, where a variety of artists will conduct demonstrations in the education classrooms There will be complimentary f o o d , b e v e r a g e s a n d m u s i c T h e

M e z z a n i n e G a l l e r y , w i t h i t s e l e v a t o r access, will be open to attendees

BIG ARTS is also assisting with recovery efforts on the islands

“While BIG ARTS did not sustain the heartbreaking damage to property that our friends and neighbors have suffered due in great part to the integrity of the new building constructed in 2019 we were so glad to be able to offer the space as a location for all Sanibel city meetings,” officials reported “And for two months, our parking lots were jammed with dozens of trucks, and used as a staging area for the hundreds of workers restoring power and electricity and clearing debris ”

For more information, contact 239395-0900 or info@bigarts org

BIG ARTS is at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel

Pacifico proceeds to benefit SCCF

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that Pacifico beer is donating $1 for every 12-pack sold in Collier, Lee and Charlotte counties from now through Jan. 31 to the SCCF The partnership is being advertised on signage on top of Pacifico displays in stores, including at Publix, ABC Liquor and Total Wine The campaign is also being promoted on iHeart Media radio channels and on digital billboards near Southwest Florida International Airport and on Colonial Boulevard

F.I.S.H. receives another challenge

F I S H of Sanibel-Captiva reported that its first matching opportunity has surpassed its initial $100,000 goal In addition, another anonymous donor has stepped forward with a $55,000 donation to the original matching donation challenge to help F I S H continue its work serving the islands

“First and foremost, we want to thank everyone that has contributed to our organization,” President and Chief Executive Officer Maggi Feiner and Executive Director Maria Espinoza shared “Given the level of devastation to our community, we know this cannot be easy for some of you and we are truly grateful for your kindness ” Donations made by Dec 31 will be matched for the increased goal of $250,000

“As we have for over 40 years, F I S H is adapting to local crises in order to support our community,” they shared “We are proud to assist the thousands of individuals we help annually and others who have never needed our help before, and so grateful for our community’s continued support ”

To donate, visit https://www fishofsancap org/donate/

Al-Anon, Al-Ateen meetings

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

Call our 24-hour helpline at 941-564-5098 or visit www SouthFloridaAl-Anon org Meetings are held every day in Lee County Al-Ateen meetings are also offered for ages 10-18

Fort

The Fort Myers Film Festival is continuing its 13th season with the film series T G I M at the Sidney & B e r n e D a v i s A r t C e n t e r i n F o r t

Myers Doors open at 6:30 p m ; the show begins at 7 p m

Local celebrity judges and attendees get a chance to watch and then weigh in on how they feel about short indie films Grab a drink and intellectualize with host Eric Raddatz a n d c o - h o s t M e l i s s a D e H a v e n .

p e c i a l g u e s t s , m u s i c a l a c t s a n d

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA KIWANIS CLUB

Edison, Ford estates to offer art classes for adults

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers offers opportunities throughout the year to learn painting techniques, create floral arrangements or other pieces of artwork taught by local artists

Classes scheduled for the month of January include the following:

The acrylic-on-canvas painting workshop is for any experience level Cost is $90 for members or $100 for non-members

∫ Jan 28: Zen Drawing with Megan Kissinger at 10 a m

∫

Jan 14: Silk Scarf Painting with Marie Dyer at 9 a m

Marie Dyer has been teaching at the estates for years. Participants will paint a scarf that can be worn or hung as a piece of artwork Participants of all experience levels are welcome Cost is $90 for members or $100 for non-members; all materials are included

∫ Jan 15: Palm Weaving with Megan Kissinger at noon

Participants will join local artist Megan Kissinger to learn how to make woven crafts that they can take home All materials and tools will be provided, but participants may bring their own specially chosen ribbons and scissors They are also encouraged to bring a snack or lunch Cost is $40 for members or $60 for non-members

Participants will explore meditative d r a w i n g w i t h l o c a l a r t i s t M e g a n Kissinger The class will take place outd o o r s i n t h e g r o u n d s o f t h e e s t a t e s Participants are encouraged to bring a lunch. The class will meet at the Visitor Pavilion before departing to paint on the grounds All materials are included No experience is required Cost is $40 for members or $60 for non-members

∫ J a n 2 9 : P r e - V a l e n t i n e s F l o r a l Arranging with Anita Singh at 10 a m

Participants will learn how to create their own botanical masterpiece The class will highlight designing with roses and foliage, and how to create a Valentine's Day floral arrangement Each participant will take home their custom arrangement. All materials are included, as well as tools and refreshments Participants of all experience levels are welcome Cost is $75 for members or $85 for non-members

FMB art association hosting Winter Show

∫

Jan 21: Floral Still Life Painting with Marie Dyer at 9 a m

Impressionist painter Marie Dyer will e x p l a i n c o l o r m i x i n g , e f f e c t d e s i g n , impressionistic techniques, shading and effective color contrast to create mood

Seating is limited and registration is required

For more information or to register, visit EdisonFord org

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

Sponsored by the Fort Myers Beach Art Association, the Winter Show is open now through Jan 30 at the First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs, at 9751 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs

The show, “Finding Inspiration,” will help the arts group raise money for rebuilding

Since the art association’s building

was destroyed by Hurricane Ian, the group has found exhibit and meeting space with area churches Fort Myers Congregational Church has provided meeting and painting space Another show will be hosted on Jan 13-15 at St John the Evangelist Church in Naples.

For more information, visit www fortmyersbeachart com or call 239-9923233

EDISON AND FORD WINTER ESTATES

Megan Kissinger teaches painting techniques at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers.

LAURA BLACK

“Peaceful Solo Sunset”

e e k o

A year and a new beginning

acknowledge even the tiniest bit of good that we see in our daily lives Actually, there’s another Bible character that can provide another relevant example for us

‘The Night Before Christmas on Sanibel Isle’

‘Twas the night before Christmas on Sanibel Isle, Not a gator was stirring, not our one crocodile

Mary L Miller

In the Bible, the book of Nehemiah tells the story of another rebuilder In 445 B C , N e h e m i a h w a s d i stressed to learned that the walls of his father’s city of J e r u s a l e m w e r e b r o k e n d o w n , a n d h e r e q u e s t e d that he be allowed to go a n d r e b u i l d t h e m E v e n though this task involved multiple walls and included many disappointing delays, the work was completed in 52 days!

The Roseate Spoonbills wore pink underwear While Blue Herons were sleeping legs up in the air The shops had been emptied of I-Pods and stones, And last-minute shoppers dialing cell phones The Drawbridge Protection was in its last throes, And from Lake Okachobee poured freshwater woes

But I with my Flo-Max and Ma with Botox Were just settling down to our new cable Box, When all of a sudden nothing bright did appear, A Lee County Light outage the one hundredth this year

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

We hear about Job’s patience mentioned frequently, but let’s do a quick r e v i e w o f h i s s t o r y I n t h e O l d Testament of the Bible, the prophet Job is described as a blessed man who lives righteously and is protected by God But even when the time comes that Job finds himself in trying conditions, he still persistently sees only the good in his life His three friends (friends, really?) argue that his difficulties are somehow Job’s own fault But despite his untoward circumstances, Job patiently perseveres and continues to steadfastly place his faith in God, frequently thanking God for his blessings, even though they’re hardly evident.

With Ian, the unexpected 500-year storm that we’ve endured recently, there were times we could all relate to Job Hopefully we’ll be able to be as patient in the trying circumstances we find ourselves in as Job was, and continue to

Sanibel may not enjoy the quick success that Nehemiah and his work team enjoyed, especially since we’re already past the 52 day mark! But we all can adopt Nehemiah’s determination and remember that it’s not a race Our sanctuary island is our priceless piece of paradise and we’ll do whatever it takes to rebuild it back even better once again Usually a change in our thinking can make the difference in the outcome And this change is one that takes place in human consciousness when we listen for direction from God It’s the sunlight of truth, the Christ, that changes the very foundation of human thinking, with no need to give any credence to the negativity that Job’s friends were suggesting W h o n e e d s n e g a t i v e t h i n k i n g ? O u r rebuilding will take time and there will be days of frustration, but we can follow Nehemiah’s example and endure until those walls are up and our precious island is whole again As our Sanibel Mayor Holly Smith is fond of saying, we can all be “impossibly optimistic” and let that uplifted thought lead us every step of the way Let’s happily leave 2022 behind and celebrate the New Year of 2023 with abundant joy!

Mary

Obituary

George Gordon Coughlin Jr

George Gordon Coughlin Jr passed away September 18, 2017 in Sanibel Island, Florida He was born in 1929 to George Gordon and Laura Crossley Coughlin

Gordon was predeceased by his first wife Patricia P Coughlin He is survived by his wife Elizabeth J Coughlin; three sons and daughters-inlaw, George and Dr Anne VitalettiCoughlin, Stowe, Vt , Robert and Patricia Coughlin, Binghamton, N Y , and Crosby and Deirdre Coughlin, East Burke, Vt ; six grandchildren, George W Coughlin, Phoebe L Coughlin, Charlotte H Coughlin, Patrick Y Coughlin, Finnegan P. Coughlin and Declan W. Coughlin, and His Sister Susan Guild of Winchester Ma. Gordon was a graduate of South Kent S c h o o l , C o l g a t e U n i v e r s i t y a n d T h e U n i v e r s i t y o f V i r g i n i a L a w S c h o o l

Gordon practiced law for over 40 years and is the a u t h o r o f Y o u r Introduction to the Law (Harper Collins, 5th ed ) w h i c h h a s s o l d o v e r a quarter million copies He served on numerous comm u n i t y a n d c o r p o r a t e boards.

Gordon was an accomp l i s h e d a r t i s t H i s o i l paintings are in many private and corporate collect i o n s t h r o u g h o u t N o r t h A m e r i c a a n d Europe Gordon was a member of Big Arts, The Sanibel Captiva Art League, The Art Mission Ltd , The Hirdie-Girdie Art Gallery and The Bryan Memorial Gallery He painted en-plains air on the coast of Maine, the Spanish coast, the Catskill Mountains and Sanibel Island

The family invites Gordon’s friends to a celebration of his life to be held at his house on Sanibel on March 10th from 2:00PM to 5:00PM

The cordless phones in an instant went dead, No television programs to be watched while in bed But the land line we’d kept and the cellular phone Brought assurance from police we weren’t alone When would lights go on? the police had no clue, But ‘twas holiday season and they were only a few: The rest had all gone to Bell Tower Fair In hopes that Saint Nicholas soon would be there The generator purchased after Charlie’s big blow Had gone back to Costco when FEMA said no

So with one trusty flashlight we walked to the beach, Met snowbirds collecting every shell within reach The moon shining down on red seaweed below Made some of us wish we had stayed north with snow But Sanibel’s no-see-ums not blinded by light Had all come to wish us Merry Christmas that night.

So back to our houses we ran like a flash, Closed all our windows and pulled down the sash, Called Lee County Electric on our cellular phone Their message informed us they had all gone home: In the spirit of Christmas they were proud to say, An emergency crew would work Christmas Day

Till then, it concluded, cheerful and bright, “Merry Christmas to customers, from Lee County Light ”

Joe Pacheco

L Miller is affiliated with the Sanibel Christian Science Church

Faces on Faith

Poetic License

e e k o

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