030525 Sanibel Island Reporter/Islander

By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

Shell lovers will have the chance to celebrate everything shell related at two upcoming events.

Presented by the Shellcrafters and Sanibel Community Association, the 88th Annual Shell Festival will take place on March 6-8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Community House on Sanibel. Just across the Sanibel Causeway, the Sanibel-Captiva Shell Club will host the 2025 Sanibel Shell Show on March 6-7 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and March 8 from 9 am to 4 p.m. at the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa.

Annual Shell Festival

The 88th Annual Shell Festival will feature a mix of shells and shell art, crafts and local art vendors, shell artistic displays with a People’s Choice Award, live mollusk tanks and more for the whole family.

“It’s to bring everyone together,” Cheri Bailey, a member of the Shellcrafters group and one of the event co-chairs, said. “This one is actually going to be a throwback to the original one from the ‘30s.”

There will be about two dozen vendors with shell-related items, arts and crafts, and more.

SHELLCRAFTERS/THE COMMUNITY HOUSE Artist and J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland designed the logo for the 88th Annual Shell Festival on March 6-8 at The Community House on Sanibel.

“Vendors from in and around the islands,” she said. “They’ll have their wares and crafts for sale.”

There will also be various individual shells and bags of shells available.

“We’re going to have shells that have been donated and found on Sanibel and around Sanibel,” Bailey said. “We’re also going to have fossils for sale.”

Artistic exhibits will be on display for attendees to vote on for the People’s Choice Award.

“It’s all shell related,” she said of the entries, noting that first, second and third place will receive ribbons. “It’s an opportunity for people to bring in their artwork and have the community vote on it.”

A Shellcrafters member will provide a shell crafting demonstration.

“We’ll have a lady there who will be making shell flowers,” Bailey said, adding that the member will make two or three

SCCF team responds to sea turtle strandings on island

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) reported that from Feb. 13-21, it documented one live and five dead stranded sea turtles on Sanibel. All stranded turtles were identified as loggerheads and consisted of three adult males, two adult females and one subadult. The live turtle was an adult female found floating near the shore, making seemingly no effort to swim. Staff were able to rescue the turtle and transport it to the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium in Sarasota to be evaluated and rehabilitated.

“The turtle had no obvious external injuries to determine the cause of stranding, but was extremely lethargic,” SCCF sea turtle biologist Amanda Manrique said. “Two of the five dead turtles also lacked any external injuries to indicate cause of stranding. Two adult male turtles were found with blunt force trauma, likely caused by vessel strikes, and a subadult was found with apparent predation injuries, possibly from a shark.” She reported that the cause of strand-

State bill opens door to ending property tax

By NATHAN MAYBERG nmayberg@breezenewspapers.com

State Sen. Jonathan Martin has introduced a bill that could change the way Floridians pay taxes.

Martin, R-Fort Myers, is shepherding a bill which could potentially eliminate property taxes and replace them with a mixture of budget reductions and by raising sales tax rates through what the bill calls “sales-based consumption taxes, and locally-determined consumption taxes.”

SB 852, which Martin filed on Feb 18 in the state Legislature in Tallahassee, calls for a study to “establish a framework

Jonathan Martin

A2 Public workshop to focus on city’s stormwater plan

The city of Sanibel’s Public Works Department and consultant Johnson Engineering will provide a Stormwater Master Plan update at a public workshop on March 11 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Sanibel Recreation Center on Sanibel.

A presentation on the city’s stormwater plan will be given by the firm, with time for discussion. There will also be the opportunity for attendees to provide comments and ask questions about the plan.

“Feedback from our community is essential as city staff examine potential modifications or changes needed to the plan as we address challenges from climate change,” the city reported.

Following the workshop, the presentation will be posted on the city’s website.

“We encourage you to review the presentation and provide feedback,” the city reported.

To provide comments and suggestions, email sanpw@ mysanibel.com.

To watch a video of city engineer Oisin Dolley explaining the function of the weir systems and plans for updating the Stormwater Master Plan, visit https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=vj-nUmnHqHg.

For more information, contact the Public Works Department at 239 472-6397.

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

FDOT provides update on causeway project

The Florida Department of Transportation reported that crews have moved traffic to the permanent lanes on the Sanibel Causeway. The causeway islands surrounding the temporary roadway are an active work zone and closed to public access, including from the water.

The following work activities above are scheduled to occur. However, unforeseen underground conditions and weather may affect the schedule:

East from toll plaza

∫ Motorists can expect two eastbound lanes open east of the merge with Punta Rassa Road traffic, beginning about 3,500 feet east of the toll plaza. It is anticipated that the contractor will complete the guardrail installation over the weekend and the

lane closure can be removed.

∫ The shoulder on McGregor Boulevard remains fully closed to access from the toll plaza to approximately 3/4 miles east. Work in the area is expected to be complete in March.

∫ Motorists should expect a daytime westbound lane closure after peak morning traffic between Port Comfort Road and Punta Rassa for crews to install sod.

∫ Motorists can continue to expect intermittent daytime flagging on McGregor, both eastbound and westbound, from Shell Point Boulevard to Punta Rassa for crews to move equipment and materials.

West from toll plaza

∫ Final paving of the roadway has been rescheduled to begin this week during the

nighttime/overnight hours. From 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., motorists should expect one lane of travel with a flagging operation for the contractor to complete the work. The contractor anticipates to complete the operation in two weeks.

∫ Work continues close to the eastbound travel lane near the toll plaza. Drive with caution as crews finalize the area in preparation for final paving.

∫ Motorists should expect intermittent flagging during daytime hours throughout the causeway for various work activities.

∫ Lee County is installing a post and rope system to delineate traffic on the causeway islands during the upcoming recreational facility reconstruction. The Causeway Islands Park remains closed to public access.

∫ Motorists are urged to use caution and obey the 20 mph speed limit. Construction vehicles and equipment continue to enter/ exit the travel lanes throughout the project.

∫ Crews continue work on the off-island U-turn under Span A.

Many oversized vehicles are crossing the causeway to assist with recovery efforts on the island. Please be patient as travel may be slower than usual. Bicyclists are encouraged to utilize another mode of transportation to travel the causeway and pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway. Motorists are reminded to obey the posted speed limit of 20 mph throughout the work zone.

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

SCCF: Red tide no longer present off county

On Feb. 25, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) reported a red tide bloom that has been causing impacts to wildlife and people in Southwest Florida since mid-January was no longer being detected in Lee County, according to recent water samples and satellite imagery.

Water samples taken and analyzed by the SCCF’s Marine Laboratory on Sanibel and Captiva over the previous 10 days did not find any Karenia brevis — the organism that causes red tide.

“Though there could be Karenia away from shore and deeper, it’s likely the bloom crashed,” research scientist Rick Bartleson said.

Concentrations of Karenia brevis were listed as “not present” in all water samples from offshore Lee County between Feb. 14-21, according to the Feb. 21 report by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). High and medium concentrations were still found in Sarasota and Monroe counties, respectively, though samplings from Feb. 24 showed only low concentrations in Manatee County.

The FWC’s Red Tide Status report was

as follows:

∫ Pinellas County: Background to very low concentrations

∫ Hillsborough County: Very low to low concentrations

∫ Manatee County: Background to low concentrations

∫ Sarasota County: Background to high concentrations

∫ Charlotte County: Background to low concentrations

∫ Lee County: Not present

∫ Collier County: Background concentrations

∫ Monroe County: Background to medium concentrations

Despite the bloom disappearing, the SCCF reported that it continues to document and receive reports of fish kills and other stranded coastal wildlife, including birds and sea turtles.

“This is likely because red tide toxins (brevetoxins) accumulate in the tissues of small fish and invertebrates, which are then ingested by wildlife higher in the food chain,” he said. “Toxins from dead Karenia cells can also contaminate sediments and be absorbed by seagrasses, which can remain toxic to marine life after

a red tide has passed.”

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Since December, the Caloosahatchee Estuary has been receiving scheduled Lake Okeechobee releases within the optimum flow envelope as part of Lake

Okeechobee Recovery Operations. SCCF staff and partners have provided regular updates and recommendations to water managers and decision makers through its Caloosahatchee Conditions Reports.

CITY OF SANIBEL

Web Poll

Another look at property taxes

Property owners who have seen their tax bills spike year-over-year may have some interest in a bill proposed by a member of the Lee County Legislative Delegation.

Sen. Jonathan Martin has introduced a bill that would require the state’s Office of Economic and Demographic Research to conduct a study on the elimination of property taxes and replacing that tax revenue through “budget reductions, sales-based consumption taxes, and locally determined consumption taxes authorized by the Legislature.”

SB 852 states that “The study must include, at a minimum, all of the following: (a) An analysis of the potential impact of eliminating property taxes on public services, including education, infrastructure, and emergency services. (b) An assessment of potential housing market fluctuations, including changes in homeownership rates and property values. (c) An evaluation of whether a shift to consumption-based taxes would make Florida more attractive to businesses compared to other states. (d) An analysis of the potential impact of eliminating property taxes on overall economic stability, consumer behavior, and long-term economic growth.”

Fair enough. The elimination/replacement of property taxes with other “revenue sources” is a proposal that is generating a lot of chatter. Gov. Ron DeSantis has already weighed in with support for the concept.

Count us among those who do not think that change is a bad thing, particularly change that begins with fact-finding and detailed analysis as to the impact on those directly

Cervical

Each year in the United States, about 11,500 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed, and about 4,000 women lose their lives to the disease. By raising awareness about preventive measures and ways women can protect themselves, we aim to empower women to take control of their health.

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer occurs when cells in the cervix — the lower, narrow end of the uterus — begin to mutate and form cancerous cells. The cervix plays a crucial role by connecting the uterus to the vagina (birth canal).

∫

∫ All, nothing recovered, 14.29% (1)

Current Question

Did you get a flu shot this season?

∫ Yes, every year.

∫ Yes, first time.

∫ No, still plan to.

∫ No, have before.

∫ No, never have.

affected.

Sen. Martin’s bill appears to take this into account.

But also count us among the cynical because, with all due respect to Sen. Martin, when any politician promises a “more fair” tax shuffle, the first thing we do is grab our respective wallets.

The second is look for the ace in the hole.

First, property owners currently have protections against increases:

Florida regulates the maximum millage rate which counties, school boards and local governments can impose on properties.

Annual increases are capped with owner-occupied homes having the greatest protection with a 3% cap.

Florida offers various “homestead” exemptions for owner-occupied properties with $25,000 deducted from assessed valuation for all owner-occupied residences, get another $25,000 exemption that does not apply to school levies and various other breaks for veterans, older adults and more.

Second, the state Legislature has, over the years, though, allowed various new taxes on properties that aren’t, well “property taxes.” Bluntly put, they are effectively an end run around the state’s 10% cap on millage rates and allow local officials to “keep property taxes low” while raising them.

The “assessments” and “cost-recovery” levies for departments and services previously paid for through property taxes can,

Cervical cancer usually develops slowly over time. Early detection through a Pap smear screening test can reveal abnormal cells, known as dysplasia, in the cervical

tissue. If these abnormal cells are not treated or removed, they may eventually become cancer cells, which can grow and spread deeper into the cervix and surrounding areas.

How is cervical cancer spread?

Most cervical cancers are caused by various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted through sexual contact. When the body is exposed to HPV, the immune system recognizes the virus as a foreign invader and produces antibodies to fight it off. However, in some individuals, the virus can persist for years and eventually lead to the development of cervical cancer cells.

The risk of cervical cancer can be reduced through regular screening tests and by receiving the HPV vaccine, which helps protect

in fact, be more than property taxes on lower-priced properties — AKA “affordable housing” — and residential lots.

Sen. Martin’s study will no doubt run the numbers on how much residents, visitors, business owners and prospective businesses owners will pay in additional sales taxes and possibly other “consumption-based taxes” and how much they will save in property taxes.

But if the rest of the tax bill — the all-inclusive bill on property — is not part of any evaluation, property owners will not really know how much they will save — and how much they will pay.

Any study on the elimination of property taxes with an eye to replacing it with other tax revenue must include all levies on property — every one.

Lest Floridians find themselves paying higher sales tax and the same or greater property taxes under the guise of another name.

We urge Sen. Martin to make sure the “analysis of the potential impact of eliminating property taxes on overall economic stability, consumer behavior, and long-term economic growth” includes one more element” — property owners who now have some protection from being taxed out of their homes.

— Island Reporter editorial

against HPV infection.

Cervical cancer symptoms

Symptoms of early-stage cervical cancer may include:

∫ Vaginal bleeding after sex

∫ Vaginal bleeding after menopause

∫ Vaginal bleeding between periods or periods that are heavier or longer than normal

∫ Watery vaginal discharge that has a strong odor or contains blood

∫ Pelvic pain or pain during sex

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial that you discuss them with your physician and follow their recommended next steps.

What is the Pap smear screening test?

Women should begin cervical cancer screenings at age 21, with pap tests every three years for those aged 21-29 years old. For women aged 30-65, it’s recommended to have pap and HPV co-testing every five years or a pap test alone every three years. Women over 65 with a history of normal results do

County prepares for receipt of recovery funds

Lee County reported that it has been allocated more than $100.6 million in Community Development Block Grant — Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

The funding will pro-

vide resources to address unmet recovery needs from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, supporting recovery efforts with a focus on housing repair and public infrastructure restoration.

The funds will be managed and allocated in accordance with HUD’s guidelines, which require

the development of a comprehensive Action Plan. Lee County’s Department of Strategic Resources and Government Affairs (SRGA) oversaw development of the Action Plan, ensuring compliance with federal requirements.

On Feb. 18, the Lee County Commission approved publication of the Draft Action Plan to initiate a 30-day period for soliciting public comment. The plan will be available for review through

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

∫ March 6: Online Translating, Transcribing, and Summarizing Documents Using AI from 10 a.m. to noon

Participants will learn how to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to assist in translating, transcribing and summarizing a variety of genealogy records. The best AI platforms will be covered, as well as how to craft a solid prompt to obtain the results needed. Registration is required before today, March 5, at 8 p.m.

∫ March 11: Love and Treachery! Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

King Edward VIII relinquished the English throne and left his country to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcee. Forbidden to enter England, they spent their lives in exile. Surely this is a love story for the ages. But was it? Did Wallis

even like Edward? Was Edward a loyal Englishman? Close examination and new evidence reveal a different picture. Registration is required before March 11 at 1:30 p.m.

∫ March 12: Online Author Event with Dan Heath from 2 to 3 p.m.

Join an enlightening conversation with bestselling author Dan Heath as he talks with us about his new book, “Reset: How to Change What’s Not Working.” Attendees will learn: why the feeling of progress can be their secret weapon in accelerating change; how leaders can uncover and stop wasteful activities; why their team’s motivation is often squandered and how to avoid that mistake; and how they can jumpstart their change efforts by beginning with a “burst.” The event is part of the Online Author Events Series. Registration is required.

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

The Captiva Memorial Library remains closed post-storms. The library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva.

March 20.

Comments can be emailed to recovery@leegov.com, mailed to Lee County Administration in care of the Office of Strategic Resources and Government Affairs, 2115 Second St., Fort Myers, FL 33901. Comments will also be heard during a public hearing on March 5 at 5:30 p.m. at the Estero Recreation Center, at 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd., Estero.

See COUNTY, page 23

U.S. COAST GUARD

U.S. Coast Guard crews located and rescued three boaters on Feb. 23 near Captiva.

Coast Guard rescues three off of Captiva

The U.S. Coast Guard reported that crews located and rescued three overdue boaters on Feb. 23 near Captiva after their vessel capsized.

A Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater MH-60 helicopter aircrew found the three sitting on top of their capsized vessel in reportedly good health. The aircrew vectored in a Coast Guard

See RESCUE, page 23

The following public meetings/ hearings are scheduled:

∫ March 10: Captiva Erosion Prevention District meeting at 1 p.m. via Zoom. For more information or the agenda, visit mycepd.com.

∫ March 11: Captiva Community Panel meeting at 9 a.m. via Zoom. For more information or the agenda, visit captivacommunitypanel.com.

∫ March 11: Captiva Island Fire Control District meeting at 11 a.m. at the fire station, at 14981 Captiva Drive, Captiva. For more information or the agenda, visit captivafire.com.

LEE COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM

LWV of Sanibel to host luncheon program

Trust Company to continue WOW series

The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company will continue its Wisdom of Women (WOW) series with two seminars that will cover investment, financial and estate planning.

The first will be held on March 12 at 10 a.m. at The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, with a continental breakfast at 9:30 a.m. The second will take place on March 13 at 4 p.m. the Bell Tower Office, at 13525 Bell Tower Drive, Fort Myers, with wine, beverages and light appetizers.

Each presentation will touch on the basics of investing, financial planning to include retirement, long term care, caregiving, creditor protection, titling of trusts, inheritance, estate tax and more.

Case studies will be shared on the following scenarios that commonly impact women of any age:

∫ Suddenly single: Whether through divorce, incapacity or death of a spouse

∫ Cash windfall: Whether from the sale of a business or other significant asset or an inheritance

∫ Midlife planning: How to make sure you have enough money to live on, what are your goals and how best to establish a legacy for family

The seminars will be led by female members of the team, including Bell Tower Office President Megan Marquardt.

Reservations are required.

The presentations are designed for those with $2 million and higher in investable assets.

To register, contact Frances Steger at fsteger@sancaptrustco.com or 239-472-8300.

City reminds owners of final inspections

The city of Sanibel’s Building Department reminded owners of newly renovated vacations rentals — whether a condo or stand-alone unit — to ensure that they have their final inspections completed before welcoming back guests.

Most inspections can be com pleted within 48 hours of request.

To request inspections or for more information, contact the department at 239-472-4555 or sanibelbuild@ mysanibel.com.

CFI announces new board of directors

The Charitable Foundation of the Islands (CFI) announced that its board of directors will see several changes this year as the Executive Committee transitions to a new slate of officers.

The new board consists of Lisa Riordan as chair, Doug Congress as vice chair, John Morse as secretary and Mike Bennett as treasurer. In addition, Chip Roach will serve as immediate past chair after completing five years of service as CFI’s chair.

Riordan, who previously served as secretary and vice chair, is the second woman and first Captivian to serve in the role. She spent years in the communications industry before beginning her 25-year career in labor represen-

The League of Women Voters of Sanibel will hold a citizen education luncheon program on March 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, at 1451 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel.

“Your Tax Dollars, School Vouchers, and the Impact on Public Education” will feature Norín Dollard, Ph.D., senior policy analyst and director of KIDS COUNT for the Florida Policy Institute.

The league reported that this year alone, school vouchers in Florida will siphon billions of tax dollars from local public schools to private and religious schools and parents who homeschool. The vouchers are available to every Florida parent/guardian, regardless of income, costing an estimated $88 million in Lee County alone.

Attendees will learn about the universal voucher program and its effect on teaching and learning in public schools, along with the financial impact on Florida’s school systems, students and communities.

Dollard holds more than 30 years of experience in the health needs of children and families across child-serving systems in Florida and New York.

The cost is $30 per person, and payment by cash or check can be made at the door.

Registration is requested no later than March 6.

To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/ wsrsy9u3 or email lwvsanibel@gmail.com.

For more information, contact President Cathie Kozik at cekozik@gmail.com or 224-659-2239.

Pfeifer Realty presents top producers for month

The Pfeifer Realty Group named its top producers for the month of January.

Kerri Maw was the top volume sales consultant and top selling agent. A fulltime, real estate professional and Realtor, she moved to Sanibel in 2003. Maw obtained her Sanibel Captiva Island Specialist designation in 2017, and she reached $30 million in sales volume in 2024.

Wendy Kirschner was the top listing agent. A Florida resident since 2009, she

Realtor with more than $30 million in production in 2024, Kirschner holds the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Specialist designation. She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Brigham Young University and a master’s degree from Arizona State University.

For more information, call 239-472-0004 or visit www.mysanibelrealestate. com.

The Pfeifer Realty Group is at 1630 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

VIP Realty announces top producers for month

VIP Realty Sanibel and Captiva announced its top producers for the month of January.

Ken King had the top sales. A licensed Realtor from the Hudson Valley in New York, he is retired from law enforcement and later managed an excavation and rock crushing company. In 1996, King and his wife closed on their first Sanibel home. He is now a fulltime resident.

Susan Dun had the top listings. A third generation Florida “cracker” whose family owns Gatorama, she has been selling on the islands for 21 years. Dunn is a savvy professional broker who brings a fresh outlook, youthful spirit and small-town charm to real estate.

Amy Wainwright was the top pro-

ducer. She moved to Sanibel in 2006. In 2013, she earned her Realtor’s license and the title of Rookie of the Year, as well as became an Honor Society member. Wainwright is past president of the Sanibel Captiva Realtor’s Association.

Loggerhead Cay celebrates 50 years

For more information, call 239472-5187 or go to SanCapIslandRE. com. VIP Realty Sanibel and Captiva is at 1560 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Loggerhead Cay on Sanibel celebrated its and the city’s 50th anniversaries from Feb. 2-7 with owners and renters. A dinner was held at the BaileyMatthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium, with live music provided by Danny Morgan. There were private tours thanks to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and Sanibel Historical Museum and Village, along with talks by photographer Ed Saternus and Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz. There were tournaments, pickleball, tennis, corn hole, bocce ball and fishing, plus a beach campfire and happy hours. There also was a parade of condos to show off some post-storm remodels.

joined Pfeifer Realty in 2018. A

Lisa Riordan

Norín Dollard

Wendy Kirschner

Amy Wainwright

Kerri Maw

Ken King

Susan Dunn

City, LCEC officials discuss electrical grid resiliency

The city of Sanibel reported that Mayor Richard Johnson and City Manager Dana Souza met with Lee County Electric Cooperative (LCEC) Chief Executive Officer Denise Vidal and Executive Tricia Dorn on Feb. 24 to discuss ongoing and future mea sures and plans for enhancing the resiliency of the island’s electrical grid.

The collaborative meeting focused on the critical infrastructure improvements required to bol ster Sanibel’s defenses against future storms and continue to ensure a reliable power supply for its residents.

“While no electric system is completely resistant to natural disasters, the city is steadfast in working with LCEC to do everything possible to maintain reliable power for island residents and visitors,” the city reported

The city and LCEC officials reviewed the progress made in recent months, including upgrades to critical infrastructure and the deployment of advanced technologies to fortify the grid.

Planned enhancements include the construction of a modern substation/service center on Sanibel and implementation of additional smart grid technologies that will allow for real-time monitoring and quicker restoration of services. The initiatives will build on ongoing efforts to reinforce the electrical infrastructure of the island against future storms.

“Collaboration between the city of Sanibel and LCEC is vital as we work toward a more resilient future,” Johnson said. “By working together, we are taking steps to strengthen our infrastructure and remain prepared for the next major storm, with a focus on mitigating potential storm-related service interruptions.”

LCEC will provide an update on the electrical infrastructure maintenance and improvements at the city’s annual Hurricane Seminar, which is planned to be held in May.

Will insects help control invasive air potato?

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) reported that the air potato (Dioscoreria bulbifera) is an invasive, exotic vine from Africa and southeast Asia that was introduced as a food crop and ornamental plant in the United States. Prior to Hurricane Ian, it had become a troublesome exotic plant on the islands that required a lot of effort to eradicate.

Its large heart-shaped leaves can quickly dominate a tree line, resulting in the shading of trees it is growing on and the understory plants.

“Hurricane Ian really knocked it back in many areas, and in some cases better than we have. This is also true of other exotic plant species on the island,” SCCF Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz said.

Scientists with the USDA-Agricultural Research Service Invasive Plant Research Lab in Fort Lauderdale have been releasing biological control insects into various areas in Florida to help control the spread of the noxious exotic plant.

The first insect to be released was Lilioceris cheni, a native of Asia. It was released several times years ago on the island. The most recent insect to be released is Lilioceris egena, which is named the “air potato beetle” and is native to southeast Asia.

“It was brought into quarantine and tested for two years to make sure it would not harm any native plants before it was released in areas infested with air potatoes,” he said.

The first batches were released in 2021 in Florida. They feed on the leaves and bulbils — the potato — of the plant. They also lay eggs inside the bulbils to prevent them from sprouting. With the help of SCCF field technician Dustin Lucas, they were released in several locations on Sanibel in late October.

“As of yet, the results are unknown, as much of the

air potato plants died from the storm surge of Helene and Milton,” Lechowicz said.

However, air potatoes did survive in the higher elevation areas of the island.

“We will get a better idea of any success in the spring and summer when new plants typically start to emerge,” he said.

DDWS reports on refuge programming and

The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge provided the following updates for the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel:

∫ The free Winter Lecture Series will take place on select Thursdays from now through March 13.

∫ The refuge’s free Winter Programs will run from now through April 5. They range from birding walks, a nature photography workshop and shelling walks, to lessons about manatees, gators and crocs, and Microscopic Marvels in the auditorium. No registration is required, but space is limited.

∫ The “Ding” Darling Day Conservation Carnival is scheduled for April 26 at Lakes Park in Fort Myers.

∫ The 13th annual “Ding” Darling & Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament will take place on May 9.

Participants sought for mollusk count

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium will hold a Live Mollusk Count on March 11 at 6:30 a.m. on Sanibel. Participants will contribute to community science by walking beach areas to observe and document sightings

of living mollusks. Data collected is used to benchmark local mollusk species on the island. There is no cost to participate, but registration is required. For more information or to register, contact Jorden Falker at jfalker@shellmuseum.org.

more

Audubon Society to host bird walk

The Sanibel-Captiva Audubon Society will hold a bird walk on March 8 at 8 a.m. on Wildlife Drive at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel. It will last about one and a half to two hours. Appropriate dress is recommended to accom modate for weather, terrain or insects. No reservations are required; parking fees may apply. A $5 donation is welcome and appreciated. For more informa tion, visit https://san-capaudubon.org/ or contact san.capaudubon@gmail.com.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

The “Ding” Darling Day Conservation Carnival is set for April 26 at Lakes Park in Fort Myers.

SPD releases weekly blotter

The Sanibel Police Department issued the following weekly police blotter, which includes recent information about law enforcement response to criminal activity.

Other enforcement actions

∫ On Feb. 19, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for driving on the wrong side of the road. The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for driving with a suspended license and the vehicle tag was seized due to a seize tag order. Arrangements were made to remove the vehicle from the scene.

Enforcement operations statistics

From Feb. 18-25:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 5

∫ 911 non-emergency calls: 43

∫ Traffic crashes: 5

∫ Radar details: 116

∫ Traffic stops: 77

— Citations issued: 18

— Written warnings issued: 0

— Verbal warnings issued: 61

∫ Residential area checks: 317

∫ Business area checks: 184

∫ Total area checks: 884

∫ Reported burglaries: 0

∫ Reported thefts: 2

∫ Total CAD calls: 1,467

February to date:

∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 12

∫ Non-emergency calls: 118

∫ Traffic crashes: 19

∫ Radar details: 341

∫ Traffic stops: 310

— Citations issued: 96

— Written warnings issued: 0

— Verbal warnings issued: 225

∫ Residential area checks: 898

∫ Business area checks: 520

∫ Total area checks: 2,688

∫ Reported burglaries: 0

∫ Reported thefts: 2

∫ Total CAD calls: 4,600

Important

reminders

The 2025 Annual Beach Parking Permits are available at the Sanibel Recreation Center and are valid through Nov. 30. The 2024 permits have expired and will need to be renewed by purchasing a 2025 permit.

Roadside parking is not allowed on Sanibel and is enforceable with a $150 fine.

When leaving Sanibel, motorists are encouraged to travel east on Periwinkle Way as that is the priority direction given to officers directing traffic.

Parking and boat launching fee is $40 per day.

Parking and boat launching on weekends and holidays is with AC/BC permit only.

Parking fines for violations at the boat ramp are $500.

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

Beach parking contact information

∫ Assistance with paying for parking: 239-4723111, option 3

∫ Police non-emergency questions: 239-472-3111

∫ Parking citation questions: parking@mysanibel. com

Sanibel library offers range of programs and topics

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

With support from the Sanibel Public Library Foundation, the library has launched a series of virtual author talks to include bestselling authors and thought leaders. The next one will take place on March 12 at 2 p.m. with #1 New York Times bestselling author Dan Heath, coauthor of “Made to Stick,” “Switch” and “The Power of Moments.” He will talk with about his new book, “Reset: How to Change What’s Not Working.” Attendees will learn: why the feeling of progress can be their secret weapon in accelerating change; how leaders can uncover and stop wasteful activities; why their team’s motivation is often squandered and how to avoid that mistake; and how they can jumpstart their change efforts by beginning with a “burst.”

Heath is also the bestselling co-author or author of “Decisive” and “Upstream.” His books have been translated into 33 languages and have sold over 4 million copies worldwide. Heath also hosts a podcast called “What It’s Like to Be...” that is consistently a Top 10

podcast in Apple’s Careers category. He has a Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Texas at Austin.

See LIBRARY, page 15

Youths take part in Operation Hometown Heroes

The Sanibel Fire and Rescue District hosted the second Operation Hometown Heroes camp on Jan. 25 for grades 6-8. Organized by Catelyn Holcomb, a Gold Award applicant for the Girl Scouts, the campers learned skills and gained hands-on experience with local first responders. They covered beach and water safety, practiced CPR and first aid, and got a look at the tools and equipment used

Dix makes Dean’s List

Luka Dix, of Sanibel, was named to the Dean’s List at the College of

by the Sanibel Police Department, including a tour of a squad car. Lee County Public Safety provided them with a firsthand look at its ambulance, plus the equipment used in medical emergencies. The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife taught how it cares for injured and sick animals, and campers had the opportunity to dissect a specimen. They participated in a firefighter obstacle

Education Notes

William & Mary for the fall semester.

In order to achieve Dean’s List status, a full-time degree seeking

course and learned how to safely put out fires using fire extinguishers. Fire recruits from the Southwest Florida Fire Academy’s high school fire program volunteered to assist. Camp sponsors included Costco, the SanCap Chamber, Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory, Sanibel Glass & Mirror and The Magic Bus Ice Cream & Caffeine.

undergraduate student must take at least 12 credit hours and earn a 3.6 Quality Point Average during the semester.

SANIBEL FIRE AND RESCUE DISTRICT

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Sanibel Public Library will host a virtual author talk on March 12 with Dan Heath.

Library

From page 14

To register for the author talks, visit https://libraryc.org/sanlib/upcoming.

Additionally, the library has the following programs scheduled:

Getting Wild at “Ding” Darling will be held today, March 5, from 10 a.m. to noon with with J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland and “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge Executive Director Ann-Marie Wildman. They will provide an overview of the free programs that the refuge has to offer, along with information about scholarships, the Wildlife on Wheels (WoW) mobile classroom and more. Also, updates will be provided on the refuge’s wildlife and how it survived after Hurricane Ian.

Today, March 5, Crafternoon will take place from 3 to 4:30 p.m. The project will be “Key Chains.” Open to ages 3 and older, make a work of art. A variety of craft supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance.

A Book Club Discussion will be held on March 6 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Attendees will discuss “The Summer of Songbirds” by Kristy Woodson-Harvey. Staffers will lead the discussion.

On March 7, Being One With Your Dog will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. with American Kennel Club certified trainer and obedience judge Angela Smith. A program on dog training and obedience, she will answer questions and instruct participants on how they can teach their dog to do basic tricks. Smith will share tips and other advice on how to strengthen the bond between them and their dog. Program is for instructional purposes only; pets are not permitted.

Family Storytime for ages 5 and under will be held on March 7 from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Sing, read, question and move around during the stories, followed by early literacy centers of play to flex minds, motor skills and creativity. The program will include an art/craft center.

On March 7, Painting in Virtual Reality will take place from 3 to 4 p.m. Experience Google’s Tilt Brush using the HTC Vive headset. Paint in a 3D space, creating artwork that defies traditional limitations.

Blotter

From page 14

Reporting suspicious activity

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

∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL then your tip to 847411.

Open to ages 10 and older. One user per session; first come, first served.

Science Saturday — Unlock the Secrets of Rainbows will be held on March 8 from 11 a.m. to noon. Open for ages 3 and up, participants will learn how rainbows are made when sunlight bends through raindrops, and they will discover how prisms can create a rainbow. Participants will explore the magic of light and colors with hands-on experiments.

On March 10, Sleepy Time Story Time will take place from 6 to 6:30 p.m. Participants can wear their favorite pajamas, bring their stuffed animals and settle in for a night of soothing stories that will help them wind down. The program will feature gentle stories, soft music and a relaxed atmosphere.

Baby & Toddler Storytime and Playdate will be held on March 11 from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Open to ages 4 and under, babies and their caregivers will take part in a short story time, sensory play, literacy activities and more.

On March 12, National Reading Month: Learn How to Download eBooks will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. Celebrate National Reading Month with thousands of free eBooks. Participants in the hands-on workshop will learn browsing, borrowing and enjoying eBooks using the library’s digital app.

Crafternoon will be held on March 12 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Open to ages 3 and older, make a work of art. A variety of craft supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance.

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

Library cards are available to residents of Sanibel and Lee County at no charge. Visitor library cards are available for a $10 annual fee.

The library is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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

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

∫ Web tips can be submitted at https:// www.tip411.com/tips/new?alert_group_ id=22450.

∫ Use the free “Sanibel PD” app for your Android or iOS device. Find the SPD on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/SanibelPolice.

SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY

Painting in Virtual Reality will take place on March 7 at Sanibel Public Library.

Grampy’s Charities to host tennis tourney

Grampy’s Charities will present the Beachview Tennis Club Open Doubles Tournament on March 8-9 at the Beachview Tennis Club, at 1101 Par View Drive, Sanibel.

Men’s and women’s doubles 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0 will be held on the first day, followed by mixed doubles 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 on the second day. The entry fee is $100 per player per day or $150 for both days.

All players will receive T-shirts and lunch on both days.

The winners and runners-up will receive awards.

The proceeds will benefit the Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens (LARC), a nonprofit dedicated to providing support and opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

“I chose LARC to benefit from this tournament because I feel it is important to support local nonprofits, especially those like LARC,” club owner and tennis pro Toni Halski said. “They play a critical role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in Southwest Florida.”

The deadline to register is March 6.

“LARC has been making an impact in Southwest Florida for 70 years. We are committed to providing life skills and vocational training, residential services, and community inclusion programs aimed at helping individuals with IDD lead fulfilling lives,” Executive Director Angela Katz said. “By participating in the tournament or becoming sponsors, individuals and businesses can directly contribute to LARC’s mission of empowering individuals with IDD to achieve their full potential.”

For more information or to register, contact Halski at 239-472-9099.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Nickole Hendra at 239-334-6285, ext. 229 or nickolehendra@ larcleeecounty.org or visit www.larcleecounty.org/tennis.

Rec center provides update on activities, events

Sanibel Recreation Center reported on upcoming programs and activities.

Tennis Pick-Up Games take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 8 to 11:30 a.m. Indoor Pickleball Pick-Up Games take place on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon and Saturdays from noon to 3 p.m. Outdoor Pickleball Pick-Up Games take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 to 11:30 a.m.

Spring training game between the Boston Red Sox and Miami Marlins on March 7 at 11 a.m. at JetBlue Park, at 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers. Participants will depart from the center and travel to the stadium via shuttle van; shuttle is optional. Cost is $43 for members and $53 for non-members.

Backyard Games will be held on March 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Sanibel Community Park, at 2231 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Attendees can enjoy a variety of games, including volleyball, football, soccer, shuffleboard and cornhole. All ages are welcome. The activities will be weather permitting.

Youth Dance Classes will take place on Mondays beginning on March 10 in two sessions, with ballet/tap from 2:30 to 3:15 p.m. and jazz/hip-hop from 3:15 to 4 p.m. Open to boys and girls in grades K-8, the Coastal Dance Company will teach it. Cost is $65 for members and $80 for non-members per session or $125 for members and $150 for non-members for both sessions.

Lucky Charm Bingo will be held on March 12 from noon to 2 p.m. There will be prizes, fun and more. Cost is $4 for members and $5 for non-members and includes one Bingo card; additional cards will be available for $3 each, with a limit of five cards. Registration is required.

Spring Co-Ed Adult Slow-Pitch Softball League will take place from March 12 through May 14 on Wednesdays from 6 to 9 p.m. Cost is $650 per team. Minimum of nine players or maximum of 15 players per

Deadline nearing for debris removal requests

The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) reported that the final day for residents in Hurricane Miltonimpacted areas to request removal of waterway debris is March 7. To submit a request, visit https://floridadebriscleanup. com/ or contact the FDEM’s call center at 850-366-6007.

team, with at least two female players. Those without a team can call the center to be added to a list and paired up with a team with open spots. For more information, contact Chasen Brown at 239-472-0345.

The center is open on Mondays through Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Fridays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

New and current members can call 239-472-0345 or stop by the front desk for help with setting up their CivicRec account. A variety of memberships, passes and punch cards are available.

For more information about fitness classes and activities or to register, visit https://secure.rec1.com/FL/ sanibel-fl/catalog.

For questions, call 239-472-0345.

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

Refuge’s visitor center temporarily closed

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge announced the partial closure of its Visitor & Education Center effective March 3. The interpretive exhibits and auditoriums are currently closed for the installation of air-conditioning systems to replace those damaged by Hurricane Ian in 2022. The Refuge Nature Store, front desk and 2018 America’s Best Restrooms will remain open through most of the renovation. Wildlife Drive and the Indigo Trail remain open, but will be closed on Friday as usual. Any free programs that were scheduled inside of the center will be relocated to The Roost. A reopening date is not yet available. For updates, visit the refuge and “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge on Facebook or call 239-472-1100, ext. 9. The refuge is at 1 Wildlife Drive, Sanibel.

REFUGE/DDWS

Share the shore with nesting birds

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) reported that shorebird nesting season started on Feb. 15. From keeping pets leashed to maintaining one’s distance from birds, there are multiple ways the public can help ensure the success of vulnerable shorebird populations in Southwest Florida. For tips or more information, visit https://sccf. org/sharing-the-shore/. SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

different kinds and there will be books available on how to make shell flowers.

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium and students from The Sanibel School will have live mollusk tanks set up for attendees to learn more about the creatures that make seashells.

“Everybody raves about it,” she said. “They really love it.”

There will be a children’s area, which will include face painting and a bunny petting zoo.

“All of that will be outside,” Bailey said. Attendees can bid in a silent auction, with over 30 goodies up for grabs.

“We’ll have local artwork from the community, pieces donated by artists,” she said, noting that there are baskets from local businesses, one vintage and one modern mirror from the Shellcrafters, and more.

“Some of those are collector shells,” Bailey added.

There will be raffle tickets available for purchase to win prizes, including daycation passes at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, items from businesses like The Magic Bus Ice Cream & Caffeine, a quilt from the Three Crafty Ladies, a trip on the Hemingway Water Shuttle on Marco Island and more.

“All kinds of stuff,” she said.

Attendees can fill their bellies with options from food trucks such as Pilar’s Empanadas Argentinas, Sweet Dreams and Vesuvius Wood Fired Pizza. There will also be a hot dog stand set up on-site.

“All of the festival type stuff,” Bailey said. “Homemade lemonade, cotton candy.”

Local artist and J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland designed the logo for this year’s event, which will be available on shirts and hats.

The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club is the presenting sponsor.

She thanked it and the additional supporters, as well as the volunteers helping out.

Admission is a $5 donation. It comes with a small bag of shells and a buy one, get one 50% off admission coupon for the shell museum.

The proceeds will benefit The Community House.

The community is encouraged to come out.

“It’s bringing us all together to rebuild and start a new chapter,” Bailey said. “And to continue the legacy of The Community House and the Sanibel Shellcrafters.”

For more information, visit the Sanibel Shellcrafters page on Facebook or https://sanibelcommunityhouse. net/.

The Community House is at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

Sanibel Shell Show

The 2025 Sanibel Shell Show will feature a juried show with scientific and artistic exhibits and awards, shell and shell craft vendors, a live mollusk display, a youth scavenger hunt and more for all ages.

“The fundamental mission of the club is to expand the knowledge of our members and the community about the field of mollusks and the environmental conditions of the world they live in,” Shell Club President Laurie Jansen,

Property tax

From page 1

to eliminate property taxes” and to replace property tax revenues through budget reductions, sales-based consumption taxes, and locally determined consumption taxes authorized by the Legislature.”

Martin, whose district includes most of Lee County, stressed that his bill is just a study before such a law could take effect.

Martin said the bill’s origins date back to discussions among Republicans at the federal level in years past about “replacing the income tax at the federal level with a consumption tax.”

He said he is not supporting increasing sales taxes but studying its affect.

“My bill is not preparing to raise the sales tax,” Martin said. “I’m asking economists to do a study.”

A consumption-based tax “shifts payment of government services to those

SHELLCRAFTERS/THE COMMUNITY HOUSE

The Sanibel-Captiva Shell Club’s Artistic Chair designed the logo for the 2025 Sanibel Shell Show on March 6-8 at the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa in Fort Myers.

who is also event co-chair with club Membership Chair Kathy Hofstad, said.

“As part of that, we raise funds and give them out as grants and scholarships,” she added.

The proceeds will benefit different causes and organizations not only on Sanibel and Captiva, such as the shell museum and Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF), but for other educational research in Southwest Florida. Grants go toward education and research in the fields of conchology and malacology, including supporting university research of mollusks and water quality, as well as for conservation and water quality projects.

There will be hundreds of exhibits on display between the scientific and artistic divisions, with shell enthusiasts from across the United States and from Canada, Europe, New Zealand, India, Japan and the Caribbean competing in categories. It is the most prestigious, competitive shell show in the country.

“It’s interesting to see what types of things people bring,” Jansen said.

The scientific division focuses on single specimen shells and multiples of shells. There are 85 entries this year covering about 27 classes. In the artistic division, there are 148 entries covering two categories: hobbyist and professional. There will be sailor’s Valentines, lamps, needlecraft and more.

“Within the artistic and scientific, every one of the classes has the opportunity to win first, second or third place. It is all based on judging,” she said. “We also give out trophies and special awards.”

Attendees will also have the opportunity to browse 20-plus vendors showcasing about 70 tables worth of merchandise, including specialty and specimen shells, shells for crafting and shell-oriented items, like jewelry and clothing.

“Items can range from tables of specimen shells from all over the world — there are craft shells. There’s some really fun items,” Hofstad said, adding that there will be jewelry vendors, all types of shell art, various sailor’s Valentines, shadow boxes and mosaics, even a vendor of tropical fabric.

engaged in economic services,” he said. Martin is looking for ways to keep seniors and retirees in their homes, including through cutting back on government spending.

“The budgets just keep going up and up every year and there is no end in sight,” he said.

Martin said he wants to see government “smart, efficient and not wasteful.”

The week before, Gov. Ron DeSantis went to X to announce his support for a constitutional amendment to eliminate property taxes.

“Property taxes are local, not state. So we’d need to do a constitutional amendment (requires 60% of voters to approve) to eliminate them (which I would support) or even to reform/lower them,” he said on X. “We should put the boldest amendment

For the first time, there will be an educational and environmental exhibit area. It will be a space where attendees can learn about mollusks and the organizations that support them. Captains for Clean Water, the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, Conchologists of America, Florida Gulf Coast University and SCCF will have booths, and there will be information about careers within the field and education.

“This is really a whole new area that we’ve been able to expand on,” Jansen said. “We thought it was important to help people understand that it’s real animals that are alive that create these shells.”

There will be live mollusk tanks from the shell museum, plus activities for youths. A scavenger hunt will have participants seeking out features across the scientific and artistic exhibits, and they can interact with a model of a lighthouse with a marine lab to learn about marine ecosystems and sea life.

“The scavenger hunt is something that has always been part of the show over the many years. This year, we were able to expand upon that,” she said, adding that there will be coloring stations with coloring sheets and word search games and puzzles for youths to take part in. “A variety of things.”

A shell-fie station will offer the chance to take fun photos with props.

There will be a silent auction featuring about two dozen items, including artwork from artists like Susan Lloyd and Constance Miller, shelling tools from the Historic Bait Box, seashell apparel from A Little Adventure, gift certificates from Billy’s Rentals and Marriott, and more.

“They range in anything from a few jewelry items, quite a few specimen shell options, some shelling tools and several beautiful donated artistic pieces,” Hofstad said.

Tickets for a 50/50 raffle will be available, with half of the winnings to support the cause.

The club’s Artistic Chair designed the logo for this year’s event, which will be available on unisex shirts — in white, light blue and heather gray — and souvenir pins in a round or rectangular shaped option.

In addition, the club will have shelling bags and tote bags with charms.

“We are also selling shells that have been donated to the club,” she said. “Specimen and craft shells.”

Laurie and Bill Harkey are the junonia sponsor and Gussie Ross is the golden olive sponsor, with additional supporters helping to sponsor the event through their generosity.

Admission is an $8 donation for adults. It comes with a bag of locally collected shells and a buy one, get one 50% off admission coupon for the shell museum.

The community is encouraged to come out.

“It’s just outstanding, all of the variety of things we have available for people to see,” Jansen said. “Whether lovers of collecting shells or creating things with shells, we have something for everyone.”

For more information, visit the Sanibel Shell Show group on Facebook or http://sanibelshellclub.com or contact info@sanibelshellclub.com.

The Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa is at 17260 Harbour Pointe Drive, Fort Myers.

on the ballot that has a chance of getting that 60%. I agree that taxing land/property is the more oppressive and ineffective form of taxation.”

DeSantis was responding to an individual on the social media site who called for eliminating property taxes.

Martin’s bill would require the Office of Economic and Demographic Research to conduct a study that would include an “analysis of the potential impact of eliminating property taxes on public services, including education, infrastructure, and emergency services. An assessment of potential housing market fluctuations, including changes in homeownership rates and property values, would be part of the study.”

An evaluation of whether a shift to consumption-based taxes — sales taxes

— would make Florida more attractive to businesses compared to other states would also be part of the study. An analysis of the potential impact of eliminating property taxes on overall economic stability, consumer behavior and long-term economic growth are also required in Martin’s bill.

By Oct. 1, the office would be required to submit a report detailing the study’s findings to the President of the Florida Senate and the Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives.

Florida’s sales tax is currently at 6%, with local options allowed.

Martin said a state referendum could be held as early as November of 2026.

Lions Club builds kits for campers

In conjunction with The Woodshop at the Shell Point Retirement Community, the Sanibel Captiva Lions Club recently constructed birdhouse kits for campers at the Trailways Camp. Each camper was presented with a kit containing the pieces to be assembled and the necessary fasteners. After they assembled their birdhouses, the campers painted them in a variety of colors and designs. They got to take home their camp creations.

THE INTERNATIONAL OSPREY FOUNDATION

TIOF: Ospreys returning for season

The island-based International Osprey Foundation recently reported that many ospreys are returning from their wintering grounds in South America or other off-season locations in Florida. Known as “fish hawks,” they play a vital role in the local ecosystem. Adept at carrying sticks — as well as fish — the ospreys are refurnishing their nests after three more

hurricanes last summer devastated their habitat. By installing and repairing nesting platforms, TIOF’s initiatives have helped to ensure a safe habitat for them to thrive. Island residents and visitors are reminded of the importance of preserving the ospreys’ ecosystem, so they have a place to raise their young. For more information, visit www.Ospreys.com.

SANIBEL CAPTIVA LIONS CLUB

Station Fort Myers Beach boat crew who arrived on scene and safely transferred all three boaters aboard. The boaters were brought to awaiting emergency medical services at the Coast Guard station.

The U.S. Coast Guard reported that the cause of the capsize was unknown at the time and a safety marine information broadcast was issued for the hazard to navigation.

A family member called Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg watchstanders on Feb. 23 at about 1 a.m., reporting their last contact with the three was on Feb. 22 at 8 p.m. and they were on a 20-foot center console.

“We were able to locate and rescue the three boaters thanks to the quick coordination of the Coast Guard and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, along with the use of critical search tools,” Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg Chief Warrant Officer Dennise Werre said. “Completing

County

From page 6

After input has been received, the county will submit the final plan to HUD for review and approval.

The CDBG-DR webpage will continue to serve as an informational resource for

Cervical cancer

not need further screenings unless they have serious pre-cancer. Those who’ve had a hysterectomy for non-cancer reasons and have no cervical cancer history also do not require testing. Vaccinated women should still follow age-appropriate screening recommendations.

What is the HPV vaccine?

The HPV vaccine protects against the strains that cause cervical cancer and is recommended for girls and boys ages 1112, ideally before sexual activity. It can be given until age 26 or sometimes later and prevents over 90% of HPV-related cancers.

Ways to reduce HPV risk

To lessen the risk of HPV, get vaccinated and have regular pap smears.

a float plan with a loved one prior to going out on a vessel is critical. Float plans provide first responders with information such as the intended route, how many people are aboard, and what safety equipment may be available.”.

CDBG-DR activities. Interested parties are encouraged to visit https://cdbgdr. leegov.com/ for updates. The county will continue to distribute information as it becomes available.

From page 4

Common risk factors include smoking, multiple sexual partners, unprotected sex, early sexual activity, having other STIs, and a weakened immune system.

Care available close to home

Cervical cancer typically develops slowly, making regular screenings crucial for early detection. In Southwest Florida, patients can access comprehensive cervical cancer care through the Lee Health Cancer Institute, which offers a skilled team of oncologists. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www. leehealth.org.

Dr. Mark Roh is the chief physician executive for the Lee Health Cancer Institute. For more information, visit https://www.leehealth.org/.

Bubble Room provides recovery update

On Jan. 29, the Bubble Room on Captiva reported that it officially has permanent power — 854 days after Hurricane Ian hit in September of 2022. While an official reopening date has not yet been determined, the timeline is between now and April 30. “We appreciate everyone’s patience and enthusiasm for our reopening. Our staff and contractors are working tirelessly to reopen as soon as possible,” officials shared. “Thank you for your continued support.” In the meantime, The Bubble Room Emporium is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for all the fun and funky gifts at 15000 Captiva Drive, Captiva. Also, Boop’s by The Bubble Room is serving up the restaurant’s famous cakes and more from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily at 15001 Captiva Drive, Captiva. For more information, visit https://www.bubbleroomrestaurant. com/.

THE BUBBLE ROOM

U.S. COAST GUARD

Business Notes

From page 8

tation. Riordan also serves as president of the Captiva Civic Association’s (CCA) Board of Governors, director of the CCA Foundation and trustee for the SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation’s (SCCF) Board of Directors. A New York native, she has been a resident since 2012.

The CFI reported that the new board will bring a wealth of experience and dedication to their roles.

Horizon Foundation announces officers

The Horizon Foundation recently set its slate of officers and board of directors for 2025.

The officers are: Dr. Guido Minaya, with Minaya Learning Global Solutions, as president; Ryan Carter, with Scotlynn USA, as vice president; Mark Stevens, with Stevens Construction, as immediate past president; Sandy Stilwell Youngquist, with Stilwell Enterprises & Restaurant Group, as treasurer; and Fred Edman, with Wright Construction Group, as secretary.

The board of directors are: John Talmage, with the Lee County Economic Development Office, as Lee County EDO director; Robbie Roepstorff, with Edison National Bank, as Lee County IDA chair; Holly Smith, Lee County hotelier, and Bill Morris, with Morris-Depew Associates, as directors; Matt Price, with Seagate Development Group, and Chris Spiro, with Spiro & Associates, as at-large directors; and Helen Edenfield, with City Mattress/Pranasleep, as Horizon Council chair.

The newly appointed officers will play a crucial role in steering the foundation towards achieving its strategic goals for the year ahead.

Kiwanis holds meetings with speakers

The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club recently welcomed America’s Boating Club of Sanibel-Captiva Administrative Officer Kelly Seaman as its guest speaker at a meeting. At its most recent meeting, the club welcomed representatives from the Sanibel School Fund as its guest speakers. They announced the development of an outdoor STEAM classroom at The Sanibel School, which is partially funded by a Kiwanis grant. The club meets on Tuesdays at 8 a.m. at The Dunes Golf and Tennis Club, at 949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel. For more information, visit www.sanibelkiwanis.org.

From left, Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club member Angi Welch and America’s Boating Club of Sanibel-Captiva Administrative Officer Kelly Seaman. SANIBEL-CAPTIVA KIWANIS CLUB

The Sanibel School Fund spoke at a recent Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club meeting.

Rotary Club holds meeting with speaker

The Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club welcomed member Bob Stern as its guest speaker at a recent meeting. His resume includes healthcare technologies, most recently with cardiac technology. Stern shared the techniques being implemented to save lives and treat different types of strokes. He reported that the leading factors that lead to strokes — in the order of risk — are: diet, high body mass index (BMI), smoking, high fasting glucose, alcohol use, high LDL cholesterol, impaired kidney function and low physical activity. The signs of a stroke in men can include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body, confusion, trouble speaking, difficulty walking and vision problems. For women, they can include the same, as well as hiccups, nausea, chest pain, fatigue, shortness of breath and a racing heartbeat. The club meets on Fridays at 8 a.m. at The

Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, and via Zoom. For more information, visit sanibelrotary.org.

SCCF accelerates re-greening of preserves

As part of an effort to speed up the removal of dead vegetation and allow nature to flourish again, contractors hired by the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) began debris removal along Sanibel-Captiva Road in preserve lands on Feb. 7.

“Beyond optimizing our preserves as wildlife habitat, we fully understand that our community’s real estate values and tourism-based economy are inextricably linked to our natural beauty,” SCCF Chief Executive Officer James Evans said. “That is why we are accelerating vegetation removal and implementing land management practices to give nature a boost to flourish and re-grow faster.”

The contractors are cutting down and mulching dead vegetation in the most visible sections of preserve lands up to 75 feet back from the road on the six SCCF properties that border the road, including:

∫ Gretchen Valade Preserve

∫ Pick Preserve

∫ West Sanibel River Preserve

∫ Gulf Ridge Preserve

∫ Erick Lindblad Preserve

∫ Sanibel Gardens Preserve

“By clearing the dead vegetation, we will expedite the regrowth of native vegetation and plantings along one of Sanibel’s busiest roads,” he said. “We have heard from islanders who miss the See PRESERVES, page 41

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA ROTARY CLUB

Bob Stern

CHELSEA NIESEL

“Spider Lily”

Trailways Camps kicks off auction featuring artwork created by campers

By TIFFANY REPACK trepecki@breezenewspapers.com

A first-ever fundraiser will support an island nonprofit that focuses on adults with special needs.

Trailways Camps kicked off its Artistic Abilities Art Auction on March 1 online and in person at The Community House on Sanibel, with online and in-person bidding to remain open through March 31.

In 2012, the organization was established to develop and provide camping experiences for adults with special needs and respite for their caregivers. Started on island, its mission is: “Enabling adults with special needs, and those who care for them, to grow their social, emotional and spiritual relationship.”

Sharon Miller, who founded Trailways Camps with her husband, Jerry, explained that the camp sessions have always involved art activities. Recently, their camp director asked campers if they were creating any artwork during their own time and discovered many of them were and got to see it.

“She noticed that some of it was really expressive and beautiful,” Miller said.

They saw the need to further develop the art opportunities available during the camp sessions and brought in an artist to instruct classes. The campers then started talking about selling their pieces. With permission from the campers’ guardians, Trailways Camps offered to buy any art for a fundraiser.

“They really began to get into it,” she said of the campers’ excitement about selling their work.

The auction features about 30 framed pieces, some wood-carved walking sticks and more.

“It’s a variety,” Miller said. “There’s watercolors,

there’s sprinkle art, there’s sketches.”

The items are on display at The Community House for viewing.

“They’ve all been framed properly,” she said.

Miller noted that the pieces feature little stories about the artists.

In addition to the campers’ artwork, Trailways Camps’ will have its “Not Forgotten Faces” on display at The Community House. The exhibit was created by camp volunteer and photographer George Waters.

“He did a series of black and white photographs of our campers,” she said.

There will also be information related to adults with special needs and on the nonprofit’s history.

The proceeds from the auction will enable more campers to experience Trailways Camps.

Saint Michael offering Ashes on the Go

Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church will offer Ashes on the Go today, March 5, from 7 to 8:30 a.m., 11:30 to 11:55 a.m. and 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. outside in the front courtyard on Sanibel.

The first day of the Season of Lent starts today, March 5, with Ash Wednesday. Ashes on the Go is an opportunity to receive the blessing and ashes on one’s forehead by driving, walking or bicycling up.

There will also be a blessing card and free Lent in a Bag Kits available to take home.

Coffee and donuts will be served in the morning, with lemonade and treats in the afternoon.

In addition, the church will hold an Ash Wednesday service inside at noon.

For more information, visit https://www. saintmichaels-sanibel.org/.

Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church is at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

“This will help more campers be able to come, and they’ll be going toward scholarships for campers to come,” Miller said.

The presenting sponsor is the Pagel Foundation.

“Their sponsorship covered our cost for the purchases,” she said.

The public is invited to view the work and place their bids.

“Sanibel is an art community — and art is appreciated,” Miller said. “This introduces to a well-established community who these adult campers are, and it brings them into this wonderful history of Sanibel as an artistic community.”

To view or bid on the items, visit https://www.trailwayscamps.org/artistic-creations/.

For more information, visit online or contact rv.bg. millerlegacy@gmail.com or 512-784-3879.

People can also stop by the Trailways Camp office at 1177 Causeway Road, Sanibel.

The Community House is at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

MATT GRAY

“Endless Horizon”

TRAILWAYS CAMPS Trailways Camps is hosting its first-ever Artistic Abilities Art Auction during March at The Community House on Sanibel and online, which features pieces made by its campers.

SAINT MICHAEL AND ALL ANGELS EPISCOPAL CHURCH

ISLAND HOME

Mango fruit is summer treat

Mango (Magnifera indica L.) is one of the most sought after and delicious tropical fruits in the world, and you can grow them right here in your own yard.

In Florida, mangos are grown commercially in Dade, Lee and Palm Beach counties and as door yard trees in warm locations along the southern coastal areas and the southern shore of Lake Okeechobee. The fruit has been cultivated in India for more than 4,000 years and originated in the Indo-Burma area of the globe. Mangos are related to pistachios and cashews. There are many varieties of mango and their fruits range from a few ounces to as much as five pounds. The fruit has a leathery thick skin that comes in many colors of green, red, pink and orange, while the edible flesh inside is a rich yellow. The most common types that do well in our area and are especially delicious are Kent and Bailey’s Marvel and one called Carrie that only gets 12-15 feet in height.

The trees generally grow large, from 30 feet upward, and take up a lot of room eventually. They are great producers of the delectable fruit, and you can harvest as much as 200-300 pounds of fruit from a single mature tree when given the proper planting conditions and care. Mangos do best in full sun and should be given plenty of room to grow. Plant them at least 20 feet from any structure, power lines or other large trees. You can prune the trees after the harvest to maintain a good shape and reduce possible storm damage.

To maximize good fruit production, plant mangos in well-drained soil. If planting in a lower part of the yard prone to occasional flooding from heavy rains, mounding up the planting area by about 2-3 feet is recommended, then dig the hole for the tree. The types of mango trees you will be able to buy for this area do well in the sandy soil. If you wish to amend the soil with top soil or other organic matter, only mix 50/50 with the native soil.

Mango fruit is truly a summer treat. You can make mango salsa to go with grilled fish, you can make ice cream and ices from the fruit, or just slice it up and enjoy. Any way you slice it, mangos are a delicious summer treat.

In The Garden is provided by In The Garden, at 3889 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel. For more information, contact 239-395-5859 or visit www. facebook.com/rswalshinthegarden.

City: Sewer line smoke testing scheduled

The city of Sanibel reported that from now through March 7, Public Works Utility Division inspection crews and the city’s contractor will conduct a smoke test of sewer lines in neigh borhoods throughout the island. It will include a physical survey of the city’s wastewater col lection system, which will involve the opening of manholes in the streets and easements.

An important task of the survey will be the “smoke testing” of sewer lines to locate breaks and defects in the sewer system. During the test, the public may see smoke coming from vent stacks on buildings or from holes in the ground. Do no be alarmed. The smoke is non-toxic, harmless, has no odor and creates no fire hazard; it will dissipate in a few minutes.

used sinks and floor drains any time before the smoke testing begins. Some sewer lines and manholes are located on private property. If these lines require investigation, members of the inspection crews will need access to the facilities. The workmen do not need to enter buildings.

Potable (drinking) water services or sanitary sewer services will not be interrupted due to the testing.

The smoke should not enter buildings, unless the plumbing is defective or the drain traps are dried out. It is recommended that the public pour water into seldom

SCCF workshop to focus on native gardening

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) will host a Back to Basics: Native Gardening Workshop, “Pruning,” on March 12 from 1 to 3 p.m. at its Native Landscapes & Garden Center, at 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Participants will learn proper pruning techniques, what tools to use and why, and how to maintain tools. Cost is $10. To register or for more information, visit https:// events.humanitix.com/back-to-basics-native-planting-workshops.

The routine preventative maintenance test is designed to identify sources of inflow and infiltration (I&I) within the sanitary sewer system. Both inflow and infiltration contribute to excess water in the system, which can lead to sewer backups, overflows and increased operational costs.

For more information, contact the city’s Utilities Division at 239-472-6397.

Don’t plant a pest: Give an inch,

By CITY OF SANIBEL

Initiated in 2010, National Invasive Species Awareness Week is a week-long series of activities, briefings and events to highlight efforts across the nation and around the world to slow the spread of invasive species. In the United States alone, invasive species cost over $137 billion annually in damage and control, and the cost they inflict on our natural heritage is immeasurable.

An invasive exotic plant is an exotic, or non-native, plant that not

they’ll take an acre

only has naturalized but is aggressively expanding on its own, displacing native plants and wildlife and disrupting natural ecological processes.

The city of Sanibel has been waging war against invasive exotic plants — and some animals, too — that threaten the island’s natural areas since the early 1980s. In 1996, the city enacted legislation regulating eight invasive exotic plant species — Brazilian pepper, air potato, earleaf acacia, exotic inkberry (beach

naupaka), java plum, lead tree, mother-in-law’s tongue and Melaleuca — that were determined to be the “worst of the worst” invaders. These eight species may not be intentionally planted, transplanted or otherwise introduced in any way on Sanibel and are required to be permanently removed as a condition of all city development permits.

Although the war is far from over, the city and its conservation partners — the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge — have won several battles. Introduced as an ornamental and for its ability to dry up swampy environments, the last known Melaleuca tree was cut down in September 1989. The city also continues to make progress with the island-wide Brazilian Pepper Eradication Program. As a result of the ambitious program, Brazilian pepper has been removed from all conservation areas and from most of the island’s residential and commercial properties. Additionally, residents collected over 1,000 pounds of air potato bulbils as part of the city’s “Air Potato Exchange Day” program in 2012 and 2013.

The recent hurricanes have changed the commercial and residen-

IN THE GARDEN

Mango

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI

Recipe of the Week: Shrimp Antipasto

Impress your guests by serving them this delicious and colorful appetizer that is pleasing not only to the eye but to the palate, as well. Easy to prepare and delicious, it will leave you wanting to make it again after only the first bite.

I like to serve it in fancy martini glasses to all my family and friends. Serves eight. (Chef tip: To cook shrimp, heat one cup of water in a small saucepan, add 1/4 cup of vinegar, one teaspoon each of salt and sugar, and one teaspoon of horseradish. Cook the shrimp for five minutes or until the turn pink. Remove and chill.

1 can (36 ounces) chopped tomatoes

2 cups tomato sauce

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, peeled and finely chopped

1/2 small carrot, peeled and finely chopped

1 celery stalk, finely chopped

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/8 teaspoon Tabasco sauce

1 teaspoon of horseradish

1 cup tomato juice

1/4 cup gin

Chef Loretta Paganini

CROW Calendar

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife’s Visitor Education Center, at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, will present the following:

∫ Today, March 5

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The presentation will be “CROW.”

∫ Thursday, March 6

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The presentation will be “Invasives.”

∫ Friday, March 7

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The presentation will be “If You Care, Leave it There.”

∫ Monday, March 10

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The presentation will be “Raptors.”

∫ Tuesday, March 11

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The presentation will be “Sea Turtles.”

Speaker Series at 4 p.m.

Carefree Birding founder and bird expert Ken Burgener will present “How To

Become A Bird Expert In 30 Minutes” in-person and via Zoom. Cost is $10. To register, visit https://crowclinic.org/education/special-programs/.

∫ Wednesday, March 12

Program of the Week at 11 a.m.

The presentation will be “CROW.”

Admission is $12 for ages 13 and older, $7 for ages 4-12 and free for ages 3 and under.

In addition, CROW offers a Wildlife Walk Hospital Tour on Mondays through Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Limited to 12 people; participants must be age 10 or older. The cost is $25 per person; advanced registration and payment is required. To register, contact 239-4723644 ext. 229 or reservations@crowclinic.org.

For more information, visit http://www. crowclinic.org/ or call 239-472-3644.

Springing forward

I’m not prone to complaints, but I must admit that when it comes to the “Spring Forward” time change, I’m not a fan. As with most matters that involve change, I’m not an enthusiast on this one.

And it’s not just that I lose an extra hour of sleep before having to get up and gear up for another Sunday; it’s as much my embarrassment over those who didn’t get the word (or who got it and forgot it) showing up to participate in a sacred hour that we just wrapped up. Believe me, there’s no good way to ease their embarrassment. It is always one of the most awkward exchanges I have with people each year.

ously the images it evokes of anticipation and expectation; and of seizing every opportunity that comes my way. I plan to lean into the possibilities before me and dare to believe that the best is yet to come, which is a lot of what faith entails.

1/4 cup dry vermouth

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves chopped

Garnish:

8 small skewers

16 large shrimp, peeled, deveined with tails left intact, cooked and chilled

16 cherry tomatoes

16 very small fresh mozzarella cigliegine

Heat the oil in a heavy large soup pot over high heat. Add the onion and saute until soft, about 10 minutes. Add the celery, carrots and garlic and saute until the vegetable are soft, about five minutes. Add the chopped tomatoes and saute five more minutes. Add the tomato sauce, Tabasco, tomato juice, salt and basil. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Simmer for 20 minutes.

Taste and season the martini soup to taste. Remove from the heat, allow the martini soup to cool slightly. Working in batches, if necessary, pour the martini soup into the bowl of a food processor or the jar of a blender fitted with a metal blade (or puree it directly in the pot with an immersion blender) until it is smooth. Strain the soup through a medium-mesh sieve set over a clean pot. Stir in gin and dry vermouth.

For each martini soup cocktail, fill a martini glass with ice. Add prepared soup. Skewer one shrimp, one mozzarella and one tomato on a skewer or large toothpick and repeat it one more time for each skewer then add it to the drink. Repeat to make seven more drinks. Season the martini soup with additional salt to taste, sprinkle with basil and serve.

Island Worship

∫ Bat Yam Temple of the Islands 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel (Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ), https://www.batyam.org/, https://www.facebook.com/batyamsanibel/ Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer Sabbath service on Friday at 7 p.m. and via Zoom. Torah (Bible) Study on Saturday at 10 a.m. and via Zoom. For Zoom links, email batyamsanibel@gmail. com.

∫ Captiva Chapel by the Sea 11580 Chapin Lane, Captiva, 239-472-1646, https://www.captivachapel. com/, www.facebook.com/Captiva-Chapel-By-The-Sea Rev. Dr. Doug Dortch In-person service on Sunday at 11 a.m. through April. Services will be videotaped and posted on the chapel’s website and Facebook page. Services from the past season can also be found online.

∫ Chavurat Shalom of Southwest Florida P.O. Box 722, Sanibel, www.chavuratshalomofsouthwestflorida.org Shabbat service on Friday at 7:30 p.m. Torah Talk on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. There are also speakers, discussions and informal “schmoozes.” For Zoom links, email ChavuratShalom@gmail.com.

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

Sunday services at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Services will be recorded and posted on the SCC’s YouTube channel.

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

Sunday service at 10 a.m. in the Sanctuary.

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

But my vote on the matter doesn’t count. That decision has already been made by those responsible for managing the time. So, I have concluded that I must go with the flow and make the best out of a reality with which I’m not very happy, which when you think about it, is a lot of what life entails.

So, here’s where I’m choosing to focus in the coming days: I plan to do all I can to make this “springing forward” business a way of life and faith. I plan to take seri-

Unfortunately, there’s no clock I can set to ensure I meet those lofty expectations. But what I can do is set my heart on following God in just that fashion so that when God calls, I will be ready to respond. And that, too, is a part of our faith journey in this season of the year; as both Jews and Christians, we point toward the holy days of Passover and Easter, respectively.

I invite you to let that same hope run through your soul when you set your clock ahead this Saturday night. Then you can gear up for the days to come and the joy that will result from “springing forward” in your faith, which is so much better than staying stuck with where you are.

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

Friday Mass at 9 a.m. Saturday Vigil Mass at 5 p.m. Sunday Mass at 10 a.m.

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

Saturday service at 5 p.m. in the Sanctuary, with a social to follow. Sunday services at 8 and 10:30 a.m., with socials to follow; services are available via livestream and the link on the website.

BIG ARTS Calendar

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

Lecture Series

The FORUM will be held today, March 5, at 7:30 p.m., with a livestream option available. Peter Singer will speak on “Artificial Intelligence: Reality Catching Up to Science Fiction.” Tickets are $55 for adults and students are free.

Arts Workshop

Tape It Up: Mixed Media Sculpting with Jeff Ocasio will be held on March 12 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost is $52 for donors and $65 for non-donors. The deadline to register is today, March 5.

Arts Workshop

Acrylic Boats On Beaches with

See BIG ARTS CALENDAR, page 32

Rev. Dr. Doug Dortch Faces on Faith

Santiva Islanders Calendar

The Santiva Islanders will present the following: Walking Group

The Santiva Islanders Walking Group will gather today, March 5, from 9 to 10 a.m. to explore the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge’s Bailey Tract on Sanibel. Meet at the entrance off of Tarpon Bay Road, between Periwinkle Way and West Gulf Drive; free parking. Afterward, participants can meet for breakfast or coffee at the Over Easy Cafe, at 630 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel.

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength today, March 5, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required. Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members.

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength today, March 5, from 11 a.m. to noon at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required. Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members.

Breakfast Club

Breakfast Club will be held on March 6 from 9 to 10 a.m. at Jerry’s Cafe, at 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Attendees will order and pay individually. For more information, contact Dan Hopta at 978-239-4612.

From page 31

Barbara Ellis will be held on March 13 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost is $84 for donors and $105 for non-donors. The deadline to register is March 6.

Community Artists

The Gulf Coast Symphony will perform on March 7 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $72 for adults and students are free.

Social Bridge

Social Bridge will be held on March 6 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Cost is $5. For more information, contact Bryant Korn at bryantekorn@gmail. com.

Social Mahjong

Social Mahjong will be held on March 6 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Cost is $5. For more information, contact Beth Funderburg at bfundy4648@gmail.com.

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on March 7 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required. Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members.

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on March 7 from 11 a.m. to noon at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required. Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members.

Saturday Brunch

Saturday Brunch will be held on March 8 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at The Dunes Clubhouse at The

BIG ARTS Calendar

Performing Arts

George Michael Reborn — Tribute to Wham! and George Michael will take the stage on March 8 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $69 for adults.

Film Series

“One Life” (2023) will be shown on March 10 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12.

Arts Workshop

Expressive Palette Knife In Oil with Jan Ellen Atkielski will be held on March

Golf & Tennis Club, at 949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel. Attendees will order and pay individually. RSVPs requested by March 6. To RSVP, visit https:// santivaislanders.org/events/hbhkwr76c95mnfn1r69mbo37bfse77-ask6x-73fr2. For more information, contact Beth Funderburg at bfundy4648@gmail.com.

Cardio

& Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on March 10 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required. Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members.

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on March 10 from 11 a.m. to noon at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required. Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members.

Social Hour

Social Hour will be held on March 10 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, at 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Enjoy happy hour drink and appetizer specials. Attendees will order and pay individually.

Page Turners Book Club

Page Turners Book Club will meet on March 11 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. via Zoom. The book for discussion will be “The Measure” by Nikki Erlich. For questions or to See SANTIVA ISLANDERS CALENDER, page 33

17-18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost is $228 for donors and $285 for non-donors. The deadline to register is March 10.

Lecture Series

Talking Points will be held on March 12 at 4 p.m., with a livestream option available. Chip Walter and Keith McWalter will speak on “The Longevity Quest in Fact and Fiction.” Tickets are $35 for adults and students are free.

Arts Workshop

Exploring Abstract Watercolor with Helen Burkett will be held on March 19-20 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost is $332 for donors and $415 for non-donors. The deadline to register is March 12.

Registration is required for workshops by calling 239-395-0900. For more information or tickets, visit www.bigarts.org or call 239-395-0900.

The Dunes Golf and Tennis Club, 949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel

Tutti Pazzi

Kitchen, 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Old Captiva House at ‘Tween Waters, 15951 Captiva Drive, Captiva

CHRIS

Rosalita’s Cantina, 975 Rabbit Road, Sanibel

Dunes

The Community House Calendar

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

Painting With Friends

Painting With Friends will be held today, March 5, from 9 a.m. to noon. New painters welcome. Bring your own supplies. Cost is $10 donation at the door.

Shellcrafters

The Shellcrafters will meet on March 10 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. A shell crafting class will take place at 10 a.m.; it is free and supplies range from $3-4. Items will also be

Pest

From page 30

available for sale; all sales benefit the operations of TCH.

Seminar Series

Naturopathic Lectures: Simple Ways To Add Superfoods Into Your Diet For Improved Health will be held on March 10 from noon to 1 p.m. with Paula Johnson. Cost is $10 for non-members and free for members. Registration is required.

Painting With Friends

Painting With Friends will be held on March 12 from 9 a.m. to noon. New painters welcome. Bring your own

supplies. Cost is $10 donation at the door.

Shell Critter Kits are available for purchase in a variety of different options. Cost is $5 per kit with all of the supplies included, except for glue. Order them in-person at TCH or call 239-472-2155.

TCH office hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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

Now is the time to check your property for invasive exotic plants to remove.

Whether you are acting as a steward for your own property, a local park or a far away natural area, invasive plants are

tial landscapes on Sanibel. Disturbance events such as hurricanes make landscaped and natural areas more susceptible to invasion by pest plants, and are often some of first plants to begin regrowing or sprouting. Storm surge revealed the vulnerability of plants with low to no salt tolerance, extreme winds damaged or destroyed vegetation, and the storms may have potentially introduced invasive exotic plant species into new areas.

From page 32

receive the Zoom login, contact santivaislanders@gmail.com.

Walking Group

The Santiva Islanders Walking Group will gather on March 12 from 9 to 10 a.m. to explore the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge’s Bailey Tract on Sanibel. Meet at the entrance off of Tarpon Bay Road, between Periwinkle

likely to be a problem. In the face of such global threats to biodiversity as habitat destruction and climate change, we can each make a difference by preventing and controlling the spread of invasive species.

To view the “Worst of the Worst” invasives and the city’s “The Alien Invasion” brochure, visit https://www.mysani -

Santiva Islanders Calendar

Way and West Gulf Drive; free parking. Afterward, participants can meet for breakfast or coffee at the Over Easy Cafe, at 630 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel.

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on March 12 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required. Light weights may be

brought. Cost is $5 per class and $60 per month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members.

Cardio & Strength

Mahnaz Bassir will host Cardio & Strength on March 12 from 11 a.m. to noon at Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Bring water and a towel; no mat is required. Light weights may be brought. Cost is $5 per class and $60 per

bel.com/content/download/10568/file/ The%20Alien%20Invasion%202011. pdf.

For more information, contact the city’s Natural Resources Department at 239-472-3700.

month for members or $10 per class and $120 per month for non-members.

The Santiva Islanders serve all adult islanders and visitors, regardless of age. The cost is $25 for an annual membership. The Island Seniors raise funding to help defray the cost of the program activities.

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

City committee to offer guided plant walk

The city of Sanibel’s Vegetation Committee will offer a free, guided native vegetation and landscaping tour on March 12 at 9 a.m. around the grounds at City Hall, at 800 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.

Even though the grounds sustained damage from Hurricane Ian and other recent storms, the ongoing recovery of the demonstration garden provides an opportunity to witness groundcovers, shrubs and trees that require very little maintenance and are well-adapted to Sanibel’s environmental conditions.

In addition to providing information on proper planting and care of native vegetation, committee members will highlight

the two rain gardens that were recently restored by the city, in partnership with the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Master Gardeners Program.

The plantings, sponsored by a grant through the Florida Wildflower Foundation, were selected due to their ability to improve water quality, reduce stormwater runoff and replace wildlife habitat resources.

Registration is not required; meet in front of the main staircase at City Hall.

For more information, contact the Natural Resources Department at sandnr@ mysanibel.com or 239-472-4135.

CITY OF SANIBEL

Artwork by Cecilia Montalvo and Charlie McCullers.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

SCCF to host Brush of Excellence artists

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) will hold a reception and artist talk with 2024 Brush of Excellence Environmental Art Award recipients Charlie McCullers and Cecilia Montalvo on March 11 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Bailey Homestead Preserve, at 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

They will discuss their series of photographs, “Where the Light Enters,” including their intent behind the series and artistic process. The SCCF provided the following about the photographic series:

“Characterized by the dynamic nature of the land-sea interaction, barrier islands are places with many shape narratives, and inversions. A barrier island is ephemeral, an instance of simultaneity, above and below what we call the surface. Mangroves straddle these mirror worlds, walking on water, making something out of nothing.

Light rushes through every keyhole and seam in palm forest canopies, which is another sort of inundation. The islands are always being eroded and redeposited, their permanence rooted in impermanence, existing where many forces converge.

“Everything residual from the land and the sea is ulti-

mately represented there. And in that history, that recording, that perpetual washing over of it all, beautiful things and ugly things, there is a prelapsarian magic, which is always starting over, clean. This work is metaphorical. It’s about demarcation and intermediation. It’s about origins, and going back. It’s about paradoxes of individual experience within the enormous, scary, and magical system.”

In 2015, the SCCF was one of five organizations presented with a framed paintbrush once used by political cartoonist and conservationist Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling, who was pivotal to preserving land on Sanibel. With it came the establishment of the SCCF’s annual award, called the “Brush of Excellence.”

Each year, the SCCF selects a committee to identify and select a candidate for the honor. Chosen artists are those who bring exemplary awareness to the natural world and highlight the uniqueness of Sanibel.

The event is being held in collaboration with the SCCF and Sanibel-Captiva Art League (SCAL)’s exhibit “Water,” which is on display at the Bailey Homestead from now through March 19. The exhibit will be on display during the reception and artist talk, and many of the

FISH to host monthly luncheon with speaker

FISH of Sanibel-Captiva will hold its next Friendly Faces Luncheon on March 11 at 11 a.m. at The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. It will feature Susie Wilson, who has Type III-IV Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). She will share her inspiring and personal journey — filled with resilience, advocacy and life lessons.

Wilson has spent over 30 years advocating for the OI community, serving on the board of directors of the OI Foundation and co-chairing support groups. She is also a volunteer at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, and she serves at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church.

“At FISH, we believe in the power of community,” Senior Services Director Erika Arnowitz said. “We can’t wait to see you in March for a luncheon that encourages connection, learning and lots of smiles.”

Prepared by the Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory, the lunch will be complimentary.

Reservations and meal choices are required by March 7.

For more information or to make a reservation, contact Arnowitz at 239-472-4775 or erika@fishofsancap.org.

artists will be in attendance.

The event is supported by the SCCF’s Flourish Fund. Tickets are $20.

For tickets or more information, visit https://sccf.org/ event/brush-of-excellence-artist-talk-reception/.

Susie Wilson

SANIBELCAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

Nanny’s donates to CECI

Workshop set with Brush of Excellence artists

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) will present a Lumen Printing Workshop with artists Charlie McCullers and Cecilia Montalvo on March 12 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Bailey Homestead Preserve, at 1300 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Lumens, or sun prints, are created from the interaction of sunlight, object and paper to create an unpredictable as well as colorful visual of shapes. Participants will be

introduced to alternative photographic techniques and guided through the creation of their own designs on light-sensitive paper. McCullers and Montalvo are the SCCF’s 2024 Brush of Excellence Environmental Art Award recipients. The cost is $20; all materials will be provided. To register or for more information, visit https://events.humanitix. com/art-workshop-lumen-prints.

The Children’s Education Center of the Islands (CECI) on Sanibel announced that it received a donation from Nanny’s of Sanibel. The store donated 10% of its proceeds from Small Business Saturday to help the CECI replace materials lost and damaged in Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

San Cap Bank donates to CHR

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank announced a $25,000 donation to Community Housing & Resources’ (CHR) capital campaign, A New Riverview. The investment will assist CHR in advancing its objectives of constructing new affordable housing on Sanibel to replace the former Riverview building that was destroyed by Hurricane Ian.

SANIBEL CAPTIVA COMMUNITY BANK

REFUGE/DDWS

Wildlife on Wheels intern Bhritney Hernandez shows a student plankton through a microscope.

WoW focuses on plankton

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge’s Wildlife on Wheels (WoW) team recently taught high school marine biology students at Lehigh Senior High School about the effects of plankton on water quality. The students looked at live plankton under a microscope and tested water samples from a local golf course to understand the effect of fertilizers on water quality. Last week, the WoW mobile classroom team moved on to Orange River Elementary School in Fort Myers.

‘E-mail from Emily Em —’

By JOE PACHECO

Please don’t forward this E-mail Or click reply to me —

The screens are blank as zero Out here in Eternity —

The bits and words of what We always thought we were Unsaved forever

In Nobody’s processor —

Though parts of us might lurk

To fill a final hour

The World Wide Wolf of Web Its last bit will devour —

Downloading and uploading

Our tiny time on Earth Till glitch or fatal exception Blanks out what we were worth —

Please don’t forward this E-mail — Don’t try to click reply.

Sanibel Sea School provides outreach update

The Sanibel Sea School recently partnered with The Heights Foundation to take children on an after-school field trip to Bunche Beach in Fort Myers. They got to have fun in the sun while identifying ocean creatures through an interactive scavenger hunt. The trip was made possible through the Sanibel Sea

School’s A Chance to Sea program. In addition, its marine science educators recently held beach walks with adults visiting Sanibel on a six-day excursion, hosted through Road Scholar. The group learned about the shells, shorebirds and other coastal wildlife while experiencing the island’s beaches.

Joe Pacheco Poetic License

SANIBEL SEA SCHOOL

Local students take an after-school field trip to Bunche Beach in Fort Myers.

Shell museum’s annual gala a success

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium held its annual benefit gala, “Still the One,” on Feb. 8 at The Community House on Sanibel. It celebrated 30 years as the one and only accredited museum in the United States of shells, mollusks and their ecosystems. Called a tremendous success, the gala raised funds for a range of educational offerings by the museum, including K-12 school programs, clean water education and lifelong learning. It featured live music by The Rockefellers, a retrospective film on the museum’s history and catered dinner, along with an auction of items and experiences and a Paddles Up. The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company was the presenting sponsor. To view more photos from the event and sponsor recognition, visit ShellMuseum. org/2025-gala-recap-stillthe-one.

BAILEY-MATTHEWS NATIONAL SHELL MUSEUM & AQUARIUM

From left, John and Jane Henshaw and Al and Sally Hanser with Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium Director of Marketing and Development Stephanie Muddell and Executive Director Sam Ankerson.

Students take part in meal packing event

The Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club reported that The Sanibel School’s Interact Club participated in the Sanibel Community Mobile Pack for Feed My Starving Children on Feb. 1 at the Sanibel Community Church on Sanibel. In two hours, the students and other volunteers packed 118 boxes of food, which equaled

25,488 meals. Rotary sponsors the club, which provides students the opportunity to participate in service projects while developing leadership skills and meeting new friends. Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) is a Christian, nonprofit hunger relief organization that providing nutritious meals to youths worldwide.

San Cap Bank serves as sponsor

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank was a silver sponsor for the SanibelCaptiva Kiwanis Club’s Annual Spaghetti Dinner on Feb. 22 at The Community House on Sanibel. In addition, it is serving as a silver sponsor for

the King of the Rock Golf Tournament in April. The club reestablished the events last year as part of its post-Hurricane Ian recovery, along with other community service projects. For more information, visit sancapkiwanis.org.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA ROTARY CLUB

From left, The Sanibel School Interact Club members John Harris, Charles Harris, Zayl Gamble, Christopher Erickson, Teagan Clark, Keeva Clark, Reagan Gould and Ally Flynt with club advisor and middle school social studies teacher Edna Dykhuizen.

SANIBEL CAPTIVA COMMUNITY BANK

From left, Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club President Emily Ankerson and Sanibel Captiva Community Bank Vice President and Main Office Branch Manager Sandy Doubles.

San Cap Bank to serve as sponsor

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank is a title sponsor for Champions 4 Children SWFL’s 2025

C4C Weekend on April 24-26. The 11th annual fundraiser will feature current and former NFL, NBA, MLB, PGA, Olympic and collegiate athletes. Attendees and sponsors will be able to interact with them at different events, including a benefit concert, poker tournament, golf tournament, and dinner auction, at Cheeburger Cheeburger, the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa and The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club on Sanibel. Proceeds from the event will support CureSearch, the Southwest Florida Chapter of Blessings in a Backpack and Valerie’s House. For more information, visit https:// www.champions4childrenswfl.com/.

Banks of the Islands serving as

sponsor

Bank of the Islands is a website sponsor for the 38th annual Sanibel Music Festival taking place from now through March 22 on select Tuesdays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ, at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. The bank made a $1,500 donation in support of the festival’s online portal for performance details and ticket sales. In addition, tickets can be purchased from its Sanibel office. For tickets or more information, visit sanibelmusicfestival. org.

BANK OF THE ISLANDS

Nanny’s donates to island school club

Nanny’s of Sanibel presented a check donation to The Sanibel School Music Director Joey Giangreco to help support the school’s Orff Club. The funds were the result a Playground Resin Valentine’s collection sold at the store in January and February. The store matched the donation, along with funds from an anonymous donor. The playground resin came from an entrepreneurship project at the school. Student Gabriella McNeilus created resin pieces to sell to classmates, but after the project was over she decided to take it to the next level and now has her pieces for sale in several island locations. Nanny’s owner Heather Termini suggested that McNeilus make a collection as an opportunity to give back.

From left, Bank of the Islands’ Vice President David Lowden and Kelsey Hamilton with Shirley Witte, Deborah Larson and Nina Orrell, of the Sanibel Music Festival.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Sea turtle strandings

ing for turtles with no evidence of physical trauma is not definitive without further testing, but could potentially be related to the recent red tide blooms off the coast of Sanibel and Captiva.

“Sea turtles can be affected by brexetoxins (red tide toxins) through ingestion of contaminated prey items, such as crabs, sponges and mollusks,” sea turtle biologist Savannah Weber said. “There’s often a lag between initiation of a red tide bloom and sea turtles stranding due to the time it takes for toxins to accumulate in prey items.”

Last year, the SCCF documented 17 total sea turtle strandings.

Brevetoxins can affect a sea turtle’s nervous system, causing the turtle to become weak or lethargic and could eventually lead to death. This may result in the turtle floating at the surface of the water and becoming vulnerable to predators or vessel strikes.

SCCF-led research indicates

Preserves

From page 1

that even when red tides do not cause direct mortality of exposed wildlife, they can act as a physiological stressor with long-term impacts on sea turtle health. Toxins in nesting females are also transferred to their offspring. This possibly affects hatching rates and hatchling survival. Collaborators on the research include Fishhead Labs, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, Loggerhead Marinelife Center, The Everglades Foundation, University of Florida and University of Miami.

Report any suspected sea turtle strandings to the SCCF’s sea turtle hotline at 978-SAVE-ONE (978728-3663).

Report other wildlife behaving erratically — unable to stand or fly, displaying tremors, apparent weakness or confusion — to the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife’s (CROW) wildlife hotline at 239-472-3644, ext. 222.

From page 25

visual beauty of our islands. Some have already generously offered donations to help us with this acceleration.”

Island landowners, including the SCCF, are still dealing with dead vegetation from Hurricanes Ian, Helene and

Milton as a direct result of storm surge that submerged the island with saltwater.

The SCCF reported that many trees in areas that were not in higher uplands could not tolerate saltwater submerging their root systems for very long. Buttonwood

seemed to die relatively quickly in some areas after the storms because they were in lower areas, but many gumbo limbo and strangler figs, which are typically found in higher areas, took over a year and a half to perish. This was exacerbated by Helene and Milton.

The Sanibel-Captiva Road project will take a few weeks to complete and then

contractors will move onto other properties to begin dead vegetation removal. The next phase will include the removal of dead vegetation adjacent to neighborhoods.

For questions, contact SCCF Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz at clechowicz@sccf.org.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION