Protect Captiva provides update on legal efforts
By STAFF REPORT trepecki@breezenewspapers.com
A coalition seeking to maintain the longtime building height and density limitations on Captiva recently provided an update on its legal actions.
Last week, Protect Captiva reported that South Seas and Lee County concluded their rebuttal case before the county Hearing Examiner on April 18 regarding the resort’s rezoning application.
“After hearing from 52 members of the
public opposing the South Seas rezoning application, the rebuttal case presented by South Seas and Lee County only served to highlight the ill-advised nature of the
South Seas overdevelopment application,” it shared.
According to the coalition, the resort’s final proposal includes:
∫ Buildings more than 20 feet taller than existing structures on South Seas or Captiva
∫ New condominiums at the north end of the resort where two areas of open space presently exist
∫ An attraction-type water park adjacent to existing condos owned by others
∫ A 175-room hotel along Captiva Drive
SOUTH SEAS
South Seas will host its second annual South Seas Tarpon Tournament on May 22-23 on Captiva.
South Seas to hold second annual tarpon tournament
By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers.com
The registration deadline is nearing for a tourney to benefit the families of service members.
South Seas will host its second annual South Seas Tarpon Tournament on May 22-23 on Captiva. Taking place in conjunction with the resort’s Grand Reopening Celebration and Memorial Day weekend festivities that will run through May 25, additional activities will be open to participants.
This year’s competition will once again support Folds of Honor.
“Providing a world-class fishing tournament that combines a spirit of competition with a sense of community, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved while raising awareness and support for the Folds of Honor Scholarship Fund, has been amazing,” South Seas General Manager Shawn Farrell said.
Since 2007, the nonprofit organization has been committed to providing scholarships to the spouses and children of fallen and disabled military service members and first responders. The tourney proceeds will benefit local families in Lee County and the surrounding areas of Captiva and Sanibel.
“We were successful in raising $200,000 in last year’s tournament, which is equivalent to 40 scholarships,” he said.
If You Go
Annual South Seas Tarpon Tournament When May 23 from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Teams of four can register through May 14. The competition will kick off with a captain’s meeting on May 22 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Redfish Grill. On May 23, an anglers and sponsors breakfast will be held from 5:30 to 7 a.m., followed by the tourney from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. It will all wrap up with an awards presentation from 4 to 8 p.m. at The Clutch.
at the south end where no hotel ever existed
∫ A 260-room hotel at the north end where only a 107-room hotel existed
∫ A restaurant with outdoor seating within earshot of a residence
∫ Possibly 76-150 new boat slips by the T-dock along the channel to Redfish Pass
Protect Captiva continued that the applicant purchased its 120 acres of the resort with 107 hotel units and 140 employee housing units and the right to build another
CAPTIVA, page 7
Captiva library, county system offer programs
The Captiva Memorial Library, which is part of the Lee County Library System, is offering the following free programming:
Adult programs
∫ May 14: Dementia Sensitivity from 10 to 11 a.m.
Presented by Lee Health, participants will gain a better understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, including common symptoms, causes
CEPD agrees to proceed with job candidate
By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers.com
The Captiva Erosion Prevention District’s (CEPD) commission recently received an update on the applicants for a new bookkeeper-assistant position and agreed to make an offer to a candidate. At a workshop on May 1, Vice Chairman Rene Miville provided a report on the new administrative role on behalf of the Hiring Committee, which consisted of him, Commissioner Tim McGowan and a third-party individual. About 30 resumes were received, with five or six video interviews conducted.
He reported that the commute to the island and it only being part-time work came up as issues.
Miville continued that recently, however, the CEPD received a resume from Debra Giacolone. He reported that he spoke to her and she is in the process of relocating to Sanibel with her family.
See CEPD, page 24
From left, FISH of SanibelCaptiva Board Chair John Morse and President and Chief Executive Officer Maggi Feiner.
FISH OF SANIBELCAPTIVA
FISH holds Annual Meeting, Volunteer Brunch
FISH of Sanibel-Captiva welcomed nearly 100 volunteers, board members and community supporters to its Annual Meeting and Volunteer Brunch on April 2 at Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel.
The event served as a celebration of the individuals who give their time and energy to help the organization deliver essential services to the Sanibel and Captiva communities.
Executive Director Maria Espinoza shared an update on FISH’s financials, noting that 88% of every dollar spent goes directly to programs and services.
She addressed the Community Development Block Grant — Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) reimbursement grant, which will support repairs and rebuilding of facilities damaged by Hurricane Ian. The first phase of the process will involve the public release of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for architectural services, which will focus on a more functional, resilient space for delivering services. Following that, a public bid for construction will
be announced.
Espinoza also previewed a new partnership with the Santiva Islanders, which will bring expanded support and activities for the islands’ older adult population.
The meeting placed a special emphasis on the vital role that the volunteers play in supporting FISH’s mission. From delivering meals and stocking pantry shelves, to assisting with wellness checks, transportation and events, their work makes it possible to reach hundreds of individuals and families each year.
“We simply couldn’t do this without our volunteers,” she said. “They are the reason we’re able to reach those in crisis, feed families, check on isolated seniors, and help our community recover and rebuild. As need continues to grow, so does the importance of having compassionate, committed individuals by our side.”
FISH also extended its gratitude to Sundial for its hospitality and support in hosting the event.
From page 8
The temporary location is inside of the Access Title Agency building on the Third Floor.
Through June, staff will be available on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Available services include account opening, check cashing, coin orders, notary services, and cashiers and counter checks.
The temporary office will enable the bank to establish an on-island presence and serve new and existing customers while development of its permanent branch is underway. Located at 2670 Estero Blvd., the new full-service branch is anticipated to open in 2026. Construction planning remains underway, and the bank is working with project partners to finalize timelines.
For more information, visit sancapbank.com/fmb.
The Access Title Agency building is at 100 Lovers Lane, Fort Myers Beach.
SANIBEL CAPTIVA COMMUNITY BANK Sanibel Captiva Community Bank has opened a temporary office inside of the Access Title Agency building on Fort Myers Beach.
COMMITTEE OF THE ISLANDS
COTI names Citizen of the Year at anniversary meeting
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Committee of the Islands (COTI) held its annual meeting on March 30 at The Community House on Sanibel. It featured Professor Tom Ankersen’s keynote address, “Shifting Sands and Shifted Baselines: The Once and Future Sanibel Plan.”
Also created 50 years ago, the Plan provided a critical blueprint for the island’s future. It enabled Sanibel to avoid the overdevelopment that characterizes many other barrier islands and has become a national planning landmark. With graphics and commentary, he offered an overview and details of the Plan and provided context within broader planning efforts and research — past, present and future.
Prior to the presentation, the membership elected new directors.
President Bill Millar then announced Maria Espinoza as COTI’s 2025 Citizen of the Year.
“Maria, as executive director of FISH of Sanibel-Captiva, is not only the heart of that organization,” he said. “She is in many ways at the heart of our community. She has worked tirelessly to support the recovery from Hurricane Ian, as well as from last year’s hurricanes.”
“She exemplifies the community service values that COTI’s Citizen of the Year Award is meant to recognize,” he
added. “Maria is known for her ability to bring people together, whether it’s collaborating with local and regional organizations, rallying volunteers, or personally ensuring that every person who comes to FISH feels heard and supported.”
Espinoza was lauded for her leadership after the recent storms, even while dealing with her own challenges. She and her team sprang into action to provide supplies and services that residents needed to start on their recovery and even stay in their homes. Espinoza expedited applications for housing assistance, FEMA and insurance and partnered with other professionals to provide mental health care.
“And Maria’s impact goes beyond emergency response at both the local and county level. She has expanded FISH’s reach, developed innovative programs and strengthened relationships with donors, volunteers and community leaders,” Millar said. “She is also actively involved in local organizations, including Rotary Club of Sanibel-Captiva, and has received multiple awards for her leadership and disaster-response efforts.”
“Above all, Maria leads with empathy, intelligence and a deep passion for serving others,” he added. “Her ability to think strategically, while also prioritizing the human side of nonprofit work, makes her an exceptional leader.”
From left, Committee of the Islands (COTI) President Bill Millar with COTI’s 2025 Citizen of the Year and FISH of Sanibel-Captiva Executive Director Maria Espinoza.
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
Least terns on Sanibel in 2023.
Protecting least terns on Sanibel Causeway Islands
As the Sanibel Causeway Islands prepared to open to the public for the first time since Hurricane Ian, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) was busy posting off areas for nesting least terns — a state-threatened bird species that nests in colonies.
The SCCF reported that staff observed least terns landing on the causeway and making nest scrapes, indicating they will likely attempt to form a nesting colony. It would be the third straight year least terns have nested on the causeway, following a 30-year absence. Last year, they successfully fledged chicks.
Historically, least terns and black skimmers regularly attempted nesting on the Causeway Islands after the Sanibel Causeway was built in the 1960s. Unfortunately, vehicle traffic and summer storms left most nests unsuccessful.
“Despite the best efforts of our local conservation organizations to protect them and lure them to other nesting sites away from the causeway, the birds continued to fall victim to traffic and the weather,” SCCF shorebird biologist Audrey Albrecht said. “They turned to other nearby beaches and rooftops but struggled to find suitable nesting habitat.”
Least terns have a relatively short nesting season, arriving to Southwest Florida in early April and beginning their migration back to their wintering grounds in August.
The SCCF is closely communicating with the Florida Department of Transportation, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Lee County to coordinate the protection of the birds.
REFUGE/DDWS
J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge intern Jake Kelly holds the “catch of the day” on April 11.
Roskamp seeking volunteers again for red tide study
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) reported that the the Sarasota-based Roskamp Institute is returning to Sanibel to give islanders the opportunity to participate in a four-year study examining the health effects of aerosolized brevetoxin exposure from red tide.
It will be at the SCCF’s headquarters on Sanibel on May 8-9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“Partnering with SCCF once again for this critical red tide study allows us to build on a strong foundation of research and community engagement,” Laila Abdullah, Ph.D., a scientist leading the study, said. “It is important to test participants both during bloom and outside of the bloom so that we can see the differences between the two times.”
New volunteers, as well as volunteers who participated in Roskamp’s 2021 study, are welcome to join the current study group. It also visited the SCCF in January during an active red tide bloom and 10 volunteers provided samples for the study. All volunteers remain anonymous.
By joining the study, participants will help researchers understand how the toxins may enter, how long they stay and how they are eliminated in the body.
“Understanding the brain health impact of aerosolized exposure to red tide toxins is essential for protecting public health, and SCCF’s expertise and local knowledge are invaluable in advancing this effort,” she said.
The study seeks 400 participants in Southwest Florida to wear a personal air monitor, provide biological sam-
ples, complete health surveys and return for follow-up procedures, including repeat sampling and health checks.
“By working together, we can provide meaningful insights that inform science, policy, and public awareness. We thank SCCF for assisting with our research efforts,” Abdullah said.
Participants must be at least 18 years old and meet inclusion/exclusion criteria.
To reserve a spot in the study or for more information, call 941-256-8010.
The SCCF’s headquarters is at 3333 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel.
Monofilament removal at refuge
The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is devoted to removing fishing gear from foliage that can cause injury or even death to birds and other wildlife. A team of “monofilament busters” typically paddles out in the mangroves on certain Fridays to collect the death traps
Volunteers sought for preserve prep
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is seeking volunteers for a Puschel Preserve Summer Prep Day on May 12 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. on Sanibel. They will assist staff in getting the preserve ready for the rainy season, including weeding the gardens, planting native plants, cleaning benches and such. For more information or to register, visit https://dash. pointapp.org/events/328635.
Volunteers take part in mangrove restoration
Coastal Watch volunteers, alongside MANG volunteers, recently helped plant over 1,000 mangroves on the SanibelCaptiva Conservation Foundation’s (SCCF) York Island Preserve in the San Carlos Bay. The preserve has been grappling with the aftermath of the recent hurricanes. Each plant was placed in the prop roots of dead or existing mangroves to ensure it is shielded from the winds and waves. MANG and SCCF staff provided guidance and educated volunteers about the benefits of mangroves on coasts.
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
COASTAL WATCH
“Lightlark” by Alex Aster. Staffers will lead the discussion.
On May 10, Science Saturday will be held from 11 a.m. to noon. Youths of all ages can participate in hands-on activities that are and entertaining.
Weekly programming
∫ Crafternoon: Wednesdays from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Make a fun and engaging craft with staff guidance. All supplies provided. Open to all ages.
April to date:
∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 22
∫ Total 911 calls: 113
∫ Traffic crashes: 8
∫ Radar details: 335
∫ Traffic stops: 215
— Citations issued: 75
— Written warnings issued: 20
— Verbal warnings issued: 129
∫ Residential area checks: 899
∫ Business area checks: 500
∫ Total area checks: 2,492
∫ Reported burglaries: 1
∫ Reported thefts: 2
∫ Total CAD calls: 4,349
Tips and reminders
∫ The free “Sanibel Bound” app provides live feeds from traffic cameras stationed across Sanibel. It is available for Android and iOS devices in the Google Play and Apple App stores.
∫ When leaving Sanibel, motorists are
∫ Family Storytime: Tuesdays and Fridays from 10:30 to 11 a.m.
Enjoy stories, songs, movement and early literacy play centers that spark creativity and motor skills. Open to babies, toddlers and children and their caregivers.
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
encouraged to travel east on Periwinkle Way. Officers directing traffic give priority to off-island traffic on Periwinkle.
∫ For information on the school zone speed enforcement program at The Sanibel School, visit https://mysanibel. com/schoolzone. To watch a video that explains the speed limits in the school zone, visit https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=8BUppMCjvXk.
∫ For information on the E-bike city ordinance, visit https://www.mysanibel. com/government/recreation2/bike-orhike-on-the-shared-use-path.
∫ Roadside parking is not allowed on Sanibel and is enforceable with a $150 fine.
∫ Parking and boat launching fee is $40 per day at the boat ramp. Parking and boat launching on weekends and holidays is with AC/BC permit only. Parking fines for violations are $500.
∫ The 2025 Annual Beach Parking Permits are available at the Sanibel
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 239-472-2483 or visit https://sanlib.org/.
The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.
Recreation Center and are valid through Nov. 30.
Beach parking contact information
∫ Assistance with paying for parking: 239-472-3111, option 3
∫ Police non-emergency questions: 239-472-3111
∫ Parking citation questions: parking@mysanibel.com
Hurricane re-entry passes
The SPD will continue to use the 2024 residential and commercial hurricane re-entry passes for the 2025 season. They may be picked up Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m at the 800 Dunlop Road, Sanibel. To access the residential pass application, visit https://www.mysanibel.com/content/download/33031/file/2024%20 Application%20Residential%20Pass.pdf. To access the commercial pass appli-
cation, visit https://www.mysanibel.com/ content/download/33030/file/2024%20 Applicaton%20Commercial%20Pass. pdf. Email the completed application, along with the required documentation, to hurricanepass@mysanibel.com. The permit is mailed once the application is processed.
Reporting suspicious activity
Anonymous tips regarding crimes or suspicious activity can be submitted via Tip411:
∫ Text the keyword SANIBEL, followed by a space, and then the tip to 847411.
∫ Web tips can be submitted at https://tip411.com/tips/new?alert_group_ id=22450.
∫ Use the free “Sanibel PD” app available from the Google Play and Apple App stores.
Find the SPD on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/SanibelPolice.
For 2024, the SCCF documented a high number, with a total of 631 loggerhead nests on Sanibel and 208 on Captiva. She noted that a lot of nests last year were also found during the month of April.
“This is a really good year so far,” Sloan said. “We’re off to a great start.”
Sea turtle monitoring originally began on Sanibel in the 1950s with Charles LeBuff and Caretta Research Inc., making it one of the longest-running monitoring programs in the country. When Caretta Research disbanded in 1992, the SCCF took over the program and continues to manage it today.
Loggerhead is the most common marine turtle species to nest on the islands, followed by the green sea turtle. Leatherbacks and Kemp’s ridleys are rarer, but they have nested on SanibelCaptiva before.
“Loggerheads are, by far, the most abundant on our beaches,” she said.
The SCCF records about 20-30 green nests each year.
“Green sea turtles are not as infrequent as they were maybe 30 years ago,” Sloan said, noting that they have a biannual nesting pattern and last year was low. “This is anticipated to be a big green year.”
All the species will take one or two years off between nesting seasons.
“Last year, we were a little bit down, but not dramatically in terms of nest counts,” she said. “So we’re expecting it to be a little bit bigger year this year.”
The SCCF looks at and monitors hatching rates to determine how the populations are doing.
“Our hatching rates have been down in recent years, which is concerning,” Sloan
said, explaining that the hurricanes over the last couple years and predation by coyotes have been contributing factors.
Last year, four different treatments were used on nests to try and curtail coyotes: habanero peppers, screening with rebar, caging, and nothing — which occurred in only a few cases when the egg chamber could not be located. The SCCF found caging to be the best solution, but it is very time consuming.
So, they identified hot spots for coyote predication in preparation for this season.
“We’re focusing on the hot spots with that,” she said of caging nests.
“The first nest this year happened to be located in one of the areas,” Sloan added.
As part of its Sea Turtle Program, the SCCF is responsible for monitoring roughly 18 miles of beach and nesting habitat that stretches from the Sanibel Lighthouse up to Redfish Pass on both islands.
“We are out on the beaches every single morning at dawn to patrol for new nests and false crawls,” she said.
When a nest is found, it is marked off and monitored daily for any signs of disturbance. A few days after the nest hatches, the SCCF inventories it, releasing any remaining live hatchlings out to sea.
Sloan noted that it takes staff and a team of about 90-100 volunteers each season.
“We truly couldn’t do it without them,” she said, adding that the volunteers put in about 5,000 hours.
In addition to the monitoring, the Sea Turtle Program has a research component. There is a night-time tagging project to identify and tag nesting females and
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) documented the first nest of sea turtle nesting season — from a loggerhead — on April 25 on the east end of Sanibel.
record their data.
“That helps us identify all kinds of movement pattens and life history about that turtle,” Sloan said.
New this year, the SCCF will conduct satellite tagging. They will track turtles to answer questions about how water temperature impacts the movement of turtles. The trackers will collect data like water temperature, location and depth. Depth, for example, can be indicative of dive patterns and forging.
“We’ve seen record temperatures in the Gulf in recent years — it affects the whole ecosystem,” she said. “It’s a question that a lot of people are asking, but there’s very little data on.”
After recently wrapping up a four-year project studying the impacts of red tide on the health and reproductive success of sea turtles, the SCCF will take the next step this season to see how the toxins affect the hatchlings — as it found the adult females are transferring the toxins to their offspring.
Sloan explained that they will collect blood from hatchlings and perform a sort of fitness test for basic functions, like flipping them over to see how fast they right themselves and seeing how they crawl.
As for having a successful nesting season, there are ways that beachgoers can help.
“This time of year, we’re sharing the shore with sea turtles and nesting shorebirds. It’s their home, too,” she said. “It’s important to make sure we’re making it hospitable for them, and we can’t do it without the help from the public.”
The SCCF provided the following tips:
∫ Turn off or shield all lights visible from the shore after 9 p.m. Do not use flashlights on the beach.
∫ Remove all beach furniture, equipment and trash, which pose hazards to turtles.
∫ Fill in holes and flatten sandcastles.
∫ Keep your distance from marked sea turtle nests, and do not disturb nesting sea turtles
∫ Dispose of fishing line properly to avoid wildlife entanglement.
In addition, boaters can keep the surrounding waters sea turtle-friendly by:
∫ Avoiding the area along the beach, if possible.
∫ Having a designated spotter on the boat to look out for sea turtles.
∫ Wearing polarized sunglasses to help with spotting sea turtles.
∫ Going as slow as possible in areas where sea turtles are or might be.
Sloan noted that the SCCF has received reports and pictures recently of mating sea turtles.
“It’s really important to keep an eye out, especially during this time of year,” she said.
For more ways to protect and care for them, visit https://sancaplifesavers.org/.
To report lighting issues, sea turtle hazards on the beach, information related to nests or turtle strandings on the islands, call the SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-SAVE-ONE (239-728-3663).
For more information about the SCCF’s Sea Turtle Program, visit https:// sccf.org/what-we-do/protect-wildlife/ sea-turtle-program/.
Local Girl Scouts dig in at refuge
The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge reported that the Lehigh Acres Girl Scouts recently spent the day planting mangrove propagules around its Boone lakeside property. They learned about the benefits of mangroves and how they propagate.
Captiva library
and progressive stages. The presenter will help attendees increase awareness of behavioral symptoms associated with dementia, equip others to communicate effectively with persons with dementia, and discuss local resources available to assist those with dementia, their families and caregivers.
Children programs
∫ Today, May 7: Make Your Own Kite
(during operating hours)
Make your own kite and soar through the pages of your favorite book. All supplies provided.
∫May 9: Make Your Own Kite
From page 6
“She’s very excited about the possibility of working with us,” Miville said.
According to Giacolone’s resume, she currently serves as executive director of Student Support Services for Sarasota County Schools. She previously served as director of Student Services for the school district and program manager for its Florida Diagnostic Learning and Resources Systems.
Her background also includes coordinator of Professional Development at the Heartland Educational Consortium, director of Special Education at PresenceLearning, and director of Special Education and Student Services/principal at DeSoto County Schools, as well as assistant principal, dean of students, ESE program specialist, pre-kindergarten and kindergarten teacher, and Exceptional
Grants
From page 20
lenge from an anonymous donor.
“We are overwhelmed with gratitude for every donor who stepped up to help us meet this ambitious goal for our small businesses,” Executive Director Dolly Farrell said. “These funds will have a transformative impact on our local businesses, ensuring they have the resources they need to recover and thrive.”
It provided the following update of April 15:
∫ $266,000 raised from donors
∫ $215,000 disbursed to FISH of Sanibel-Captiva for small business grants
∫ 38 businesses awarded grants, averaging $5,000 each
∫ Thirty applicants from Sanibel and eight applicants from Captiva
∫ $5,000 earmarked for this year’s “Love Sanibel Business Back”
initiative, which is organized and executed by Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church on Sanibel
The CFI noted that FISH administered the grant program, including processing applications and distributing funds to business owners in need. Also, the SanCap Chamber assisted business owners through the application process and provided outreach to ensure those in need were aware of the opportunity.
“There was never any hesitation from FISH of SanCap when asked to administer this program Likewise, the chamber of commerce stepped up immediately, assigning a dedicated staff member to help business owners navigate the application process,” CFI Board Chair Lisa Riordan said. “Their combined efforts made this program possible, and we are deeply grateful.”
Tarpon tournament
From page 6
Monies collected from the entry fees will be paid to the winners.
Over the four days, other festivities that will be open to participants include a Feed the Fish Golf Ball Drive on May 22, a Patriotic Tee Shirt Dye on May 23 and a Kids Fishing Tournament on May 24.
There will also be a hydro battle, seafood boil, glow golf, live music and more.
Proceeds from the captain’s meeting, Feed the Fish Golf Ball Drive, Patriotic Tee Shirt Dye, Kids Fishing Tournament and some additional activities will be do-
From page 6
(during operating hours)
Make your own kite and soar through the pages of your favorite book. All supplies provided.
The library is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.
For more information, call 239-5334890.
In addition, the library system is offering the following free virtual programming:
Adult programs
∫ Today, May 7: Online Author Event with Dr. David Rosmarin from 2 to 3 p.m.
Education teacher.
Giacolone holds a Master of Science from Radford University in Special Education — Emotional and Behavioral Disorders and Specific Learning Disabilities and graduated summa cum laude and a Bachelor of Science from Virginia Tech in Family and Childhood Development and Early Childhood Education. She also graduated as an education specialist from NOVA Southeastern University in Education Leadership and Organizational Management, also summa cum laude.
During the following discussion, Treasurer and Secretary Linda Laird raised some questions.
“This is a very competent and intelligent woman,” she said.
Laird continued that she is concerned,
“Supporting our local businesses in their recovery is essential to rebuilding our community,” FISH Executive Director Maria Espinoza said. “We are proud to partner with CFI to provide these much-needed grants and are grateful to every donor who made this possible.”
“Our local businesses are the backbone of our community,” SanCap Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer John Lai said. “We were honored to assist in this process and ensure that business owners had the support they needed to access these critical funds.”
For more information about the Sanibel-Captiva Recovery Fund, visit myCFI.org.
nated to Folds of Honor.
The registration fee is $1,000 per team.
The public is invited to sign up.
“We look forward to this year’s tournament and building on the accomplishment of the inaugural event last year,” Farrell said.
To register or for more information, visit southseas. com/tarpon.
South Seas is at 5400 Plantation Road, Captiva.
Attendees will learn from Dr. David Rosmarin, author of “Thriving with Anxiety,” how to use anxiety to become more self-accepting, connected to others and resilient. The event is part of the Online Author Events Series. Registration is required.
∫ May 13: Online Preserving Your Family History from 10 to 11 a.m.
Connie Lizak will share examples from her family history on how attendees might preserve their family history for future researchers. Some of the examples will be items such as personal diaries and journals, great-grandmother Koser’s quilt, family Bibles, Aunt Ethel’s stories, compiled research, family recipes, letters and
however, about Giacolone’s experience with bookkeeping, financial reports, accounts receivable and payable, audits, grants and restricted funds, and such. She added that she compiled her subjects and questions based on a conversation with their consultant.
“I don’t think she could answer them the way we would like them answered,” she said of her list of questions. “I think she has holes in her experience and in her training.”
After some further discussion, Laird suggested setting up Giacolone with a training program.
McGowan voiced support for hiring her and then setting benchmarks or certifications for her to meet.
“I think she’d be welcome to take those. I think she’d make those a goal for
photographs. Registration is required before May 13 at 10 a.m.
∫ May 14: Online Author Event with Liann Zhang from 7 to 8 p.m.
Join a propulsive conversation with author Liann Zhang as she chats about her debut thriller, “Julie Chan is Dead.” The event is part of the Online Author Events Series. Registration is required.
To register or for more information, visit https://www.leegov.com/library/programs.
The Captiva Memorial Library is at 11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva.
herself,” he said, adding that he is comfortable extending an employment offer to Giacolone.
Commissioner Bob Walter agreed with extending an offer.
“Everybody has holes in every position they apply for — she’s a very bright woman, she’s involved with the community,” he said, adding that incoming General Manager Brighton Heard can handle the day-to-day tasks with Giacolone and that they can professionally learn and grow together on the job.
Chairman John Wade noted that Brighton gave his approval on the hire.
Following some additional discussion, the commission agreed to extend Giacolone an offer.
REFUGE/DDWS
Regional film festival coming to islands
By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers.com
BIG ARTS on Sanibel will once again take part in the annual Fort Myers Film Festival.
For the second consecutive year, it will join venues around Southwest Florida to host and showcase some of the featured films in the festival, which is marking its 15th year. BIG ARTS will present a total of four films — including “Sanibel” — on May 15-17 at 7 p.m. in its Christensen Performance Hall.
“BIG ARTS is always trying to expand,” Gallery Director Wilson McCray, who oversees the film program, said. “It was pretty successful last year. We love being part of such a cultural event.”
He noted that the festival is more than just a showing as there will be special guest appearances from those involved in the productions. They will talk about the films and answer audience questions.
“When you have a visiting personality, a director, writer or actor, who can speak about the production and their personal experience with it, it just elevates the experience for the audience,” McCray said.
It will kick off on May 15 with “Sanibel,” directed by Herbert James Winterstern. The film is a documentary about seashells, grief and a community devastated by Florida’s largest storm.
“It is a beautifully made film about Sanibel and the shelling culture and the people who work that culture, the
businesses,” he said. “It focuses on one family, but it also touches on a few other characters — how they were impacted from Hurricane Ian and some of the tough stories that came with that.”
“I was struck by the human element of the film,” McCray added. “We all went through Ian.”
Winterstern and one of the producers, Kevan Rayden, will speak after the showing.
“And they will bring other guests
If You Go
What
Annual Fort Myers Film Festival
When May 15-17 at 7 p.m.
Where
BIG ARTS, 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel
Details
Tickets are $12 per day
who were in the film,” he said.
Before the film, an opening reception will take place at 5:45 p.m.
“The people at FISH (of SanibelCaptiva) who were involved with the making of film were so excited that we were going to screen it. They wanted to invite a lot of friends and create a reception ahead of time,” McCray said. “I think it’s a great way to start off, to have everyone gather, then watch the film.”
During the film’s theater run last month and through May in Florida, 10% of the ticket proceeds — though not for the tickets for the festival — are benefitting FISH and the American Red Cross.
The second day of the festival on May 16 will showcase “Curveballs,” directed by John Biffar. The film tells the inspiring story of America’s only amputee baseball team, The Louisville Sluggers.
McCray reported that Biffar is an accomplished local director.
“We hosted one of his films a year ago for the Fort Myers festival,” he said.
“This film is about the amputee baseball league team,” McCray added. “He did a fantastic job of capturing the inspiration behind that baseball team and the people on it.”
Biffar will speak after the showing.
“It’s possible that he will be bringing some of the guys in the film,” he said.
On May 17 — the final day of the festival — it will be a double feature with “Journey Back to Alcedo,” directed by Gianna Haro Vallazza, then “Climbing into Life,” directed by Melissa J. Davey. Both short films will be included on the ticket, with a brief intermission between the showings.
In the film “Journey Back to Alcedo,” two 70-year-old friends return to the Galápagos Islands to continue their work in conservation, highlighting the need for more women in science.
McCray reported that one woman’s parents were naturalists and she grew up on the islands.
“She had a unique childhood,” he said. “She’s returning, as a middle-age woman, to her roots.”
“It’s a statement about the environment and how important it is to remain vigilant in our study and love of it,” McCray added.
The film “Climbing into Life” is the inspiring story of Dierdre Wolownick,
the oldest woman to climb El Capitan. Mentored by her son, Alex Honnold, of Free Solo, she discovered climbing in her 60s.
“Again, it’s an inspirational film,” he said. “It’s a great story and a great way to end the festival on a note of inspiration and accomplishment.”
“Both of these are great coupled together,” McCray added. “They’re both about heroic women.”
Davey will speak after the showing; Vallazza may also be in attendance.
“For all three nights, all three galleries will be open,” he said.
The BIG ARTS cash bar will also be available, along with the gift shop.
Festival tickets are $12 per day.
The community is encouraged to come out.
“The 15th annual Fort Myers Film Festival is one of the most important cultural events in Lee County of the year,” McCray said. “Get your tickets — and revel in all of the great films.”
For tickets or more information, visit https://bigarts.org/ or call box office at 239-395-0900.
BIG ARTS is at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.
BIG ARTS
“Sanibel”
“Curveballs”
“Journey Back to Alcedo”
“Climbing into Life”
FISH to host monthly luncheon with speaker
FISH of Sanibel-Captiva will hold its next Friendly Faces Luncheon on May 13 at 11:30 a.m. at The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. It will feature Captains For Clean Water Community & Business Outreach Manager Dianna Ryan. She will lead a discussion focused on protecting Florida’s waterways. Her presentation will include: a look back at the history of Florida’s water challenges; how today’s water management systems affect the estuaries; the power of public engagement in driving long-term change; how different industries and advocacy groups are working together; and easy ways for individuals and communities to get involved.
At Captains For Clean Water, Ryan uses her background in operations, planning and community outreach to connect others to the mission of restoring and protecting Florida’s water ecosystems.
“We’ve welcomed a variety of speakers — from health and aging in place, to local business insights, environmental issues and community initiatives,” FISH Senior Services Director Erika Arnowitz said. “We hope our guests will continue to attend through the summer — and bring a friend or family member along.”
Prepared by the Sanibel Deli & Coffee Factory, the lunch will be complimentary.
Reservations and meal choices are required by May 9.
For more information or to make a reservation, contact Arnowitz at 239-472-4775 or erika@fishofsancap.org.
Trailways Camps’ exhibit travels to new site
Trailways Camps’ art exhibit, “Not Forgotten Faces,” is now on display at Sanibel Captiva Community Bank’s Bridge Branch, at 9311 College Parkway, Fort Myers. A traveling collection of photographic portraits that showcase Trailways Camps campers, it aims to highlight the often-overlooked population of adults with special needs. The photos were captured by camp volunteer and photographer George Waters, and the exhibit was created in memory of Robert V. and Benjamin G. Miller.
CHR calls yacht rock party a success
Community Housing & Resources (CHR) hosted its Ship Wrecked Yacht Rock Party on April 6 on Captiva. A resounding success, the event was filled with live music, games and food. CHR extended a thank you to everyone who attended and the event sponsors: Bailey’s General Store, Captiva Civic Association, Captiva Cruises, Captiva Island Fire Control District, Jerry’s Foods, McCarthy’s Marina, Pinocchio’s Original Italian Ice Cream, Royal Shell, SanCap Chamber, Sanibel Fire and Rescue District, Taco’s La Isla, The PonTunes, The Sanibel Cafe and Viking Builders. It gave a special thank you to Capt. Jason Cohen and first mate Arielle Cohen, plus those who volunteered at the event.
Dianna Ryan
GEORGE WATERS
IN THE GARDEN
is salt-tolerant, green armored buffer
Carissa (Carissa macrocarpa) is native to South Africa, but it is a longtime favorite of our area and you will find it planted along the eastern coastline of Florida and a couple of places along the western coast of Southwest Florida.
One of the large varieties that grows well in South Florida is the Natal plum cultivar, known as large num-num in its native Africa. The cultivar has small white flowers that carry a citrus fragrance all year long and small plumshaped fruit. Although the fruit can be made into a jelly, when the fruit is small it can be poisonous. I would recommend just appreciating its small grape-like reddish appearance instead. Another popular variety for our area is the Emerald Blanket, a dwarf cultivar that has a low-spreading growth pattern. This variety makes an excellent choice for a low groundcover shrub, providing a rich, dark green swath of color.
Carissa can survive in sandy soil and has a high tolerance for salt, which makes it ideal for island plantings. But be warned of its small, sharp 1-2 inch thorns that tend to hide underneath its small glossy leaves. On the Natal plum and Boxwood Beauty cultivars, the leaves also have spiked ends and are not recommended next to a walkway. Although, if you are looking for a buffer plant that could be kept a couple of feet in height and deter intruders say along a busy pedestrian path, the Natal plum might be a good choice for you.
If you are artistic in nature and have the patience for the art of bonsai, trimming plants with a bonsai appearance could be an interesting choice. There are also varieties of bonsai, Prostrata or Horizontalis (Natal creeper), that are smaller in size and can be maintained about 2-foot in height. Even left to its natural grown pattern, Carissa is a good choice in an Asian-themed garden because of its clean compact leaf patterns. With just minor trimming to maintain a nice shape, you can keep the plants looking good. It requires just basic plant care, regular watering — letting it dry out between watering — and fertilizer a couple of times a year to keep it looking healthy.
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.
Noah’s Ark to adjust hours of operation
Noah’s Ark Thrift Shop, located at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church on Sanibel, is currently open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. through May 9.
Starting on May 13, it will be open on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Operating for over 60 years, the store features clothes, jewelry, furniture, decor, art, shoes, books and more. The donated items are sorted and displayed by volunteers from the church. The shop is a mission of the church and the funds taken in are awarded to non-profits through a grant process.
Donations will be accepted through June.
For more information, visit https://www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org/noahs-ark or call 239-799-7149.
Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ noahsarksanibel and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/noahsarkthrift.sanibel/.
Noah’s Ark Thrift Shop is at 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.
Residents urged to sign up for
Lee County Clerk & Comptroller Kevin Karnes is urging property owners to register for the Property Fraud Alert after a re cent arrest and separate convic tion for prop erty fraud-related events. Property fraud occurs when a party uses a forged deed to sell or transfer property that does not belong to them.
Last month, a Fort Myers man was arrested for attempting to steal a property by filing a fake deed in the Lee Clerk’s Official Records Department. The Clerk’s Property Fraud Prevention Pilot Program provided police with the fraudulent driver license the man used, which
Property Fraud Alert
led to his arrest. A few weeks ago, a woman was convicted in a 2023 case involving her trying to file multiple false deeds at the Clerk’s office to steal properties from the homeowners. The deeds were not accepted by the of-
“Criminals shouldn’t be able to steal your home,” Karnes said. “I can’t stress enough the importance of registering for our Property Fraud Alert service. It’s extremely easy to sign up and it will help protect your most valuable asset. There are companies out there that charge for this service, but our office offers it for free.”
The service notifies registrants within 24 hours if a deed or other official record is filed in their name.
The Lee Clerk’s office launched the Property Fraud Alert in 2019, and more than 60,000 property owners have registered. There are approximately 550,000 parcels of land in the county. All residential and commercial property owners are encouraged to register at www.leeclerk. org/propertyfraud. Registration is simple and only requires a name and email address. Registrants can also include their parcel number, which will send an additional alert if the number is used in a recorded document, regardless of the names included on the recorded document. Registrants can register personal names, business names, trusts and individual parcels to receive alert notifications.
Saw palmetto is salt tolerant, wildlife friendly
By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
Meet the saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), a slow-growing member of the palm family, Arecaceae. It grows naturally all over Florida in dense thickets on sand dunes and other coastal areas and as an understory plant in hardwood hammocks and pine flatlands. It has two varieties: silver and green, with the silver variety being slightly faster growing and more associated with the east coast. Both will usually get up to 8 feet tall by 6 feet wide and are an excellent option for planting in a variety of soils, as they are salt-tolerant and drought-tolerant, but can also be happy in moister soils that experience occasional and brief inundation. Saw palmetto can thrive in full sun to part shade, and it is rarely bothered by pests. The berries are an important source of food for wildlife, as many species of birds, mammals and reptiles will use it both for food and cover. Its long stems full of flowers also offer nectar for many butterflies, including the Bartram’s scrub-hairstreak and atala butterflies, while the plant itself is the host for monk skipper and palmetto skipper caterpillars. Though slow-grow-
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
Saw palmetto
ing, saw palmetto can last for a long time. In undisturbed sites, branches have been found that are over 100 years old, while specimens have been found growing that are the clones of plants from over 5,000 years ago. Though the stalks of its fronds can be spiky, do not let its intimidating name scare you away. Saw palmetto is a striking, salt-tolerant, and pollinator and wildlife-friendly addition to any garden.
MG JAMES L. DOZIER LEE COAST CHAPTER OF THE MOAA
Retired U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Jim “Tip” Tipton, center, with event organizer Bob Booth and members of the Women Veteran Warriors and Fairway for Warriors.
Lee Coast MOAA chapter hosts golf outing
The MG James L. Dozier Lee Coast Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) hosted its 12th Annual Mackenzie-Janes Tribute Golf Outing on April 2 at the Shell Point Golf Club in Fort Myers. Thirty teams of 120 players took part in the event, which raised over $44,000 to support veteran programs like Mission United and local Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps programs, along with college scholarships for veterans and students. Five teams consisted of vet-
erans from Fairway for Warriors and Women Veteran Warriors, along with Stand Up and Play Foundation member and retired U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Jim “Tip” Tipton. Tourney prizes include closest to the pin, closet to the center line and longest drive, along with other fun holes. Jim Trummel won the ball drop, and lunch was provided by Mission BBQ. The chapter thanked the event’s sponsors, participants and volunteers.
CCA presents final wine tasting
The Captiva Civic Association (CCA) hosted “Tête de Cuvée Tasting,” part of its Perfectly Paired Educational Wine & Food Tasting Series, on April 7 at the Captiva Civic Center on Captiva. Attendees were presented with top-tier selections from the world’s most iconic champagne houses, curated by Bailey’s General Store and The
Calling All Creatives! Design a Tree or Wreath for a Magical Cause
Step into an Enchanted Winter Wonderland with CHR’s Festival of Trees—and help bring affordable housing to life on Sanibel Island.
We’re looking for artists, makers, groups, businesses, and organizations to decorate holiday trees and wreaths that will be showcased and auctioned to benefit Community Housing & Resources (CHR).
• CHR provides the trees and wreaths
• You bring the magic!
• Register by May 31 | Designers notified by June 15
Design Guidelines & Materials Provided Tree & Wreath Display: Nov. 21
Live Auction & Benefit: Nov. 22
Let your creativity shine—for a cause that matters.
Apply today: GreggsCHRart@gmail.com
Island Store wine steward Calli Johnson duPont, which complemented a tasting menu of hors d’oeuvres created by Chef Karl Hamm. The CCA extended its gratitude to The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company for serving as the sponsor for this season’s series.
CAPTIVA CIVIC ASSOCIATION
Last seen: East Gulf Drive at Seawind, Moorings, Sanibel Arms West Any Info, please call 239-770-0239
REDBARN EstateSale
SatMay10th&SunMay11th 8amto3pm 206SE12thTer (offSantaBarbara)
Totalcontents
TwinBed&QueenBed sets,EndTables,Sofaset, EntertainmentCenter, Dishes,Pots&Pans,Eagle Figurines,Barbie&GIJoe Dolls,NativeAmerican Collectibles,Paintings, Pictures,Records, Clothes,Shoes,Purses Linens&Gardeningitems.
GetYourMothersDay GiftsHere!
Donátmissthisone!
Besuretoseethephotos! Pictures: facebook.com/RedBarnCapeCoral
