The Sanibel School is presenting its Performing Arts production and the community is invited.
This year’s annual show will take place on May 21-23 at 6:30 p.m. in the cafetorium at the school, and it will feature Disney’s “Newsies JR.” Each performance will also include a different opening act.
Music Department Director Joey Giangreco explained that Performing Arts is a middle-school elective class for students in sixth through eighth grade. The youths put together one show each school year.
“We’re very excited as this is the first time that the school has put on this production,” he said.
“Newsies JR” is based on the true story of the 1899 Newsie strike that took place in New York City. Originally released as a movie in 1992, “Newsies” was turned into a Broadway musical in 2012.
“It has to do with the newspaper boys, which their name was newsies, going on strike,” Giangreco said, noting that the newspapers wanted to raise the price of papers for them, which the newsies opposed.
“‘Newsies’ is a great musical, but it’s maybe not the most well known,” he added. “Once people see the movie or the Broadway produc-
By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers.com
The Sanibel City Council provided direction on the “build back” provisions for nonconforming uses and structures at its recent meeting, as well as received an update on the Sanibel Rangers program.
On May 6, Planning Department Director Paula McMichael provided the council with an overview of the reestablishment or build back provisions for nonconforming uses — uses that were lawful when established but are no longer permitted within their zone — and nonconforming structures — structures that were lawful when constructed but no longer comply with the required development standards.
The current Code allows nonconforming uses and structures to be built back if destroyed by a natural disaster and it provides a deadline of three years if the state of local emergency exceeds six months.
Post-Hurricane Ian, the deadline is
By TIFFANY REPECKI
trepecki@breezenewspapers.com
An annual event on Sanibel planned for next week will commemorate cyclists who have been injured and killed while riding a bike, as well as raise awareness about the importance of sharing the road. Held since 2008 on the island, the Ride of Silence will take place on May 21 at 7 p.m. starting and ending at the Sanibel Community Park on Sanibel. Organized and hosted by the Sanibel Bicycle Club and Billy’s Bikes, the route will follow along
And of course, professional shipping is always available.
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Support endangered species, habitats in Florida
By SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
Guest Commentary
The federal government is moving swiftly to remove protections for endangered species by redefining the word “harm” in the long-standing Endangered Species Act (ESA), the main law to protect and conserve at-risk species in the United States.
A proposed rule, issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, seeks to exclude the destruction of critical habitat from what is considered “harm” under the act. Currently, when interpreting whether a species will be harmed, the destruction of key habitat is taken into account. Instead, the rule calls for a narrower interpretation of “harm” to mean a species should only be protected from being intentionally maimed or killed.
The importance of a healthy and stable habitat is critical to the recovery of any species at risk. The biggest threats to endangered species are:
∫ Deforestation
∫ Urbanization
∫ Fragmented Habitats
All of these actions directly contribute to the rapid decline of most of the species currently listed under the ESA. Removing habitat protections from the ESA would only serve to make environmental destruction easier and the restoration of our imperiled species more difficult.
Endangered species are not the only organisms that rely on intact natural environments. The environments that house endangered species also provide humans with clean water, clean air, and protection from storms and flooding, and they carry out critical carbon sequestration processes, amongst other invaluable ecosystem services. Unimpaired habitats are also popular destinations for recreation and tourism,
fueling our economies.
While habitat loss is an issue across the country, Southwest Florida is in an especially precarious position. According to an updated GIS map from the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, Lee County has lost 31% of its wetlands from 1993 to 2003, and rapid development in our region continues.
The value of protected ecosystems stretches far beyond the habitat benefits they provide, and the future of Florida relies on a strong balance between growth and conservation.
Please join the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) in let -
ting our leaders know that healthy habitats are critical for the survival of endangered species and necessary for our survival, as well. To take action, visit https://www.regulations.gov/commenton/ FWS-HQ-ES-2025-0034-0001. You can use arguments from this guest commentary or craft your own comments by May 19. Thank you for your support of our natural systems!
Founded in 1967, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s (SCCF) mission is to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems. For more information, visit www.sccf.org.
Letters to the Editor
Consider donating to city’s scholarship program
To the editor:
As we continue our recovery from recent hurricanes, our city staff’s hard work often goes unnoticed. Rest assured, they are working tirelessly to help us recover, and while not always obvious, they are working to find ways to streamline the recovery process so the Sanibel community is restored more resiliently in anticipation of future storms.
I have lived full-time on the island for
over 20 years and view our city employees as family, the lifeblood of our city, and essential for a sustainable Sanibel. Most don’t live on the island with us and must spend additional time and money to travel some distance to work here. This hardship presents barriers to attracting and retaining what we expect is “the best of the best.”
One of the ways we can show our appreciation for their dedication, hard work,and sacrifices, as well as attract and retain the very best, is to support the city of Sanibel’s Employee Dependent Scholarship Program,
also known as the Judith Ann Zimomra Scholarships.
If you are so inclined, please send your contribution to the Charitable Foundation of the Islands — City of Sanibel Employee Dependent Scholarship Program, P.O. Box 1429, Sanibel, FL 33957. My check is in the mail, and I will thank our Sanibel city staff members in person, every chance I get.
John Henshaw Sanibel
Seasonal adjustment made to collection schedule
Effective May 1, residents of unincorporated Lee County — which includes Captiva — and the town of Fort Myers Beach, village of Estero and city of Bonita Springs are asked to set their trash, recycling and yard waste to the curb by 5:30 a.m.
The county reported that
it is one hour earlier than the typical set-out time of 6:30 a.m. The seasonal adjustment is to help the haulers’ drivers complete routes earlier in the day as summer’s heat arrives.
The change
does not impact the day of the week for materials collection; that remains the same.
The unincorporated areas affected by the change include:
∫ Alva
∫ Captiva
∫ Fort Myers Shores
∫ Iona
∫ Lehigh Acres
∫ Matlacha
Restored and refreshed
By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers.com
The Captiva Island Historical Society’s (CIHS) History Gallery is again open to the public.
Located within the Captiva Memorial Library, it had been closed since September when it and the library were damaged in Hurricane Helene and then took a second hit in October during Milton.
“The library and gallery sustained storm surge,” CIHS Board President Tom Libonate said.
Established in 2014, the gallery is a visual replica of the Captiva mailboat, which was called the Santiva.
After sustaining damage in Hurricanes Helene and Milton last year, the Captiva Island Historical Society’s History Gallery has been restored and refreshed at the Captiva Memorial Library.
∫ North Fort Myers
∫ Pine Island
∫ South Fort Myers
For more information about what to set out at the curb and proper disposal methods, visit Lee County Solid Waste at www.leegov.com/solidwaste.
For information about one’s collection day, visit www.leegov.com and input the address into the “Resident Information Lookup” on the home page.
The Captiva Memorial Library, which is part of the Lee County Library System, is offering the following free programming:
Adult programs
∫ Today, 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 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.
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 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.
∫ May 21: Online All Hazards Preparedness from 2 to 3 p.m. Lee County Emergency Management will host an informative session on AllHazards Preparedness. Attendees will learn tips and strategies to protect their home, family and community when disas-
CAPTIVA ISLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Business Notes
LWV Sanibel elects officers, directors
The League of Women Voters (LWV) of Sanibel held its Annual Meeting in April.
The following officers were elected for 2025-26: Cathie Kozik as president, Janice Block Chaddock as vice president, Debra Grad as secretary and Robyn Cook as treasurer.
In addition, Sally Haynes, Jeff Savarise and Madelon Stewart were elected as directors.
Millard Everhart will serve as appointed director.
Carla Benninga and Linda Kramer will serve as directors emerita.
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
From left, bottom row, Isabel Kacprowski, Gabrielle Nelson, Jolie Alberty and Eliza Marino; top row, Olivia Boucher, Molly Nation, Amy Oxton, Michele Arquette-Palermo, Elizabth Sweigert, Nerea Ubierna, and Gabriela Re. SCCF staffer participates in panel
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) reported that Marine Laboratory Research Associate Amy Oxton joined a panel on April 23 hosted by Florida Gulf Coast University’s (FGCU) Chapter of the Society for Women in Marine Science (SWMS).
The panel focused on careers in marine and environmental sciences.
SWMS Co-Presidents Jolie Alberty and Olivia Boucher moderated the panel, which also included: Conservancy of Southwest Florida Chief Programs Officer Michele Arquette-Palermo, FGCU Associate Professor of Environmental Education Molly Nation, Florida Department of Environmental Protection South District Director Elizabeth Sweigert and Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve Research Coordinator Nerea Ubierna.
Open to all FGCU students, the panel included guided discussions and a Q&A. The panelists discussed their professional journeys, useful qualifications and hardships, and ended with career advice.
Restaurant group announces promotion
HM Restaurant Group, which owns and operates Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille and the Dixie Fish Company, announced the promotion of Chas Tatigian to culinary director.
In the newly created position, he will oversee and collaborate with the executive chef, monitor team staffing, develop and maintain vendor relation-
Sanibel FlyFishers announce scholarship recipient
The Sanibel FlyFishers announced that it recently awarded a college scholarship.
Recipient Jolie Alberty is an environmental science graduate at the Florida Gulf Coast University. She is currently studying under Dr. Melissa May, focusing her research on the effects of environmental stressors on marine invertebrate physiology, with a particular emphasis on bivalves. Her work involves conducting hard clam surveys in the Pine Island Sound as part of a larger study on hard clam and seagrass cohabitation sites. Alberty possesses field and lab experience, along with managerial skills.
“The club is thrilled to support Jolie in her academic and research endeavors,” the Sanibel FlyFishers said. “We are confident that her work will contribute significantly to our understanding of marine ecosystems and environmental conservation.”
Alberty recently attended a club meeting, where she engaged with its members.
For more information about the Sanibel FlyFishers, visit SanibelFF.org.
County’s eConnect permitting portal to be temporarily offline
The eConnect permit portal for the Lee County Department of Community Development (DCD), Department of Transportation (DOT), Natural Resources and Lee Utilities Department (LCU) will be offline from May 16 at 5 p.m. until May 19 at 7 a.m. for technical upgrades.
The services impacted during the outage period will include filing new submittals, downloading permits and plans, uploading documents and plans, making payments, viewing record details and status, and scheduling inspections.
During the outage period, customers can use the phone line to schedule inspections and make payments. The VoicePermits Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system at 239-533-8997 will be available throughout the update.
The upgraded portal will enhance business operations to allow for an easier user experience that will streamline the plan-review process. It will also improve transparency and engagement through real-time updates and is
expected to accelerate the permit-approval process. Additionally, users may notice a refreshed look to the portal.
The portal’s web address (https://aca. leegov.com) will remain the same.
Access the portal from the departmental landing page at www.leegov.com/dcd.
To ensure a smooth transition, the county will offer a free virtual training session on May 15 from 2:30 to 4 p.m. No advanced signup or registration is necessary. The training link is posted on DCD’s home page at www.leegov.com/dcd.
Contractors, engineers, architects and owner-builders who do work or live in unincorporated Lee County are encouraged to join the training. Customers who miss the training will be able to watch a training video that will be posted online; additional training sessions may be planned as needed.
If the dates for the upgrade are delayed, the county will reschedule the update for the last weekend of May, with the refreshed portal launching on June 2.
Rotary Club holds meeting with speaker
The Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club welcomed Sally J. Pimentel Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center Executive Director Amy Turner as its guest speaker at a recent meeting. Founded in 1983 and located in Fort Myers, the center serves the deaf and hard of hearing community in Lee, Charlotte, Collier, Hendry and Glades counties. Its mission is to empower citizens and their families through education, advocacy and community involvement. Before stepping into the role, Turner was the community relations coordinator for Lighthouse of SWFL. 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.
Chas Tatigian
SANIBEL FLYFISHERS
From left, Sanibel FlyFishers member Bob DeVore, scholarship recipient Jolie Alberty and President Jeff Grossman.
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA ROTARY CLUB
From left, Sally J. Pimentel Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center Executive Director Amy Turner and Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club President Rachel Tritaik.
CenturyLink replacing internet, phone service
CenturyLink recently reported that its internet and traditional phone service on Sanibel were severely impacted by Hurricane Ian in 2022. The damaged infrastructure is being replaced by Quantum Fiber, which will bring highspeed, reliable fiber-internet and voice services to most residents on the island.
As part of the initiative, CenturyLink will discontinue its preexisting internet and phone services and remove the infrastructure that has been used to provide those services. It will include the removal of damaged pedestals and other infrastructure in the rights-of-way and on private roads and easements.
CenturyLink recently conducted audits on all existing
— legacy — infrastructure within the city’s corporate limits. The completion of remedial needs identified in the audit is planned for June 9, with personnel working daily. In April, CenturyLink started notifying customers of the plan to discontinue the services via mail. It will submit a request to the FCC for approval to discontinue its legacy phone services, with anticipated approval by June 3. Upon approval, CenturyLink, in collaboration with the city, will commence the work necessary to remove outdated and/or damaged infrastructure. Removal and replacement work is expected to be completed in phases beginning June 3 and to be finished by September, including the removal of the previously mentioned dam-
aged pedestals and infrastructure.
“We are committed to helping Sanibel fully recover from the effects of the storm by replacing damaged pedestal covers along the island’s primary roadways until the removal of damaged infrastructure commences in September,” CenturyLink reported. “We are working hard to ensure a smooth transition for our customers.”
It noted that many customers may be eligible to move to Quantum Fiber. For more information, visit www.Q.com. Alternative internet and phone services from Xfinity will continue to be available.
For questions, contact SanibelCenturyLinkQuestions@ Centurylink.com.
Hiring, retaining teachers remains a top district challenge, priority
By MEGHAN BRADBURY news@breezenewspapers.com
Although the School District of Lee County continues to reduce teaching vacancies, it still struggles with teachers leaving the district.
At the school board’s meeting on May 6, Human Resources Executive Director Dr. Shanna Johnston said that the district began a four-month initiative in January to focus on recruitment as it is one of their priorities — to align their vision and mission with recruiting, developing and maintaining highly developed staff.
At the beginning of the initiative, the district had 211 instructional vacancies, which is now at 31 open and advertised. Seventeen of those positions are core instructional, she said.
Core classrooms are self-contained with teachers who have students in their classrooms, as well as Exceptional Student Education professionals.
“Coaches, speech and language pa-
thologists would be considered within the total,” Johnston said.
She said 11 of the 31 openings are for speech and lan guage pathologist.
“We are not centralizing the hiring of speech and language pa thologist. We are entertaining the thoughts of using a virtual model of pa thologists,” Johnston said, adding that there is a national movement from a case load to a work load. “Recognize not just how many students, but understanding the depths of resources needed.”
Another interesting piece of data that was shared was the number of teach-
NOTICE: Request for Proposals: F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva, Inc. (FISH) RFP No. 2025-01 - Professional Architectural Services for FISH Funded in part or in whole by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Development Block Grant –Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Program. CONSULTANTS are required to comply in accordance with Federal Grant Requirements, 2 CFR part 200 and 24 CFR part 570, terms, conditions, and specifications. F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva, Inc. (FISH) is seeking responses from qualified respondents to provide Professional Architectural Services to design and oversee construction of the FISH buildings located at 2430 and 2422 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL. A copy of the solicitation is available for downloading from FISH’s website at fishofsancap.org/buildinggrant. All prospective respondents are prohibited from contacting any member of the FISH board or FISH employees or volunteers except as provided below. Questions concerning this solicitation must be submitted in writing via electronic mail to construction@fishofsancap.org using “Question for RFP No. 2025-01 for Architectural Services” as the subject line. Questions must be submitted within the timeframe listed in the solicitation. FISH will not answer questions submitted in any other manner or questions submitted after the deadline. FISH will select a consultant according to the process described in the solicitation. The deadline to submit a response is June 16, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. Responses received after the deadline will not be accepted. Public open and read is scheduled for June 16, 2025 at 2:00 P.M. at 2330 Palm Ridge Road, Unit 17, Sanibel, FL 33957. All costs and expenses related to the preparation and submission of a response are the sole responsibility of the respondent. FISH may withdraw and cancel this solicitation at any time without liability to any respondent or prospective respondent. FISH will post any updates or changes to this solicitation on its website.
ers hired since August and the number of those who have left. She said they have hired 197 teachers since Aug. 28, and 253 teachers have separated from the district.
“We are losing teachers faster than hiring them,” Johnston said. “We have to focus on retention, which is the large part of the ‘why.’”
Teacher retention was 83.8% with a turnover of 16.2% in October of 2023.
The 2023-24 actual results increased to 84.4%, with a 15.6% turnover rate.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the turnover range is from 1216%.
The fiscal year 2024 retention rate was 92% in Collier County and 83% in Charlotte County.
Board Member William Ribble said moving the needle 1% a year is not going to get the problem of teacher retention fixed.
“Turnover drives everything in the district. (If we) can’t get this fixed, we will be in trouble down the line. What is measured gets results. When you have that accountability, look at what happens to your numbers,” he said.
Johnston agreed in stating that 1% a year is not going to cut it, and the district must focus on high impact and retention.
“Every single aspect of our school district operation is designed to support the teaching process,” Deputy Superintendent Dr. Ken Savage said. “There are no small roles in this district, no small parts. That is part of the challenge. We have to find a way to optimize those services — looking at challenges by thinking differently.” He said one big strategy is to look at virtual opportunities, as it opens the talent pool up to the entire country.
Board Member Melisa Giovannelli questioned looking for talent nationwide with salaries not even competing with local districts.
“I think we need to focus on how to pay people now and competitively against our own district before we can hire and retain something nationally,” she said. Read the full article for free by visiting www.captivasanibel.com.
ships, and lead purchasing at all of the restaurants.
Tatigian previously served as executive chef. During his tenure with the company, he has overseen Doc Ford’s expansion to St. Petersburg with two locations.
A 50-year culinary veteran, Tatigian is a certified executive chef, certified culinary administrator and member of the American Academy of Chefs. His beginnings date back to rolling hot dogs and working in a pastry shop at 14 years old, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion for food and hospitality.
San Cap Community Bank hires Howell
Aeden Howell has joined the Sanibel Captiva Community Bank as a loan servicing assistant at the Bridge Branch in Fort Myers.
In the role, she will support the loan servicing department with responsibilities such as processing loan payments, maintaining loan records and assisting customers with loan-related inquiries.
Howell has a background in banking, as well as prior experience in customer service, administrative support and legal case management. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Florida A&M University and a paralegal certification from St. Petersburg College.
Aeden Howell
From page 8
SCCF: Southland Rock Mine and unanswered questions
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) reported that public attention has grown around the proposed Southland rock mine project, which seeks to excavate over 8,000 acres of land just north of the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) Reservoir. The EAA Reservoir is a keystone project in the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan that will store, clean and send more water south, reducing the harmful water quality impacts in local estuaries.
The applicant, Phillips & Jordan — a major construction company — seems to be working on the proposed project with U.S. Sugar, which owns much of the land in question.
“There is a significant amount of confusion concerning the project, and that is largely because the final purpose of the project is not clearly stated,” SCCF Environmental Policy Director Matt DePaolis said. “The project could be a rock mine to pull aggregate (excavated material) out of the Everglades Agricultural Area, or it could be a water storage project to provide additional storage south of the lake. The applicant is seemingly trying to move forward with both options simultaneously, which is causing some confusion on the part of the governing bodies that will need to make zoning, sighting, and permitting decisions.”
Whether a “water resource project” or a rock mine, both uses come with their own specific requirements for the project.
Pathway to mining
The SCCF reported that mining is generally prohibited in the EAA, but there are specific allowances for public roadway projects.
“The hiccup is that the material that is mined must be fully devoted to public road projects, and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has given no indication that they need or want the aggregate that would be produced from this mine,” DePaolis said.
If Southland turns out to be a mining project, and the FDOT turns down the aggregate, then the project will not be able to move forward.
“This is established precedent from a previous effort to mine in the Everglades, where the aggregate would’ve only partially been for FDOT projects with a portion being sold on the open market,” he said. “1000 Friends of Florida worked with the Everglades Law Center to challenge that project in court, and affirmed that the restrictions on mining in the EAA require the aggregate be used solely for public road projects. That decision was upheld in 2018 on appeal.”
See MINE, page 22
SCCF: FWC monitoring crocodile nest on island
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) reported that in 1998, Sanibel officially became an American crocodile refuge that endorses a breeding population. Yet, no nests have successfully hatched — or possibly even contained fertilized eggs on the island since then.
Several hurricanes and 27 years later, courting behavior was captured on camera in February and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is now monitoring the potential nesting of a female.
Prior to courting behavior photos recently being shared with the SCCF and city, wildlife officials thought there were only female crocodiles on the island. The photos do not confirm the presence of a male — only a physical exam could do that — but they do lead to speculation.
“The three significant storm surge events that occurred over the last two and a half years have transformed most waterbodies on Sanibel to a more crocodile-friendly habitat consisting of brackish water,” SCCF Wildlife & Habitat Management Director Chris Lechowicz said. “As a result, they move more freely around the island and use other water bodies. It’s also not implausible to have additional crocodiles begin using the island.”
The backstory
The SCCF reported that American crocodiles are one of two native crocodilians in the United States. As opposed to the American alligator that lives in freshwater, the American crocodile is primarily a brackish/saltwater species that lives in coastal areas.
Most of their range is in coastal Central America, as well as the northern coast of South America, west coast of Mexico and most of the Caribbean islands. However, the northern extent of their range is in the Florida Keys and coastal South Florida on the east and west coasts. They have been documented as far north as St. Petersburg on the west coast and near Melbourne on the east coast.
The city of Sanibel passed the crocodile refuge resolution about three years after “Wilma” was routinely nesting in a yard adjacent to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.
“That crocodile, known by locals as Wilma, would nest mostly in a resident’s yard each year, but the eggs never hatched, either because of no nearby male interactions and/or cooler temps than further south that prevented the eggs from hatching,” Lechowicz said.
See CROCODILE NEST, page 18
Island students plant mangroves after project
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) reported that sixth graders from The Sanibel School recently planted over 200 mangroves at the Woodring Road restoration site on Sanibel as a part of their yearlong mangrove study. After collecting mangrove propagules at the beginning of the school year, they learned about mangrove ecology by experimenting with how the propagules grow in different soil types and various concentrations of salinity, as well as looking at mangrove habitats around the islands. The experiment ended with the students planting their own mangroves.
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
10 loggerhead nests marked on islands
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) reported that as of May 7, staff and volunteers reported 10 loggerhead nests and 28 false crawls from loggerheads on Sanibel and Captiva. Help protect sea turtles this nesting season by: turning off or shielding lights visible from the beach after 9 p.m., flattening sandcastles, filling in holes, and removing trash and furniture from the beach. To report issues related to nests or sea turtles, call the SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-SAVE-ONE (239-728-3663).
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
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.
Arrests
∫ Paul Veron Daley, 52, of 2006 Welby Lane, Lehigh Acres, was charged on April 28 with one count each of drive while license suspended revoked revocation equivalent status third subsequent violation, probation violation and probation violation or community control regardless unknown/felony/misdemeanor/ juvenile non criteria.
∫ Jarrod Vukovich, 57, of 1450 Court Place, Sanibel, was charged on May 7 with one count of battery touch or strike.
Other enforcement actions
∫ On April 25, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle with an expired tag. A records check revealed the driver did not possess a valid license and the vehicle’s registration had expired. The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for driving with an expired license and a warning for the expired registration. The tag was seized and arrangements were made to remove the vehicle from the scene.
∫ On April 25, a records check during a traffic stop revealed the driver’s license was suspended. The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for driving with a suspended license. The vehicle was removed from the scene by a licensed driver.
∫ On April 27, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle with no tag light. A records check revealed the driver had not been issued a valid driver’s license. The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for driving without a valid license and a warning for no tag light. Arrangements were made to remove the vehicle from the scene.
∫ On April 28, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed. The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for unlawful speed (60 mph in a 20 mph zone).
∫ On April 30, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle with an expired tag. A records check revealed the driver had a suspended license and a seize tag order on the vehicle. The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for driving with a suspended license and the vehicle’s tag was seized. Arrangements were made to remove the vehicle from the scene.
∫ On May 7, a traffic stop was initiated on a vehicle for excessive speed. The driver was subsequently issued a notice to appear for unlawful speed (66 mph in a 35 mph zone).
Enforcement operations statistics
From April 25 to May 1:
∫ Alarm calls (business and residential): 4
∫ Total 911 calls: 36
∫ Traffic crashes: 1
∫ Radar details: 106
∫ Traffic stops: 68
— Citations issued: 16
— Written warnings issued: 6
— Verbal warnings issued: 46
∫ Residential area checks: 387
∫ Business area checks: 164
∫ Total area checks: 856
∫ Reported burglaries: 1
∫ Reported thefts: 3
Sanibel library offers range of programs, 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 ones will take place today, May 14, at 7 p.m. with “Julie Chan is Dead” author Liann Zhang and on May 21 at 2 p.m. with bestselling author Rachelle Bergstein. Bergstein will chat about her new book, “The Genius of Judy.”
Bergstein is a lifestyle writer, author and editor, focused on style, pop culture and families. Her work has appeared in the New York Post, The New York Times NPR, and more. Bergstein is the author of two additional books, “Women from the Ankle Down” and “Brilliance and Fire.”
To register for the author talks, visit https://libraryc.org/ sanlib/upcoming.
Additionally, the library has the following programs scheduled:
The Battle of Fort Myers (February 20, 1865) will take place on May 15 from 11 a.m. to noon. Duane E. Shaffer will discuss the unique chapter of local history. The southernmost land battle of the Civil War took place in Southwest Florida on the site of present day Fort Myers. While not the same size or scope of Gettysburg, Federal and Confederate troops were locked in combat for an entire day. There is much disagreement on many aspects of the battle, including the actual date on which it was fought. Familiar names like
The Sanibel Public Library will host a virtual author talk on May 21 with Rachelle Bergstein.
Summerlin, Hendry and others all fit into the story.
On May 16, Chess Open-Play will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Open to all ages, it is a beginner-friendly program that allows players to have fun competition through casual matches and receive staff guidance as needed. Snacks will be provided.
Strengthen & Stretch with Ms. Robin will take place on May 17 from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Open to ages 4-10, the program will combine energetic movements, playful stretches and calming breath work. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle and towel.
On May 19, Sleepy Time Story Time will be held from
See LIBRARY, page 15
Island students help to replant preserve
Fourth graders from The Sanibel School joined Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) environmental educator Richard Finkel and Coastal Watch staff and volunteers on April 22 — Earth Day — to plant 500 Spartina grasses at the SCCF’s Pick Preserve on Sanibel. Their effort will help to re-green preserve with salt-tolerant marsh plants that can support the island’s interior wetland species. Edison National Bank/Bank of the Islands underwrote the purchase of the plants.
The Sanibel School
The Sanibel School, at 3840 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, reported the following:
Students video wins award category
The School District of Lee County held the 2025 Lee County Student Film and Television Award ceremony on April 30 at Gateway High School in Fort Myers.
More than 240 entries were submitted by hundreds of students from 34 schools.
Awards were presented in 17 categories across divisions for elemen-
tary, middle and high school. Best of Show was awarded to: Skyline Elementary School for “The Missing Phone,” Oasis
Middle School for “Robots in Car Manufacturing” and Cypress Lake High School for “Dewey Decimal.” Also, the Lee Schools TV Choice Award was awarded to Estero High School student Ryan Kronewriter. In the Elementary School division, The Sanibel School student Anna Kovarik won the Instructional Video category with her “How to Draw a Seahorse.”
Some of the films and videos will be featured on the district’s Facebook page through May. For more information, call 239472-1617 or visit sbl.leeschools.net.
Sanibel Public Meetings
The following public meetings/hearings are scheduled:
See BLOTTER, page 15
∫ Today, May 14: Sanibel Fire and Rescue District meeting at 9 a.m. at Station 171, at 2351 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel. For more information or the agenda, visit www.sanibelfire.com.
EDISON NATIONAL BANK/BANK OF THE ISLANDS
SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY
Library
From page 14
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.
AI and ChatGPT will take place on May 20 from 11 a.m. to noon. The interactive workshop will explore the basics of artificial intelligence (AI), functionality of ChatGPT and responsible use of AI in everyday life.
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.
∫ Family Storytime: Tuesdays and
Blotter
From page 14
∫ Total CAD calls: 1,406 April:
∫ Alarm calls (business and residential):
26
∫ Total 911 calls: 144
∫ Traffic crashes: 8
∫ Radar details: 422
∫ Traffic stops: 279
— Citations issued: 90
— Written warnings issued: 26
— Verbal warnings issued: 172
∫ Residential area checks: 1,199
∫ Business area checks: 641
∫ Total area checks: 3,198
∫ Reported burglaries: 2
∫ Reported thefts: 5
∫ Total CAD calls: 5,516
From May 2-8:
∫ Alarm calls (business and residential):
5
∫ Total 911 calls: 41
∫ Traffic crashes: 3
∫ Radar details: 90
∫ Traffic stops: 30
— Citations issued: 10
— Written warnings issued: 9
— Verbal warnings issued: 12
∫ Residential area checks: 324
∫ Business area checks: 151
∫ Total area checks: 770
∫ Reported burglaries: 0
∫ Reported thefts: 0
∫ Total CAD calls: 1,237 May to date:
∫ Alarm calls (business and residential):
5
∫ Total 911 calls: 46
∫ Traffic crashes: 4
∫ Radar details: 109
∫ Traffic stops: 34
— Citations issued: 11
— Written warnings issued: 9
— Verbal warnings issued: 15
∫ Residential area checks: 411
∫ Business area checks: 174
∫ Total area checks: 920
∫ Reported burglaries: 0
∫ Reported thefts: 0
∫ Total CAD calls: 1,476
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 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/school-
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 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.
zone. 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-or-hike-onthe-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 Recreation Center and are valid through Nov. 30.
Beach parking contact information
∫ Assistance with paying for parking: 239-472-3111, option 3
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 application, 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.
FDOT provides update on causeway project
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) reported that crews are completing the final items west of the toll plaza for the Sanibel Causeway. The 35 mph speed limit has been restored west of the toll plaza. Reduced speed limits remain enforced east of the toll plaza.
The following work activities are scheduled to occur. However, unforeseen conditions and weather may affect the schedule:
East from toll plaza
∫ Motorists are advised that off-island traffic has shifted to the outside toll plaza lane, and Punta Rassa Road traffic entering McGregor Boulevard eastbound has shifted to the south side of the traffic separator (normal configuration).
∫ The final paving of McGregor is tentatively scheduled for next week during the overnight hours.
∫ Motorists should be aware of a slow-moving water truck on McGregor irrigating the new sod.
West from toll plaza
∫ Motorists should use caution as crews complete the final work activities along the shoulder of the causeway.
∫ Motorists and bicyclists are urged to be courteous and pay attention as bicyclists share the road on the causeway.
For more information, visit the FDOT at www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway.
Sanctuary foundation awards grants to nonprofits
The Sanctuary Golf Club Foundation’s board approved $530,000 in grant funding to island nonprofits that align with its mission to support organizations that improve the lives of those working or living on our islands.
The following recipients were selected for 2024-25:
∫ $200,000 to FISH of SanibelCaptiva for its Helping Hands Rental Assistance Program and to support its Fighting Hunger, Feeding Hope initiative
∫ $150,000 to Community Housing & Resources to assist with the remodeling and repair of three affordable housing apartments ∫ $75,000 to the Children’s Education
From now through July, the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admissions will be sold until 1 p.m.; cost will be $15 for ages 19 and older. The Village Gift Shop in Shore Haven will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. It features a selection of books about island topics, as well as postcards, artwork, Sanibel honey, and items like ornaments and decoupage shells; no admission is required to shop. Self-guided tours are available, along with
scheduled group tours. The tour experience includes an orientation video and eight historic buildings displaying artifacts and stories; the Rutland House remains closed post-storms. Annual membership levels begin at $40. For more information, visit www.sanibelmuseum.org or follow on Facebook. For more information about scheduled group tours, contact 239-472-4648 or info@sanibelmuseum. org. The village is at 950 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.
Center of the Islands to support its 2025 summer camp programming and 2025-26 school year tuition assistance
∫
$50,000 to Trailways Camps to help it establish a new camp experience on Sanibel or Captiva for individuals with special needs
∫ $30,000 to The Sanibel School to support its STEAM — Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math — program
∫ $24,500 to the Harry Chapin Food Bank to fight food insecurity at The Sanibel School
“The Sanctuary foundation is proud
to continue its partnership with these outstanding nonprofits, whose missions align with our values and commitment to community impact,” it said. “Together, we look forward to expanding opportunities, and making a lasting difference in the lives of those we serve.”
The foundation reported that it also provides educational scholarships for its employees and their families, as well as an Employee Emergency Fund.
For information about the foundation, visit https://www.tsgcf.org/.
SPD seeking input on SUP
The Sanibel Police Department (SPD) is seeking feedback on the city’s Shared Use Path (SUP). To take part in the SUP Community Feedback Survey, visit https://www. surveymonkey.com/r/SanibelSUP.
SANIBEL HISTORICAL MUSEUM AND VILLAGE Village announces summer schedule
Crocodile nest
Successful reproduction had only occurred south of U.S. 41 in Collier and Monroe counties on the west coast. However, in 2020, the first successful nests were documented north of that line at the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve in Naples. Two nests hatched, producing 16 hatchlings.
Crocodiles are limited by temperature, as seen from the mass die-off in 2010 from an extended cold spell, including Sanibel’s crocodile that was first documented on the island in 1979. Wilma’s body was found by longtime SCCF wildlife educator Dee Serage-Century on the banks of the Sanibel Slough.
More than 200 people attended a memorial at the SCCF to mourn her passing.
Since 2010, two known females were relocated to the island as part of the crocodile refuge plan.
Becoming a crocodile refuge
The SCCF reported that establishing Sanibel as a crocodile refuge came about in 1998 as part of the city’s sanctuary island ethic. It was also inspired by Wilma’s nearly two decades of living on the island.
The resolution states that Sanibel had the three elements most closely associated with reproductive success for the American crocodile: the right habitat, a suitable climate (lacking hard freezes) and access to fresh water (provided by the island’s unusual freshwater lens).
“Just as important, there is perhaps no community in the United States more strongly identified with an ethic of ecological preservation and restoration,” it added.
A breeding population of American crocodiles on Sanibel would also “serve as a potent and popular symbol of Florida’s unique and priceless legacy of wildlife, highlighting the need for coastal habitat preservation and far-sighted ecological planning as Lee, Collier, and Charlotte Counties experience some of the fastest rates of urban growth in the country,” the resolution noted.
The city also cited research showing that American crocodiles are significantly less aggressive than American alligators, which are more common on Sanibel.
Current nest monitoring
The SCCF reported that one of the current female crocodiles showed nesting activity last month by scratching or digging around a resident’s backyard adjacent to the CCF’s Wildlife Corridor, which lies between Casa Ybel Road and Tarpon Bay Road.
“At this time, it is unknown if she has nested yet or is simply still looking for the appropriate habitat to deposit and guard her eggs,” Lechowicz said.
Sanbel Natural Resources Department Director Holly Milbrandt, who is working with the FWC on monitoring the nest, said it is unknown if there is a new male crocodile on the island or not.
“I feel pretty comfortable that we have at least three individuals that are spending some time on Sanibel, but they are not captives here and may come and go freely,” she said.
Milbrandt also said it is too soon to say whether or not the presumed nest will produce offspring.
“FWC’s crocodile response agent has been on site a few times but has been unable to investigate the nest to determine if eggs are present and/or if they are viable because the crocodile is present and guarding,” she said.
Courting crocs?
The SCCF reported that island resident Gary Biltgen — an avid wildlife photographer, golfer and SCCF volunteer — started photographing two crocodiles together at the Sanibel Island Golf Club in February. The sightings marked the first time two were documented together on the island since Hurricane Ian.
Some of the photos he got and the activity he observed suggest that mating may have taken place, and a male may now live on Sanibel.
“They were exhibiting courting behavior in a couple of ways. First was ‘snouting’ — one actually puts their snout on the other. The other was blowing bubbles,” Biltgen said.
The city shared his photos with the FWC.
According to the FWC’s website:
Male crocodiles begin courting females in late January and early February. Courting rituals can be extensive, often lasting for days. Males initiate courting by quickly and consecutively performing head slaps, and the female will raise her snout and arch her tail if she is interested. The last courting ritual involves the male and female rubbing snouts and submerging under water.
The SCCF provided the following facts from the FWC:
Resurgence of Florida crocs
The Florida population of the American crocodile is a conservation success story. Listed as an endangered species in 1975, crocodile numbers have since recovered from a few hundred individuals to as many as 2,000 adult crocodiles today. The Florida population of this native species is now classified as threatened by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Crocodile versus alligator
Crocodile:
∫ Grayish green color
∫ Fourth tooth on lower jaw exposed when mouth is closed
∫ Narrow tapered snout
∫ Young are light with dark stripes
∫
∫ Black in color
∫ Only upper teeth exposed when mouth is closed
∫ Broad rounded snout
∫ Young are dark with yellow stripes
What a wide open mouth means
Crocodiles can be seen sunning with their mouths open, or “gaping.” The behavior is related to regulating their body temperature and does not mean that the crocodile is acting aggressively toward people.
Westland to retire from refuge after over two decades
The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge reported that May 31 will be a sad day for it, Sanibel Island, friends of the refuge and the hundreds of staffers, volunteers, students and folks from here to Russia whose lives Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland has touched and bettered.
Westland has accepted the federal government’s offer for early retirement, part of the current restructuring of conservation lands and their agencies. After 23 years with the island refuge, “Ranger Toni” has become the face of it — a cherished part of what the refuge stands for.
She will retire with 27 years with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
“While I look forward to spending more time with my family and pursuing other interests, a part of me will always cling to ‘Ding’ Darling — to the wonderful volunteers, our incredible supporters at ‘Ding’ Darling Wildlife Society, and all the teachers, students, fellow workers and community partners I’ve met and worked with along the way,” Westland said. “‘Ding’ is an amazing family, and I’m honored to be a part of it and very sad to say goodbye.”
Hired in 2002 as an education specialist at the refuge, Westland continued to weave her love for bringing the conservation message to kids of all ages, even when promoted to her current administrative position in 2009.
She has created countless new programs at the local, regional and national level and received awards and tokens of appreciation from around the world. In 2012, Westland traveled to Russia after International Affairs in Washington, D.C., selected her to assist the staff of the Baikalsky Reserve with redesigning two visitor centers on the shores of Lake Baikal, based on her experience
Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club members with Trailways Camps Executive Director Jamie Senkeleski, center, and Operations/ Outreach Assistant Karan Balmer, right.
overseeing visitor services. She also helped develop environmental education and interpretation programs while there.
In recent years, Westland has led the charge to spread the refuge’s mission and message to the greater Lee County community with initiatives ranging from building pollinator gardens in Title I schools to visiting schools too far from the refuge and with too few resources to visit via the Wildlife on Wheels mobile classroom, which she helped design. Westland also recently led the design and creation of the Roving Ranger mobile visitor center.
Emily Ankerson
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA
KIWANIS CLUB
Kiwanis holds meetings with speakers
The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club recently welcomed The Community House (TCH) Executive Director and club President Emily Ankerson as its guest speaker at a meeting. She shared insights into the impact that TCH has had on the community over the years, highlighting its role as a cornerstone of connection and support. At another recent meeting, the club welcomed Trailways Camps Executive Director
Jamie Senkeleski and Operations/ Outreach Assistant Karan Balmer. They shared the story of the organization, from its beginnings to its present-day mission of providing enriching experiences for individuals with special needs. 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.
Always an educator first and foremost, Supervisory Refuge Ranger Toni Westland has been the face of the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel for more than 23 years.
REFUGE/DDWS
“Engaging urban populations in wildlife conservation on and off public lands helps protect our natural heritage,” Westland said.
“It’s impossible to even scratch the surface of the contributions Toni has made to ‘Ding’ Darling and conservation in a global sense,” “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge Executive Director AnnMarie Wildman said. “We wish her luck as she follows her passion for nature-inspired art. She forever changed the refuge, and the refuge will never be the same without her energy, spirit and spunk to inspire us daily.”
Dec. 15. A building permit application for reestablishment must be submitted by the deadline, and it expires after six months if there has been no activity or inspections.
She reported that in February, the city received two emails about further extending the deadline to reestablish a nonconforming use for the Gulf Beach Condominium on East Gulf Drive. Damaged in the storm, it is a multifamily building that must be demolished in a district where the use is prohibited.
A demolition permit was issued in 2023, but the building remains and the property is for sale.
McMichael continued that staff identified 52 properties with nonconforming uses and/or structures, with most developed as commercial or resort housing. Of those, about 65% received permits and have been repaired or redeveloped. Of those without permits, about 40% were identified as dangerous or distressed properties. For nonconforming uses, staff identified six properties where the buildings have been demolished, but no permits have been applied for. Of properties that have been identified by staff as distressed or dangerous, nine have also been identified as either nonconforming structures or uses.
Staff offered a handful of options to resolve the Gulf Beach issue:
∫ Extend the deadline for all nonconforming uses and structures for an additional 12 months.
∫ Extend the deadline for nonconforming uses only (not nonconforming structures) for an additional 12 months.
∫ Create an exception in the D-2 Upland Wetlands Ecological Zone to allow the use of “multifamily building” on two existing nonconforming use properties, Gulf Beach and the Sandpiper Beach Condo on Olde Middle Gulf Drive — the only other instance staff found of a similar situation in the district
∫ Amend Chapter 82 to allow a property owner to petition council to extend the deadline for “build back” of a nonconforming use on a case-by-case basis.
∫ No changes or extensions; allow post-disaster “build back” to expire on Dec. 15.
After some discussion and questions for staff, the council directed staff to extend the deadline for all nonconforming uses and structures for another year and to create an exception in the D-2 Upland Wetlands Ecological Zone to allow the use of “multifamily building” for Gulf Beach and Sandpiper.
Sanibel Rangers
Also during the meeting, Sanibel Police Department Police Chief William Dalton provided council with an update on the Sanibel Rangers program, which was implemented earlier this year with the goal of gaining user compliance on the Shared Use Path (SUP) through both education and enforcement.
He reported that there are three full-time Rangers, with plans to hire five in total.
They patrol the SUP on e-bikes and on foot at Blind Pass, the boat ramp, Bowman’s Beach, Causeway Beach, Gulfside City Park, Lighthouse Beach, Trost and Turner Beach. Also serving in the role of city ambassadors, the Rangers engage with the public and answer a range of questions related to e-bike education, post-storm recovery efforts, wildlife, shells, local history, payment assistance for the parks and restaurant locations. In terms of enforcement, they issue citations for SUP and park violations.
Dalton provided the Ranger’s monthly observations and interactions for January through March.
Some of the highlights from his presentation included:
∫ At this time, the Rangers have focused on “class-checking” e-bikes, which is seen as policing the device itself — rather than enforcing speed limits and addressing reckless aggressive behavior, both of which are essential for courteous riding and the safe integration of micromobility devices on the SUP.
∫ Attempts to objectively identify e-bikes by class by spotting classification stickers have been ineffective. The stickers are often too small, blended into the paint or missing. As a result, engagement relied on guessing a bike’s class, then asking riders to self identify — which many could not do.
∫ Engaging with riders and managing stops presents ongoing operational challenges. The Rangers frequently observe e-bikers avoiding interactions by using business parking lots as shortcuts.
“Despite this, the Rangers’ presence throughout Sanibel Island provides invaluable benefits to the community,” Dalton reported. “Their willingness to answer questions and offer assistance enhances the experience for both residents and visitors, fostering meaningful connections through these interactions.”
“Our goal is to establish a reasonable mileage benchmark for Rangers to cover by e-bike, which can be reliably tracked and documented using portable devices. Additionally, we will develop a concept for structuring Ranger patrols that ensures each shift throughout the week effectively addresses e-bike education, enforcement, diplomacy, wildlife conservation and island education,” he concluded. “This approach will enhance our efforts and create a meaningful impact in our community.”
To view the presentation, visit this article for free at http://www.captivasanibel.com/.
In other news
∫ The council voted 5-0 on an ordinance approving an increase in residential development density to allow for the redevelopment of multifamily housing (15 units) for the Below Market Rate Housing rental program for the property owned by Community Housing & Resources at 1517 Periwinkle Way.
∫ The council voted 5-0 on an ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances to promote community resiliency through amendments related to the placement of fill.
∫ The council voted 5-0 on an ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances to promote community resiliency by allowing an exception to height limitation for resiliency specific to the build-back (reconstruction) of nonconforming structures substantially damaged by a natural disaster. Prior to the vote, staff confirmed that the amendments would pertain to angle of light and maximum height.
∫ The council voted 5-0 on an ordinance amending the Code of Ordinances to aid with hurricane recovery in regards to reinstating the temporary administrative authority over conditional use permits for “eating places, restaurants, grocery stores, etc.” and broadening the authorization to other conditional uses.
∫ The council voted 5-0 on a resolution approving a grant agreement between the city and Florida Department of Transportation in the amount of $1 million for the repaving and elevation of Periwinkle Way. The project will consist of about 1.09 miles, starting 500 feet west of Periwinkle and Casa Ybel Road and heading east to Main Street/the Periwinkle Park entrance.
∫ The council voted 5-0 on a grant agreement from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s
Resilient Florida Program for the “City of Sanibel Adaptation Plan” in the amount of $88,000 to minimize the impacts of flooding and sea level rise on the city’s critical assets and a proposal from Cummins Cederberg in the same amount for engineering and environmental consulting services to complete the plan.
∫ The council voted 5-0 on a request by Waste Management (WM) to temporarily begin solid waste collection services one hour earlier at 6 a.m. Prior to the vote, staff reported that it would only apply to residential collection and for the summer season, from now through October.
∫ The council voted 5-0 on agreements with Karle Enviro-Organic Recycling and Wind River Environmental for wastewater biosolids hauling and disposal services.
∫ The council discussed the Wulfert Channel and Dinkins Bayou Dredge Project.
∫ Staff presented a draft resolution regarding the SUP that included violation fines, which the council provided feedback on. It will be brought back before the council at a later date with the sought changes.
∫ Staff presented a draft resolution regarding special event permit fees, which the council provided feedback on. It will be brought back before the council at a later date with the sought changes.
∫ The council declared May 6 as Sergeant Anthony Neri Memorial Day on Sanibel through a proclamation, which also recognized him for his ultimate sacrifice and expressed appreciation for the exceptional service that he provided to the Sanibel community and police department. Neri passed away during a training exercise while on duty on May 6, 2019.
∫ The council recognized Sanibel Police Department Detective Michelle Rose as the Employee of the Second Quarter for the fiscal year.
∫ The council recognized May 4-10 as the 56th Annual Professional Municipal Clerks Week through a proclamation.
∫ The council declared May 18-24 as National Public Works Week through a proclamation.
∫ The council declared May as National Cities, Towns, and Villages Month through a proclamation.
∫ Deputy City Manager and Chief Financial Officer Steve Chaipel provided an update on the city’s finances related to Hurricanes Milton, Helene, Idalia and Ian. To view the presentation, visit this article for free at http:// www.captivasanibel.com/.
∫ Island Water Association (WA) General Manager Diana Wilson gave a presentation on IWA’s operations and resiliency initiatives. To view the presentation, visit this article for free at http://www.captivasanibel.com/.
CITY OF SANIBEL
The Sanibel City Council declared May 6 as Sergeant Anthony Neri Memorial Day on Sanibel through a proclamation at its meeting on May 6.
tion or another live production, they are going to fall in love with it.”
Because of the cast, this year’s class will play characters around their own ages.
“I chose the show because I think it’s going to excite our audience, and our cast can relate to the cast they’re playing,” Giangreco said. “They’re portraying fictional characters, but in a story that is very historically accurate — the ability to portray those puts them in the shoes of real boys and girls from 100-plus years ago.”
Classic songs from the movie featured in the performance will include “Carrying the Banner,” “The World Will Know,” “Santa Fe,” “Seize the Day,” “Brooklyn’s Here” and “King of New York.” Some of the Broadway songs will include “Once and for All,” “Just a Pretty Face,” “Watch What Happens” and “Letter From the Refuge.”
The opening act every night will highlight other student ensembles.
On May 21, the Orff Club will take the stage. An after-school group of fourth and fifth graders, it will do “Vivir Mi Vida” and arrangements of “Jambalaya (On
Ride of Silence
the city’s Shared Use Path for approximately four miles.
“Florida now leads the country in bicycling fatalities with nearly 500 last year,” club President Jim Meyer said. “We hope that this awareness program will slow that fatality rate.”
“This is both for the motorists and the cyclists,” he added.
The first Ride of Silence was organized by Chris Phelan in 2003 in Dallas, Texas, after cyclist Larry Schwartz was hit by the mirror of a passing bus and killed. It drew 1,000 participating cyclists.
Today, events are held around the world on the third Wednesday in May at
the Bayou)” and “Best Day of My Life.”
“They’re going to be using a variety of different instruments, such as xylophones, guitars, pianos, cajons, tubano drums and other various percussion instruments, and they’ll be singing,” he said.
On May 22, the Elementary Choir — made up of students in grades 3-5 — will perform “Rainbow Connection,” “Make a Little Music,” “I Bought Me A Cat,” “Whisper” and “It’s the Hard-Knock Life.”
“They’re going to be performing five,” Giangreco said.
On May 23, the middle-school choir will open for the final show.
“The Seahorse Chorale is going to have a theme for their opening act, Songs from the Screen and Stage,” he said, explaining that the selections will be famous Broadway and movie musicals.
There will be a medley called “Hamilton Highlights,” “What Is This Feeling?” and “Popular” from “Wicked,” “The Other Side” and “A Million Dreams” from “The Greatest Showman,” and “One Day More” from “Les Miserables.”
From page 1
7 p.m.
The Sanibel event is open to the community.
“We welcome the public,” Meyer said. “We welcome families and children.”
Those interested in taking part should arrive by 6:30 p.m.
“We’ll describe the process, the ride itself, and the fact that it is a silent ride as a tribute,” he said, referring to the event’s history. “We’ll make sure that all nonclub members have signed the waiver.”
The route will head east on Periwinkle Way and then south on Casa Ybel Road, turning into West Gulf Drive. At Tarpon Bay Road, it will travel north to Periwinkle
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for ages 17 and under.
They can be purchased in advance or at the door.
A concession stand will be available for food and drinks, with a “Newsies” theme.
“We highly encourage people to come and check it out,” Giangreco said. “All of the proceeds from the concession stand will benefit The Sanibel School’s Performing Arts program for future productions.”
The community is encouraged to enjoy an evening of entertainment.
“We would love for the community to come out,” he said. “This will be an exciting musical to be enjoyed by people of all ages, and you are sure to be amazed by our very talented students.”
For advance tickets, visit https://leeschools.schoolcashonline.com/Fee/Details/6723/485/False/True.
For more information, contact 239-472-1617 or josephag@leeschools.net.
The Sanibel School is at 3840 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel.
and then east again to return to the park.
“It’s a short ride, it’s slow,” Meyer said. “It’s a very simple ride.”
“And, again, it’s a tribute to the cycling community that we’ve lost,” he added.
The Sanibel Police Department will assist with traffic control.
Participants are required to wear a helmet.
“The only requirement is a helmet,” Meyer said.
“We prefer no headsets because they’re distracting,” he added.
Billy’s Bikes will have water, some safety vests and a few spare helmets for those who need one.
There will also be information on the club.
“We will have information about joining,” Meyer said.
The island is invited to take part.
“We’re trying to improve the cycling and motorist and pedestrian environment on Sanibel,” he said. “This will help to do that.”
For more information, visit https:// sanibelbicycleclub.org/ or contact Meyer at 314-406-0904 or member and Ride Leader Kevin Connerty at 239-8872369.
The Sanibel Community Park is at 2231 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.
From page 12
So, if the applicant cannot secure a guarantee from the FDOT that it will use the aggregate, a mining project would be a nonstarter.
The SCCF continued that this is why the applicant is also trying to establish the mine as a water storage project. In fact, their application submitted on July 1 is titled “Southland Water Resource Project.”
Pathway to water storage project
“Water storage projects are allowed in the EAA for ecosystem restoration purposes, but they require the partnership of the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD), which has not evaluated the plan to see if it would provide benefit, nor if it would not cause harm to the EAA Reservoir currently under con-
struction,” DePaolis said. “The SFWMD’s evaluation would be necessary before any signoff for the project could occur.”
Following the SFWMD’s Letter of Project Identification submitted over the holidays, the applicant submitted a zoning change to the Palm Beach County Zoning Commission.
The SCCF reported that despite some confusion by the commission as to why it was hearing a project that seemed premature, a majority voted to send it to the county commissioners for the official vote. The vote was supposed to occur on April 24, but it was postponed at the request of the applicant until the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners hearing on May 22 at 1 p.m.
“The letter of identification was the necessary first step in the review process, but doesn’t say anything about SFWMD’s
Protecting least terns on causeway islands
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) reported that it has been working with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Lee County and volunteers to protect least tern nesting areas on the recently reopened Sanibel Causeway Islands. Its education and outreach volunteers will be stationed on the causeway on weekends and holidays to educate beachgoers about sharing the shore with least terns, which nest in colonies and are listed as threatened in the state. More volunteers are needed. For more information, contact shorebirds@sccf.org. For more information on how to share the shore with nesting birds, visit https://sccf.org/ sharing-the-shore/.
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
view of the project,” he said. “All the district has stated so far is that it will be reviewing the proposal for the unsolicited project and that, if it meets specific criteria, it will be brought before the Governing Board.”
Uncertainty continues
The SCCF reported that currently, the project remains in a state of spiritual limbo, existing as both a rock mine and a water resources project. The applicant is trying to move through both processes at the same time and is making incremental progress.
“There are many unanswered questions and details that need to be ironed out, but one thing is certain: for the future of America’s Everglades and Florida as a whole, we don’t need mining in the
EAA,” DePaolis said.
Currently, land in the EAA is actively sinking from ongoing use as farmland, due to the land historically being under water before large-scale draining and ditching in the late 1800s.
“As the land continues to subside in the EAA and we get closer to the point it can no longer be farmed, we should be asking how we can return that land to conservation purposes to capitalize on the true value of the land — to provide storm buffering, water filtration, habitat, climate mitigation, and all the other ecosystem services associated with our natural spaces,” he said. “By introducing mining efforts, we will increase the likelihood that the EAA is eventually paved over rather than being returned to something closer to the River of Grass.”
CHR hosting annual Community Art Project
By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers.com
Creative individuals, organizations, businesses and groups are sought for an island fundraiser.
Community Housing & Resources (CHR) is accepting applications from those interested in taking part in its annual Community Art Project. With this year’s theme of “Enchanted Winter Wonderland and Festival of Trees,” the participants picked will design a holiday tree or wreath, which will be auctioned.
“This is our major fundraiser that we run every year to pay for operations and new building projects, so our capital campaigns,” CHR Executive Director Nicole Decker-McHale said, referring to providing affordable housing for families and individuals who work and who serve the island communities.
To come up the 2025 theme, they evaluated their past galas.
“We decided we wanted to do something different that would be magical for the community,” she said. “Our idea is to transform The Community House into a winter wonderland — to take the community away from all of the devastation of the past few years with the storms.”
CHR has purchased 20 pre-lit trees, including four 4.5-foot, four 9-foot and a dozen 7.5-foot ones, along with 18 wreaths that are 28 inches across, which it will supply to the participants for free.
“Some of them are frosted, some are white, some are evergreen,” Decker-McHale said of the trees.
The wreaths and trees can be decorated in any style or theme.
“We’re looking for creativity,” she said. “It could be a business, it could be business, it could be a group of individuals, it could be an artist. Anyone feeling that community spirit who wants to give back to CHR and give back to affordable housing.”
The participants will be responsible for providing the decorations and display materials.
A display of the trees and wreaths will take place on Nov. 21 at The Community House (TCH).
“We want this to be a community event, with a children’s aspect to it,” Decker-McHale said, adding that the details are in the works. “We’re definitely going to have Santa and pictures with Santa.”
Afterward, CHR’s benefit and auction will be held on Nov. 22.
The trees will be up for grabs in live and silent auctions, while the wreaths will be in a silent auction. A paddle raiser will benefit the capital campaign for Riverview, with ticket sales to support operations.
The deadline to apply is May 31.
The community is encouraged to take part.
“The resiliency of the community is based on the businesses coming back and the workforce that supports the businesses and the community, and we provide the affordable housing for the workforce and the seniors,” she said.
Those picked will be informed by June 15. They will receive a handbook with additional design information and guidelines.
The wreaths will be distributed in September and must be returned to TCH on Nov. 19. The trees will be decorated on Nov. 18 from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Nov. 19-20 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at TCH.
To apply or for more information, visit https://sancapchr.org/.
People can also contact 239-472-1189 or
Whelks, shark eyes and tulips found on Sanibel
Jennifer and Scott Combs, of Shoreline, Washington, found fig whelks, shark eyes, banded tulips and more on April 26-28 during low tide near the Lake Murex beach access on West Gulf Drive on Sanibel. It was their first trip back to the island since Hurricane Ian and they were happy to see how Sanibel is recovering. Jennifer Combs reported that she is the daughter of island resident Judith Hicks, and she has been vacationing on Sanibel since the 1970s. Her husband and she were married on the island in 1998. “Our vacations to Sanibel are always so relaxing and peaceful. We return home completely reenergized,” Combs said. “There is something so meditative about strolling along the beach and searching for shells.” To report a shell find, contact 239-472-1587 or trepecki@breezenewspapers.com.
PHOTO PROVIDED
COMMUNITY HOUSING & RESOURCES Community Housing & Resources is taking applications for its annual Community Art Project, which is themed “Enchanted Winter Wonderland and Festival of Trees” this year. Pictured is event Chairperson Shelley Greggs.
GreggsCHRart@gmail.com for the registration form. The Community House is at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.
CHARITABLE FOUNDATION OF THE ISLANDS
From left, R.L.R. Investments Director of Commercial Leasing & Community Relations Ali Kendall and Charitable Foundation of the Islands Director of Community Relations Savannah Kelly.
R.L.R. Investments supports CFI program
The Charitable Foundation of the Islands (CFI) announced that the closing session for the Leadership Sanibel-Captiva Program’s Class of 2025 was held on April 29 at Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel, thanks to the underwriting of R.L.R. Investments. It brought together the participants, Leadership alumni, CFI board members and island leaders to celebrate the program’s achievements and reflect on the journey of the participants. In addition, Leadership Sanibel-Captiva’s opening and closing sessions were made possible with the support of presenting sponsor Bank of the Islands.
Sanibel documentary to premiere at film festival
“On Sanibel: The Hurricane Diaries,” a new documentary that captures the resilience of the island in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, will premiere on May 15 at 3 p.m. at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in Fort Myers as part of the Fort Myers Film Festival.
Directed and produced by Sanibel resident Laura DeBruce, it features dramatic, first-hand footage from islanders who stayed during the storm, which severed the Sanibel Causeway and left the island devastated.
“This film is not only about Hurricane Ian,” she said. “It’s about the strength, ingenuity and love that emerged after the storm. Sanibel’s people rebuilt more than just buildings — they rebuilt hope.”
Through intimate interviews and never-before-seen footage, the documentary tells the stories of the island’s residents, small business owners and community leaders who rose to the challenge.
DeBruce began documenting recovery efforts just days after the storm, arriving by boat and bicycle alongside her husband, Jeff Blackman. Despite breaking her wrist on the first day back in an incident involving an alligator sighting, she began filming what she witnessed. DeBruce recruited her friend, Diana Taylor, to help her film and later teamed up with award-winning videographer and Sanibel native Chad Hatcher to bring the footage to life.
During the editing process, DeBruce spent months reviewing footage of Ian.
“It was hard seeing this beautiful island destroyed again and again,” she said. “But in almost every shot, there was someone who had lost everything, who was still so compassionate and strong, that I knew that was the heart of this story.”
The score was composed by Emmy and Peabody Award-winning composer and flutist Kat Epple.
“My goal was to craft music that connects not only to the visuals but to the heart and soul of the story,” she said. “The score mirrors the film’s themes of paradise, peril, courage, loss and unity.”
General admission is $10; all-day and all-access
passes are also available.
For tickets or more information, visit fortmyersfilmfestival.com.
To watch a trailer of the film, visit https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=983090534031724.
The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is at 2301 First St., Fort Myers.
To bring the unusual and unique to an island native garden, the addition of a silvery-blue buccaneer palm (Pseudophoenix Sargentii) is a great choice.
This specimen palm has lots to recommend it for island living. It is very salt tolerant, slow growing and wind tolerant. No two buccaneer palms seem to be alike as each palm has its own distinct growth habits. Some develop long fronds and others have heavier trunks, and some will develop fronds that are more blue or more green. They have a fan-shaped frond and do well planted as a double or triple stem palm.
Even when planted side by side in the same soil, you could end up with two palms that look different from each other, making them truly unique, even among their own variety of palms. They prefer full sun, but will grow in part shade. The palm does not like to be too far from the coast as it does not tolerate cold weather, although as a potted palm on a sunny patio or pool deck it would do fine.
The palms grow in the Florida Keys and are in fact native to Sanibel, as well as parts of Mexico and the Caribbean. The name “buccaneer palm” likely is derived from the fact that the palm is found in most of the places favored by the pirates and buccaneers who roamed the Caribbean.
Because the palm is a coastal island native, it can be planted in direct Gulf exposure on the beachside of your home as few other palms can be. You do not have to worry about losing your beach view as the palm rarely exceeds 10-15 feet in height. You can plant them close to the house or drive for a pop of silvery beauty and not worry about them outgrowing the space because of their slow growth pattern.
When you have a tough spot that is salty, windy and sandy and you want a native specimen palm, the
See BUCCANEER PALM, page 28
County board OKs Community Paramedicine Program expansion
On May 6, the Lee County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve an agreement with Lee Health for an expanded Community Paramedicine Program, which provides in-home care to individuals to reduce ambulance trips to emergency departments at hospitals for illnesses or injuries that are less likely to progress or develop complications.
By reducing these types of visits for what is known as low acuity medical needs, the program is intended to reduce unnecessary emergency medical services transport, emergency department overutilization and hospital readmission, assist with access to care, and improve community relations by building and expanding post-acute services as individuals recover from a serious injury or illness.
Launching and expanding a community health program using the community paramedicine framework is part of the commission’s strategic priorities for the current fiscal year.
Lee Health patients will be referred to the program, which will lead to a multidisciplinary team of providers to assist patients with their recovery at home. The goal is to keep patients from needing to return to the hospital for follow-up care, speeding their recovery and improving their overall health. The team includes emergency medical technicians, paramedics, case managers and social workers.
Last summer, the commission approved an agreement to launch the first phase of the program in coordination with the Florida Department of Children and Families, which has exceeded initial goals.
Under the agreement, Lee Health will reimburse Lee County Emergency Medical Services up to $1,316,777 in the programs first year. Lee Health owns and operates five acute care hospitals: Lee Memorial Hospital, Gulf Coast Medical Center, HealthPark Medical Center, Golisano Children’s Hospital of Southwest Florida and Cape Coral Hospital.
FISH highlights community partner
FISH of Sanibel-Captiva reported that it contributes its success to its community partners — businesses and organizations both on and off the islands. Convoy of Hope recently donated 10 washers and dryers to
help families whose homes and appliances were damaged or destroyed by the recent hurricanes. They were distributed to clients still facing recovery challenges and came with a welcome gift basket from FISH that
Alexis Camputaro with her new washer, dryer and laundry basket of essentials.
included a laundry basket, detergent, clothes hangers and an iron. For more information about being a community partner, contact Executive Director Maria Espinoza at 239472-4775.
SCUCC, Bat Yam to hold donation drive
Bat Yam Temple of the Islands and the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ (SCUCC) will hold its monthly Food and Paper Drive on May 21 from 11 a.m. to
1 p.m. at 2050 Periwinkle Drive, Sanibel. Donations of non-perishable food items and bath and kitchen paper products will be collected. The donations will benefit neigh-
borhoods in need through FISH of Sanibel-Captiva and the Gladiolus Food Pantry in Fort Myers. The drive is held on the third Wednesday of every month.
FISH OF SANIBELCAPTIVA
Recipe of the Week: Chicken Scaloppini Marsala with Baby Portobello Mushrooms
By CHEF LORETTA PAGANINI
A delicious combination of flavors. Sweet cream with umami mushrooms creates a delicate sauce to top tender chicken scaloppini. This easy dish is a favorite with my family I like to serve it with fettuccini pasta. For best results, I like to use organic hormone-free and antibiotic-free chicken breasts. Serves eight. (Chef tip: Slice a chicken breast in four slices, cover with plastic wrap and pound then.)
4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut in half, lengthwise
1/4 cup dry porcini mushroom
2 cups baby portobello mushrooms, sliced
1/4 cup seasoned flour (season with salt and pepper)
1/4 cup dry Marsala wine
1/2 cup chicken stock
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
CROW Calendar
The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife’s Visitor Education Center, at 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel, will present the following:
∫ Today, May 14
Program of the Week at 11 a.m.
The presentation will be on “Wildlife Conservation.”
∫ Thursday, May 15
Program of the Week at 11 a.m.
The presentation will be “Climate Change.”
∫ Friday, May 16
Program of the Week at 11 a.m.
The presentation will be “If You Care, Leave it There.”
∫ Monday, May 19
Program of the Week at 11 a.m.
The presentation will be on “Baby Season.”
∫ Tuesday, May 20
Program of the Week at 11 a.m.
The presentation will be on “Sea Turtles.”
∫ Wednesday, May 21
The presentation will be on “One World, One Health.”
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.
BIG ARTS Calendar
BIG ARTS, at 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, will present the following:
Fort Myers Film Festival
“Sanibel” will be shown on May 15 at 7 p.m., with an opening reception at 5:45 p.m. Tickets are $12.
Fort Myers Film Festival
“Curveballs” will be shown on May 16
at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12.
Fort Myers Film Festival
“Journey Back to Alcedo” and “Climbing into Life” — a double feature — will be shown on May 17 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12.
For more information or tickets, visit www.bigarts.org or call 239-395-0900.
Dancing our faith
May arrived quickly for me, partly because of the late Easter date. But here we are, welcoming the last month before the long hot days of summer and the inevitable avalanche of tourists who will be coming this way.
Different cultures gear up for the summer in different ways. In many parts of the world, the time between spring and summer is marked by various “May Day” celebrations, a tradition that goes back to ancient Celtic and Germanic Spring festivals. For me, a “May Day” celebration
conjures up memories of the annual square dance party at the elementary school I attended as a child.
The principal there somehow came up with the idea that her students needed exposure to something more profitable than simple reading, writing and arithmetic. And since square dancing was her hobby, she thought it would be a good thing if the entire student body participated in one big square dance celebration.
I remember it like it was yesterday. We began our practices right around
1/4 cup clarified butter (or olive oil)
Fresh Italian parsley, chopped for garnish
Salt and pepper, to taste
Soak the porcini mushrooms in Marsala wine. Lay chicken out on a cutting board and cover with plastic wrap; pound lightly with a meat mallet to make into scaloppini. Flatten and tenderize; do not pulverize.
Coat scaloppini with seasoned flour, dust off excess. Ladle butter and oil into saute pan and heat on medium heat. Allow butter and olive oil to heat. Test by sprinkling flour into it; when the flour sizzles, it is time to add the scaloppini.
Saute the scaloppini until lightly browned on one side and then flip over. Cook until lightly golden brown on both sides. Remove scaloppini to a dish and reserve. Add mushroom, drained porcini and garlic in the same pan and saute until soft. Season with salt and pepper. Add scaloppini back to the pan.
Add Marsala wine, stock and cream to the skillet to deglaze. Season with salt and pepper and reduce until thickened, about 10 minutes. Serve scaloppini with sauce and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
For the seasoned flour, mix together one cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, one teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
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 Services will return for season in November. Videos of services from the past season can be found on the chapel’s website and Facebook page.
∫ 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 service at 10 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
Friday Mass at 9 a.m. Saturday 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 service at 9:30 a.m., with socials to follow; services are available via livestream and the link on the website.
the first of March and culminated with a big party the first Friday in May. On that day, the playground would be filled with little circles of elementary students bowing to partners, holding hands, promenading and weaving the ring.
Looking back, I must admit that my principal was on to something. For one thing, there was always that student that was marginalized by the rest. Who knows why that was the case? It just was. But square dancing is not like other forms of social dance. At some point, you grab on to someone you’d otherwise never be caught dead touch -
ing. The “May Day” dance was therefore the “great equalizer.” We may have had our cliques and groups every other day of the year, but on the first Friday in May, we were truly one body. I am indebted to my principal to this day. Though I was baptized into the church around that time in my life, it was my principal who gave me my first lesson on what it means to be a part of a church. Life in communities of faith is a lot like square dancing. You may begin and end with a partner, but along the way you venture out to take steps with the people dancing next to you. You
RC Otter’s Island Eats, 11506 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva
ALLGOOD noon to 4:30 p.m. FRANK THOMSON 5:30 to 10 p.m.
FELKER noon to 4:30 p.m. PAT MCCUNE 5:30 to 10 p.m.
The Santiva Islanders will present the following:
Cardio & Strength
SEYFFERTH noon to 4:30 p.m. FRANK
Santiva Islanders Calendar
Social Mahjong
Mahnaz Bassiri will host Cardio & Strength today, May 14, 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.
Bunko Party & Potluck Dessert
Bunko Party & Potluck Dessert will be held today, May 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Santiva Islanders Place (SIP), at 2330 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 17, Sanibel. Coffee and everything needed to play the game of Bunko will be provided. Attendees can bring a dessert to share and any preferred drink besides coffee. There will opportunities to win prizes. To RSVP, visit https://santivaislanders.org/events/bunko-party-potluck-dessert.
Breakfast Club
Breakfast Club will be held on May 15 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.
Gentle Yoga
Emery Lowden will host Gentle Yoga on May 15 from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Santiva Islanders Place (SIP), at 2330 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 17, Sanibel. Bring a mat, towel and water, and wear comfortable clothing. Cost is $10 per class.
Social Mahjong will be held on May 15 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at the Santiva Islanders Place (SIP), at 2330 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 17, Sanibel. Cost is $5. For more information, contact Beth Funderburg at bfundy4648@ gmail.com.
Cardio & Strength
Mahnaz Bassiri will host Cardio & Strength on May 16 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 Bassiri will host Cardio & Strength on May 19 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.
Lunch and Conversation
Lunch and Conversation will be held on May 19 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Santiva Islanders Place (SIP), at 2330 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 17, Sanibel. Bring your own lunch.
Social Hour
Social Hour will be held on May 19 from 4 to 6 p.m. at Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, at 1200 Periwinkle Way,
The Community House Calendar
The Community House, at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, will present the following:
Sanibel Hearts Club
The Sanibel Hearts Club will meet on May 16 from 1 to 3 p.m. New players, from beginners to experts, are welcome. Suggested donation of $5. The winners on May 2 were: Ken Burgener, Dolly Collins and Jim Liichow, tied for first place.
Shellcrafters
The Shellcrafters will meet on May 19 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 available for sale; all sales benefit the operations of TCH.
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.
ALLGOOD noon to 4:30 p.m. GEO RODERICK 5:30 to 10 p.m.
Sanibel. Enjoy happy hour drink and appetizer specials. Attendees will order and pay individually.
Euchre
Euchre will be held on May 20 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Santiva Islanders Place (SIP), at 2330 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 17, Sanibel. Cost is $5. For more information, contact Les Carlson at 860-983-0155 or lescarlson@comcast.net.
Leisure Lunch
A Leisure Lunch will be held on May 20 from noon to 1 p.m. at Wickies Lighthouse Restaurant, at 362 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Attendees will order and pay individually. RSVPs requested by May 14. To RSVP, contact Erika Arnowitz at 239-472-4775, ext. 107, or erika@fishofsancap.org.
Cardio & Strength
Mahnaz Bassiri will host Cardio & Strength on May 21 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.
The Santiva Islanders serve all adult islanders and visitors, regardless of age. The cost is $25 for an annual membership.
For more information, visit https://santivaislanders. org/ or contact santivaislanders@gmail.com.
Buccaneer palm
buccaneer palm may be just the one for you. It has an interesting name that is fun to talk about and is tough enough to handle our coastal island environment. What more could you want from a specimen palm?
Dancing
From page 27
have real contact with people you otherwise wouldn’t spend much time with. You pay attention to the voice issuing “the call” that directs all the dancers to move in a certain fashion. And the result is always something bigger and better than you’d ever be able to accomplish on your own.
Makes being a part of a faith com -
From page 26
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.
munity sound like fun, doesn’t it? After all, everyone has someone in his or her corner, and Someone watching over you, who makes sure that no one ever gets left out.
The Rev. Dr. Doug Dortch is the pastor at the Captiva Chapel by the Sea.
The Dunes Golf and Tennis Club, 949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel
Tutti Pazzi Italian Kitchen, 1200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
The Green Flash, 15183 Captiva Drive, Captiva
KARAOKE 9:30 p.m.
Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club representatives Rachel Tritaik and Linda Graves Arnold present “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge’s Angeli Chin, center, with a check for $5,000.
SCUCC to present musical performance
Part of its Music@SCUCC Series, the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ (SCUCC) will present “An Afternoon of American Opera” on May 18 starting at 2 p.m. on Sanibel.
Florida Gulf Coast University’s Bower School of Music will perform music by Gian-Carlo Menotti, Carlisle Floyd and Leonard Bernstein, with excerpts from Bernstein’s “West Side
Story” and “Candide.”
A reception with the artists will follow.
The performance is free and open to the public.
For more information, call the church at 239-472-0497.
SCUCC is at 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel
DDWS thanks project supporters
The “Ding” Darling Wildlife SocietyFriends of the Refuge (DDWS) reported that planning continues on the gardens and exhibits project that will encompass the land around the entry ramp to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge’s Visitor & Education Center, along with the screened-in hands-on hab-
itat picnic area and exhibits. Staff and volunteers worked on weeding, mulching and planting the pollinator garden. The DDWS thanked the Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club for its sponsorship of the Children’s Interpretive Garden and the Shell Islands Garden Club for its $1,000 donation.
from the
A heartbreaking loss
Ian caused an emotional twist in Nancy Black’s life — the latest in a series of hard times.
Her husband had passed away in 2015. In 2021, Black endured several heart procedures. Then the hurricane struck. While her piling house endured the storm fairly well, the surge flooded the garage and wiped out her enormous seashell collection many years in the making. It was a heartbreaking loss.
The former FISH volunteer shared that the filmmakers were very nice and kind.
“Of course, the movie was headed in a totally different direction before the hurricane,” Black said. “After the hurricane, they had to change it. Not that they had to, but it made sense to change it.”
While she did not require any poststorm relief services, FISH did step up during her recovery from surgery before the hurricane. Its volunteers delivered
a Smile Box — a gift bag of treats, personal care items and other things to encourage recovery and connection. Friends ensured that she had food from FISH to regain her strength and health.
“Everybody was grateful,” she said of those who did receive assistance after Ian. “So many people had never gone to FISH before. But of course, after a disaster like that, they were checking out everything to find help.”
Still, the presence of FISH gave her comfort in the storm’s wake.
“I knew they were there. I knew I could call them if I needed them,” Black said. “FISH is a great organization. They can help people for the short term or long term. People shouldn’t hesitate to call FISH if they need help or know somebody who needs help.”
Kathy Samson, on behalf of FISH, contributed the interviews for the article.
SANIBEL
Nancy Black
Documentary
REFUGE/DDWS
REFUGE/DDWS
Representatives
“Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge and Shell Islands Garden Club.
Local elementary visits Sanibel Sea School
Third-grade students from Treeline Elementary in Fort Myers recently visited the Sanibel Sea School for a field trip full of catching waves and learning about marine life. It was the third annual field trip for the school.
SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION
Beer in the Bushes out of this world
The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) hosted its annual Beer in the Bushes on April 19 at its headquarters on Sanibel. It featured craft beer, food trucks and live music, with the proceeds to support the SCCF’s mission to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems. Wimmer Communities served as the present-
ing sponsor, with the Marcum Giving Fund as the band sponsor and MHK Architecture as the food truck alley sponsor. The SCCF extended its thanks to all the attendees, sponsors, breweries, food trucks and Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe for making this year’s event a super memorable and stellar one.
‘Avis Magnus Defunded Est (Big Bird Must Be Defunded)’
(Cato the Elder incorporated the words “cartage must be destroyed!” — Cartago delenda est — into every speech he made in the Roman Senate, no matter what the subject of the matter debated was. The phrase has come to symbolize an attack on a vulnerable target made by a politician to cover up or divert the pubic from his real agenda. The current attacks on Big Bird and National Public Radio not only fit into this gratuitous mold, they are also inaccurate since Sesame Street does not receive one cent of government money. If the debate was held in the Roman Senate, Big Bird would be called “Avis Magnus” and President Trump’s demand would run as such.)
Take Burt and Ernie off the dole, No food stamps for Grover and the rest. Stop Cookie Monster from swallowing whole, Avis Magnus defunded est!
Let Count van Count count the things that count In the latest budget that fail the test, But I’ll keep sheltering my bank account, Avis Magnus defunded est!
Have Vance vie with Oscar the Grouch For who sings “I Love Trash” the best, And I’ll be the first to holler “Ouch!” And “Avis Magnus defunded est!”
By now you’re wondering what I meant With “Avis Magnus defunded est” — It’s billions in tax cuts for Us One Percent But not one penny for Miss Piggy’s dress!
Trust company hosts annual celebration
The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company held its 2025 Spring Celebration on April 15 at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel. It attracted 240 clients, friends and community partners, who enjoyed live music, cocktails and conversations with company leadership. They dined on prime rib, vegetables, made-to-order pasta and more. Trust Company founder and Chairman S. Albert D. Hanser and Sanibel President Jeff Muddell thanked attendees for their loyalty and friendship over the years, noting that many clients have continued their partnership with the the company since its founding in 2001.
SANIBEL SEA SCHOOL
THE SANIBEL CAPTIVA TRUST COMPANY
From left, The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company founder and Chairman S. Albert D. Hanser and Sanibel President Jeff Muddell.
Joe Pacheco Poetic License
—James Evans
“Having CHR’s affordable housing completely changes our employees’ outlook on life and their job.”
how CHR’s mission elevates island nonprofits
Working for a nonprofit can bring greater meaning than just a paycheck. Still, if living in a community isn’t affordable, nonprofits find it tough to hire the best and brightest. That’s where Community Housing & Resources makes an even bigger, more meaningful impact for Sanibel and Captiva.
“If we didn’t have access to affordable housing, we couldn’t hire people who could live on the islands and do the things necessary to accomplish our mission, which is to protect and care for Southwest Florida’s ecosystems,” said James Evans, Chief Executive Officer of the Sanibel Captiva Conservation Foundation.
Even competitive salaries at a nonprofit can fall short of for-profit pay — and that’s before adding the cost of living. CHR eases that burden by offering high-quality, affordable housing with rents based on salary. Evans said 20% of SCCF staff live in CHR housing.
“Honestly, the fact that our staff has the opportunity for CHR affordable housing really separates us from a lot of other communities,” said Evans. “Our employees are able to spend more time doing the great work they do for our organization without having to stress about a commute each way. They’re more entrenched in the community. They get to spend more time with the people who live here. They’re spending money on our local businesses. They’re utilizing the entertainment on the islands and participating in more events.”
That elevates not only our nonprofits, but all of Sanibel and Captiva.
“CHR plays a big role in making SanCap different than other places I’ve lived... it’s a true community.”
Community Housing & Resources provides safe, quality, affordable housing for families and individuals who work in and serve our island communities.
Learn more at sancapchr.org
Obituaries Sanibel
Melvin Roy Manker
April 1, 1938 – April 23, 2025
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Melvin Roy Manker, age 87, who peacefully left us on April 23, 2025, in Fort Myers, Florida. Born on April 1, 1938, Melvin lived a full and vibrant life, marked by his unwavering love for family, his generous nature, and his passion for the outdoors. He was preceded in death by his parents, Loraine and Herbert Manker; his first wife, Roanne Manker; and his beloved wife, Carol, with whom he shared many cherished years.
Mel leaves behind his loving children: Perry Minyard (wife Regina), Steven Manker (wife Thalia), Christy Kesslering (husband Jim), and Ann-Marie Manker; six grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren as well as his sister, Sandra Robinson (husband Ken and children Michael and Michelle). He was a devoted father, son, and brother, loyal friend, and a pillar of warmth, support, and encouragement to all who knew him.
Mel’s remarkable life was shaped by many rich experiences. As a young man, he worked as a salmon fishing guide on the Rogue River, a job that instilled in him a lifelong love for nature and the outdoors. He attended the University of Southern California (USC), laying the foundation for his future career. He proudly served in the United States Coast Guard, embodying the discipline and dedication that would define much of his life.
For 40 years, Melvin was a respected leader at Farmers and Merchants Bank of Long Beach, where his strong work ethic, compassion, and commitment to excellence left a lasting impression on his colleagues and community.
A lifelong enthusiast of tennis, Melvin was known as the team to beat at Old Ranch Country Club in Seal Beach, California, and he loved nothing more than time on the water with family and friends. After retiring, he and Carol made their home in Sanibel, Florida, where they embraced the warmth and beauty of their surroundings and joined the St. Charles Yacht Club. Whether on the court or at sea, Mel was in his element— creating joyful memories that those close to him will forever treasure.
Mel was a man of old-fashioned manners, a generous spirit, and quiet strength. His legacy of kindness, integrity, and enduring love will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Thomas E. Moore
Thomas E. Moore, age 82, of Sanibel Island, FL - a dedicated family man, cherished friend, and respected business leader passed away on April 28, 2025. For those who knew and loved him, it feels like being adrift at sea without a captain. Moving forward without his wise counsel is hard to imagine. Tom lived his life consciously, always guided by a strong moral compass and a thoughtfully considered plan. A diagnosis of Pancreatic Cancer in March of 2024 was inconsistent with his plan. As a lifelong fitness enthusiast, Tom had been walking the beach for miles every day and he was still a formidable presence on the pickleball court. He loved his life, and he was not ready to go. He faced this last challenge, nonetheless, with dignity and strength and he was surrounded by the unwavering support of his loving family and friends.
Tom was born in Detroit, Michigan on October 14, 1942. He developed his leadership skills at a young age as he was the eldest of eight siblings in his close-knit family. He knew he was a role model for his brothers and sisters, and he made his life decisions carefully and practically, always mindful of the example he was setting.
Tom attended the University of Detroit Jesuit High School, graduating in 1960. He chose to continue his education at John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio – a decision that would prove life-changing in more than one way. Tom was intelligent and good with numbers and at JCU he discovered an aptitude for Finance. This eventually led him to attain an MBA from the University of Detroit and launch a successful career as an investment professional and entrepreneur, co-founding Moore, Juran & Company in 1972. In addition to meeting lifelong friends during his college years, he was also introduced to Kitty DeLong on a blind date. Kitty would become the love of his life.
Tom and Kitty were married on May 28, 1966. They were a match made in heaven. Throughout their life together, Kitty helped Tom to become more fun when he became too serious, and Tom helped Kitty to become more serious when she became too fun. Kitty is the oldest of six children. Tom, therefore, inherited an additional sibling group and another set of parents. Tom and the DeLong family had a deep mutual love and appreciation for each other.
Just weeks after their wedding, Tom left to serve as a first lieutenant in Vietnam, writing a letter to Kitty every day. When Tom returned a year later, they moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota where Tom’s family had relocated. Once settled, they began creating their version of the ‘good life’, which included welcoming four children to their family.
With his striking appearance and quiet, serious demeanor, he sometimes came across as intimidating to those who didn’t know him. It only took a personal interaction with Tom to discover his kindness and his humor and his willingness to use his gifts and skills to be helpful whenever the opportunity to do so presented itself. He was a master of life balance. He worked hard and he played hard. It could have been said that patience was the one quality that Tom lacked — until his beloved Kitty developed Alzheimer’s disease. He became Kitty’s devoted caregiver, exhibiting the patience of a Saint. Tom stood by Kitty ‘in sickness and in health’ and although Kitty’s illness was heartbreaking for him, he showed us all what unconditional love looks like.
While Tom had a few meticulously planned trips in his lifetime to adventurous destinations with his cherished friends and siblings, his ideal travel involved moving between his two favorite worlds; the life he and Kitty created on Sanibel Island and the one they created on Round Lake near Brainerd.
Tom was the most content when these cozy homes, beautifully decorated by Kitty, were full to capacity with his favorite people - their children and grandchildren, siblings, nieces and nephews, and longtime friends. He especially appreciated when the weather cooperated because this made Kitty happy! It was the simple things Tom cherished the most; His family gathered around the table, a meat and potatoes dinner which he washed down with an ice-cold Michelob Ultra, a double sunset cruise, and the playful competitive banter of his brothers during a game of acquire. It is in these places where his presence will be felt. It is in these places where we will miss him the most. It is in these places where his legacy will continue on.
Tom is predeceased by his mother, Maureen, his father, Stan, his brother, Art, his granddaughter, Sophia, Kitty’s parents, Jack and Mary Alice DeLong, and Kitty’s sister, Tina DeLong. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kitty, their children, Sara (Eric), Bridget (Greg), Mark (Christy) Tommy (Brittany) his grandchildren, Jack, Ellie, William, Olivia, Chloe, Griffin, Ava, Mason, Charlotte, Nell, his siblings, Ann (Leo Crowley), Bill (Jordi), Rob (Patty), Kathy (Jane Simon), John (Lourdes), Mike (Maureen), sister in law, Jo, bonus siblings, Mark (Susie), Billy (Ruth), Jeff (Mary Kay), Mary Ellen (Ray), many nieces and nephews, his Ferry Landing community, and many cherished friends.
