Author: LeAneSUAREZGroup

The San Cap Pink Project is set to hold its Annual Pink Tea Party on February 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel. This fundraiser aims to support cancer-related needs for members of the island community.

NBC2 News Today anchor Lisa Spooner will emcee the event, which will include a live auction, raffle prizes, a fashion show, music, food and drinks, and more.

Supporting the Community

“All proceeds from the Pink Tea go to support the local community,” said Mary Bondurant, founder of the San Cap Pink Project. “While our organization is known for providing mammograms, we also assist with other cancer-related needs, particularly where insurance falls short. We help with transportation for medical appointments and send care packages to remind patients they are not alone.”

Exciting Auction & Raffle Prizes

Attendees can look forward to a live auction featuring around ten high-value experiences and packages. Additionally, numerous items will be raffled off, with tickets available for purchase.

“A lot of local stores and restaurants have contributed gift cards and merchandise. We have artwork, boat trips, and sporting experiences on the island,” Bondurant added.

Fashion, Music, and More

The event will also include a fashion show presented by Cabi, showcasing their latest collection.

Live entertainment will be provided by Paul Romus, of the Renata Band.

Attendees can capture memories at the photo booth and enjoy an elegant high tea service. The menu will feature hot and cold teas, finger sandwiches, and delicate desserts, along with a bubbly bar offering both alcoholic and non-alcoholic sparkling beverages.

A Celebration of Strength and Support

Lisa Spooner, who has emceed the event before, expressed her admiration for the cause.

“The positive energy of the San Cap Pink Project team is extraordinary, and the event is always a lot of fun,” she said.

Get Your Tickets

Tickets are available for $75 per person, with tables of eight also available for reservation.

Major sponsors include Mary Bondurant and Phaidra McDermott, of Kingfisher Real Estate.

For tickets or additional details, visit PinkOutTea.com.

A Resilient Return

“The hurricanes last fall disrupted our plans for the traditional October breast cancer awareness Pink Tea, but we’re back with an even more exciting event,” said Ann Neubauer, President of the San Cap Pink Project. “We couldn’t be more thrilled.”

The San Cap Pink Project is a volunteer-run organization dedicated to honoring, remembering, and supporting those affected by cancer. Net proceeds from ticket sales, donations, auctions, and raffles will benefit uninsured and underinsured community members in need of cancer-related assistance.

For more information, visit www.sancappinkproject.com.

Event Details at a Glance

• What: Annual Pink Tea Party
• When: February 12, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
• Where: Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, 1451 Middle Gulf Drive, Sanibel
• Tickets: $75 per person

Don’t miss this inspiring and impactful event in support of the Sanibel and Captiva communities!

The Adult Co-Ed Softball League continues its exciting season with a lineup of games scheduled for Monday, February 5. The matchups will take place at the Sanibel Ball Fields, located at the Sanibel Recreation Center, 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel. Fans and players alike can look forward to an evening of competitive softball action.

Upcoming Games – February 5:

• We Are In vs. Bubble Room at 6:20 p.m.
• No-See-Ums vs. We Are In at 7:25 p.m.
• Doc Ford’s vs. No-See-Ums at 8:30 p.m.

With each team looking to improve their standing before the season-ending tournament, these matchups promise to be thrilling for both participants and spectators.

Recap of January 29 Games:

• Bubble Room defeated No-See-Ums (25-15)
• Doc Ford’s fell to Bubble Room (18-22)
• We Are In secured a victory over Doc Ford’s (14-4)

Following the latest results, the current league standings are as follows:

League Standings:

1. Bubble Room (4-1)
2. We Are In (3-1)
3. No-See-Ums (2-3)
4. Doc Ford’s (0-4)

As teams battle for top positioning, the season-ending tournament is tentatively scheduled for February 26. The competition remains fierce, and with only a few weeks left, every game counts in the race to claim the league championship.

Stay tuned for more updates and game highlights as the season progresses!

The Captiva Civic Association (CCA) is bringing back its popular seasonal series, offering engaging events for the island community. This week, the association launched its Qigong Classes, and it is now accepting reservations for the next Porch & Patio Social.

Qigong Classes with Paul Lawrence

Join instructor Paul Lawrence for Qigong sessions on Mondays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. through February 19 at the Captiva Civic Center.

What is Qigong? Qigong is a gentle practice that combines breathing techniques, movements, and meditation to activate internal energy, promote relaxation, and reduce stress. The class is designed to be accessible to all skill levels.

“It is life energy cultivation,” explained Acting CCA Director Kathryn Sisson. “It’s a very relaxing, movement-based class.”

Lawrence, a certified instructor since 2017, has previously led Qigong programs with CCA. “We like to offer this program for the community because it’s very easy to do—almost anyone can do it,” Sisson added.

Classes take place outdoors on the patio, allowing participants to enjoy the natural surroundings and sunshine. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. No equipment is required.

Lawrence discovered Qigong over 25 years ago and, after retiring, pursued formal certification to share his knowledge with others.

Cost: $5 per class (registration required)

“You can join all the classes or just a few,” Sisson said. “It’s a great opportunity to try something new and experience mindfulness and energy for the day.”

Wild West Porch & Patio Social

Saddle up for a fun-filled evening at the Wild West Porch & Patio Social on February 5, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Captiva Civic Center.

“Our Porch & Patio events are a fantastic way to gather with friends and meet new people in the community,” Sisson said.

This month’s theme embraces the spirit of the Wild West, complete with live music by singer and guitarist Douglas Coventry, who will add a country flair to the event.

Guests can enjoy hors d’oeuvres and refreshments, with the option to donate to support CCA’s programming. Western attire is encouraged but not required—just for fun!

Cost: Free (RSVP required)

“These events are a wonderful way to connect with the island community, enjoy live music, and support CCA,” Sisson noted.

Event Details

Qigong Classes

• When: Mondays & Wednesdays, 10 a.m., through February 19
• Where: Captiva Civic Center, 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva
• Cost: $5 per class (registration required)

Wild West Porch & Patio Social

• When: February 5, 5-7 p.m.
• Where: Captiva Civic Center, 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva
• Cost: Free (RSVP required)

How to Register

To sign up for Qigong Classes or RSVP for the Wild West Porch & Patio Social, visit ccacaptiva.org or find the Captiva Civic Association on Eventbrite.

For more information, visit the website or call 239-472-2111.

Come be part of these exciting community events and make the most of the season at CCA!

Island Wellness Pharmacy, set to open later this year, has launched a prescription pickup kiosk inside Jerry’s Foods to provide Sanibel residents with convenient access to medications. The kiosk operates in partnership with Cypress Wellness Pharmacy in Fort Myers and features 22 temperature-controlled lockers with secure, user-friendly technology.

How It Works

• Prescription Routing: Health care providers can send prescriptions directly to Cypress Wellness Pharmacy for kiosk pickup.
• Delivery Schedule: Until Island Wellness Pharmacy opens, prescriptions will be delivered to the kiosk twice a week for a $3 delivery fee.
• No Extra Charge Upon Opening: Once the pharmacy is operational, kiosk pickup will be free for island patients.
• Kiosk Availability: Located within Jerry’s Foods, the kiosk is accessible daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Island Wellness Pharmacy will be situated in Jerry’s Shopping Center, 1700 Periwinkle Way, Unit 7, Sanibel. This innovative service enhances prescription accessibility for the local community.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has shifted traffic to permanent lanes on the Sanibel Causeway. The surrounding causeway islands remain an active work zone, closed to public access, including from the water.

Current & Upcoming Work Activities

East from Toll Plaza

• Eastbound lane closure: The outside eastbound lane from the toll plaza to Shell Point Boulevard is closed for guardrail restoration and asphalt shoulder work.
• Median restoration: Crews are restoring the median between Port Comfort Road and Punta Rassa Road, requiring a westbound lane closure.
• Daytime flagging: McGregor Boulevard (Shell Point to Punta Rassa) will have intermittent flagging as crews move equipment and materials.
• Shoulder closure: The McGregor shoulder remains closed from the toll plaza to approximately ¾ mile east, with work completion expected in March.

West from Toll Plaza

• Nighttime lane restrictions (7 p.m. – 6 a.m.): Flagging operations will manage traffic for final roadway paving, anticipated to finish by end of January.
• Daytime flagging: Expect intermittent flagging along the causeway for various work activities.
• Traffic stops: Vehicles may be stopped intermittently at the staging area entrance for equipment and material transport.
• Temporary pedestrian delineation: Lee County is installing a post-and-rope system for pedestrian traffic during recreational facility reconstruction.
• Causeway Islands Park remains closed to public access.
• Speed limit enforcement: Motorists must obey the 20 mph speed limit as construction vehicles and equipment continue to move in and out of the area.
• Work near off-island U-turn under Span A continues.

Traveler Advisory

• Oversized vehicles assisting with recovery efforts may slow traffic—please be patient.
• Bicyclists should consider alternate transportation.
• Pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway.
• Obey posted speed limits (20 mph) in work zones.

For more details, visit www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway.

The SanCap Chamber hosted a special double ribbon-cutting ceremony on Jan. 21, welcoming two family-owned businesses to its growing membership. Sanibel Painters and The Treehouse Healing & Events Center, both owned by husband-and-wife team Alex and Shelby Stites, were honored for their contributions to the island’s recovery and community.

Sanibel Painters: A Legacy of Craftsmanship

With over 20 years of experience, Alex Stites has been dedicated to the family painting business. After his father’s passing in 2015, he took over and expanded operations to Sanibel five years ago.

“The island’s community quickly embraced his dedication to perfection, and Sanibel Painters became a trusted name known for delivering beautiful, lasting results,” said Shelby Stites.

Alex, a Southwest Florida native, emphasizes craftsmanship, attention to detail, and integrity, setting his company apart in the industry.

The Treehouse: A Sanctuary for Healing

Opening its doors in September, The Treehouse Healing & Events Center has evolved from yoga instruction to offering sound baths and holistic wellness experiences. The space is dedicated to promoting physical and mental well-being, providing a haven for relaxation and restoration.

Strengthening the Island’s Recovery

“As different as the two businesses are, they both play vital roles in Sanibel’s recovery, helping rebuild both physically and emotionally,” said SanCap Chamber President and CEO John Lai. “We welcome their dedication, integrity, and vision.”

Both businesses are located at 1101 Periwinkle Way, Suite 106, Sanibel. Their commitment to quality service and community well-being makes them valuable additions to the island’s business landscape.

On Jan. 31, the Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH-Lee) issued a health alert for the presence of red tide near Lighthouse Beach on Sanibel, as well as Cayo Costa (offshore, 16 miles west of mainland), Lynn Hall Park, and Bokeelia (offshore, three miles north of Charlotte Harbor). The alert was based on water samples collected on Jan. 28 and 29.

The public is advised to exercise caution in and around affected areas and follow these precautions:

• Check water quality updates at Protecting Florida Together or look for informational signage at local beaches.
• Avoid swimming or wading in red tide-affected waters, as exposure can cause skin irritation, rashes, and eye discomfort.
• Wash exposed skin and clothing with soap and fresh water if contact with red tide occurs, especially for individuals with sensitive skin.
• Minimize exposure to airborne toxins by avoiding affected areas, particularly if you have chronic respiratory conditions.
• Close windows and use air conditioning in beachside residences, ensuring that filters are properly maintained.
• Do not consume molluscan shellfish or affected fish. Finfish caught in healthy conditions are safe to eat if properly cleaned and filleted.
• Keep pets and livestock away from red tide-affected waters and dead marine life. Wash pets with soap and water if they swim in contaminated waters.

What is Red Tide?

Red tide is caused by Karenia brevis (K. brevis), a toxin-producing dinoflagellate found in the Gulf of Mexico. It typically forms offshore in late summer or early fall and is carried into coastal waters by wind and currents. At high concentrations, K. brevis can discolor water, giving it a reddish-brown hue. Learn more at Protecting Florida Together.

Is Red Tide Harmful?

K. brevis produces brevetoxins, which can be harmful to humans, pets, fish, and wildlife. Wind and wave action can release these toxins into the air, causing varying degrees of eye, skin, and respiratory irritation. Sensitive individuals, including children, the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those with chronic respiratory conditions, may experience more severe symptoms. For further health impact information, visit the Florida Department of Health.

Where to Find Current Water Quality Information

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regularly monitors and analyzes red tide samples statewide. Up-to-date information about water quality and public health alerts for harmful algae blooms can be accessed at Protecting Florida Together.

Receive notifications on water quality changes in your area by subscribing at Protecting Florida Together.

To hear recorded updates on red tide conditions, call the statewide toll-free hotline at 866-300-9399.

For licensed shellfish harvesting status, visit the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

Where to Report Red Tide-Related Issues

• Human health concerns: Report symptoms from exposure to harmful algae blooms to the Florida Poison Information Center at 800-222-1222.
• Animal health concerns: If a pet appears ill after contact with red tide-affected water, consult a veterinarian immediately.
• Fish kills: Report dead, diseased, or abnormally behaving fish or wildlife to the FWC at FWC Fish Kill Hotline or call 800-636-0511.

For additional health questions regarding red tide, contact DOH-Lee at 239-252-8200.

The Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) has determined that the cause of death of the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam eaglets was bird flu.

“Our CROW team mourns the loss of eaglets E24 and E25, along with our community and those who have been watching the Eagle Cam from near and far. Our purpose and our passion are caring for our native wildlife, and the loss is heartbreaking for all of us. We extend our gratitude to everyone who has reached out with words of support,” a release on behalf of CROW states.

On Jan. 27, after learning of E24’s death in the nest off Bayshore Road in North Fort Myers, CROW was granted federal and state authorization to remove E24 from the nest but did not have authorization to remove its sibling, E25.

“CROW staff performed a visual exam and found E25 bright and alert with no signs of stress,” the release states. “CROW then notified the public that it had retrieved E24 and a necropsy would be performed. Early morning on Tuesday, Jan. 28, CROW learned that E25 had seized and fallen from the nest overnight, and two CROW team members met with a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officer to retrieve E25. A CROW veterinarian was on hand and prepared to render aid if the eaglet was still alive. Sadly, E25 was found to be deceased on scene and was sent off for advanced testing.

“Late evening on Wednesday, Jan. 29, CROW received notification that the two eaglets tested positive for Avian Influenza (HPAI). Per protocols, last night CROW’s medical director notified state and federal agencies.

“The current strain of avian influenza is a highly pathogenic form of the H5N1 virus, which has caused devastating losses in the birds it affects. While some birds, such as waterfowl, can shed the virus while remaining asymptomatic, other species, such as birds of prey, are highly susceptible and can succumb to the disease rapidly, as we witnessed with the eaglets in this nest.

“At this time, CROW does not have authorization to attempt capture of the adult eagle parents, M15 and F23. This task would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, and unsafe because they are both flighted eagles. CROW continues to work in partnership with the Pritchett family, dedicated volunteers, USFWS and FWC to monitor the wellbeing of the adult eagles and we will respond if necessary — while mindful of the safety of the animals and people involved.”

Should the public find a weak or grounded eagle or other wildlife, they are asked to notify the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 888-404-3922 or CROW at 239-322-5068, as the animals should be handled as if they are positive for the virus.

ORIGINAL (Jan. 29, 2025):

SWFL Eaglets Die; CROW Seeks Answers

When watching the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam, viewers see the best Mother Nature has to offer.

Fans worldwide witness North Fort Myers’ most famous eagle pair rebuild their nest, lay eggs, nurture their brood as they hatch, and then care for their young until they fledge and survive on their own.

Unfortunately, Mother Nature has a darker side.

On Jan. 26, viewers saw E24 pass away after a short illness. The death of E25 followed on Jan. 28 at about 3 a.m. when the young eaglet fell from the nest off of Bayshore Road showing similar symptoms.

“We think it was something contagious, but we can’t speculate what it could be. We’re working with CROW (Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife) and local wildlife officials to do a necropsy on both eaglets,” Southwest Florida Eagle Cam founder Virginia Pritchett-McSpadden said on Jan. 28. “They have some ideas what it could be, but don’t know for certain and don’t want to give disinformation.”

E24 was showing signs of distress on Jan. 26 at about 6:41 p.m., she said. The eaglet succumbed quickly. E25 showed the same symptoms as E24 and suffered what appeared to be a seizure before falling out of the nest.

E24 was 43 days old, about halfway to the time eaglets fledge and about the time they are able to feed themselves. E25 was 42 days old.

The parents, M15 and F23, have shown signs of grieving in the nest, Pritchett-McSpadden said. They have stayed close to the nest and even brought in a fish for E25.

She said these developments have left fans questioning what the future of the nest might hold, but they are waiting for facts.

“I don’t want to comment or speculate. We’re not sure what happened. We’re in uncharted territory. We’ve never seen anything like this before,” Pritchett-McSpadden said. “We’re watching and waiting to see like everyone else. I hope they’re able to start their new normal.”

What that new normal will entail is unknown. M15 has some experience. In late 2019, he and former mate Harriett had a clutch of two eggs. One egg was not viable, and the second eaglet died a few weeks after birth after ingesting poison.

In early 2020, M15 and Harriett tried again and had a second clutch that hatched in April of 2020. Both eaglets fledged.

“In the past we’ve had some sad events and we always show Mother Nature at its best and worst. If viewers are too upset by what happened and have stopped tuning in, we understand,” she said. “We hope this is not the end of the story for F and M. We hope that what happened to the eaglets does not spread to them.”

Pritchett-McSpadden said if they receive any updates, viewers will be notified.

Egg No. 1 was laid on Nov. 8 at 2:38 p.m., and E24 hatched on Dec. 14 at 4:01 p.m. Egg No. 2 was laid on Nov. 11 at 6:15 p.m. and hatched on Dec. 17 at 5:48 a.m.

For live updates, visit dickpritchettrealestate.com/southwest-florida-eagle-cam/.

Hurricane Ian provided J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and other managers of Sanibel’s natural lands an opportunity to accelerate plans for restoring historic grasslands. The saltwater inundation of hardwoods and cabbage palms in these once-open marshlands has allowed valued native grasses and ground cover plants to thrive once again, creating essential habitat.

While some of the dead trees along Sanibel-Captiva Road are a direct result of recent flooding, others are due to ongoing habitat management and restoration efforts within the refuge, including the controlled and safe use of pesticides. The refuge has been actively removing dead trees along the shared-use path that are directly under power lines. Trees standing further from the road remain unreachable at present due to wet conditions.

“The current wet conditions are a double-edged sword,” said “Ding” Darling Complex project leader Kevin Godsea. “We cannot take equipment into the wetland marshes right now without damaging the fragile ecosystem. On the other hand, the wet conditions prevent wildfires, like those occurring in California, from igniting. As soon as the land dries, we will be able to remove more of the dead trees using prescribed fire burns.”

The refuge’s marshland management plan has been ongoing for 15 years as part of a continual effort to manage and restore unique wetland communities, combat exotic and invasive species, and reduce hazardous vegetation that could fuel wildfires.

For many years, “Ding” Darling has collaborated with the Sanibel Fire Department, the city of Sanibel, and the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) as part of the Sanibel Firewise Taskforce. This partnership is currently developing a website to address questions regarding upcoming prescribed burns. Additionally, educational signage will be placed around Legion Curve to inform and reassure residents about safety measures.

“While the loss of cabbage palms along Sanibel-Captiva Road may be disheartening, this is a crucial step in preserving Sanibel’s vital marshlands,” said Godsea. “Although many dead trees are visible, they represent only a small fraction of the cabbage palms on our conservation lands. Cabbage palms within the upland ridges dominated by West Indian hardwood hammock habitats have not been and will not be treated or removed. Without active management of wetland habitats, Sanibel Island’s biodiversity and unique marsh ecosystem would be at risk.”

Sundial Beach Resort & Spa on Sanibel Island has announced its grand reopening on February 1, 2025, following an extensive 28-month recovery and renovation in the wake of Hurricane Ian. With revitalized accommodations, expanded recreation, and brand-new dining experiences, the resort is ready to welcome guests back to paradise.

A Warm Welcome to a Reimagined Resort

“The team has worked tirelessly to restore and enhance the Sundial experience and is beyond excited to welcome guests back,” said General Manager Becky Miller. “From beautifully remodeled accommodations to expanded amenities and exciting new dining options, visitors will have the opportunity to create new memories.”

The resort reopens with 74 refreshed guest units, offering a modern and comfortable retreat for travelers. Additional accommodations will continue to be made available as renovations progress.

Exciting New Features & Enhanced Recreation

Guests can look forward to a range of enhanced amenities, including:

• A revitalized pool for relaxation and fun under the sun
• Resurfaced tennis courts and 16 pickleball courts, catering to the fast-growing sport
• All-new recreational equipment, ensuring a dynamic and enjoyable stay

Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, Sundial offers everything needed for the perfect getaway.

New & Enhanced Dining Experiences

The resort’s upgraded dining options feature four on-site restaurants:

• Beach Bites – A brand-new casual dining counter service
• Captain’s Catch – A stylish, Gulf-front restaurant offering fresh seafood and diverse menu options

From quick bites to fine dining with stunning views, Sundial’s culinary offerings cater to all tastes.

Perfect for Special Events & Celebrations

The resort’s event spaces have been fully renovated, making it a premier venue for weddings, corporate meetings, and special gatherings. The elegant ballroom and the scenic, beautifully landscaped Hibiscus Lawn provide stunning settings for unforgettable events.

Daycation Passes & Public Access

To celebrate the reopening, Daycation Passes will be available through April 30, 2025, allowing both locals and visitors to enjoy the resort’s world-class amenities for the day. Tennis and pickleball courts are also open to the public, with flexible membership options for daily, monthly, and annual access.

Plan a Stay at Sundial

Visitors can be among the first to experience the reimagined Sundial Beach Resort & Spa. For more information or to book a stay, visit www.sundialresort.com or call (239) 472-4151.

Sundial Beach Resort & Spa is ready to welcome guests back to paradise.