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Island Update

Inaugural Sanibel Captiva United Way Golf Tournament: A Swing for a Cause

Golf

Get ready to tee off for a great cause! The Sanibel Captiva United Way Committee is excited to announce the Inaugural Sanibel Captiva United Way Golf Tournament — Scramble, happening on January 26 at 7 a.m. at the picturesque Sanibel Island Golf Club.

This premier event will benefit United Way-funded programs through a network of local and countywide agencies, providing essential resources to individuals, families, and seniors in need.

A Day of Golf with a Purpose

“This golf tournament is more than just a fun day on the greens,” shared Committee Chair Tony Lapi. “It’s a chance for our community to come together and support programs that make a real difference, from food assistance and mental health resources to education initiatives. Every dollar raised stays local to help those who need it most.”

Participants will enjoy a day of camaraderie and friendly competition, complete with exciting contests, raffles, and prizes. Beyond the golf course, this event is a powerful reminder of the difference we can make by working together.

Supporting Year-Round Impact

The Sanibel Captiva United Way Committee is dedicated to fostering a culture of giving through various events and initiatives. Proceeds from the tournament and other activities go directly to nonprofits that provide critical services like disaster recovery, youth development, healthcare access, and support for underserved populations.

Committee Member Bill Fellows emphasized the importance of community involvement: “It’s incredible to see the impact we can make together. Whether you participate in the tournament, volunteer, or simply help spread the word, your contribution strengthens our community.”

How You Can Get Involved

Join us for a meaningful day on the greens or support the cause by making a donation. For more information about the golf tournament, sponsorship opportunities, or ways to give back, visit UnitedWayLee.org/Sanibel-Captiva or contact Bill Fellows at 239-850-8948 or Fellows_Bill@comcast.net.

Event Details:

  • When: January 26, 2025 | 7 a.m.
  • Where: Sanibel Island Golf Club, 1100 Par View Drive, Sanibel

Let’s come together to make a difference in our community while enjoying a memorable day of golf!

Categories
Island Update

FDOT Updates Sanibel Causeway Project Progress

FLORIDA-DOT

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) announced updates on the ongoing Sanibel Causeway project. Traffic has been shifted to permanent lanes, but the causeway islands surrounding the temporary roadway remain an active work zone and are closed to public access, including from the water. Limited work activities will occur over the holidays, with no new lane closures scheduled during this time.

Current and Upcoming Work Activities

East from the Toll Plaza
  • Lane Closure: The outside eastbound lane of McGregor Boulevard will remain closed from the toll plaza to approximately 3/4 mile east. The shoulder also remains fully closed to access.
  • Paving and Stabilization: Crews paved the area last week, with shoulder stabilization planned for early 2025.
  • Daytime Flagging: Outside of the holidays, expect temporary daytime flagging for both eastbound and westbound traffic on McGregor Boulevard (from Shell Point Boulevard to Punta Rassa Road) as crews move equipment and materials.
West from the Toll Plaza
  • Barrier Wall Removal: Crews will remove the barrier wall along the Causeway Islands in preparation for final asphalt paving.
  • Recreational Facility Work: Lee County is installing a temporary post and rope system to guide pedestrian traffic during the reconstruction of recreational facilities.
  • Traffic Stops: Motorists may experience intermittent stops as equipment crosses the road to support work on McGregor’s south side and near the toll plaza.
  • Westbound Merge: The westbound merge location is just west of the toll plaza. Motorists are urged to use caution and adhere to the 20 mph speed limit. Construction vehicles and equipment will continue entering/exiting the staging area.

Crews are also working near the off-island U-turn under Span A as part of the project.

Additional Safety Reminders
  • Expect oversized vehicles crossing the causeway as part of ongoing recovery efforts, which may slow traffic.
  • Bicyclists are encouraged to use alternative transportation, and pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway.
  • All motorists should strictly obey the 20 mph speed limit in the work zone for safety.

For further details on the project, visit www.swflroads.com/SanibelCauseway.

Stay patient and cautious as work progresses to enhance the causeway for long-term use.

Categories
Island Update

Sanibel Historical Village Expands Hours for Upcoming Season

HIST-MUSEUM

Starting January 7 through April 30, the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village will operate with expanded hours, welcoming visitors Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admissions will be sold until 3 p.m., and the cost for entry will be $15 for ages 19 and older.

As a special promotion, adults can enjoy discounted $10 admission through January 4, making it the perfect time to explore the village’s rich history. For those looking for year-round benefits, annual memberships start at just $40 and include free admission.

The Village Gift Shop, located in Shore Haven, will also be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is not required to browse the shop, making it a great spot to pick up unique souvenirs or gifts.

Location:
Sanibel Historical Museum and Village
950 Dunlop Road, Sanibel, FL

Contact Information:

Plan your visit and discover the charm and stories of Sanibel’s past!

Categories
Island Update

CIHS History Gallery Temporarily Closed for Storm Recovery

CAPTIVA-CIHS-GALLERY-UPDATE

The Captiva Island Historical Society (CIHS) has provided an important update regarding its beloved History Gallery. Nestled within the Captiva Memorial Library, the gallery is a faithful replica of the iconic mailboat Santiva, showcasing historical artifacts and interactive multimedia exhibits. This unique space draws thousands of visitors annually, serving as a cornerstone of CIHS’s mission to preserve and share the island’s rich history.

Unfortunately, the gallery sustained significant damage due to water intrusion during two consecutive storms, Hurricane Helene in late September and Hurricane Milton in early October. The hurricanes caused extensive damage to the library building, impacting the Santiva replica and its contents.

After consulting with construction experts, CIHS has made the difficult decision to disassemble the gallery to salvage and protect its artifacts. Items that can be saved will be dried and stored in climate-controlled containers, with plans to reassemble the gallery once the library undergoes necessary repairs.

While the news is disheartening, CIHS remains resilient. “We are an organization fueled by determination, community, visitors, and caring folks just like you,” shared CIHS Board President Tom Libonate. He added that many supporters have asked how they can assist during this challenging time.

How You Can Help

The CIHS is currently accepting donations to aid in the repair and restoration of the History Gallery. Contributions will ensure that this vital piece of Captiva’s heritage continues to educate and inspire future generations.

For more information or to make a donation, please visit the CIHS website at www.captivaislandhistoricalsociety.org.

Location Details

The Captiva Memorial Library, home to the CIHS History Gallery, is located at:
11560 Chapin Lane, Captiva, FL.

Your support is vital to bringing the History Gallery back to life. Together, we can preserve this treasured landmark for years to come.

Categories
Island Update

Rec center and partners to present New Year New You Health Fair

Sanibel Rec center

The New Year New You Health Fair is your chance to kick off 2025 with a focus on health and wellness! Presented by the Sanibel Recreation Department in partnership with Lee Health and the Sanibel Captiva Business Women’s Association, this free community event is packed with activities, educational resources, and health screenings.

Event Highlights:
  • Educational Booths: Over 25 booths providing valuable health and wellness information, including lung cancer awareness, chiropractic care, financial health, veterinary medicine, and more.
  • Health Screenings:
    • Body Composition Screenings by Lee Health
    • Lung Cancer Screenings
    • Foot Screenings by Fleet Feet
    • Blood Pressure Screenings by the Sanibel Fire and Rescue District
    • Balance Screenings by Fyzical Therapy and Balance Centers
    • Mobile Services:
      • 3D Mobile Mammography Bus
      • On Spot Dermatology
        (Appointments recommended, walk-ins welcome!)
  • Interactive Demos and Services:
    • Chair massages by Sanibel Skin Spa and Sanibel Wellness
    • Energy strength testing
    • Medicine disposal drop-off provided by the Sanibel Police Department
  • Fitness Classes:
    • 9:00 a.m.: Chair Yoga (Lorna) and Cycle Zone (Ginger)
    • 10:30 a.m.: Functional Strength & Endurance (Ginger)
    • 12:00 p.m.: LaBlast Dance Fitness (Tracy)
Special Participants:
  • Barre Roots, FISH of Sanibel-Captiva, GenesisCare, Humana, J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, and many more.
  • Experts from Island Therapy Center, Sanibel Pilates & Spa, Island Wellness Pharmacy, and the United Way 211 will also be available.
Event Details:
  • Date: January 4, 2025
  • Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Location: Sanibel Recreation Center, 3880 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel
  • Cost: Free and open to the public

Attendees will need to complete a waiver at the front desk upon arrival.

Advance Appointments:

For additional information, contact the Sanibel Recreation Center at 239-472-0345.

Don’t miss this opportunity to reconnect with your community, take advantage of free preventive health measures, and set a healthy tone for the new year!

Categories
SWFL Update

Eaglet Hatchlings Thrill Fans on Southwest Florida Eagle Cam

SWFL Eagle Cam

Southwest Florida’s beloved eagle pair, M15 and F23, have welcomed two new eaglets, delighting fans of the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam. The hatching of E24 and E25 marks another milestone in the 13th season of this globally renowned live stream.

Hatchling Highlights
  • Egg 1: Laid on Nov. 8 at 2:38 p.m., hatched as E24 on Dec. 14 at 4:01 p.m.
  • Egg 2: Laid on Nov. 11 at 6:15 p.m., hatched as E25 on Dec. 17 at 5:48 a.m.

Viewers witnessed the magical moments unfold via the multi-camera setup streaming live from the nest on the Pritchett property in North Fort Myers. With over 225 million views worldwide since its inception, the Eagle Cam continues to captivate audiences.

On Dec. 16, a close-up of the second egg revealed signs of movement as the eaglet began to break through the shell. The process wasn’t immediate—like in cartoons—but a gradual effort. By the morning of Dec. 17, E25 emerged, still wet and partially inside the cracked shell, exhausted but alive.

A Season of Growth

This is the second season for M15 and F23 as a pair. Last year, only one egg hatched successfully, while the second was damaged before hatching. The new eaglets bring a fresh challenge as the pair now raises two eaglets together for the first time.

Southwest Florida Eagle Cam founder Ginnie Pritchett-McSpadden expressed excitement and relief:

“Last year, we only had one hatch. I was a little nervous this time, but it’s great to see them both hatch successfully. Watching them eat, bob their heads, and gain strength is such a treat—it’s cuteness overload!”

The Legacy of M15 and Harriet

M15 is no stranger to the spotlight. He was the mate of the original nest matriarch, Harriet, for eight years. After Harriet’s disappearance in 2023, M15 bonded with F23, continuing the legacy of the nest first established by Ozzie and Harriet in 2006. The Eagle Cam has documented their lives, making them icons of conservation awareness.

What’s Next for E24 and E25?

The eaglets will experience rapid growth in the coming weeks, undergoing a remarkable transformation:

  • First 30 Days: Significant growth in height and weight.
  • Next 30 Days: Development of feathers to replace their downy coating.
  • Final 30 Days: Practice branching and wing exercises in preparation for fledging.

Within six weeks, the eaglets will nearly match the size of their parents, and by early spring, they are expected to fledge from the nest.

Immersive Eagle Viewing

Fans can follow the eaglets’ journey on the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam, which provides a unique, real-time look into their daily lives. The setup includes:

  • Camera 1: Positioned 7 feet above the nest with night vision.
  • Camera 2: Captures side views at nest level.
  • Camera 3: A 360-degree live-streaming camera offering an interactive experience.
  • Camera 4: Focuses on the pond and surrounding pasture.

For updates and to watch the action unfold, visit the Southwest Florida Eagle Cam. The season promises to be an exciting chapter in the life of these majestic birds!

Categories
Real Estate News

Florida Consumer Sentiment Reaches Three-Year High

Florida Next 17th Work From Home

Consumer sentiment among Floridians surged in November, reaching 81.1, the highest level in over three years, according to a study by the University of Florida’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research (BEBR). This represents a 3.7-point increase from October’s revised figure of 77.4, far outpacing the modest national increase of just over one point.

Key Factors Driving Optimism

Hector H. Sandoval, director of UF’s Economic Analysis Program, highlighted significant gains in Floridians’ expectations for their personal finances and the national economy:

“The increase reflects optimism in personal financial outlooks for the coming year and a robust belief in the national economy’s strength over the next one to five years. Notably, expectations for the economy reached levels last seen before the pandemic in early 2020.”

Sandoval attributed the sentiment boost to several factors, including the outcomes of the national presidential election and a recent interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve.

“This is the first consumer sentiment reading following the election. With 56.1% of Florida’s vote going to President-elect Donald Trump, it’s not surprising to see a surge in sentiment, especially among those aligned with the winning party. Additionally, the Fed’s quarter-point rate cut in early November, which lowered borrowing costs, likely contributed to this optimistic outlook.”

Positive Trends Across Components

All five components of the consumer sentiment index improved in November, reflecting widespread optimism:

  • Current Economic Conditions:
    • Floridians’ perception of their personal financial situations compared to a year ago rose by 3.6 points (57.3 to 60.9).
    • Opinions on whether it’s a good time to purchase major household items, such as appliances, increased by 3.2 points (60.9 to 64.1).
  • Expected Economic Conditions:
    • Expectations for personal finances a year from now saw the largest jump, rising 4.6 points (90.8 to 95.4).
    • Outlooks on U.S. economic conditions over the next year climbed 3.8 points (87.4 to 91.2).
    • Expectations for the U.S. economy over the next five years rose 3.7 points (90.3 to 94).

Demographic Insights

The study revealed generally optimistic views across most demographic groups. However:

  • Men: Reported less favorable spending intentions.
  • Women: Expressed more pessimistic views about the national economy over the next year.

Implications for Holiday Shopping and Beyond

The rise in consumer sentiment coincides with the holiday shopping season, suggesting stronger-than-expected retail sales. Sandoval noted:

“This is great news for Florida retailers, as spending intentions also saw significant increases this month.”

Looking ahead, Sandoval predicts modest improvements in sentiment as election-related gains stabilize. However, he emphasized uncertainty regarding the incoming administration’s policies:

“Indicators such as consumer sentiment, stock market performance, and spending trends will be crucial in evaluating the economy during the presidential transition.”

About the Study

The UF study, conducted from October 1 to November 26, included responses from 619 individuals (367 reached by cellphone and 252 via an online panel). The index is benchmarked to 1966, with values ranging from 2 (minimum) to 150 (maximum). A score of 100 reflects the confidence level of that benchmark year.

For more details, visit the University of Florida’s Bureau of Economic and Business Research

Categories
Island Update

Ribbon-Cutting Marks New Chapter for Bleu Rendezvous French Bistro

CHAMBER BIZ RIBBON CUTTING

On December 17, the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Chamber of Commerce joined friends and community members to celebrate the grand reopening of the Bleu Rendezvous French Bistro under its new owners, Laurence and Chef Pierre Bastien.

A Culinary Journey Back to Their Roots

Laurence and Pierre Bastien’s love story began at the Culinary School in Paris, where they met as teenagers. After a decade of working in restaurants and hotels across France, they decided to pursue new careers—Laurence opened an office design company, while Pierre served as a motorcycle police officer.

But their passion for the culinary arts never faded. “Last year, we decided to return to the restaurant industry,” Laurence shared. “We searched for a business to buy in Florida and found this charming French bistro last summer.”

Continuing a Sanibel Tradition

The Bleu Rendezvous was previously owned by Christian and Mari Vivet, who established it as a beloved local gem in 2015. After Hurricane Ian devastated Sanibel in 2022, the Vivets reopened the bistro at a new location but decided to retire after 50 years of dedication to the restaurant industry.

“They made a wonderful transition with us, freshly arrived from Paris in September, proud to continue this French story in Sanibel,” Laurence said.

Chamber President and CEO John Lai praised the Vivets’ legacy and expressed excitement for the bistro’s future:

“The Vivets made Bleu Rendezvous one of Sanibel’s most cherished restaurants. Chef Christian began the tradition of authentic French cuisine, and Chef Pierre is now carrying it forward.”

Visit Bleu Rendezvous

Located at 751 Tarpon Road, Bleu Rendezvous continues to serve authentic French cuisine with its signature charm and elegance. Whether you’re a longtime patron or a first-time visitor, the Bastiens invite you to experience the next chapter of this culinary tradition.

Stop by to celebrate this exciting new era for Bleu Rendezvous French Bistro!

Categories
Island Update

Bailey Tract to Temporarily Close for Trail Enhancements

Wildlife Tract

The J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge has announced the temporary closure of the Bailey Tract on Tarpon Bay Road during the month of January. The closure will allow for much-needed trail enhancements aimed at improving accessibility to the Mindfulness Trail and Ani Pond Trail.

Renovation Details

As the site of the first-ever U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Mindfulness Trail, the upgrades will include:

  • Resurfacing the trails with fine rock and gravel.
  • Leveling and widening the pathways for better accessibility.

The project is supported by federal funding from the Great American Outdoors Act and Hurricane Ian disaster supplemental funds, ensuring the trails meet modern standards while preserving their natural charm.

Program Changes

The Free Winter Programs originally scheduled to begin on Jan. 6 will be postponed until the Bailey Tract reopens.

For real-time updates and additional information, visit the refuge’s official Facebook page.

These enhancements will make the Bailey Tract an even more enjoyable and accessible destination for visitors once it reopens. Stay tuned for reopening announcements and program rescheduling details!

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Uncategorized

Yellow Necklacepod: A Pollinator-Friendly Native Shrub

Yellow necklacepod

The yellow necklacepod (Sophora tomentosa var. truncata) is a native evergreen shrub found throughout central and south Florida. Belonging to the pea family (Fabaceae), this hardy plant thrives in Florida’s coastal habitats, such as dunes, coastal strands, and hammocks. Its natural resilience makes it both drought- and salt-tolerant, making it a valuable addition to Florida-friendly landscapes.

Growth and Characteristics
  • Size & Shape: A fast-growing shrub, it typically reaches up to 10 feet in height and 4-8 feet in width.
  • Foliage: The leaves are pinnately compound and slightly glabrous, giving them a smooth, shiny appearance.
  • Flowers: Yellow necklacepod produces vibrant yellow flowers year-round, making it a standout in any garden.
  • Seed Pods: After blooming, it forms unique seed pods resembling a beaded necklace, which inspired its name.
Planting and Care
  • Light & Soil: Prefers full sun and well-draining soils. Once established, it can withstand periods of drought but cannot tolerate freezing temperatures.
  • Maintenance: Minimal care is required, as this plant is well-adapted to Florida’s coastal conditions.
Toxicity Warning

The seeds of the yellow necklacepod contain alkaloids, which are toxic if consumed. Care should be taken if planted in areas frequented by pets or children.

Native vs. Nonnative Varieties

The native variety is often confused with its nonnative counterpart, Sophora tomentosa var. occidentalis, which is commonly sold at big box stores. The nonnative variety can be identified by the small hairs that cover the plant, unlike the smooth native variety. Be cautious when purchasing, as the two can hybridize. To ensure you’re planting the native species, buy from reputable nurseries.

Wildlife Benefits

Yellow necklacepod is a fantastic choice for wildlife gardens. Its striking yellow flowers attract a wide array of pollinators, including:

  • Butterflies
  • Bees
  • Hummingbirds

By incorporating this plant into your garden, you not only enjoy its beauty but also support essential pollinator populations. Whether you’re creating a coastal landscape or a pollinator haven, the yellow necklacepod is a valuable and eco-friendly addition.