Author: LeAneSUAREZGroup

Tickets are now available for the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village’s next “Twilight Talk” program, a special film screening and discussion held in partnership with BIG ARTS.

The event, titled “Wreckage, Resilience & Recovery: THE HISTORY OF HURRICANES ON SANIBEL,” is scheduled for November 8 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the BIG ARTS center. Doors will open at 6 p.m., with a cash bar and popcorn available.

This program will feature a screening of the hour-long documentary, which details Sanibel’s harrowing experiences with major hurricanes in the century before Hurricane Ian. The film covers the significant storms of 1910, 1921, 1926, 1944, 1960, and 2004.

Using historic transcripts, the film brings the words of early settlers to life through voice actors, painting a picture of an era without advanced warning systems or a causeway for escape.

According to Pamela Miner, Executive Director of the historical village, the film highlights how each of these events shaped the island’s community and natural environment. “It shows that progression of response, recovery and resilience each time,” she said.

After the film, attendees will be treated to a discussion with the filmmaker, Ken Sneeden. An award-winning journalist, Sneeden will talk about his process and the “Documentary as Art Form.” He has produced numerous acclaimed films for both the Sanibel Historical Museum and the Captiva Island Historical Society. A Q&A session will follow.

“We’re very excited about the upcoming collaborations that we have with the Sanibel historical museum this year,” added BIG ARTS Executive Director Lee Ellen Harder.

Tickets are $25 and reservations are required.

How to Attend:

• What: Twilight Talk: “Wreckage, Resilience & Recovery”
• When: Nov. 8, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Doors open at 6 p.m.)
• Where: BIG ARTS, 900 Dunlop Road, Sanibel
• Cost: $25
• Tickets: Visit bigarts.org to reserve your seat.
• More Info: Visit sanibelmuseum.org or call 239-472-4648.

The Sanibel and Captiva islands are buzzing with new activity as the SanCap Chamber celebrates a trio of ribbon-cuttings, showcasing significant progress in accommodations and services ahead of the winter season.

“It’s so exciting… to see this surge in official openings,” said Chamber President John Lai, calling it a return to a “vital, fully realized vacation destination.”

Here’s a look at the businesses celebrating their grand openings.

1. The Kona Kai Motel (Sanibel)

This classic 1960s-era motel celebrated its ribbon-cutting on Oct. 30, marking a massive comeback.

• The Challenge: After 4 feet of water, a complete rebuild was necessary. Owners Steve and Denise Rodenburg secured an SBA loan to cover the $2 million cost beyond insurance.
• The Comeback: The motel welcomed its first post-Ian guest in August. It retains its original Hawaiian theme and footprint but now features modern, ADA-compliant upgrades, larger bathrooms, and a new pool party room.
• Visit: 1539 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

2. The Beach House at South Seas (Captiva)

This new restaurant at South Seas on Captiva held its celebration on Oct. 28.

• The Vibe: “Refined casual” dining on Sunset Beach, open to resort guests and Captiva Club members. It seats 240 and features panoramic windows with stunning gulf views.
• The Menu: Serves lunch, dinner, and a dessert/nightcap menu. Highlights include “towering tin-can nachos” and crab-crusted mahi.
• Visit: 5400 Plantation Drive, Captiva

3. Alliant Association Management (Sanibel)

Also celebrating on Oct. 28, Alliant opened its new Sanibel office to better serve the community.

• The Mission: Though they’ve served the islands since 2011, this physical office (open since March) is a “strategic move” to provide dedicated support to HOAs and condo associations navigating post-hurricane recovery and rebuilding.
• Visit: 1633 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

The SanCap Chamber has officially announced the major sponsors for one of the islands’ most anticipated holiday traditions. The 39th annual Luminary Stroll, set for December 5 on Sanibel and December 6 on Captiva, will be powered by strong community support.

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank is leading the way as the event’s official presenting sponsor.

Joining them are gold sponsors Michael Saunders & Company and the Sarah Ashton — Ashton Kirchner Group.

This year’s stroll is especially significant as it will serve as a final highlight for the city of Sanibel’s 50th-anniversary celebration.

Attendees can look forward to a festive and magical atmosphere filled with holiday cheer. Highlights will include:

• A live nativity scene
• Visits from Santa
• Live music throughout the islands
• A special guest of honor from WINK meteorology
• Special treats and activities hosted by local businesses and organizations

On the evenings of the stroll, the chamber will hand out maps detailing all participating merchants, so you won’t miss a thing.

Get Involved!

The Chamber noted that sponsorship opportunities are still available for other businesses looking to support this beloved community event.

For more information on becoming a sponsor, please contact Aaron Walton at aaron@sanibel-captiva.org or 239-472-8759.

The Captiva Island Historical Society (CIHS) has announced that its kickoff event for the season, “Rediscover Cabbage Key,” originally scheduled for November 10, has been postponed.

The decision was made due to a challenging weather forecast, which predicted high winds and chilly temperatures, making the boat cruise unsafe and uncomfortable for guests.

CIHS will announce a new, rescheduled date for the event soon.

For ticket holders: If you have already purchased tickets, they will be honored for the new date. If the rescheduled date is inconvenient for you, your tickets are fully refundable.

About the Anticipated Event

The “Rediscover Cabbage Key” cruise was planned as the first event of the CIHS season, offering a unique evening excursion from 4 to 7 p.m.

The event includes a roundtrip cruise departing from McCarthy’s Marina on Captiva Cruises’ Lady Chadwick. This trip is special because it offers a rare chance to be on Pine Island Sound for a sunset cruise and a return trip in the dark.

During the journey, local historians and CIHS Directors Betty Anholt and Capt. Brian Holaway are set to share their extensive knowledge of the area, from Calusa history to the intricacies of navigating the local waters.

Once at Cabbage Key—an island accessible only by boat—guests were scheduled to enjoy a casual dinner at the historic Cabbage Key Inn & Restaurant. Rob Wells, the second-generation owner, was planning to share stories about the inn’s history, the island, and the thousands of dollar bills famously taped to the restaurant’s walls.

The $100 ticket includes the cruise, dinner, soft drinks, and one alcoholic beverage.

The CIHS season is presented by sponsor Florida Trust Wealth Management.

The community is invited to stay tuned for the new date. According to CIHS Public Relations Director Kathy Ferrari, the event is a unique chance to “watch a beautiful sunset” and gain a “great wealth of knowledge” about the islands’ history.

For updates on the new date or refund information:

• Visit: http://www.captivaislandhistoricalsociety.org/
• Call: 239-472-2323

Great news for Sanibel’s boating community! The city has announced the partial reopening of the Sanibel Boat Ramp, effective November 8th.

This marks a significant step forward in the major Dock Replacement Project, which has been underway since September 8. While the project is still in its final stages, boaters will now have access to one-half of the ramp, allowing a return to the water just in time for the beautiful weather.

Important: Still an Active Construction Zone

Before you hitch up your trailer, the city urges everyone to use extreme caution. The project is not fully complete.

Crews and heavy equipment will still be on-site finishing the remaining work. For your safety and the safety of the workers, please be mindful of the following:

• Pay close attention to all posted signs and barricades.
• Be aware of active work zones and worker presence.
• Exercise patience and caution when launching and retrieving your boat.

The remaining work is expected to be completed in the next few weeks, as long as the weather cooperates.

A Major Upgrade for Sanibel’s Waterways

This project is more than just a repair; it’s a complete overhaul of the facility. The old, aging wooden docks are being replaced with new, highly durable materials.

Once fully complete, the new boat ramp and dock facilities will provide:

• Enhanced safety for all users.
• Improved accessibility for boaters.
• A more durable and user-friendly experience for years to come.

This replacement represents a major investment in Sanibel’s marine infrastructure and ensures continued recreational access to our beautiful waterways.

The city appreciates the community’s patience during this important upgrade and looks forward to welcoming everyone back to a fully improved facility soon.

For Project Updates: You can find the latest information by visiting mysanibel.com or by contacting the Public Works Department at 239-472-6397.

Option 2 (Short & Scannable Style)

Title: Sanibel Boat Ramp is Partially Open! Here’s What You Need to Know

Boaters, start your engines! The City of Sanibel has announced that the Sanibel Boat Ramp will partially reopen starting Wednesday, November 8.

This is a key milestone in the ongoing Dock Replacement Project that began in September. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect.

What’s Open?

• One-half (one lane) of the boat ramp is now open for public use.

What’s the Warning? (Safety First!)

The facility is still an active construction site. The project is not 100% finished.

Please use extreme caution. Workers and equipment are still present. For everyone’s safety, respect all posted signage and stay out of barricaded work zones.

What’s New?

This project is a major upgrade. The old wooden docks have been replaced with new, durable materials. The final, completed facility will offer enhanced safety, better accessibility, and a much-improved experience for the entire Sanibel boating community.

Crews are working to complete the final touches in the coming weeks (weather permitting).

Bailey’s General Store on Sanibel has unveiled its much-anticipated 2025 Christmas ornament, transforming a piece of storm history into a potent symbol of resilience, community, and the island’s journey toward recovery following Hurricane Ian in September 2022.

This year’s unique ornament is crafted from a fragment of the original, weathered Bailey’s sign that was famously salvaged from the parking lot in the storm’s aftermath.

A Piece of History, A Daily Reminder

The distressed sign fragment has stood at the entrance of “A Bit of Bailey’s,” their interim Rabbit Road location, serving as a powerful, daily touchpoint for visitors—a quiet testament to both the losses sustained and the determination driving the rebuilding effort. By reimagining this historical piece as a holiday ornament, the Bailey family is inviting the community to celebrate not just the season, but the unyielding spirit of perseverance that defines Sanibel.

“We have a bit of the sign for A Bit of Bailey’s,” said fourth-generation family member Dane Johnson. “It’s a reminder of where we’ve been and where we’re going, as we continue toward full recovery.”

Adding a layer of personal significance, this year also marks the arrival of Johnson’s daughter, the first member of the family’s fifth generation. The ornament is therefore described as a “symbol of continuity, honoring the past while looking forward with hope and gratitude to the future.”

Continuing a Beloved Tradition

The annual ornament tradition began in 2009, an idea championed by longtime staff member Pat Kiely. Her dedication led to the creation of the first custom-made, gold-plated ornament by the Charleston Mint, which featured the original Bailey’s logo (and has since sold out permanently).

How to Purchase & Support Recovery

The 2025 resilience ornament is available for purchase now:

• In-Store: At A Bit of Bailey’s, located at 975 Rabbit Road, Sanibel.
• Online: Through Bailey’s online store at: https://baileysofsanibel.myshopify.com/

A portion of the proceeds from the ornament sales will be donated to support ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts across Sanibel and Captiva.

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is celebrating a major milestone, completing its 10th year of nighttime sea turtle research efforts! This season, the dedicated sea turtle team successfully documented 167 unique sea turtles during their beach patrols.

From May 1 through July 31, the team conducted nightly patrols on Sanibel, intercepting and monitoring nesting females to tag and collect vital data.

Tracking Individuals to Understand Behavior

Each time a turtle is encountered, she is checked for existing tags. If she’s a newcomer, she receives new tags—a tiny but mighty investment in her long-term tracking.

“Our efforts allow us to track individual turtles’ nesting and movement patterns over time, providing valuable insight into their reproductive behavior,” explains SCCF sea turtle biologist Savannah Weber.

In the 2025 season alone, the team recorded 320 sea turtle encounters with 167 distinct individuals:

• 163 were Loggerhead turtles.
• 4 were Green turtles.

Notably, 100 turtles—or 60% of all individuals—were new to the program and encountered for the very first time. Since the nighttime tagging program began in 2016, the SCCF has documented a cumulative total of 1,293 sea turtles.

“Those are just the turtles we encounter,” Weber notes. “There are many others that we don’t see.”

A “Space” Theme for New Turtles

To manage the extensive data and identify individuals quickly, every turtle encountered for the first time receives an honorary name based on the season’s theme. This year, the theme was “Space,” inspiring names like Neptune, Big Dipper, Supernova, and Galileo.

The team also welcomed back 67 returning females previously documented, which accounts for 40% of all individuals. This marks a significant increase from the previous year, when returning females made up only 27%.

A special shout-out goes to “fan favorite” Oregano, first tagged in 2018.

“Oregano has now nested on Sanibel for four consecutive years—2022, 2023, 2024 and now 2025,” says Weber.

Observed laying a nest on Sanibel’s west end in July, Oregano is also one of the largest females documented, with a shell measuring just over 3.2 feet long.

Sharing Data for Regional Conservation

The SCCF’s research extends beyond Sanibel by sharing its data with regional partners like the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, Mote Marine Laboratory, and Sarasota County.

“It makes all of our efforts more valuable to share data,” emphasizes Weber. This collaboration helps paint a comprehensive picture of sea turtle nesting and movement across the region.

Year	Unique Individuals Documented
2025	167
2024	187
2023	222 (A record-breaking year)
2022	125

Community Notice: F.I.S.H. “Jog N Jam” 10K/5K Race – Traffic Advisory

Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025
Location: Sanibel Island

Sanibel’s vibrant community spirit takes center stage this weekend with the annual F.I.S.H. “Jog N Jam” 10K/5K Race! This fun-filled event brings together runners, walkers, and families in support of a great local cause.

To keep everyone safe along the race route, temporary road closures will be in effect on Saturday morning. Please review the schedule below and plan your travel accordingly.

Road Closures & Estimated Times

• 7:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
  Periwinkle Way (Eastbound & Westbound) — from The Community House to Tarpon Bay Road

• 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
  Tarpon Bay Road — from Periwinkle Way to West Gulf Drive

• 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
  West Gulf Drive to Algiers Lane — southbound lane open for one-way traffic only

• 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
  Island Inn Road — from Tarpon Bay Road to Turtle Gait Road

⏱ Please note: Closure times are approximate and may vary depending on how quickly participants clear the course.

Travel & Safety Reminders

• Expect minor traffic delays in the morning hours.

• Watch for pedestrians and follow all directions from law enforcement and event signage.

• If you’re heading out early, consider taking alternate routes where possible.

Your patience and cooperation help make this community tradition a success for everyone!

For additional information or questions about traffic control, please contact the Sanibel Police Department at (239) 472-3111.

Get ready to experience waterfront dining like never before! After months of renovation following Hurricane Ian, the historic building at Fisherman’s Wharf—celebrating its 100th birthday this year—is roaring back to life as the Bonita Fish Co., officially opening on November 3rd.

The new concept, located almost directly beneath the Matanzas Pass Bridge, is brought to you by the HM Restaurant Group (owners of Dixie Fish Co. and Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille).

A Blend of History and New Flavor

Formerly known for 30 years as Bonita Bill’s, the newly transformed Bonita Fish Co. honors the century-old building while introducing a completely fresh and distinct dining experience.

“The fact that we’re able to preserve that [century-old building] and add our spin to it is really important to us. I think people are going to love it,” says Joe Harrity, managing partner of HM Restaurant Group.

The Menu: Truly Unique Coastal Cuisine

Managed by Executive Chef Chas Tatigian, who is thrilled to build a menu from scratch, Bonita Fish Co. will stand apart from its sister restaurants. You won’t find a single duplicate dish!

The menu emphasizes Gulf-caught seafood, coastal classics, and a touch of Old Florida nostalgia. Highlights include:

• Smoked Mullet: Recommended by Harrity as a nod to Old Florida dining.
• Seafood Delights: Fried grouper sandwiches, shrimp torpedoes, fresh oysters, peel-and-eat shrimp, and house-made chowder.
• Unique Bites: Smoked corned beef brisket and incredible shrimp and corn fritters.
• The BFC Hot Chicken Sandwich (for those craving heat!).

Brunch is Served!

Brunch runs Fridays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Don’t miss the homemade cinnamon rolls and signature drinks, including the smoky-sweet Bonita Mary and the Mimosa of the Day.

Waterfront Views & Private Events

Beyond the food, the location offers stunning open-air waterfront dining. The new Bayside Private Events space can accommodate groups up to 120, perfect for weddings or special celebrations, or it can be used for restaurant overflow.

In the near future, the location will also feature a new marina, designed to accommodate up to 35 boats as long as 90 feet.

Hours to Know

• Lunch & Dinner: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. (Mon. – Thu.)
• Weekend Hours: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. (Fri. – Sun.)
• Brunch: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Fri. – Sun.)

Bonita Fish Co. General Manager Krystian Martinez and the team of 70-80 employees are ready to welcome you to their “absolutely beautiful” new space.