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Island Update

Doc Ford’s Fort Myers Beach Wins Two ‘Best of the Best’ Awards

FMB Doc Ford

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille’s Fort Myers Beach location has once again been recognized for excellence, winning the titles of Best All Around Restaurant and Best Waterfront Restaurant in The News-Press’ 2024 Best of the Best Fort Myers Community Choice Awards. This marks the second consecutive year that Doc Ford’s has received these prestigious honors.

The Best of the Best Awards highlight top businesses across Southwest Florida, with nominations and voting conducted online throughout the summer. The winners were officially announced during a gala event on September 5.

“We’re incredibly grateful to be recognized by the Southwest Florida community for our food, service, and atmosphere,” said Joe Harrity, a partner with HM Restaurant Group, the parent company of Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille. “These awards are a testament to the dedication and passion of our Fort Myers Beach team.”

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille is known for delivering an exceptional guest experience, offering a unique blend of Caribbean-inspired cuisine with a signature flair. The restaurant is open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and features live music most evenings at both its Fort Myers Beach and St. Petersburg Pier locations. In addition to Fort Myers Beach, Doc Ford’s has locations on Sanibel Island, the St. Petersburg Pier, and Jungle Terrace in St. Petersburg.

Owned by HM Restaurant Group, Doc Ford’s is famous for its flavorful dishes, including the iconic Yucatan shrimp, savory sauces, and spices that draw inspiration from the Caribbean Rim. Since its founding on Sanibel Island in 2003, the restaurant has earned a loyal following and numerous accolades, including the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award. Its St. Petersburg Pier location was also named the county’s Best of the Best Restaurants for Everyday Eats in 2023.

Beyond its culinary success, Doc Ford’s is deeply committed to giving back to the community. The restaurant supports local conservation efforts and children’s hospitals, with proceeds from its specialty cocktails going toward these causes. Additionally, Doc Ford’s hosts the “Ding” Darling Doc Ford’s Tarpon Tournament, which has raised nearly $1.3 million for Sanibel’s J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge since its inception in 2012. The 13th annual tournament is scheduled for May 9, 2025.

For more information about Doc Ford’s and to explore their menu, visit docfords.com.

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Island Update

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank Opens New Location on Sanibel Island

SanCap Bank

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank has officially opened its second Sanibel location at 1019 Periwinkle Way, located on the east end of the island. This new branch is just two buildings down from their former branch at 1037 Periwinkle Way. In 2021, the bank purchased the John R. Wood building to expand its presence on the island, offering a larger and more modern facility.

After completing construction in September 2022, the new location unfortunately sustained significant damage from Hurricane Ian, necessitating a full reconstruction. As of September 2023, John R. Wood Properties has been occupying a portion of the 5,200-square-foot building, and Sanibel Captiva Community Bank is leasing additional office space to Coastal Title Services of Southwest Florida, which occupies 850 square feet in the rear of the building.

The new location, renovated by Benchmark Construction, boasts several upgraded features, including a drive-thru, electric car charging station, safety deposit boxes, and a small conference room with video conferencing capabilities. A drive-up ATM is also planned for the near future.

“We’re thrilled to have our new east-end location open for business,” said Kyle DeCicco, President and CEO of Sanibel Captiva Community Bank. “Our customers have relied on this location for years, and we’re excited to welcome them back to an improved office space. This is an important step in regaining normalcy and providing a second convenient location on Sanibel.”

Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, founded in 2003, operates eight branches across Lee County. The McGregor Branch in Fort Myers is temporarily operating out of a mobile banking unit due to flood damage, with a new building slated for completion in 2025. The bank is also planning to open a ninth branch on Fort Myers Beach in 2026.

Ranked in the top 2% of best-performing community banks by S&P Global Market Intelligence, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank is recognized for its financial strength and community involvement. With over 120 employees—more than 60% of whom are shareholders—the bank has contributed over $4.5 million to local charities and community causes. The staff also volunteers nearly 1,000 hours annually.

The bank offers personalized banking services for individuals and businesses, specializing in residential and commercial lending. Their full suite of digital banking tools includes mobile apps, instant issue debit cards, online bill pay, Zelle®, Positive Pay, and ACH Manager. For more information, visit sancapbank.com.

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Real Estate News

August 2024 Market Report for Southwest Florida

Southwest Florida Market Perspective:
Closed sales during August were sluggish, with 1,646 sales reported for the month. However, the number of homes for sale in Southwest Florida fell 4% since July, marking four consecutive month-over-month declines in listing inventory. As a result, months of supply tightened slightly month-over-month, from 6.24 to 6.08, remaining within the 6 to 12 months considered to reflect a balanced market in Southwest Florida.
Under balanced market conditions, sellers should expect homes to sell within a reasonable period of time, but not as quickly as they did during the pandemic driven buying surge. Closed sales for August posted an average of 76 days on the market, faring well compared to the 85-day average posted under balanced market conditions in the three years preceding the pandemic. Sellers should also bear in mind that buyers have choices, and that pricing in line with recent closed sales and to compete with other available properties is a necessary strategy when it comes to attracting offers.
For buyers, although a balanced market means options exist now that didn’t during the sellers’ market of years past, it also means that properly priced homes are selling and may not last long. For buyers and sellers alike, with the average sale price having moved little in recent years, pricing can be harder to assess which is only one of many complexities that make the expertise of a skilled, professional Realtor® a critical component to achieving the highest success.
We are pleased to announce that through August, John R. Wood Christie’s International Real Estate continues to rank as the top brokerage in total year-to-date sales volume and transactions in Southwest Florida!*
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Island Update

Sanibel Island Kicks Off 50th Anniversary with Three Community Events

The City of Sanibel, in collaboration with the SanCap Chamber and local organizations, is set to begin a 13-month celebration of Sanibel Island’s 50th anniversary, marking its incorporation as a city in 1974. The festivities will kick off on November 5, 2024, the official incorporation date, with a series of exciting community events.

Event 1: Time Capsule Opening – November 5, 2024
The celebration begins on November 5 at 4 p.m. with a free Time Capsule Opening at City Hall, located at 800 Dunlop Road. Mayor Richard Johnson and the city council will preside over this historic event. The time capsule, buried decades ago, symbolizes Sanibel’s successful grassroots movement to establish home rule and prevent overdevelopment, leading to the creation of the environmentally conscious Sanibel Plan.

Event 2: Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony – November 30, 2024
The festivities continue with a Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony on November 30 at 5 p.m. in Sanibel Community Park. This free event will include refreshments, and the lighting of a majestic 20-foot tree adorned with festive decorations that will stay on display through December.

Event 3: Sanibel Luminary Holiday Stroll – December 6, 2024
One of the island’s most beloved traditions, the Sanibel Luminary Holiday Stroll, will return on December 6 at 5:30 p.m. after a two-year hiatus. This special event will light up the island’s pathways with luminary candles, holiday lights, and feature treats, Santa photos, a live nativity scene, and musical entertainment. The following evening, Captiva Island will host its own Luminary Stroll on December 7.

Looking Ahead: A Year-Long Celebration
As Sanibel moves into its 50th year as a city, a series of special events will take place throughout 2025. Historical presentations, art shows, and annual traditions like the Shell Festival in March and Islands Night in May will be part of the celebrations, leading up to Luminary 2025 on December 5, 2025, which will cap the anniversary festivities.

For a full list of events, 50th-anniversary merchandise, and ways to support the celebration, visit 50YearsofSanibel.com.

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Real Estate News

October 2024: The Best Time to Buy a Home

Real Estate

According to Realtor.com’s sixth annual Best Time to Buy Report, the week of September 29 to October 5, 2024, is shaping up to be the optimal time for homebuyers. Several key market indicators—including listing prices, inventory levels, and homebuyer demand—suggest that this period offers the best combination of savings, options, and market conditions for prospective buyers.

Why October is Ideal for Buyers

  • Lower Prices: During this week, buyers could save over $14,000 compared to summer’s peak home prices, which reached a median of $445,000.
  • More Listings: Inventory levels are expected to be up by 37% compared to the beginning of the year, providing more choices for buyers.
  • Longer Time on Market: Homes are projected to stay on the market for over two weeks longer than during peak buying periods, giving buyers more time to make decisions.
  • Less Competition: Buyer demand is expected to be 29.5% lower than at peak times, meaning less pressure to compete for properties.

Market Conditions Favoring Buyers

October historically provides a favorable balance between inventory and pricing. According to Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com®, “This year, buyers will find one of the best dynamics in years during the first week of October, with ample options and the potential to save on list prices.” Falling mortgage rates may drive late-season demand, but with plenty of available inventory, the competition should remain manageable.

If you’re unable to act in the first week of October, the following two weeks still offer great buying opportunities with many of the same benefits, though new listings may start to decline slightly, according to Hannah Jones, Senior Economic Research Analyst at Realtor.com®.

What to Expect: Key Market Metrics

Realtor.com analyzed six critical metrics to determine the best time to buy:

  • Listing Prices: Around 50,000 homes could see price reductions, potentially leading to savings.
  • Inventory Levels: Active listings could reach their highest level since before the pandemic, offering a broader selection.
  • Homebuyer Demand: Demand typically slows down during this period, making competition less fierce.
  • Days on Market: Homes are expected to stay on the market 34.8% longer compared to peak buying times earlier in the year.

Prepare for Fall Homebuying Now

To make the most of this unique buying opportunity, experts recommend starting preparations early. One useful strategy is saving a search on platforms like Realtor.com® to keep track of new listings within your price range, without needing to recreate your search every time.

October 2024 is shaping up to be the best time for homebuyers in years, offering a combination of lower prices, ample listings, and a less competitive market. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, this fall could provide the perfect window to make your move.

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Real Estate News

Long-Term Mortgage Rates Drop to Lowest Level Since February 2023

Mortgage Rate

In a positive shift for homebuyers, the average rate for 30-year fixed mortgages in the U.S. has dropped to its lowest point since February 2023. This week, the rate fell to 6.20%, down from 6.35% just last week. For comparison, a year ago, rates were significantly higher at 7.18%.

Similarly, 15-year mortgage rates, popular among homeowners looking to refinance, also declined. The average rate dropped to 5.27% from 5.47% last week, while a year ago, it stood at 6.51%.

This decrease in mortgage rates reflects broader economic conditions, including a drop in Treasury yields as markets anticipate an interest rate cut from the Federal Reserve. With inflation slowing and the job market cooling, expectations are high that the Fed may lower rates for the first time in four years in their upcoming policy meeting.

The 10-year Treasury yield, a key indicator for mortgage rates, has been falling in anticipation of the Fed’s actions, contributing to the lower borrowing costs. As of Thursday, the yield had dropped to 3.68%, down from its peak of over 4.7% in April.

Despite the easing rates, prospective buyers remain cautious due to ongoing challenges like high home prices and a shortage of available properties. This has contributed to the continuation of a housing slump, now in its third year. Although home sales in the U.S. improved slightly in July, they remain below last year’s levels, as many buyers struggle with the higher costs of borrowing.

While mortgage rates have softened, they still remain considerably higher than the rates seen just a few years ago, when 30-year mortgage rates were below 3%. The elevated rates have added significant costs for buyers, often increasing monthly payments by hundreds of dollars.

As the economic landscape continues to evolve, mortgage rates may shift further, making it important for prospective buyers and homeowners looking to refinance to stay informed on market trends.

Stay tuned for updates as we monitor the potential impact of the Federal Reserve’s decisions and their influence on mortgage rates in the months ahead.

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Island Update

9/11 Remembrance Events Across Southwest Florida

Patriot Day 2024

Twenty-three years have passed since the tragic events of September 11, 2001, when terrorist attacks claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 people. This day left an indelible mark on the world, and across Southwest Florida, communities continue to come together to honor the victims, first responders, and their families.

Here are some of the key remembrance events happening across Southwest Florida on Wednesday, September 11, 2024:

Lee County

Cape Coral 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony
The City of Cape Coral and the Cape Coral Fire Department will host a ceremony to honor the victims. Attendees will place 2,977 American flags on the front lawn of City Hall, each representing a life lost in the attacks.

  • Location: 1015 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral, FL 33990
  • Time: 8:30 a.m.

Patriot Day on Fort Myers Beach
Join the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Coast Guard in a day of remembrance to honor the victims and first responders of 9/11.

  • Location: 719 San Carlos Drive, Fort Myers Beach, FL
  • Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Charlotte County

Remembrance Ceremony at ShorePoint Health
ShorePoint Health in Punta Gorda will host a remembrance ceremony, where participants are encouraged to wear patriotic attire. Light refreshments will be provided.

  • Location: 809 E Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, FL 33950
  • Time: 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Collier County

Visit Freedom Park in Memory of 9/11
Take a quiet walk through Fred W. Coyle Freedom Park to reflect on the sacrifices made by the victims, veterans, and first responders of 9/11.

  • Location: 1515 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples, FL 34105
  • Time: 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Letters of Gratitude at Naples Regional Library
This heartfelt event invites the community to write letters of appreciation to the first responders who risked their lives on September 11th.

  • Location: 650 Central Ave., Naples, FL 34102
  • Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Hendry County

9/11 First Responders Lunch
The American Legion Post 130 will serve lunch, featuring homemade sloppy joes and dessert, for local first responders, whether they are on duty or off. Delivery is available for those unable to attend.

  • Location: 699 W. Hickpochee Ave., LaBelle, FL
  • Time: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
DeSoto County

9/11 Remembrance Ceremony
The DeSoto County Fire Rescue will host a ceremony at the DeSoto County Courthouse lawn. The community is encouraged to attend with family, friends, and colleagues to pay their respects.

  • Location: 115 E Oak St., Arcadia, FL 34266
  • Time: 9:00 a.m.

As we gather for these events, we honor the memories of those who were lost, and we continue to express our gratitude to the first responders and their families for their bravery and sacrifice. Southwest Florida stands united in remembrance and reflection on this solemn day.

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Island Update

Sanibel Sea School Resumes Homeschool at Sea Program – Registration Now Open

Sanibel Sea School

Sanibel Sea School’s Homeschool at Sea program is back, offering an engaging marine science experience for homeschoolers. This immersive program allows students to explore the wonders of the ocean through hands-on, experiential learning. Students dive into marine ecosystems, coastal habitats, and the diverse species of the ocean.

Like Sanibel Sea School’s day courses, Homeschool at Sea includes field trips to Gulf beaches, mangrove forests, and Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation’s preserves. Using marine biology as the foundation, the curriculum covers exciting topics like symbiotic relationships, lunar cycles, taxonomy, and more, with a focus on sea creatures and their ecosystems.

The program fosters environmental stewardship by teaching students about the importance of ocean conservation and human impact on marine habitats. Whether your child is passionate about the ocean or just starting to explore, Homeschool at Sea welcomes students of all levels.

Course Schedule

Homeschool at Sea runs from September to November, offering two classes per week for each age group: ages 4-6, 6-10, 10-13, and 13-17.

This year’s topics include:

  • Week 1 (Sept. 10-13): Animal Behavior
  • Week 2 (Sept. 16-20): Marine Food Webs
  • Week 3 (Sept. 23-27): Habitats & Climate Change
  • Week 4 (Sept. 30-Oct. 4): Predator-Prey Interactions
  • Week 5 (Oct. 7-11): Form Fits Function
  • Week 6 (Oct. 15-18): Marine Ecology
  • Week 7 (Oct. 21-25): Marine Debris & Plastics
  • Week 8 (Oct. 28-Nov. 1): Camouflage
  • Week 9 (Nov. 4-8): Reptiles
  • Week 10 (Nov. 12-15): Marine Invertebrates
  • Week 11 (Nov. 18-22): Water Quality
Class Details
  • Classes run from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. or 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. for ages 6 and up.
  • Ages 4-6 classes run from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. or 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Students can choose morning, afternoon, or full-day sessions.
  • Course fees range from $20-40 per session.

Special discounted rates are available, and Sanibel Sea School encourages families with financial concerns to reach out for assistance.

For more information or to register, visit Sanibel Sea School’s Homeschool at Sea.

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SWFL Update

Lee County Receives $229 Million in Federal Funding for Hurricane Ian Recovery

Gulf Shore Business Fl

The Board of Commissioners awarded $229 million to the county on September 3rd to aid in Hurricane Ian recovery efforts. This significant funding will be allocated to 20 vital projects across the county, aimed at rebuilding and strengthening our communities.

Here’s a glimpse of some of the projects that will benefit from this funding:

  • Community Recreation Center in Cape Coral: This project will provide residents with a much-needed space for recreation and socialization, fostering a sense of community spirit during these challenging times.

  • Street Improvements in Bonita Springs: The funding will go towards enhancing the infrastructure of Bonita Springs, ensuring safer and more efficient transportation for residents.

  • New Fire Station in Sanibel: This crucial project will improve emergency response times in Sanibel, safeguarding the well-being of the community.

These are just a few examples of the many initiatives that will be undertaken thanks to this federal funding. The $229 million will play a pivotal role in accelerating Lee County’s recovery from Hurricane Ian and building a more resilient future for our communities.

Click here for more info

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Uncategorized

North America’s Rarest Heron: The Reddish Egret

Reddish Egret

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) recently highlighted the presence of North America’s rarest heron, the reddish egret (Egretta rufescens), on Sanibel Island. Known for its captivating and graceful foraging style, this rare species is estimated to have around 15,000 breeding individuals worldwide. Of these, only about 2,400 are found in the United States, with 350-400 breeding pairs residing in Florida.

Conservation Status of the Reddish Egret

Listed as a state-threatened species in Florida, reddish egrets are also classified as near-threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Their patchy distribution in coastal habitats makes them especially vulnerable. Although many aspects of the threats facing reddish egrets are still unclear, major concerns include coastal development, nesting disturbances, loss of genetic diversity, and increased vulnerability to predators.

Unique Characteristics of the Reddish Egret

One of the most striking aspects of the reddish egret is its two distinct color morphs. According to Aaron White, SCCF shorebird technician, “The typical reddish egret, known as the dark morph, has a blue-gray body with a cinnamon-colored neck and head, paired with a bi-colored pink-and-black bill. The rarer white morph, which suffered due to the feather trade, has entirely white plumage.”

Spectacular Foraging Behavior

The reddish egret’s foraging style is one of its most fascinating traits. These birds hunt in shallow coastal waters, performing a variety of energetic movements like running, jumping, and twirling to catch small fish and crustaceans. One particularly inventive hunting method they use is called “canopy shading.” By extending their wings to create a shaded area on the water’s surface, they attract fish seeking refuge in the shade, making them easier to catch.

Nesting Habits and Local Populations

During the nesting season, reddish egrets gather in large colonial rookeries alongside other bird species or sometimes nest in isolated pairs. Locally, they can be found nesting on the rookery islands in Pine Island Sound. Their nests, typically constructed from sticks, are platform-like structures built on mangrove keys.

“They need high-quality foraging grounds to successfully hunt, so they are limited to nesting in areas that meet these needs,” said White.

How You Can Help Protect the Reddish Egret

The reddish egret’s charismatic behavior makes them a delight to observe, especially their remarkable canopy shading technique. However, the SCCF emphasizes the importance of watching these birds from a safe distance to avoid disturbing their feeding.

“Humans and pets are perceived as predators by birds, and getting too close can disrupt their feeding,” White noted.

Additionally, supporting efforts to preserve and restore coastal mangrove habitats is critical. These ecosystems provide essential foraging, nesting, and reproductive environments for reddish egrets and many other coastal species.

By respecting their space and supporting habitat conservation, we can help ensure the survival of this rare and beautiful bird for generations to come.

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