Category: Island Update

The Captiva Civic Association (CCA) is expanding its palate this season, launching a new event series that pivots from the vine to the barrel. Building on the popularity of its “Perfectly Paired” wine series, the CCA will host “Pour Decisions: Bourbon Tasting” on January 26 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Captiva Civic Center.

A Flight of Fancy Led by Calli Johnson duPont, wine steward for A Bit of Bailey’s and The Island Store, the evening is designed to guide attendees through the nuances of American bourbon.

“The Captiva Civic Association has been known for supporting Calli’s wine tastings,” CCA Director Lauren McCraney said. “As successful as these wine tastings have been over the years, we felt it was a great opportunity to integrate the American spirit of bourbon—and truly learn about some bourbon.”

Guests will sample a curated flight of four small-batch and craft bourbons, plus a welcome cocktail. The selection promises complexity and variety:

• Pour 1: An award-winning, non-chill filtered bourbon known for its smooth, decadent finish.

• Pour 2: A complex profile featuring notes of vanilla, ginger, and cherries.

• Pour 3: A selection highlighting butterscotch, oak, and stone fruits.

• Pour 4: A surprise selection.

A special guest from one of the featured brands will also be in attendance to offer insights.

Culinary Pairings To balance the “hardy alcohol content” of the spirits, Chef Karl Hamme has created a menu of light bites specifically designed to stand up to the bold flavors of the whiskey. Attendees can expect hardy meats and a creative dish duPont described as a “deconstructed old fashioned.”

Sponsors & Support The event is supported by season sponsor Karen Bell and the Bell Team (Michael Saunders and Company) and event sponsor Royal Shell.

“Thank you to Royal Shell for representing our community and being eager to support this new event,” McCraney noted.

Registration Details

• Tickets: $90 for members | $100 for non-members (includes a gift).

• Deadline: Registration was requested by Jan. 23; please check with CCA for last-minute availability.

• Contact: Visit ccacaptiva.org or call 239-472-2111.

Location: Captiva Civic Center, 11550 Chapin Lane, Captiva.

The Sanibel Marina has officially welcomed a new major player to the island’s boating scene. On January 17, Cape Cod-based Flying Bridge celebrated the grand opening of its new Sanibel location with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held in partnership with the SanCap Chamber of Commerce.

A New Hub for Boaters The new operation aims to be a comprehensive destination for water enthusiasts, bringing a mix of sales, service, and recreation to Southwest Florida. Flying Bridge Sanibel is now the official dealer for Yellowfin and Invincible center-console boats—two heavy hitters in the world of offshore fishing and performance boating.

Beyond new sales, the location offers a full suite of services:

• Brokerage Services: Utilizing advanced marketing technology to help clients sell their vessels.

• Rentals & Boat Club: A fleet and membership program for those wanting to enjoy the water without the responsibilities of ownership.

• Service Department: Staffed by Yamaha and Mercury certified technicians, the team handles everything from routine maintenance to engine repowers.

Rooted in Resilience For Flying Bridge owner Mark Bogosian, the expansion is personal.

“Sanibel has always felt like home to me,” Bogosian shared. “My family has had a place on Captiva for years, and I’ve watched this community demonstrate remarkable resilience. Opening here allows us to bring Flying Bridge’s approach to boating to a place I care deeply about.”

Bogosian noted that with the causeway fully restored and boaters returning to local waters, “The timing feels right. We’re proud to be part of the island’s next chapter.”

Looking Ahead Sanibel is just the beginning for the company’s Southwest Florida expansion, with additional operations planned for Bonita Springs and Fort Myers.

John Lai, President and CEO of the SanCap Chamber, welcomed the addition, noting that it fills a vital need in the local economy. “Services available from Flying Bridge are exactly what Sanibel needs to enhance its world-class reputation for year-round watersports,” Lai said. “Our boating scene just shifted into high gear.”

Visit Flying Bridge Sanibel The new location is open now at the Sanibel Marina. Address: 634 N. Yachtsman Drive, Sanibel.

Long before Florida became known for its sandy beaches, snowbirds, and high-rise condos, a rugged population of frontier settlers forged a way of life that defined the state for centuries. The Sanibel Historical Museum and Village is shining a light on these pioneers: the Florida “Crackers.”

While the term has held various meanings over time, its most enduring origin story comes from the sharp crack of the long, braided whips used by early cowmen to drive cattle through the state’s dense brush.

Origins of a Cattle Culture The story dates back to the 1500s when Spanish explorers introduced cattle to the Florida peninsula. These animals multiplied rapidly in the subtropical wilderness, roaming freely across the pine flat-woods. By the 1700s and early 1800s, settlers—primarily of English, Scottish, Irish, and Anglo-American descent—were drawn to the state by the promise of open land and wild cattle.

Life on the Florida Frontier Living far from coastal towns and government centers, these settlers prided themselves on self-sufficiency. They raised cattle, farmed, and traded hides and beef with markets in Cuba and the Caribbean.

Their architecture reflected their environment. Known today as “Florida Cracker style,” their homes were ingeniously designed to survive the heat and humidity, featuring raised floors, wide porches, and metal roofs to shed rain and catch passing breezes.

A Lasting Legacy By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, railroads and fencing laws brought an end to open-range cattle herding. However, the Cracker influence never disappeared. Today, the legacy lives on through heritage cattle breeds, traditional music, and food. Though the label has sometimes been used derisively, many modern families embrace the term “Cracker” not as an insult, but as a marker of deep roots, resilience, and Florida heritage.

Event Spotlight: Olde Sanibel Cracker Fest

To celebrate this rich history, the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village will host its Annual Benefit with the theme “Olde Sanibel Cracker Fest.”

This immersive evening promises to bring the spirit of the Florida frontier to life with Southwest Florida-style barbecue, “Cracker cocktails,” live entertainment, professional dancing demonstrations, and both live and silent auctions.

Event Details:

• Date: January 30

• Time: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

• Location: The Community House (2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel)

Tickets & Info: For tickets or more information, visit sanibelmuseum.org or call 239-472-4648.

The Sanibel Community Association and The Community House (TCH) are preparing for their primary fundraiser of the year: the 99th Anniversary Roaring Twenties Gala. Scheduled for Friday, Jan. 23, from 5 to 9 p.m., the event honors the long-standing history of TCH, which was founded in 1927.

Supporting a Sanibel Landmark

Proceeds from the gala directly fund the operations, maintenance, and diverse programming at The Community House. Executive Director Emily Ankerson notes that these funds allow TCH to offer affordable lectures, classes, and community events, ensuring the historic building remains a functional hub for the island.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

To capture the spirit of the 1920s, the event will feature:

• Live Music: Local favorites The Hot Buttered Nuggets will perform period-appropriate music in full attire.

• Themed Attire: Guests are encouraged, though not required, to wear Roaring Twenties or flapper-style costumes.

• Open Bar: Attendees can enjoy a full open bar featuring signature themed cocktails.

Culinary Highlights from Island Favorites

The gala will showcase 1920s-inspired cuisine donated by a variety of iconic Sanibel establishments:

• Appetizers: Oysters Rockefeller from Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market, deviled eggs from Over Easy Cafe, and finger sandwiches from Paper Fig Kitchen.

• Local Staples: Lazy Flamingo’s signature garlic bread and Italian ice cream from Pinocchio’s.

• Additional Support: Contributions from Doc Ford’s, Gramma Dot’s, Sanibel Deli, Tutti Pazzi, and ACT Catering.

Live and Silent Auctions

A highlight of the evening will be the live auction, featuring unique experiential packages:

• Adventures in Paradise: A sunset cruise for up to 49 guests.

• Luxury Dining: A private three-course dinner for eight prepared by Chef Michael Elias.

• Jewelry: A $5,000 gift card to Congress Jewelers.

• Private Events: A cocktail party for 25 people hosted at The Community House.

• Island Package: A collection of rentals, tours, and gift certificates designed for residents and visitors alike.

A silent auction will also be available, featuring artwork, home goods, and unique gift certificates.

Ticket and Reservation Information

Tickets for the gala are $175 per person. As TCH prepares to enter its centennial year, the community is invited to support this essential island establishment.

For tickets or further details, visit sanibelcommunityhouse.net or call 239-472-2155.

The Suncoast Credit Union Foundation, in partnership with the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, has opened applications for its 2026 scholarship program. High school seniors in the Class of 2026 are encouraged to apply for one of five available $3,000 scholarship awards to support their post-secondary education.

This initiative is part of a larger $234,810 regional investment by the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation, aimed at providing financial relief to students across its 25-county service territory.

Empowering the Next Generation

The Suncoast Credit Union Scholars program is designed to open doors for students within their own communities. Amity Schuyler, President and CEO of the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations, emphasized that providing these opportunities is essential for ensuring that Florida’s future leaders have the resources they need to thrive.

A Legacy of Support

Since its establishment in 1990, the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation has been a consistent supporter of youth and education initiatives. To date, the foundation has contributed:

• Total Contributions: Over $40 million toward community well-being.

• Scholarship Funding: More than $2.9 million specifically dedicated to helping students achieve their academic goals.

Application Details

Interested students should act quickly, as the deadline is approaching:

• Deadline: January 19, 2026

• Award Amount: $3,000 per recipient

• Eligibility: Graduating seniors in the Class of 2026

For more information on eligibility requirements or to begin the application process, visit the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools portal at apply.leeschoolfoundation.org

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium invites the public to a unique outdoor educational experience this weekend. The “Sunrise Shell and Mollusk Stroll” will take place on Sunday, Jan. 18, offering an in-depth look at the diverse marine life found on Sanibel’s shores.

Event Details

The stroll is scheduled from 7:00 to 8:30 a.m. at Lighthouse Beach Park, located at 110 Periwinkle Way. This early start time coincides with low-tide conditions, providing ideal opportunities for shelling and wildlife observation.

What to Expect

Participants will be guided by a museum marine biologist along the shoreline. The program is designed to provide more than just a standard beach walk; attendees will gain professional insights into:

• Molluscan Biology: Understanding the living animals that create the shells found on the beach.

• Local Biodiversity: Identifying various species native to Southwest Florida.

• Environmental Education: Learning about the delicate ecosystems of Sanibel’s coast.

Registration and Fees

Advance registration is required to participate in the stroll. The costs are as follows:

• Adults: $10

• Museum Members: $5

• Youth (Ages 5-17): $5

• Note: The registration fee does not include the cost of parking at Lighthouse Beach Park.

Interested individuals can register online through the museum’s field education page at shellmuseum.org For specific questions regarding the program, contact Jorden Falker at jfalker@shellmuseum.org.

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, most Lee County administrative offices will be closed on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026. While many offices will be unavailable, essential services such as public transit and waste collection will maintain their regular operations.

Here is a detailed breakdown of the service adjustments:

Administrative and Public Offices

• Community Development: Lobbies and phone lines will be closed on Jan. 19. Residents can still access the electronic permitting portal online. Normal operations resume Jan. 20.

• Domestic Animal Services: The facility located on Banner Drive in Fort Myers will be closed on Jan. 19, reopening the following day.

• Solid Waste Offices: Administrative offices and the Household Chemical Waste Collection Facility on Topaz Court will be closed.

Open Facilities and Continued Services

• Solid Waste Collection: There is no change to residential garbage, recycling, or yard waste collection. Schedules remain on their regular cycle.

• Disposal Sites: The Resource Recovery Facility, Lee-Hendry Landfill, and the LaBelle and Clewiston Transfer Stations will remain open on Jan. 19.

• LeeTran: All bus, trolley, tram, paratransit, and ULTRA on-demand services will operate on their regular schedules.

• Outdoor Recreation: Beaches, parks, preserves, and boat ramps will remain open for public use on the holiday.

Parks and Recreation Closures

While outdoor parks remain open, specific managed facilities will be closed on Jan. 19, including:

• Recreation centers

• Community swimming pools

• Administrative offices

All closed facilities and offices are scheduled to resume regular operating hours on Tuesday, Jan. 20.

The Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners has officially voted to transition Emergency Management into a standalone department. Previously a division under Public Safety, the new structure recognizes the increasing complexity and critical importance of disaster preparedness, response, and recovery in our region.

Adapting to a Growing Community

County leaders emphasized that this reorganization is a proactive response to Charlotte County’s growth and the evolving nature of local hazards. From major hurricanes and tornado outbreaks to public health emergencies, the responsibilities of emergency management have expanded significantly over the last several years.

County Administrator Hector Flores stated that this decision strengthens the county’s ability to manage long-term recovery and community resilience while staying ahead of potential risks.

Leadership and Expertise

With the creation of the independent department, the County Commission appointed Patrick Fuller as the Director of Emergency Management. Fuller has served as the county’s emergency management director since 2019 and brings a wealth of experience to the role:

• Proven Track Record: Led response efforts during multiple presidential and state disaster declarations.

• Regional Experience: Previously served as Region 6 coordinator for the Florida Division of Emergency Management.

• Military and Academic Background: A Master Sergeant in the Marine Corps Reserve and a graduate of Florida State University.

• Professional Credentials: Holds certifications as a Florida Professional Emergency Manager and a Florida Certified Public Manager, with over 600 hours of specialized FEMA training.

Focused on Long-Term Resilience

The newly formed department will focus its resources on preparedness education, emergency planning, and inter-agency coordination. By elevating Emergency Management to its own department, the county aims to provide more focused leadership and streamlined planning to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors during future emergencies.

Director Fuller expressed his commitment to building stronger partnerships and enhancing public safety as the department begins this new chapter.

The Harry Chapin Food Bank has released its 2025 Impact Report, providing a comprehensive look at the organization’s efforts to combat food insecurity throughout Southwest Florida. The report highlights both the massive scale of food distribution achieved over the last year and the persistent, growing demand for assistance in our local communities.

By the Numbers: Food Distribution and Fresh Produce

In 2025, the food bank distributed a total of 38.7 million pounds of food. A key focus was the delivery of nutritional options, with 12 million pounds of that total consisting of fresh fruits and vegetables—a 14.3% increase in fresh produce compared to the previous year.

On average, the organization served nearly 300,000 residents every month across five counties: Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades.

Regional Breakdown and Rural Outreach

The distribution was strategically allocated to ensure both high-population areas and rural communities were supported:

• Lee County: 19 million pounds

• Collier County: 11.5 million pounds

• Charlotte County: 5.2 million pounds

• Hendry County: 2.2 million pounds

• Glades County: Over 705,000 pounds

Notably, when adjusted for population, Hendry and Glades counties received the highest amount of food per person. This underscores a deliberate effort to reach underserved rural areas where access to affordable, healthy food is often limited.

Education and Specialized Programs

The mission of the Harry Chapin Food Bank extends beyond immediate relief to long-term health. In 2025, the organization conducted 556 health and nutrition classes, reaching over 3,300 seniors, adults, and children. Specialized initiatives like “Harry’s Helpings,” in-school pantries, and the “Care and Share Senior Feeding Program” remained vital lifelines for the region’s most vulnerable populations.

The Power of Volunteerism

These accomplishments were made possible through significant community involvement. More than 4,300 volunteers contributed 49,000 hours of service throughout the year. This labor is valued at an estimated $1.5 million in in-kind support, allowing the organization to direct more of its financial resources toward food procurement.

As the demand for assistance continues to rise, the Harry Chapin Food Bank remains a central pillar of the Southwest Florida safety net.