Category: Island Update

The SanCap Chamber recently celebrated the resilience of the island’s cultural scene with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Odessa Art Gallery. Located in the Palm Ridge Plaza on Sanibel, the new gallery officially opened its doors on December 18, marking a unique addition to the local business community.

Born from the Storm

Owner and artist Ilie Ruby describes the gallery as a project “born from the storm.” A lifelong oil painter and novelist, Ruby returned to a daily studio practice following Hurricane Ian as a way to restore beauty and form to her surroundings. She intends for the gallery to serve as a space where art and language meet. Ruby expressed her thrill at sharing the space with the community, hoping it stands as a testament to the strength of the islands and the healing power of art.

A Unique Intersection of Art and History

The gallery’s current collections feature contemporary poetic figurative paintings known for their expressive light and narrative depth. The subjects—including muses, mermaids, and angels—are emblematic of transformation.

In addition to fine art, the gallery features works drawn from historical island photographs. These pieces highlight scenes and unsung heroes that Ruby encountered while researching a historical novel. Visitors will also find handcrafted sterling silver and semi-precious gemstone jewelry.

Community Support

SanCap Chamber President and CEO John Lai welcomed the new business, noting that the chamber is always pleased to further the islands’ reputation for art and culture. He highlighted that Odessa represents an intriguing intersection of visual and literary art.

Ruby credits her participation in the Charitable Foundation of the Islands’ Leadership Sanibel-Captiva Program for helping to bring her vision to life. The program provided a framework of community insight and inspiration that helped shape the gallery’s mission.

Location

The Odessa Art Gallery is located at 2330 Palm Ridge Road, Sanibel.

Visitors and residents of Sanibel have fresh reasons to visit the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium for the 2026 season. The renowned local institution has officially opened two new temporary exhibitions and welcomed a fascinating new resident to its aquariums: a Giant Pacific Octopus.

Executive Director Sam Ankerson notes that these additions offer a fresh, engaging, and educational experience, inviting the community to discover or rediscover the museum this season.

A New Resident in the Living Gallery

In the Living Gallery of Aquariums, a new Giant Pacific Octopus has successfully settled into his habitat. Known as the largest octopus species, these highly intelligent creatures possess three hearts, blue blood, and eight arms. The museum’s aquarists worked closely with the animal during his arrival to establish a relationship, ensuring a seamless transition. Visitors can view the octopus now and learn more about him during Keeper Chats, held daily at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

New Exhibition: The Giant Squid

The first of the new displays, titled “A Wondrous Phenomenon: Truth and Legend of the Giant Squid,” spotlights the biology and behavior of the Earth’s largest invertebrate. Capable of reaching lengths over 40 feet, the giant squid is one of the most elusive marine animals. This exhibit explores how this deep-water creature has inspired pop culture and literature, from “Moby Dick” and “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Seas” to legends of the Kraken.

New Exhibition: Caribbean Treasures

The second exhibition, “Paradise Found: Seashells of the Caribbean,” features a selection curated by museum Science Director Dr. José H. Leal. Displayed together for the first time, these specimens from the permanent collection range from iconic to rare, representing the rich marine biodiversity of the Caribbean Sea.

Visit Details

Both new exhibitions are made possible by a grant from the Glenn W. Bailey Foundation and will be on view through the summer. The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium is located at 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road on Sanibel. For more information, please call 239-395-2233 or visit ShellMuseum.org.

A comprehensive study conducted by marine engineering firm Cummins Cederberg has identified several of Sanibel Island’s most critical assets at risk from future flooding. The assessment analyzed vulnerabilities related to sea level rise, high tides, storm surge, rainfall, and compound flooding events.

The City of Sanibel Comprehensive Vulnerability Assessment was made possible by a $124,000 grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Resilient Florida Grant Program. This study is a mandatory step for the city to qualify for future state funding aimed at hardening infrastructure and protecting local landmarks.

Key Assets at Risk

The report identifies dozens of locations that require resiliency planning, including:

• Roadways: Major thoroughfares like Periwinkle Way.

• Public Facilities: The Sanibel Recreation Center.

• Natural Resources: J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and the Tarpon Bay Weir.

Next Steps for Resiliency

On December 16, the Sanibel City Council voted unanimously to integrate these findings into a formal adaptation plan. This plan, scheduled for completion in March 2027, will serve as a roadmap for minimizing flood impacts and protecting the community’s infrastructure and cultural heritage.

Residents and stakeholders can now view the full results of the study through the city’s official portal to better understand the long-term strategy for island preservation.

On December 17, Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet authorized the protection of over 21,500 acres of conservation and agricultural lands across the state. This initiative, representing a $27.4 million investment, utilizes the Florida Forever and Rural and Family Lands Protection programs to preserve vital natural resources.

A significant portion of this approval includes two conservation easements totaling nearly 11,000 acres within the Caloosahatchee Big Cypress Corridor. Located in Collier and Hendry counties, these specific acquisitions will:

• Enhance Connectivity: Create vital links between the Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge, Big Cypress National Preserve, and Dinner Island Wildlife Management Area.

• Protect Wildlife: Provide essential habitat for imperiled species, most notably the Florida panther.

• Support Local Industry: Ensure the continued operation of agricultural lands while preventing urban sprawl.

• Preserve Ecosystems: Protect land within the Big Cypress Area of Critical State Concern and the Florida Wildlife Corridor.

By securing these easements, the state continues to prioritize the long-term health of Florida’s environment while maintaining the state’s agricultural heritage.

Florida Gulf Coast University’s premier athletics fundraising event, Night at the Nest, has achieved a remarkable milestone by generating nearly $1.5 million in gross revenue. The total includes approximately $1 million raised during the December 5 event, bolstered by an additional $500,000 from a matching-gift campaign launched by the FGCU Foundation.

These funds will provide critical support for more than 270 student-athletes competing across 15 different sports. This year, the university placed a special emphasis on enhancing its comprehensive nutrition program, which is vital for student-athlete training, performance, and recovery.

The success of this event underscores the deepening investment from the community and donors in the holistic success of FGCU students. By prioritizing health and wellness, the university continues to ensure its athletes have the tools they need to excel both in their sport and in the classroom.

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) invites the community to The Cause, a special gala dedicated to the protection and preservation of Sanibel, Captiva, and Southwest Florida’s vital coastal ecosystems.

Taking place at 5:30 p.m. on January 17, this sunset event will be held under a grand tent at the SCCF Bailey Homestead Preserve. Guests will enjoy an evening featuring:

• Island-Inspired Dining: A global buffet highlighting fresh, local flavors.

• Entertainment: Signature cocktails and live music throughout the evening.

• Mission-Driven Programming: A special video premiere and a streamlined auction focused on direct conservation impact.

All proceeds from the evening will go directly toward SCCF’s pillars of science, education, advocacy, and conservation. It is an opportunity to celebrate the natural beauty of our islands while ensuring their health for future generations.

Event Details:

• When: January 17, 5:30 p.m.

• Where: SCCF Bailey Homestead Preserve

• Purpose: Supporting regional coastal ecosystem protection

Tickets are available now. Visit the SCCF website to secure your spot for this premier island event.

Amanda Cochran has officially filed to run in the August Republican primary for the Lee County Board of County Commissioners District 5 seat. This follows the passing of Commissioner Mike Greenwell in October. Cochran, who earned 45% of the vote in last year’s primary and led within District 5, aims to fill the vacancy through the upcoming November special election.

A sixth-generation resident and co-owner of RE/MAX River & Ranch, Cochran is centering her campaign on addressing “unchecked development.” She has been a vocal critic of zoning changes that conflict with the county’s comprehensive plan, specifically citing concerns over projects in Captiva, Alva, and the Cammaratta Kingston development.

Key priorities for her campaign include:

• Controlled Growth: Opposing urban sprawl and protecting rural lands from overdevelopment.

• Infrastructure Safety: Opposing the $162 million Alva school project, citing safety risks and the lack of local infrastructure.

• Government Transparency: Closing the “disconnect” between residents and local officials.

Cochran has also applied for a gubernatorial appointment to the seat but maintains she will remain in the race regardless of the Governor’s decision.

At the heart of Sanibel and Captiva lies a spirit of community that ensures no one has to navigate recovery alone. Recently, FISH of Sanibel-Captiva stepped in to support a local couple following surgery, providing them with nutritious meal deliveries, essential medical equipment, and a curated “get well” box to aid their healing.

Senior Services Director Erika Arnowitz highlights that this is the core of their mission. Whether it is a warm meal, a loaner walker, or a simple check-in call, FISH operates on the principle of neighbors helping neighbors to maintain the unique bond that defines these islands.

Dedicated Senior Support

Through its Senior Services program, FISH empowers islanders to maintain their independence and well-being. Their comprehensive offerings include:

• Nutritional Support: Reliable meal delivery for those unable to cook.

• Equipment Loans: Access to medical gear like walkers and wheelchairs.

• Mobility Assistance: Transportation to medical appointments and errands.

• Social Connectivity: Wellness checks and programs like “Friendly Faces” luncheons and educational workshops designed to reduce isolation.

A Pillar of the Community

While senior care is a vital focus, FISH serves the entire island community—including residents, the local workforce, and visitors—through four primary pillars:

• Food Programs: Managing the food pantry, holiday baskets, and youth backpack initiatives.

• Island-Based Education: Providing workshops and resources tailored for all ages.

• Social Services: Offering emergency financial assistance and case management.

• Helping Hands: Connecting community members with the specific resources they need to thrive.

In a small island community, the strength of the collective ensures that everyone has a path to recovery and health.

The Sanibel Public Library, in partnership with the Sanibel Public Library Foundation, has unveiled its prestigious Author Series for the 2025-26 season. For over a decade, this program has brought award-winning, high-caliber writers to the island for intimate evenings of discussion, followed by champagne receptions and book signings.

This season continues the tradition of hosting literary giants, following in the footsteps of past guests like Margaret Atwood and David Baldacci.

Upcoming Featured Authors

Jodi Picoult – January 19 The author of 27 novels, including “My Sister’s Keeper” and “House Rules,” Picoult is a recipient of the New England Book Award and the Margaret A. Edwards Award.

• Ticket Request Window: Opens December 19 and closes December 26.

Kristin Harmel – February 17 A #1 international bestselling author known for “The Book of Lost Names” and “The Winemaker’s Wife,” Harmel’s historical fiction has been translated into over 30 languages.

• Ticket Request Window: Opens January 10 and closes January 17.

Abby Jimenez – March 24 A #1 New York Times bestseller and Food Network “Cupcake Wars” champion, Jimenez is celebrated for her romantic fiction, including Good Morning America Book Club picks.

• Ticket Request Window: Opens February 18 and closes February 25.

Event Details and Ticketing Process

Each event begins at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6:15 p.m. Attendees will enjoy an author presentation followed by a reception with light hors d’oeuvres and a book signing.

To ensure fair access, the library utilizes a lottery system for tickets:

• Requirements: A current Sanibel Public Library card is required. There is a limit of one card per person and two tickets per card.

• How to Enter: Visit www.sanlib.org during the specific request windows listed above. Names will be selected at random, and winners will be notified via email.

• Assistance: If you cannot access the online form, you may call the library at 239-472-2483 or visit the staff in person for help.

The series is made possible through the generous support of the Sanibel Public Library Foundation and its donors.

The Sanibel Music Festival officially launched its 2026 season on December 5 with a special performance at the Sanibel Congregational United Church of Christ. Held during the 39th annual Luminary Stroll, the concert featured a talented lineup from Florida Gulf Coast University’s Bower School of Music.

The evening offered a diverse range of classical and seasonal selections, highlighting the skill of emerging young artists and community leaders alike.

Performance Highlights

• Classical Ensembles: A six-member cello ensemble performed works by Shostakovich, Casals, and Goltermann. The program concluded with a powerful rendition of Haydn’s String Quartet Op. 76, No. 1 by the FGCU String Quartet.

• Featured Soloists: Soprano Isabel Sanchez Riverio performed a moving presentation of Kol Nidrei, accompanied by pianist Enzo Ortiz.

• Community Spirit: The audience enjoyed vocal performances by soprano Kelly Johnson alongside Bat Yam Temple of the Islands Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer and Steve Garrett. The group performed a selection of music including Peter, Paul and Mary classics and Hanukkah favorites.

• Interactive Celebration: SCUCC Music Director MacKenzie Albert led the crowd in festive sing-a-longs, with Festival Co-President Shirley Witte serving as the evening’s emcee.

Looking Ahead to March

This concert served as a preview of the high-caliber talent the Sanibel Music Festival brings to the island each year. While the main festival events take place in March, this collaboration with the Bower School of Music underscores the festival’s commitment to supporting music education and providing a platform for the next generation of classical performers.

For more information on the upcoming March schedule and ticket availability, please visit the festival’s official website or follow their social media channels for updates.