Category: Island Update

The most talked-about “party with a purpose” is returning to the islands. On Saturday, April 4, 2026, the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) will host the 12th annual Beer in the Bushes. This rain-or-shine outdoor event transforms the SCCF headquarters into a vibrant festival grounds, bringing the community together to support the protection of Southwest Florida’s coastal ecosystems.

As your local lifestyle experts, we know that Beer in the Bushes is the unofficial “capstone” of the spring social calendar. It captures the laid-back, yet sophisticated spirit of Sanibel, where world-class entertainment meets a deep-rooted commitment to our natural environment.

2026 Theme: A “Swing” Revival with Squirrel Nut Zippers

This year, the SCCF is taking a vintage turn. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best “swing” attire to match the high-energy sounds of the headlining act: the Squirrel Nut Zippers.

Known for their infectious blend of Delta blues, gypsy jazz, and 1930s-era swing, the Zippers are the perfect soundtrack for an evening under the stars. Whether you’re a fan of their 90s hit “Hell” or their deep-cut Southern storytelling, the dance floor at the Erick Lindblad Preserve is sure to be packed.

The Brews and “TruxBux” Experience

True to its name, the event features a massive lineup of regional craft breweries. Your ticket is an all-access pass to tastings from local favorites, including:

• Fort Myers Brewing Company & Millennial Brewing Co.

• Palm City Brewing & Point Ybel Brewing Company

• Hopsized Brewing, Swamp Cat, Riptide, and Tampa Bay Brewing.

Dining Made Easy: Admission includes “TruxBux,” which are redeemable for your choice of dinner from an array of curated food trucks on-site. Complimentary wine, soft drinks, water, and light snacks are also provided throughout the evening.

Logistics and Guest Information

To ensure a seamless experience for all 21+ guests, the SCCF has coordinated several important amenities:

• Off-Site Parking & Shuttles: To protect the preserve’s grounds, all parking is located off-site. Continuous shuttles will run throughout the evening (6 p.m. – 10 p.m.).

• Ride Share Zone: A dedicated drop-off area is available for those using Uber, Lyft, or local taxis.

• Seating: While this is a high-energy event, guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs for use in designated areas.

• Smoke-Free Environment: In keeping with SCCF’s conservation mission, the entire event is smoke-free.

Supporting the SCCF Mission

Beyond the music and the IPAs, Beer in the Bushes 2026 Sanibel is a critical fundraiser. Proceeds directly support SCCF’s work in land acquisition, wildlife habitat restoration, and water quality research. For residents and property owners, supporting SCCF is an investment in the long-term beauty and health of the islands we call home.

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Event Details at a Glance

• Date: Saturday, April 4, 2026 | 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.

• Location: SCCF Headquarters, 3333 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel.

• Requirements: 21+ with proper ID.

• Tickets: Available via Humanitix. Note: Reselling tickets above face value is strictly prohibited.

If you’ve spent any time on Captiva, you know that The Mucky Duck is more than a pub; it’s a landmark. After the “one-two punch” of Hurricanes Helene and Milton in October 2024, many feared for the future of this historic building. Milton, in particular, brought structural challenges that would have made a lesser owner walk away.

But as Andreas Bieri, who has helmed the Duck for decades, put it: he’s not a quitter. The community and his staff needed the Duck back, and on March 14, the first cold beers and platters of fish were served once again.

The Rebuild: New Tech, Same Soul

While the internal systems have seen a major upgrade, the Bieris made a conscious choice to keep the aesthetic exactly as we remember it.

• Structural Repairs: The front of the building was pushed in by Milton, requiring a complete structural overhaul of the walls and roof.

• Modern Upgrades: The Duck now features a reconfigured kitchen and state-of-the-art computer systems to improve service.

• Preserving History: Because the building holds a historical designation, and because the owners wanted to maintain its charm, the restaurant was not elevated. They chose to restore the Duck to its original 1970s feel rather than opt for a modern new build.

“It looks the same, the feel is the same. We have not changed.” — Andreas Bieri, Owner

Why This Matters for Captiva Island

At the LeAne SUAREZ Group, we know that the value of island real estate is deeply tied to these “anchor” institutions. The Mucky Duck represents the resilience of the local business community. Its reopening helps restore the foot traffic and vibrant energy that makes Andy Rosse Lane one of the most desirable destination streets in Southwest Florida.

Plan Your Visit

The Duck is back to its standard operating style, which means the “no reservations” policy still stands.

• Hours: Open daily from 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

• Menu: Serving all the classics—appetizers, soups, fresh salads, and seafood entrees.

• Location: 11546 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva.

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Quick Visit Guide

• Reservations: None accepted (first-come, first-served).

• Parking: Limited on-site; walking or biking from nearby rentals is recommended.

• Best Time to Visit: Arrive early for a beachside seat to catch the world-famous Captiva sunset.

Easter in Southwest Florida is a spectacular blend of coastal tradition and community celebration. From the “egg drops” on Sanibel to the sophisticated garden hunts in Naples, our region offers an unparalleled holiday experience. Whether you are seeking a spiritual sunrise on the sand or a family-friendly scavenger hunt, here is your definitive guide to the 2026 season.

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Sanibel & Captiva Islands: Beachfront Traditions

The islands offer the most iconic “Florida” Easter experiences, focusing on the natural beauty of the Gulf.

• Sanibel Recreation Center Egg Hunt (April 4, 10:00 a.m.): Features the legendary Fire Department Egg Drop from a 4-story ladder truck. Register via CivicRec.

• Adventures in Paradise Cruise (April 5, 9:00 a.m.): A dolphin cruise to a private island for a massive 1,000+ egg hunt. Book Online.

• Sunrise Services (April 5, 6:30 a.m.): Join Sanibel Community Church (courtyard) or Captiva Chapel by the Sea (beachfront) for early morning worship.

• Easter Brunch at Old Captiva House (April 5): A luxury buffet at South Seas Resort from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. South Seas Dining.

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Fort Myers: Riverfront & Scavenger Hunts

Downtown Fort Myers provides an artsy, walkable alternative for holiday fun.

• Downtown Scavenger Hunt (Now – April 5): Explore the Historic District to find 14 artist-designed eggs in local shop windows. Fort Myers City Calendar.

• Newton Park Sunrise Service (April 5, 6:45 a.m.): A beautiful community service on the sand at Fort Myers Beach. FMB Events.

• Burroughs Home Brunch (April 5): A sophisticated family brunch on the banks of the Caloosahatchee. Reserve via Eventbrite.

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Naples: Garden Elegance & Luxury Hunts

Naples elevates the holiday with stunning park settings and high-end culinary experiences.

• City of Naples Hunt at Baker Park (April 4, 10:00 a.m.): Age-bracketed hunts (2–12) with photos with the Easter Bunny. Naples Gov Parks.

• Spring Fest at Naples Zoo (April 3–5): A three-day “Egg-stravaganza” where kids seek treasures throughout the animal habitats. Naples Zoo Official.

• Easter at Ocean Prime (April 5): A curated 5th Avenue South brunch featuring seasonal cocktails and prime seafood. Ocean Prime Reservations.

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Bonita Springs & Estero: Ice Cream & Outlets

Perfect for high-energy family fun and holiday shopping.

• Royal Scoop’s 26th Annual Hunt (April 4): A local legend featuring 25,000 eggs and free ice cream at Bonita Shores. Royal Scoop Info.

• Easter Bunny at Miromar Outlets (Now – April 4): Daily photos and games in the award-winning play area. Miromar Outlets.

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Easter 2026 At-A-Glance

Area	Top Event	Date	Highlight
Sanibel	City Egg Hunt	April 4	Fire Dept. Egg Drop
Fort Myers	Scavenger Hunt	Now–April 5	Walkable Art Tour
Naples	Spring Fest	April 3–5	Zoo Scavenger Hunt
Bonita	Royal Scoop	April 4	25,000 Eggs + Ice Cream

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Holiday Planning Tips

• Traffic: Allow 45–60 minutes of extra time for bridge traffic if heading to Sanibel for Sunrise Services.

• Reservations: Island brunches and cruises typically sell out by late March. Call today to check for cancellations.

• Parking: Beach parking lots fill by 6:15 a.m. on Easter Sunday. Have your permit or parking app ready!

The litigation surrounding South Seas is a multi-front effort involving the Captiva Civic Association (CCA), the City of Sanibel, and a coalition of community organizations. As of March 27, 2026, here is where the most pivotal cases stand.

The Appellate Court: Defending the 912-Unit Limit

A central victory for the community was Judge Shenko’s earlier ruling limiting South Seas to its historic 912 units. Both the county and South Seas have appealed this, but a date is now set for the showdown.

• Oral Argument: April 30, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

• Location: Lee County Justice Center, Courtroom 4A, Fort Myers.

• Judges: Mary Alice Nardella, Paetra T. Brownlee, and Roger K. Gannan.

• What’s at Stake: This appeal determines if the 2003 Settlement Agreement (which caps density) remains the law of the land. Until this is resolved, the county cannot approve new permits for hotels or condos exceeding this limit.

The Rezoning Challenge: Writ of Certiorari

Twenty petitioners, including the CCA and various associations, are fighting the county’s decision to permit increased building heights and density.

• The Argument: Petitioners claim the county failed to provide due process and ignored evidence regarding the limited capacity of the Gulf-side wastewater treatment plant and fire department staffing.

• Next Event: Judge Shenko has scheduled a Status Conference for April 6, 2026.

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The Rauschenberg Betrayal and Zoning Realities

One of the most disappointing recent developments is the sale of the 22-acre Rauschenberg Foundation property to South Seas. This marks a significant shift, as the community had hoped to preserve the land in its undeveloped state.

Legal Guardrail: Lee County has officially advised South Seas that this property is currently governed by the Lee Plan and Captiva Code, which limits development to three units per acre. Any attempt to expand the resort’s high-density plans onto this land would trigger a fresh wave of community opposition and legal challenges.

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Protect Captiva Judicial Schedule

Date	Key Event	Focus Area
March 23, 2026	Discovery Hearing	Barring discovery by South Seas
April 6, 2026	Status Conference	Sanctions, attorneys’ fees, and Rezoning Writ
April 30, 2026	Oral Argument	912-Unit Density Limit Appeal
TBD	DOAH Appeal	Hotel density limit exemptions

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Community Support: $35,000 Raised

The community’s commitment remains unshaken. On February 5, a silent auction of local art raised over $35,000 for the Protect Captiva Legal Fund. These funds are critical as South Seas continues to initiate new lawsuits, including a recent public records complaint against the Captiva Community Panel.

The message from the islands is clear: we are not just fighting for a view; we are fighting for a legacy.

The southwest corner of U.S. 41 and Bayshore Drive serves as the district’s official gateway. The 55-year-old Gulf Gate Plaza is poised for a “grandiose” revitalization led by Isram Realty Group.

• The Vision: A mixed-use, resort-inspired “campus” modeled after high-end developments on Florida’s east coast.

• The Anchor: Expect luxury apartments situated above fresh retail suites and upscale dining.

• Timeline: Formal agreements and rezoning are expected to progress throughout 2026, turning this aging corner into a walkable, Mercato-style hub.

Looming Luxury: Car Condos and Drive-Up Suites

Bayshore is leaning into a very specific kind of high-end innovation that balances height with architectural luxury.

5th Avenue Car Club

Promoted as a “sanctuary for extraordinary cars,” this project at 2740 Bayshore Drive is a first-of-its-kind for the region.

• The Sky Gallery: A 56-foot automated storage system designed to house 466 luxury vehicles.

• Car Condos: Individual units featuring private mezzanines, bathrooms, and balconies for collectors to showcase their fleets.

Elevation Naples

Located directly across from Celebration Park, Elevation Naples is introducing the area’s first drive-up condo building.

• Unique Access: A five-story mixed-use development where private garages allow residents direct vehicle access to their units.

• Wellness Amenities: The fifth floor will feature an Indonesian-inspired spa, multiple treatment rooms, a fitness center, and a rooftop pool overlooking Haldeman Creek.

Residential Expansion: The Next Wave

New residential communities are pushing toward the southern end of the corridor, bringing sophisticated architecture and “worry-free” living to the district.

• The Grove at Bayshore: A 32-home community currently under construction, featuring high-end finishes and a mixed-use condo project fronting the street.

• Windward Landing: National builder Toll Brothers has proposed 90 single-family homes at the southern terminus of the road, which will include a dedicated road extension from Holly Avenue.

• Boutique Hotel (3467 Bayshore): A four-story building with 8 luxury suites, a rooftop bar, and a ground-floor restaurant is currently in the plan revision stage for a 2026/2027 opening.

Cultural Connection: The Pavarotti Legacy

The completion of the new boardwalk to Sugden Regional Park has opened the door for a massive cultural investment. An anonymous seven-figure gift has cleared the way for the International Center for the Arts.

• The Venue: A 900-seat state-of-the-art theater and an outdoor amphitheater set in a landscaped garden.

• The Legacy: The 17-acre site will host an opera museum and an opera-themed restaurant, honoring the global legacy of Luciano Pavarotti.

The Tipping Point

With the influx of new retail like Seventh South Waterfront and the expansion of cultural hubs like the Naples Botanical Garden, Bayshore Drive has achieved a unique, walkable identity. By the time the projects slated for 2027 are completed, the corridor will likely be fully built out, making 2026 the final window for those looking to secure a piece of this “SoHo of the South.”

The industrial landscape of Fort Myers is evolving to meet the demands of a modern workforce. Construction has officially commenced on The Hub at Daniels, a five-building industrial park located at the intersection of Saddle Road and Halter Lane. This project is specifically designed to provide flexible, high-spec “flex space” for businesses that require a blend of warehouse capacity and professional office functionality.

As local area experts, we recognize that the corridor east of Daniels Parkway and Treeline Avenue has become a primary engine for regional growth. Its proximity to Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) makes it an ideal location for service providers, light manufacturers, and e-commerce logistics.

Phase 1: Building 500 Now Underway

The project, developed by Halter Holdings, is taking a phased approach to construction to meet current market momentum.

• Building 500 Specifications: Phase 1 consists of a 36,900-square-foot structure featuring 18 individual units.

• Unit Layouts: Each unit offers approximately 2,010 square feet of space, catering to small-to-medium-sized businesses looking for premium infrastructure.

• Estimated Opening: Building 500 is projected to welcome its first tenants by early 2027.

High-Spec Features for the Modern Tenant

The Hub at Daniels Fort Myers is separating itself from traditional industrial “grey boxes” by offering a suite of technology and convenience features typically found in high-end office parks:

• Interior Heights: Clear heights range from 17 to 34 feet, allowing for significant vertical storage and mezzanine potential.

• Tech-Ready: Every unit is equipped with fiber optic internet and a dedicated tenant portal for streamlined management.

• Climate Control: Unlike many older industrial properties, units come with full air conditioning and private restrooms.

• Accessibility: Units feature 14-by-14-foot overhead doors and 24/7 access to on-site security cameras, ensuring a safe and functional environment around the clock.

Strategic Location and Regional Impact

When fully completed, The Hub at Daniels will total 160,900 square feet across five buildings. The project is strategically located just five minutes from the airport, providing a critical link for businesses that rely on air freight or require easy access to the I-75 corridor.

Leasing for Building 500 is currently being handled by Colliers, with market veterans Dan Miller and Dan Rockenstein leading the effort. While the developer has not disclosed specific construction costs, the scale and technological investment indicate a significant commitment to the long-term vitality of the Fort Myers industrial market.

As of March 26, 2026, the conversation around Captiva’s northern tip is split between two major headlines: the grand opening of a world-class water park and a high-stakes legal battle in the Florida courts. The South Seas Resort Captiva Landing expansion officially launched at the end of December, introducing a $26 million aqua-adventure designed to revitalize the resort’s family appeal. However, a significant portion of the resort’s broader expansion plans—including new hotels and condos—remains “tied up in litigation.”

As your local area experts, we recognize that South Seas is the “master-planned” anchor of Captiva. The tension between modernizing this historic resort and preserving the low-density charm of the islands is at the heart of our current market dynamics.

Inside the $26 Million Captiva Landing

Located at the south end of the 330-acre resort, Captiva Landing covers 2.5 acres and was built to serve the 61% of resort guests who stay in the southern lodging units. CEO Greg Spencer of Timbers Co. emphasizes that this amenity is about “selling memories” for multigenerational families.

Key Features Include:

• Bottlenose Bay: A water-play zone featuring six exhilarant slides.

• Gulfstream Lazy River: A meandering freshwater float designed for relaxation.

• The Cove: A tranquil, tropically landscaped sanctuary pool for adults.

• Camp-tiva: A nature-based kids club focused on island ecology.

• Flippers Restaurant: A convenient quick-service dining spot.

The Resilience Factor: Building for 20-Foot Surges

With over $250 million now invested in the property since 2021, the developers have prioritized storm resiliency following the impacts of Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton. To limit future damage, new beachfront structures are being designed with the first floor at 20 feet above sea level. The resort has also added floating docks at the marina, backup generators, and specialized flood barriers to ensure business continuity for group travel.

The Legal Landscape: Rezoning and Resistance

Despite the success of the water park, the broader South Seas Resort Captiva Landing expansion is facing intense scrutiny. Organizations like the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) and the Captiva Civic Association (CCA) argue that proposed increases in density and building height (up to 45 feet over habitable floors) threaten the fragile barrier island ecosystem and evacuation safety.

Current Legal Status (as of late March 2026):

• The 912-Unit Cap: Litigation continues over whether the 2003 settlement agreement (which caps the resort at 912 units) includes hotel rooms. A recent Circuit Court ruling affirmed the cap, but South Seas and Lee County are currently appealing.

• Rezoning Challenges: A status conference was held on March 26, 2026, regarding the petition to invalidate the county’s 2025 rezoning approval. This case is pivotal in determining if the resort can move forward with its planned 628-unit expansion.

• Protect Captiva: The community coalition has raised over $1.5 million to fight these changes, emphasizing that “all boats rise in a rising tide” only if that tide doesn’t wash away the very character that makes Captiva special.

Local Expert Note: At LeAneSUAREZGroup, we watch these developments not just as real estate professionals, but as neighbors. The outcome of these court cases will set a precedent for development across all Florida barrier islands. For property owners, the “Club Captiva” model offers a high-end, exclusive amenity package, but the community-wide debate over density remains a critical factor in long-term valuation.

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South Seas Investment by the Numbers

• Purchase Price (2021): $125 Million.

• Post-Hurricane Repairs & Resiliency: $100+ Million.

• New Amenities (Captiva Landing, The Clutch Golf): $26+ Million.

• Projected Annual Property Tax Revenue: $9.8 Million.

As of mid-March 2026, a rare coastal phenomenon has transformed the landscape between Sanibel and Captiva Islands. A massive sandbar has effectively sealed off the water flow at Blind Pass, creating a temporary “land bridge” that allows visitors to walk between the two islands without ever stepping into the water. While this transformation offers a unique experience for beachgoers, it marks a significant shift in the local coastal dynamics that officials are closely monitoring.

The Anatomy of a “Land Bridge”: How It Formed

The closure of Blind Pass is not the result of a single event but rather a combination of human intervention and natural coastal processes. Several factors have converged to create this historic blockage:

• Beach Renourishment Side Effects: In early 2026, the Captiva Erosion Prevention District (CEPD) completed a major renourishment project on southern Captiva. Simultaneously, the City of Sanibel placed roughly 300,000 cubic yards of sand along its northern shoreline.

• Longshore Drift: Strong currents and seasonal wave patterns have moved this newly placed sand toward the inlet. This natural “conveyor belt” of sediment has filled the deep-water channel that typically separates the islands.

• Post-Storm Stability: While the area has recovered significantly since Hurricane Ian, shifting shoals from more recent weather patterns in the Gulf have contributed to the rapid accumulation of sand at the pass.

Environmental and Community Impact

The filling of the pass affects more than just the view. The closure impacts the vital exchange of water between the Gulf and the interior bay systems:

• Water Quality: The pass typically provides a flushing mechanism for Pine Island Sound. With the inlet sealed, local experts are monitoring water clarity and salinity levels in the back-bay.

• The Shelling Report: The new sandbar has become a hotspot for “shell hunters.” While the Sanibel side of the bar has yielded impressive finds this March, the Captiva side has remained relatively sparse as the sand continues to settle.

• Safety Warning: Despite the shallow appearance, the area remains dynamic. City officials strongly advise against swimming near the sandbar, as hidden drop-offs and unpredictable tidal shifts still pose a risk.

The Roadmap to 2027: Dredging and Studies

While the “land bridge” is a fascinating temporary feature, the county’s long-term policy remains to keep the pass open. However, a permanent solution will require patience:

1. Dredging in 2027: Lee County officials have stated that while permits are in place, active dredging will likely not begin until 2027. This delay allows the recently added sand to reach a “natural equilibrium,” preventing the pass from immediately refilling after a costly dredge.

2. Long-Term Management Study: Later this year, a two-year study will be launched to evaluate more permanent engineering solutions.

3. Potential Structural Solutions: The study will explore the feasibility of a shore-parallel spur at the end of the Blind Pass jetty or a truncated dredging template to better manage sand bypassing in the future.

Planning Your Visit

For those visiting the islands during this unique period, the area near the Blind Pass Bridge offers an unprecedented look at nature’s power to reshape the coast. Whether you are an angler, a sheller, or a photographer, the 2026 sandbar is a historic chapter in the story of our barrier islands.

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Blind Pass Quick Facts

• Status: Infilled/Blocked by sandbar (as of March 2026).

• Next Planned Dredging: Anticipated in 2027.

• Location: West end of Sanibel / South end of Captiva.

• Primary Cause: Interaction of renourishment sand and natural drift.

A pillar of the Sanibel community is preparing to celebrate a major milestone. Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church will mark the Saint Michael Sanibel 65th Anniversary of its very first service, which originally took place on March 31, 1961. For over six decades, this parish has served as a sanctuary of faith, hospitality, and love for generations of islanders.

As your local experts at the LeAne SUAREZ Group, we know that the strength of a neighborhood is found in its long-standing institutions. Saint Michael’s has not only provided spiritual guidance but has also been a cornerstone of the social and charitable fabric that defines the Sanibel lifestyle.

Upcoming Celebration: Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026

The church will officially commemorate this anniversary during its Palm Sunday services. This event is a beautiful opportunity for current parishioners and the wider community to gather and give thanks for the foundation of faith built over the last 65 years.

• The Service: Special recognition and commemorative prayers will be held during the 10:30 a.m. worship service.

• Fellowship & History: Following the service, a fellowship gathering will take place, featuring a curated collection of historic photographs. This is a dedicated time for community members to mingle and share their own memories of the church through the decades.

“Worship, Welcome and Witness”

The theme for this anniversary year, “65 Years of Worship, Welcome and Witness,” perfectly encapsulates the mission of the parish. Rector Bill Van Oss notes that this year is more than just a look back; it is a recommitment to serving the Sanibel community in the years ahead.

What to Look Forward to in 2026:

• Monthly History Features: Throughout the year, the church will release monthly highlights featuring archival photographs and reflections from the parish’s story.

• Fall Jubilee Events: A series of special events are planned for this fall, designed to further celebrate and preserve the rich history of the parish since its founding by the Rev. Thomas Madden.

Contributing to the Island Story

The church is actively inviting the community to help preserve its legacy. If you have old photos, service bulletins, or written memories of weddings, baptisms, or community events held at Saint Michael’s, you are encouraged to contribute to the archival project.

Local Expert Note: At the LeAneSUAREZGroup, we often tell prospective buyers that Sanibel is a “community with a memory.” Seeing a parish like Saint Michael’s reach its 65th year reminds us of the stability and heart that make our island real estate so timelessly desirable.

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Anniversary Details at a Glance

• Main Recognition Date: Sunday, March 29, 2026.

• Time: 10:30 a.m. (Service) with fellowship to follow.

• Location: 2304 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

• Contribute Memories: Email communications@saintmichaels-sanibel.org.

On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, Bat Yam Temple of the Islands will host its annual Community Passover Seder Sanibel 2026. Taking place at The Community House (2173 Periwinkle Way), this event offers a profound opportunity for residents and visitors—both members and non-members—to gather and retell the story of the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt.

As your local experts at the LeAne SUAREZ Group, we know that the diversity of our community’s traditions is what makes island life so vibrant. This “intellectual banquet” is a cornerstone of the spring season, blending ancient ritual with contemporary reflection.

The Seder Plate: Symbols of History

The centerpiece of the evening is the Seder plate, where each item serves as a tangible link to the story of Exodus. During the service, led by Rabbi Sunny Schnitzer, participants will explore the meaning behind these essential categories:

• Parsley: Representing the arrival of spring and hope.

• Charred Egg: A reminder of the traditional burnt offering.

• Lamb Shank: Standing in for the sacrificial lamb.

• Haroset: A sweet mix of fruit, wine, and nuts symbolizing the mortar used by slaves.

• Maror: Bitter herbs to represent the bitterness of bondage.

• Saltwater: Symbolizing the tears shed during slavery.

A Modern Perspective: “Living History”

The Community Passover Seder Sanibel 2026 carries a particularly poignant message this year. The ritual traditionally asks participants to feel as if they personally left Egypt. In the current global climate, Bat Yam shares that this prompt feels more relevant than ever.

“This year, we do not need that prompt,” the temple shared. “We are living history. Rather than exhort Pharaoh to ‘Let my people go,’ we could say to the world, ‘Let my people be.’”

This celebration of liberty includes the traditional reading of the Haggadah, the singing of seder standards, and the searching for the Afikomen, ensuring that the story is passed down vividly to the next generation.

Why Community Rituals Strengthen Sanibel

At the LeAneSUAREZGroup, we believe that events like the Community Seder reinforce the bonds of our neighborhood. Whether it is through the “Four Questions” asked by the youngest members or the collective blessing over liberty, these gatherings remind us why we cherish the freedom and peace found on our sanctuary island.

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Event Logistics at a Glance

• Date: Wednesday, April 1, 2026

• Time: 5:00 p.m.

• Location: The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

• Cost: $65 for adults | $30 for ages 5–17 | Free for children under 5.

• Contact: For more information, email batyamsanibel@gmail.com.