Category: Island Update

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds, Captiva Island! Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille Captiva is hosting a sizzling contest in honor of National Yucatan Shrimp Day.

Calling all home chefs! Doc Ford’s is searching for the most mouthwatering Yucatan sauce recipes. Do you have a tangy marinade that elevates shrimp to new heights? A zesty dipping sauce that adds a perfect beachside kick? Or perhaps a spicy cocktail to complete the entire Yucatan experience? Doc Ford’s wants to see your culinary creations!

Here’s how to join the fun:

1. Whip up your most delicious Yucatan sauce recipe.
2. Post a picture or video of your creation on social media. Let everyone see your sizzling skills!
3. Tag Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille Captiva in your post and use the hashtag #YucatanShrimpDay!
   Click here for their Social media page

The lucky winner will snag a FREE bottle of Doc Ford’s authentic Yucatan sauce, bringing a taste of the Caribbean straight to your kitchen!

Mark your calendars! Winners will be announced on May 24th. So, get saucy and share your creations!

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille Captiva can’t wait to see what you cook up! Let’s celebrate National Yucatan Shrimp Day in true island style. Show us how YOU Yuca!

South Seas is thrilled to announce the premiere of its Tarpon Tournament, set to take place from May 16 to May 17, 2024, on the picturesque shores of Captiva Island, nestled along Florida’s Gulf Coast. This exciting new event proudly supports Folds of Honor, a noble organization committed to providing scholarships to the families of fallen and disabled American military members and first responders. By merging the passion for sportfishing with the commitment to honor and support these brave families, the tournament ensures that all sponsorship proceeds will directly benefit Folds of Honor scholarship recipients in Lee County.

The tournament offers participants an opportunity to enjoy a fantastic day of fishing while making a meaningful impact on the lives of deserving individuals in the community. The event promises not only competitive fishing but also a celebratory reception featuring delicious food, exciting prizes, and live entertainment.

Tournament Details:

• May 16, 2024: Captain’s Meeting, where participants will gather vital information and strategies.
• May 17, 2024: The main event unfolds with a day of competitive fishing followed by a dinner and an awards ceremony where winners will be celebrated.

Interested parties can register in teams of four, with an entry fee of $1,000 per team. It’s important to note that each team is allowed only one captain. The entirety of the entry fees collected will be distributed as prizes to the tournament winners. Adding to the excitement, the tournament will be featured on the popular fishing show, “Reel Animals,” hosted by the renowned Capt. Mike Anderson.

Those eager to reel in excitement and make a difference can register and find more information at southseas.com/tarpon

Tarpon Bay Explorers (TBE), the recreation concessionaire at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, has announced an updated tram tour schedule for the off-season, running now through August.

Tram Tours:

• Offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays or Saturdays
• Two departures daily: 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM
• Reservations are recommended to secure your spot

Explore More:

TBE isn’t just about tram tours! They offer a variety of ways to experience the refuge:

• Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals: Explore the refuge waterways at your own pace. Rentals available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Guided Tours: Take a deeper dive with a guided kayak or tram tour led by TBE’s experienced naturalists.
• Nature-Themed Gift Shop: Find the perfect souvenir or gift to commemorate your visit.

TBE Hours:

• Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Kayak and Paddleboard rentals available from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with returns by 4:45 PM.

Ready to Book?

• Visit TBE online at https://tarponbayexplorers.com/ to reserve your tram tour or browse other offerings.
• Call (239) 472-8900 to speak with a friendly TBE representative.

Location:

Tarpon Bay Explorers is located at 900 Tarpon Bay Road on Sanibel Island.

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) reported the exciting news of the first loggerhead sea turtle nest on Sanibel Island! This special mama turtle, identified as Turmeric thanks to her tags, was encountered by SCCF’s nighttime tagging team. Turmeric has a history with Sanibel, having returned to nest there in 2020, 2021, 2023, and now 2024! This nest also marks a tie for loggerhead nests between Sanibel and Captiva Islands, with both having one each.

SCCF highlighted the importance of supporting their work in protecting these threatened animals. You can adopt a sea turtle nest through their program: Click here to visit their website.

The announcement also served as a reminder for beachgoers to be mindful of nesting turtles. Please turn off lights and flashlights near the beach after 9 pm and avoid leaving obstacles on the sand, such as furniture, trash, sandcastles, or holes, which can hinder the turtles’ nesting process.

The “Protect Captiva” coalition wants to bring two linked documents to your attention. Both support the Captiva community’s contention (and continuing legal actions) that increasing building heights and density on Captiva and South Seas is unlawful and inappropriate on a fragile barrier island.

A public information request by our legal team uncovered a document entitled “South Seas Plantation Due Diligence Questions with DCD Responses July 2021.” (Attached here). The questions from the new owners of South Seas shortly before their purchase of the resort in September 2021 and the responses from the County’s Department of Community Development confirm (i) that County staff understood in July 2021 that the maximum allowable units at South Seas was 912 units (including hotel units) and (ii) that the new owners of South Seas were advised of, and clearly understood, the 912 dwelling unit cap on the resort prior to their purchase of the property. The current South Seas application to build 272 condominiums and 435 hotel units clearly violates the longstanding comprehensive development plan for South Seas and would increase density at South Seas from 912 units to 1347 units – a 48% increase.

Also, David Dorsey wrote a detailed article in the April 29th issue of Gulfshore Business. The article is based upon a review of numerous emails and logs obtained by the reporter through a public information request. Dorsey documents how the County and South Seas worked together to increase building heights and density at South Seas long before any efforts to increase development on Captiva became public. According to the article,

“South Seas resort ownership group’s engineer proposed a land-use amendment for Lee County’s government at least six months before the first public discussions and at least seven weeks before the County’s official timeline began. . . . The timeline contradicts what county government officials and South Seas resort owners and contractors said at public meetings, where they said county staff initiated the Land Development Code amendments January 17, 2023. The resort proposed a draft of one of the amendments for the County as early as November 2022 and inquired about doing so in February 2022.”

The article also documents the extensive number of meetings between agents of South Seas and the County. You can read the whole article here.

• Finally, “Protect Captiva”:
  has filed a complaint in Florida’s circuit court seeking to enforce the 912 unit density limit on South Seas which the County must answer by May 24,
• will soon have its petition against the County filed with the Division of Administrative Hearings which will determine whether the Code amendments which exempt South Seas from Captiva’s height and density limitations violate the Lee Plan, and
• has advised the County that the South Seas application seeking increased height and density violates the longstanding and enforceable development plan for South Seas as well as the current Lee Plan, and that “Protect Captiva” will intervene in the hearing examiner process as this matter is adjudicated.

DONATE to the “PROTECT CAPTIVA” LEGAL FUND. Click here

The highly anticipated Bay Street Yard is set to open on May 30 in downtown Fort Myers, offering an exciting new venue for live entertainment, craft beers, artisan beverages, and diverse food trucks. Situated at 2136 Bay St., this casual yet upscale outdoor venue boasts seating for over 300 guests, two full-service bars, and three food trucks serving up specialized menu options.

Designed with entertainment in mind, Bay Street Yard features a covered stage for live performances, an 8-by-13-foot LED screen for sports and shows, and outdoor games like cornhole, Ping-Pong, and bocce. The urban-chic venue, enhanced with shipping containers and greenery, includes a VIP area called The Loft, offering exclusive experiences.

Bay Street Yard can host up to 451 guests and is available for private events, corporate functions, nonprofit fundraisers, and weddings.

A record-breaking thirteen bald eagle chicks have successfully fledged from their nests on Sanibel, Captiva, North Captiva, and nearby islands this year. This surpasses last year’s total of nine chicks, signifying a thriving local eagle population.

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) plays a critical role in monitoring these majestic birds. Dedicated volunteers collaborate with SCCF throughout the nesting season (October 1st through May 15th) to observe the nests and contribute valuable data to the Audubon Society’s EagleWatch program.

A particularly heartwarming story unfolds at Sanibel’s well-known “Dairy Queen” nest. After years of dormancy, the nest finally produced a chick in the 2021-2022 season. Unfortunately, the female eagle went missing before Hurricane Ian struck in September 2022. However, the male found a new mate, a younger female with distinctive brown feathers on her head. Though the pair rebuilt the nest in 2022-2023, they were unsuccessful in raising young. This year, however, to everyone’s surprise, they hatched and successfully fledged two eaglets!

Protecting these magnificent birds is paramount. Bald eagles are shielded by various laws, including the Florida Eagle Rule, the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.

The SCCF highlights a significant threat to bald eagles and other wildlife: rodenticides. These poisons can infiltrate the food chain and harm animals that prey on rodents, such as eagles, barn owls, hawks, and bobcats.

The SCCF encourages exploring wildlife-safe alternatives to rodenticides. For more information on these alternatives, please refer to the SCCF document [link to SCCF document on rodenticide alternatives].

Finally, a heartfelt thank you goes out to the dedicated SCCF volunteers who tirelessly monitor the nests and to our partners at Audubon Florida for managing the EagleWatch Database. If you have any questions regarding our local eagles, feel free to email [email protected].

Let’s celebrate this achievement and continue to safeguard these soaring symbols of freedom!

The Cape Coral Yacht Club is embarking on a new chapter! In the wake of Hurricane Ian’s destruction, this beloved community hub is rising from the ashes, promising a future filled with vibrancy.

While the demolition of the old building may evoke a sense of loss for some, the Yacht Club’s legacy stretches back to the 1960s, holding countless memories for Cape Coral residents. However, a wave of excitement complements the nostalgia. Unveiled renderings showcase a vision for a dynamic future. More boat slips, a convenient parking garage, a sparkling pool, and a brand new restaurant are just a glimpse of what’s to come.

The demolition process is being undertaken with a touch of sentimentality. Richard Fox, leading the project, acknowledges the Yacht Club’s deep roots in the community. The demolition team, some with their own childhood memories of the Yacht Club, understands the emotional significance of their work. As a tribute to the past, they’re salvaging precious artifacts from the rubble. Imagine a piece of the old ballroom incorporated into the new facility – a subtle homage to the rich history!

The coming weeks will see the completion of the demolition. Construction will then commence on a brand new Yacht Club, boasting a modern community center, a spacious ballroom, and ample parking for boat owners.

For those eager to learn more about the city’s plans and share their voices, a public hearing.

Click here to delve deeper into the city’s vision for the Cape Coral Yacht Club’s exciting future!

Island Therapy Center is back on Sanibel! After Hurricane Ian forced them to relocate temporarily, the therapy center recently celebrated its official return to the island with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the SanCap Chamber of Commerce.

The new location, which opened its doors for patients on April 15th, replaces the original Periwinkle Place therapy center that was destroyed by storm surge in September 2022. While rebuilding, the dedicated Island Therapy staff continued serving the community by offering home visits and operating from a partner location in Fort Myers. They will maintain this second location at 16880 McGregor Blvd. to ensure convenient access to services for a wider range of residents.

“We knew how important it was to restore wellness and therapy services to the islands,” said founder Rachel Tritaik, a Sanibel resident and physical therapist. “Despite the challenges, we’re back with brand-new equipment and a renewed commitment to exceptional patient care. We offer personalized physical therapy, massage therapy, and personal training in a boutique clinic setting, ensuring patients receive consistent one-on-one attention throughout their treatment.”

John Lai, President and CEO of the SanCap Chamber of Commerce, echoed the significance of Island Therapy’s return. “Having essential medical services available on-island is a crucial step towards full recovery for our community,” he said. “We’re thrilled to celebrate Rachel’s perseverance and congratulate the entire Island Therapy team on their successful return.”

The new Island Therapy Center is located at 695 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel.

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) has been closely monitoring gopher tortoise populations on Sanibel Island preserves since 2000. These fascinating reptiles are a keystone species, meaning their presence plays a vital role in the island’s ecosystem.

Long-Term Stability, Impacted by Hurricane Ian

Prior to Hurricane Ian in September 2022, burrow surveys conducted by SCCF showed a relatively stable population with a slight decrease (2.3%) in active burrows over a 14-year period (2007-2021). Unfortunately, the hurricane’s powerful storm surge significantly impacted the landscape.

“The storm surge caused significant changes,” says SCCF wildlife biologist Mike Mills. “Dead trees and shrubs littered the ground, flooding altered the soil composition, and many gopher tortoise burrows were collapsed or filled in.”

These changes resulted in a substantial loss (59.2%) of active burrows across all SCCF preserves, with the Dayton Preserve losing all burrows entirely.

Signs of Recovery Offer Hope

Despite the initial setback, there are promising signs for Sanibel’s gopher tortoise population. The most recent survey, conducted after the hurricane, revealed that some tortoises are adapting.

“An inactive burrow doesn’t necessarily mean the tortoise is gone,” explains Mills. “They may simply be using a different burrow.”

Encouragingly, fourteen burrows previously considered inactive in 2022 are now showing signs of renewed activity, and eight entirely new burrows were discovered.

Habitat Restoration Efforts Aid Recovery

Gopher tortoises thrive in open-canopy habitats with abundant grasses and low-growing plants. Historically, Sanibel Island provided this ideal environment. However, changes in natural fire regimes and island hydrology led to a dominance of closed-canopy hardwood hammocks.

SCCF’s ongoing habitat management efforts are playing a crucial role in the tortoise recovery process. “Since the hurricane, we’ve been removing large amounts of dead vegetation,” says Mills. “This exposes areas that haven’t received sunlight for decades, allowing natural grasslands to return and creating more suitable habitat for gopher tortoises.”

Additionally, SCCF’s team is actively thinning out dense vegetation to create a more inviting environment for these important island residents.

The future of Sanibel’s gopher tortoise population appears cautiously optimistic. By continuing habitat restoration efforts and monitoring populations, SCCF is committed to ensuring these fascinating creatures continue to thrive on Sanibel Island.