Category: Island Update

North Naples is no stranger to delicious Italian cuisine. But if you’re searching for something beyond the ordinary, Trulli Pizza & Pasta is a must-try.

This exciting new restaurant, launched in May 2024, promises a “new kind of pizza,” and that’s no understatement. Their secret lies in their commitment to high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques.

What Makes Trulli Different?

• Unique Pizza Dough: Trulli uses a recipe unlike any other in Naples. Their dough is crafted with 100% imported semolina flour, giving it a distinct texture and flavor.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: They don’t skimp on the good stuff. Trulli uses only the finest extra virgin olive oil to create their flavorful base.
• Sous Vide Toppings: Freshness is key at Trulli. Their mouthwatering sauces, meats, and vegetables are all prepared using the sous vide method, ensuring perfect taste and texture in every bite.

Experienced Owners Deliver

Trulli Pizza & Pasta isn’t just another pizzeria. The husband-and-wife managing partners are veterans of the Naples culinary scene, and their passion for unique and delicious food shines through.

Ready to Try Trulli?

Located at 7700 Trial Blvd. next to The Crust Pizza, Trulli is conveniently situated on the east side of US-41 south of Vanderbilt Beach Road.

So ditch the ordinary and discover the delectable difference at Trulli Pizza & Pasta. Your taste buds will thank you!

Click here for the entire article

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) has been closely monitoring sea turtle nesting activity on the islands. As of May 28th, a total of 178 nests have been documented:

• 177 loggerhead nests
• 1 leatherback nest

These nests are scattered across Sanibel and Captiva, with 44 loggerhead nests found on Captiva and 133 loggerheads (and the single leatherback) on Sanibel.

SCCF staff also encountered two loggerhead turtles during morning surveys last week. One had just finished nesting, while the other returned to the Gulf after a “false crawl.”

Protecting Sea Turtle Nests

Protecting these nests is vital for the future of sea turtles. SCCF implements several measures to ensure their success:

• Nest Marking and Screening: Once a nest is found, it is carefully marked off and screened to deter beachgoers and predators like coyotes.
• New Deterrent for Coyotes: To further protect the nests, SCCF has begun using habanero pepper around the eggs. The screen prevents digging, and the pepper discourages them with its smell.

Nighttime Tagging Program Update

Since May 1st, SCCF’s nighttime sea turtle team has been busy encountering nesting females 73 times! Interestingly, they’ve even seen some “familiar faces” – turtles they first tagged in previous years (2016-2022).

This nighttime tagging program is crucial for understanding sea turtle behavior. By tagging new turtles and identifying those previously tagged, valuable data is collected on how they respond to local conditions.

How You Can Help

If you see a suspected new nest or have concerns about nests, turtles, beach lighting, or furniture, please call the SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-SAVE-ONE (978-728-3663).

For more information on how you can help protect and care for sea turtles, visit the Sanibel-Captiva Lifesavers website: https://sancaplifesavers.org/

The Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers are offering exciting summer camps for children in grades K-5.

These camps are designed to be both educational and fun, with a strong focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math). Campers will have the unique opportunity to invent, design, build, and learn at the historic site where Thomas Edison and Henry Ford created some of their most famous inventions.

Available Camps for Grades 3-5:

July 1-3: Space and Rockets
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This camp combines space science with rocket science. Campers will explore their place in the universe while designing and launching water-powered rockets.
Cost: $135 for members, $150 for non-members.

July 22-26: Mechanical Marvels
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In this fast-paced camp, children will learn about simple machines, mechanical advantages, and gear systems.
Cost: $225 for members, $250 for non-members.

For more information or to register, please visit edisonford.org.

Location:
Edison and Ford Winter Estates
2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting an “above-normal” hurricane season for the Atlantic basin this year. There’s an 85% chance of experiencing a more active season than usual, with 17 to 25 named storms expected.

Here’s a breakdown of the forecast:

• Number of storms: 17 to 25 named storms (winds exceeding 39 mph)
• Hurricanes: 8 to 13 storms are predicted to become hurricanes (winds exceeding 74 mph)
• Major hurricanes: 4 to 7 major hurricanes (Category 3, 4, or 5 with winds exceeding 111 mph)

NOAA scientists point to several factors contributing to this active season:

• Warm ocean temperatures: The Atlantic Ocean is experiencing near-record warm temperatures, providing fuel for storm development.
• La Nina: The transition from El Nino to La Nina conditions is expected to reduce wind shear, creating a more favorable environment for hurricanes.
• Reduced trade winds: Weaker trade winds allow storms to organize and strengthen more easily.

Taking Action and Staying Prepared

While the forecast suggests a busy season, it’s important to remember that every hurricane season is unpredictable. Here are some resources to help you stay prepared:

• NOAA: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ provides the latest forecasts and hurricane preparedness information.
• FEMA: The Federal Emergency Management Agency https://www.fema.gov/ offers guidance on building an emergency plan and assembling a disaster kit.

Forecast Aligned with Other Experts

Predictions from other leading hurricane forecasters like Colorado State University (CSU) and AccuWeather also suggest an active season, highlighting the warm ocean temperatures and La Nina’s influence.

The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30. Don’t wait until the last minute – take steps to prepare your home and family now!

Click here for more info

The Captiva Community Panel recently received updates on several ongoing initiatives at its latest meeting, including the South Seas rezoning, legal efforts in Lee County, and a proposed survey on possible annexation.

South Seas Rezoning and Legal Efforts

On May 14, Vice President David Mintz shared updates from the Protect Captiva coalition, which the panel is a part of, regarding South Seas’ redevelopment and rezoning efforts. Mintz reported that the coalition has filed a complaint in Florida’s Circuit Court to enforce the 912-unit density limit at the Captiva resort. The county must respond to the complaint by May 24.

Additionally, Mintz reiterated that Protect Captiva filed a petition with the county and the Florida Department of Commerce. This two-step process challenges the Land Development Code amendments passed by the county last year, arguing they are inconsistent with the Lee Plan. After an informal hearing, the state agency released its findings, allowing the coalition to seek a formal hearing before an administrative law judge with the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings. The coalition’s attorneys are currently preparing for this next step.

“We are as confident as one can be, under the circumstances, that our case is strong and better than the county’s case on this matter,” Mintz stated.

He also reported that on April 25, the county’s Zoning Section rejected the revised plan application submitted by South Seas. The application cannot proceed to a public hearing until it is complete.

Proposed Survey on Annexation

President Jay Brown discussed the idea of conducting a preliminary survey of Captiva residents to gauge their stance on possible annexation with the city of Sanibel. A draft survey was shared with the council, which included assumptions such as Captiva continuing to be managed under the Captiva Plan, no significant impact on property taxes, and likely representation on the city council.

“There was quite a bit of concern amongst the council members about doing the survey, and particularly in the way it was worded,” Brown explained. He noted that the council was worried that Sanibel residents might misinterpret the survey and assume the council had agreed to its contents, potentially leading to backlash.

Based on this feedback, Brown will explore other methods for conducting the survey. Mintz emphasized the importance of avoiding misinterpretations. “We just want to make sure that if we even look at annexation as a possible option, we want to do it in the best way possible, so that everybody understands exactly what we’re doing and, more importantly, exactly what we’re not doing,” he said.

In Other News

• Mintz provided an update on a proposed Captiva Drive crosswalk at Sunset Captiva, just south of Jensen’s Marina. The county’s Department of Transportation plans to send a team to assess the area and will report back within 30 days.
• Captiva Island Fire Control District Fire Chief Jeff Pawul reported that the EMS helicopter landing zone at the Rauschenberg property is operational again. The Rauschenberg Residency has updated the site to make it a dedicated permanent zone as part of a larger property project.

“We’re glad to have that back and just want to thank them for making that happen,” Pawul said.

• Lee County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Rich Zeltman reminded the public that driving ATVs on Captiva Drive or the beaches is illegal. “We’ve noticed that and we’re enforcing it,” he stated.

Lee County residents with a passion for gardening now have the opportunity to enhance their skills and contribute to the community through the 2024 Master Gardener Volunteer Program Training Course.

This comprehensive 12-week program begins on August 20 and concludes on November 20.

To accommodate the summer heat and transient residents, the course starts online and later transitions to in-person, hands-on learning experiences.

The curriculum is customized for Lee County’s unique environment and population, ensuring that participants acquire practical knowledge and skills relevant to local gardening practices.

Applications are due by May 31.

For more information or to apply, visit here.

The Florida Master Gardener Program, an outreach initiative of UF/IFAS Extension, consists of certified volunteers trained to offer research-based horticultural education to Florida residents through workshops, demonstrations, and gardening advice.

For additional details, visit the Florida Master Gardener Program.

In observance of Memorial Day, most Lee County administrative operations will be closed on May 27. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the county’s holiday schedule adjustments:

Domestic Animal Services

• Closed on May 27: Lee County Domestic Animal Services, located at 5600 Banner Drive, Fort Myers.
• Resume Regular Hours on May 28: Operations will resume as usual.

LeeTran

• No Service on May 27: Bus, trolley, and Passport services will be suspended.
• Resume Service on May 28: Regular services will continue. For route schedules and maps, visit www.rideleetran.com.

Libraries

• Closed on May 27: All Lee County Library System branches, including the Captiva Memorial Library.
• Resume Regular Hours on May 28: Libraries will reopen. The library is always accessible online at www.leelibrary.net/online.

Parks & Recreation

• Offices and Recreation Centers Closed on May 27: They will reopen on May 28.
• Parks, Pools, and Preserves Open on May 27: For a list of open locations, hours, and amenities, visit www.leeparks.org.
• Reminders: No alcohol is permitted in county parks. The Causeway Islands Park on the Sanibel Causeway remains closed to watercraft, pedestrian, and bicycle traffic due to ongoing construction.

Solid Waste

• Collection Schedule Adjustments: Garbage, recycling, and yard waste collections in unincorporated Lee County, the city of Bonita Springs, the village of Estero, and the town of Fort Myers Beach will occur one day later than usual from May 27 through June 1. Regular collection schedules will resume on June 3.
• Facilities Closed on May 27: This includes:
  • Household Chemical Waste Collection Facility, 6441 Topaz Court, Fort Myers
  • Resource Recovery Facility on Buckingham Road
  • Lee/Hendry Regional Solid Waste Disposal Facility

Residents are encouraged to recycle plastic, metal, and glass containers from their holiday weekend activities.

Jerry’s Foods is excited to announce the launch of Wine Down Wednesdays, a weekly event designed to bring the community together for a delightful evening of wine, food, and music. Starting this Wednesday, from 5 to 7 p.m., head over to 1700 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, and join in the fun!

Every Wednesday, guests are invited to sip and stroll through Jerry’s Foods while enjoying live music, wine sampling with expertly paired food, and exclusive wine specials.

“Jerry’s of Sanibel is proud to be the neighborhood place of our community, and we are excited to introduce Wine Down Wednesdays as a way to bring people together for a relaxing and enjoyable evening,” said General Manager Rick Winningham. “Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a music lover, or simply looking for a fun midweek outing, Wine Down Wednesdays has something for everyone.”

Come and experience the perfect blend of flavors, melodies, and community spirit at Jerry’s Foods. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to unwind and connect with friends and neighbors. See you there!

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) recently reported finding 48 sea turtle nests on Sanibel and Captiva Islands as of May 14th. This exciting number includes 47 loggerhead nests and one leatherback nest.

The recent warm weather seems to be encouraging nesting activity, with over 30 new loggerhead nests discovered between May 10th and 14th. The breakdown shows 36 loggerhead nests and one leatherback nest on Sanibel, with 12 loggerhead nests found on Captiva.

This is a positive sign for the local sea turtle population. However, we can all do our part to ensure their nesting success and hatchling survival. Here are some ways you can help:

• Minimize nighttime light: Turn off lights and flashlights near the beach after 9 pm. Artificial lights can disorient nesting mothers and hatchlings.
• Keep beaches clean: Remove furniture, trash, and level sandcastles before leaving the beach. These obstacles can deter nesting or harm hatchlings.
• Respect posted nesting areas: Avoid disturbing marked nesting sites.
• Report sightings: If you see any sea turtles nesting, hatchlings emerging, or have any concerns, contact the SCCF Sea Turtle Hotline at 978-728-3663.

For more information on sea turtles and how you can help them, visit the SCCF Sea Turtle Tips page at

In a recent meeting, the Sanibel Planning Commission unanimously supported an ordinance to amend the Master Development Plan for Bailey’s Shopping Center’s Planned Unit Development (PUD).

On May 14, the commission voted 6-0 in favor of recommending that the Sanibel City Council adopt an ordinance amending the Land Development Code (LDC) and revising the master plan for the properties at 2477 and 2431 Periwinkle Way.

The commissioners determined that the proposed LDC amendments by the applicant were consistent with the Sanibel Plan and met all LDC section requirements.

The amendment request was submitted by Dan DeLisi, a land use planner from DeLisi Inc., on behalf of the property owners, Baileys Center LLP and Periwinkle Adventures LLP.

Before the vote, Deputy Planning Director Craig Chandler presented the city staff’s report, which included details on the property, the applicant’s proposal, and an analysis of the draft Master Development Plan and proposed text amendments.

Key changes in the proposed plan include reconfiguring building placement and size, expanding parking areas, and increasing required vegetation buffers for the redevelopment. The plan also outlines commercial zoning designations, off-street parking, commercial floor area, developed area, and impermeable coverage totals. Additionally, it proposes combining the parcels to remove a shared property line and setback/landscape buffer requirements.

Following the LDC process, the applicant will need to apply for a conditional use permit and development permit, both requiring the commission’s approval.

Chandler highlighted the staff’s recommendations related to the LDC and PUD:

• Deletion of Section 126-1474: The Master Vegetation Plan section is now obsolete as redevelopment must comply with current landscaping and environmental performance standards.

Regarding the master plan, staff recommended:

• Landscape Plan Submission: Required with the conditional use permit application, adhering to landscape buffer, vegetation screening, parking islands, and environmental performance standards. The southeast corner buffer area should be revised to avoid overlapping the 15-foot-wide buffer with an open body of water.
• Ingress-Egress Points: Approval of four points for efficient traffic circulation, maintaining 200 feet from the driveway to the Periwinkle Way/Tarpon Bay Road intersection.
• Scenic Preservation: Consistent with the Sanibel Plan, encourage pervious surfacing for parking areas to comply with coverage standards (82%) of the Town Center General Commercial District.

Dan DeLisi addressed the commission on behalf of his client, explaining the redesigned site plan following Hurricane Ian, which required the demolition of the entire center.

“The site has been significantly redesigned,” DeLisi said. “The buildings are broken apart, not a continuous strip center. There’s a lot more pedestrian orientation, with a sidewalk through the middle of the site, and we’re adding more landscaping and buffers.”

DeLisi emphasized that the changes do not increase the intensity of use, maintaining the existing 60,000 square feet, and ensuring conformance with Sanibel’s codes. He highlighted the family’s long history on the site, dating back to 1965, and the benefit the redevelopment will bring to the community.

During public comments, Bailey’s family members expressed their support and gratitude.

Fourth-generation owner-operator Bailie Johnson shared, “The catastrophic storm surge destroyed Bailey’s center, requiring us to redevelop the entire site. Our new design will meet all current code requirements and keep us above future storm surge. We are not asking for any exceptions.”

Dane Johnson thanked the city staff for their support, noting the planning process’s focus on resiliency and community service.

The commission’s motion to approve the resolution included all staff recommendations.