Category: Island Update

Dine Out for Less and Support Local Students with the Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club’s Diner’s Delight!

The Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club is once again offering their popular Diner’s Delight coupon book, packed with two-for-one deals at your favorite island eateries.

Savor Savings and Support a Great Cause

This year’s Diner’s Delight is valid from May through December, giving you plenty of opportunities to enjoy delicious meals while stretching your budget. Participating restaurants include local favorites like Cielo, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, Gramma Dot’s, and many more.

Where to Find Your Diner’s Delight

Pick up your copy of the Diner’s Delight for a $40 contribution at the following locations:

• From Kiwanis members themselves
• Bank of the Islands
• Periwinkle Park’s front office
• SanCap Pak-N-Ship
• Sanibel Captiva Community Bank
• The Sanibel Farmers Market

Can’t Make it in Person? Order by Mail!

For those unable to visit Sanibel or Captiva in person, you can still get your hands on a Diner’s Delight by mail. Simply send a check for $40 made payable to “Kiwanis of Sanibel-Captiva” along with a self-addressed, stamped (#10 envelope) to:

Kiwanis of Sanibel-Captiva P.O. Box 1 Sanibel, FL 33957

More Than Just Delicious Deals

By purchasing a Diner’s Delight, you’re not just treating yourself to culinary delights; you’re also supporting a worthy cause. Proceeds from the book go towards the Sanibel-Captiva Kiwanis Club’s scholarship program for local students, as well as education and recreation grants that benefit island youth.

So grab your Diner’s Delight, explore the culinary scene of Sanibel and Captiva, and feel good knowing you’re giving back to the community!

Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) is at it again, this time with a clever strategy to attract state-threatened least terns to safe nesting spots. These tiny beach birds, the smallest terns in the world, are a social bunch. So SCCF is using decoy wooden birds to create the illusion of a thriving colony, luring real least terns to nest nearby.

Why the Decoys?

Least terns prefer to nest in large groups on open, sandy beaches. Sanibel and Captiva have plenty of potential nesting sites, but some areas are risky for the birds. For instance, the Causeway Islands, where least terns tried nesting last year, are currently undergoing restoration projects due to Hurricane Ian damage.

Social Attraction in Action

SCCF shorebird technician Aaron White explains, “The decoys act as a social magnet. Least terns see other ‘birds’ settled in a safe area and are more likely to choose that spot for their own nests.”

Building a Safe Haven

Volunteers collaborated with SCCF’s shorebird and Coastal Watch teams to paint and position the decoys in ideal nesting locations. They then constructed enclosures around the decoys using stakes, string, and signs to minimize habitat disturbance.

Least Terns: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

Nesting in colonies offers least terns several benefits. They can easily communicate with each other and watch out for predators like coyotes or crows. White humorously adds, “Be aware of incoming ‘airstrikes’ (dive-bombing with… uh… unpleasant follow-up) if you approach a fenced-in nesting area. Least terns take their colony defense seriously, and humans might be seen as a threat!”

While the decoys encourage nesting in safer areas, the final decision rests with the birds. Still, this innovative approach is a positive step towards protecting these fascinating beach nesters.

Click here for entire article

In its letter to South Seas homeowners, some of which was reprinted in the “Santiva Chronicle,” the new owners of South Seas distort the facts while criticizing community groups working to “Protect Captiva” from overdevelopment on South Seas. Captiva Community Panel takes this opportunity to correct the record.

• South Seas writes: Last December, South Seas unveiled a Redevelopment Plan that would maintain the historic character and coastal charm that defines Captiva while rebuilding to new federal standards.The facts are: Last December, South Seas unveiled a plan to replace its 247 hotel rooms and employee housing units with 707 condominiums and hotel units. The proposal would increase density on South Seas from 912 units to 1,347 units – a 48% increase. The increase in density is inconsistent with the historic character and coastal charm of South Seas, and has nothing to do with new federal standards.
• South Seas writes: Plans call for rebuilding structures up to 45 feet above the minimum permittable habitable floor which mirrors the existing outlying suburban height restriction, and include up to three stories over parking or commercial space.The facts are: South Seas proposes to increase the height of its own buildings to well over the height currently permitted on South Seas. And building structures on South Seas up to 45 feet above the minimum permittable habitable floor, and up to 65 feet in height, does not mirror Captiva’s existing rules and is not currently permitted anywhere else on Captiva.
• South Seas writes: If the past 19 months have taught us anything, it’s that our community thrives when we’re all on one team working toward a common goal.The facts are: Over the course of those 19 months, the developer and its agents met with Lee County without any community input to amend Captiva’s Land Development Code to exempt its own development from the height and hotel density rules that apply to all other property owners on Captiva. No teamwork was coming from South Seas.
• South Seas writes: Since the hurricane, we have strongly advised our neighbors and surrounding communities to [adhere to FEMA requirements]. However, rather than join us in advocating to ensure future structures are built above FEMA flood requirements, many community groups and various HOAs within South Seas have focused their efforts on challenging South Seas for following the rules.The facts are: At no time did community groups or HOAs within South Seas challenge South Seas for following the FEMA rules. Rather, the community challenged South Seas for increasing building heights and density that had nothing to do with FEMA flood requirements. Increasing the number of habitable floors above base flood elevation is only about increasing revenue at the expense of our fragile barrier island environment.
• South Seas writes: That it is why it’s especially upsetting to learn that Captiva is at risk of losing their FEMA insurance discounts. South Seas repeatedly raised this specific concern last year and was accused of “flying the false flag of resiliency” when, in fact, we had been raising the actual flag of resiliency.The facts are: FEMA and Lee County seem to be working out their differences so that the county (including Captiva) can retain its FEMA insurance discounts of 25 percent. However, it was Florida’s Department of Commerce that accused the county of “flying the false flag of resilience” when it amended Captiva’s regulations after the hurricane for the purpose of increasing hotel room density on South Seas. What was especially upsetting to the community were the efforts by South Seas to use the devastation of the hurricane to change the long-standing height and density rules on Captiva for its own benefit.
• South Seas writes: It is important to note that South Seas funded the Resiliency Plan for the entire island of Captiva, a plan that was completed just days before Hurricane Ian made landfall. We did this because we were surprised that community groups with a purported mission to “protect Captiva” had never pursued a resiliency plan to better understand what’s needed – and needs – to be done to fully protect the island.The facts are: South Seas owners were surprised because they had no idea what was taking place in the Captiva community since they made little effort to work with the community after they purchased the resort. The Captiva Community Panel had contracted with Integral Consulting to complete a vulnerability assessment on the bayside of the island that was most vulnerable to flooding. Presentations of the vulnerability assessment and resiliency options were presented to the community in a public meeting at the Captiva Civic Association. At the same time that South Seas was doing its own plan, the Captiva Erosion Prevention District, working in consultation with the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and the Captiva Community Panel, contracted with Aptim, the award-winning environmental solutions firm responsible for past beach renourishments on Captiva, to develop a coastal resiliency assessment for Captiva. The Aptim assessment has been the basis for new grants and further resiliency planning for our island.

• South Seas writes: While FEMA works through this challenge, we would encourage local community and conservation groups to leverage their donor funding and support of the community to fully adopt the plans outlined in the Resiliency Plan, which South Seas donated to them prior to Hurricane Ian.The facts are: Captiva’s community organizations and conservation groups will continue to develop their vulnerability assessments and resiliency plans for our island that were commenced before the new South Seas owners purchased the resort. At the same time, the “Protect Captiva” coalition will continue to do everything possible to prevent overdevelopment on South Seas and the rest of Captiva – overdevelopment that will make Captiva more vulnerable and less resilient in the future.

Calling all islanders! The Sanibel School Parent Teacher Association is hosting its annual Seahorse Festival this Saturday, April 13th from 11 am to 3 pm.

Free and Fun for the Whole Family

The festival is a fantastic opportunity to connect with your neighbors and show your school spirit! There will be something for everyone, including:

• Inflatables: Bounce houses, a rock wall, and a giant slide for all ages!
• Games with Prizes: Test your skills and win some awesome stuff, including a bicycle!
• Crafts: Get creative with hands-on activities led by the Children’s Education of the Islands.
• Shell Painting: Learn about our local marine life and decorate your own seashell with the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation.
• Food Trucks: Grab a bite to eat from Kona Ice, Red Roc Cravings, and The Dawg Pound.
• And More! Face painting, a character artist, a photo booth, and a PTA table selling Sanibel School gear.

Spread the Word!

RSVPs are encouraged to help the PTA get a headcount for water bottles. You can RSVP at RSVP Here.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, April 13th
• Time: 11 am to 3 pm
• Location: The Sanibel School pavilion, 3840 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel
• Cost: Free and open to the public

Click here for more info

In recent analysis, a JPMorgan strategist pointed out significant indicators of a housing market on the mend. With 1.6 million new homes currently under construction and housing completions reaching their highest point in 17 years as of February, there’s reason for optimism.

Stephanie Aliaga, Global Market Strategist at JPMorgan, noted the market’s resilience despite challenges. She highlighted that while the housing sector initially struggled amidst rising Fed rates, recent data suggests a turnaround in activity.

Aliaga emphasized a thaw in supply, attributing it to a gradual increase in existing homes for sale since the previous spring. Moreover, the National Association of Realtors® reported a notable 9.5% surge in existing home sales between January and February, accompanied by a slight uptick in unsold inventory.

Looking ahead, analysts foresee continued growth in construction driven by robust job expansion and positive sentiments among homebuilders. However, they caution that the recovery may be tempered by affordability concerns arising from rapid home price appreciation outpacing income growth.

Despite these challenges, there’s optimism regarding mortgage rates, with forecasts indicating a potential decrease to 6.4% by the end of 2024, according to Fannie Mae. Aliaga concludes that while the housing market’s recovery may be gradual, its underlying dynamics suggest resilience rather than vulnerability for the economy.

Source: Fortune (04/01/24) Botros, Alena

Looking to add a furry friend to your family? Look no further than Collier County Domestic Animal Services (CCDAS)! This week, we’re spotlighting two adorable animals waiting for their forever homes:

Thumper the Thumping Good Rabbit

Meet Thumper, the first rabbit ever featured on Friday’s Furry Friends! This cuddly bunny is one of seven currently seeking a loving home at CCDAS. Volunteers note that rabbits are often surrendered around Easter, so Thumper might be the perfect addition for someone seeking a springtime companion.

Fred: The Cuddle King

Fred is a two-year-old mixed breed pup who weighs in at a huggable 35 pounds. This playful pooch loves belly rubs and snuggles, making him the ideal cuddle buddy.

Your Perfect Pet Awaits

These are just two of the many amazing animals waiting for adoption at CCDAS. With roughly 150 furry friends hoping for a loving home, you’re sure to find your perfect match!

Ready to Adopt?

There are several ways to connect with CCDAS:

• Visit their website for more information on adoptable pets.
• Call them at 239-252-7387.
• Visit their shelter in person at 7610 Davis Blvd. in Naples.

Remember, you can’t buy happiness, but you can rescue it! Give a deserving animal a loving home and adopt from CCDAS today!

A recent study by WalletHub found that over 21% of U.S. workers were clocking in from home at least five days a week between October 2023 and January.

So, how does Florida stack up for remote work? The Sunshine State landed at number 17 on WalletHub’s list, which considered factors like internet affordability, home size, and cybersecurity risks. Here’s a breakdown of Florida’s ranking across key metrics:

• Internet Cost: 7th (great news for budget-conscious remote workers!)
• Household Internet Access: 15th (solid internet availability)
• Average Home Square Footage: 28th (homes may be on the smaller side)
• Share of Population Working From Home: 20th (fairly common to see remote workers here)
• Share of Potential Telecommuters: 30th (might be fewer remote job opportunities)
• Average Retail Price of Electricity: 31st (electricity costs could be a factor)

Overall, Florida offers a decent mix of affordability and accessibility for remote work. While homes may be cozier and there might be fewer remote-specific jobs, the internet is readily available and costs stay competitive.

Top Ranked States for Working From Home:

The study also revealed the top 5 states for working remotely:

1. New Jersey
2. Utah
3. Delaware
4. Maryland
5. District of Columbia

Considering a move to Florida to work remotely? This study provides a helpful starting point, but it’s important to factor in your personal needs and preferences. Consider your ideal work environment, desired amenities, and budget to make the best decision for your remote work lifestyle.

This new restaurant, located at 362 Periwinkle Way, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, along with a full bar featuring signature drinks. It’s a collaboration between Brian and Elke Podlasek (formerly of Island Cow) and Max and Bridget Kolshak (formerly of Mad Hatter).

The name “Wickies” is a nod to lighthouse keepers, who trimmed the wicks of the lamps. The restaurant itself boasts a fresh menu and casual yet elegant decor, reminiscent of the Mad Hatter.

If you’re looking for a sweet treat after your meal, be sure to visit The Magic Bus Ice Cream & Caffeine next door, also owned by the same couple! Wickies Lighthouse Restaurant is open daily from 8 am to 9 pm.

The Captiva Civic Association (CCA) is taking legal action against Lee County. Their lawsuit alleges the county violated a 1973 agreement regarding the number of units allowed at the South Seas Resort.

The crux of the issue lies in a recent change to Lee County’s Land Development Code. According to the CCA, this amendment, passed in September 2023, breaks a decades-old agreement that capped the number of units at South Seas at 912.

The lawsuit further argues that the new code unfairly exempts South Seas from hotel room density restrictions that still apply to other Captiva properties.

This change emboldened South Seas Resort, which subsequently announced plans to increase its density by nearly 50%, aiming for 1,347 units. The CCA is seeking a court order to enforce the original agreement and prevent this expansion.

Breeze Airways is expanding its presence in Florida, making Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) its ninth base of operations nationwide and third in the Sunshine State. This exciting development kicks off on October 1st, 2024.

Breeze’s commitment to RSW is clear. Since their inaugural flight in June 2022, they’ve transported over 160,000 passengers to and from Southwest Florida. The new base will see Breeze stationing aircraft overnight at RSW, starting with three. RSW will also become a crew base, providing a convenient location for pilots and flight attendants.

This move reflects Breeze’s impressive growth at RSW. The airline has doubled its presence year-over-year between the fourth quarters of 2022 and 2023. Currently, Breeze offers nonstop service to 19 destinations, with five new routes on the horizon.

Breeze’s expansion doesn’t stop here. Orlando International Airport became their eighth base on April 1st, joining their network that includes Charleston (South Carolina), Hartford (Connecticut), New Orleans, Norfolk (Virginia), Providence (Rhode Island), Provo (Utah), and Tampa.

This is a significant development for both Breeze Airways and Southwest Florida. Passengers will benefit from increased connectivity and potentially more competitive fares. The establishment of a crew base at RSW will likely create job opportunities as well. Stay tuned for further updates on Breeze’s exciting new chapter at Southwest Florida International Airport!