Category: Island Update

Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) volunteers and staff recorded an impressive 6,891 birds belonging to 93 species on Sanibel and Captiva on December 16th as part of a local effort to contribute to the National Audubon Society’s 124th Christmas Bird Count.

A Longstanding Tradition of Citizen Science

The SCCF reported that every year, birders across much of the Western Hemisphere participate in the count, which was started in 1900 when a group of birders proposed to count birds on Christmas Day rather than shoot them, as was past tradition. It is one of the longest-running citizen science efforts in the world and has contributed to substantial data on bird populations in the western hemisphere.

SCCF and Partners Collaborate for Over 60 Years

The SCCF and partners, including the Sanibel-Captiva Audubon Society and J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, have collaborated on the Sanibel-Captiva count for over 60 years.

“Last year, many members of the public were unable to participate due to the damage caused by Hurricane Ian, so we’re happy to report that this year we had volunteers from on and off the island come out and participate,” SCCF shorebird technician Aaron White said. “We were worried about what the rainy weather had in store for us, but we were still able to hold a great count event. Our 80 dedicated volunteers covered 150 miles over the islands by foot, car and golf cart.”

Top Five Species Recorded

He noted that this year’s count total was higher than last year, but lower from prior years. Here are the top five species recorded:

1. White ibis (Eudocimus albus): 565
2. Brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis): 515
3. Sanderling (Calidris alba): 463
4. Royal tern (Thalasseus maximus): 459
5. Mourning dove (Zenaida macroura): 364

Challenges and Gratitude

The SCCF reported that the count numbers were likely lower due to the cold and windy weather conditions during the event, and one area was unable to be reached by boat due to the unfavorable marine forecast. Several inland areas were still inaccessible due to damage from Ian.

“We would like to thank all of our wonderful volunteers for their efforts in this year’s count, we couldn’t have done it without you,” White said. “We’d also like to thank San-Cap Audubon and J.N. ‘Ding’ Darling for their continued participation and support.”

The Christmas Bird Count Legacy

The 124th Christmas Bird Count window spanned from December 14th through January 5th. This annual tradition provides valuable data on bird populations and helps us understand how these populations are changing over time. The dedication of volunteers like those on Sanibel and Captiva is essential to the success of this important citizen science project.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has announced that all travel lanes on the Sanibel Causeway are now open to traffic. This means the temporary lanes have been dismantled and replaced with the permanent structure, marking a significant step forward in the island’s recovery.

However, it’s important to note that the work isn’t finished yet. Here’s what you need to know:

• • Causeway islands remain closed: The islands surrounding the temporary roadway are still an active construction zone and are off-limits to the public, including access from the water.
  • Westbound merge lane shifted: The westbound merge location has been moved west of the toll plaza. Drivers should use caution and obey the 20 mph speed limit in this area, as construction vehicles and equipment will be entering and exiting the staging area.
  • Debris removal and lane closure: Crews will be removing debris and construction materials throughout the project area over the coming week. Additionally, in approximately two weeks, eastbound traffic from Sanibel will experience a single-lane closure from the toll plaza to Port Comfort Road. This is necessary for crews to install underground devices to reinforce the shoreline and is expected to last for 90 days. Significant delays are not anticipated.
  • Oversized vehicles and alternative transportation: Be aware that many oversized vehicles are crossing the causeway to assist with recovery efforts. This may cause slower than usual travel times. Bicyclists are encouraged to use alternative transportation, and pedestrians are not permitted on the causeway at this time.
  • Safety reminders: Always obey the posted speed limit of 20 mph. Please use caution and watch for workers and construction vehicles entering and leaving the roadway.

For more information about the project, visit the FDOT website.

Captiva Cruises’ popular “Tarpon Lodge on Pine Island” cruise is returning for the season, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the centuries-old fishing cultures of the Pine Island Sound. The cruise will take place four times this year, with the first event scheduled for January 20 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A Journey Through Time and Tide

This cruise will focus on the fishing cultures of the Pine Island Sound, encompassing more than a thousand years of history. From the indigenous Calusa and Spanish-Cuban fishing eras to commercial fishing with the Punta Gorda Fish and Ice Company and on up to today’s incredible sport fishing, the cruise will provide a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich maritime heritage.

Highlights of the Cruise

• Departing from McCarthy’s Marina on Captiva, the tour will travel to the community of Pineland on Pine Island.
• Along the way, you’ll see the historic fish houses of the Pine Island Sound, as well as North Captiva, Cayo Costa, Cabbage Key, and Useppa Island.
• Learn about the ecology and importance of the back bay estuary, which has been a common denominator for fishing communities throughout time.
• Gain insights into the cultural history, wildlife, and present-day living of the people who call these islands home.
• Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and a variety of birds while cruising the waters.

A Delicious and Educational Stop at the Tarpon Lodge

On Pine Island, participants will disembark for lunch at the Tarpon Lodge Restaurant. Here, you’ll hear about the family business’ storied tradition of fishing the Pine Island Sound and Charlotte Harbor. The lodge, an historic home converted into an inn and restaurant, dates back to the mid-1920s and still retains that “old Florida charm.”

Exploring the Randell Research Center and Calusa Indian Mounds

Following lunch, there will be an opportunity for a guided walk along the Calusa Heritage Trail at the Randell Research Center and Calusa Indian Mounds. This program, run by the Florida Museum of Natural History, is dedicated to learning and teaching about the archeology, history, and ecology of Southwest Florida through the Pineland archeological and historical site.

Booking Your Trip

The cost of the cruise is $50 for adults and seniors and $35 for ages 12 and under. Reservations are required, and lunch is not included in the cost. The other dates for the cruise are February 7, March 9, and March 20.

For more information or reservations, call 239-472-5300 or visit www.captivacruises.com.

Captiva Cruises is located at McCarthy’s Marina, at 11401 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva.

Sanibel and Captiva Islands Take a Big Step Towards Energy Resilience with Federal Grant

Sanibel and Captiva, two beautiful barrier islands off the coast of Florida, have been severely impacted by Hurricane Ian. In the aftermath of the storm, rebuilding and resilience have become top priorities for the community. One crucial aspect of their recovery plan is ensuring energy resilience, and they recently received a significant boost in this direction.

A Grant for Expert Guidance

SanCap Resilience, a community-based organization dedicated to building a more resilient Sanibel and Captiva, was awarded a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Labs (NREL) Clean Energy to Communities (C2C) programs. This non-cash grant provides invaluable consulting services from NREL’s network of energy experts, helping the community address specific renewable energy and energy resilience challenges.

Building a Collaborative Vision

Recognizing the complexity of energy resilience, SanCap Resilience’s Steering Committee entrusted the Sanibel-Captiva Renewable Energy Working Group (REWG) with the responsibility of leading the planning process. REWG will manage the consulting grant and spearhead community engagement.

The first step, according to SanCap Resilience, is bringing together diverse stakeholders, including residents, businesses, nonprofits, the city of Sanibel, and Lee County Electric Co-op (LCEC), to establish a shared vision and set of goals for future planning.

Customized Consulting for Tailored Solutions

“We want to build a process that reflects the concerns and priorities of various parts of the community,” says Dr. Michael Savarese, a REWG member and professor at the Florida Gulf Coast University’s Water School. “Early and extensive stakeholder engagement is crucial for long-term success.”

The NREL consulting agreement caters specifically to Sanibel and Captiva’s needs by focusing on three key areas:

• Vulnerability Assessment and Solutions: This involves developing a comprehensive matrix of energy resilience issues and potential solutions, along with relevant examples.
• Research Supporting an LCEC Partnership: The consultants will provide a report on the regulatory landscape for distribution-only electric cooperatives, formulate questions to facilitate collaboration with LCEC, and showcase case studies of resilient energy solutions implemented by similar utilities.
• Resilience Planning Process Roadmap: A detailed roadmap will be outlined, outlining stakeholder engagement strategies and highlighting existing resources to support community planning efforts.

A Catalyst for a Sustainable Future

The grant provides approximately 40-60 hours of consulting over three to four months. By the end of this period, the community aims to be actively involved in a comprehensive planning process, paving the way for a more robust and sustainable energy system that integrates centralized and distributed energy resources, prioritizes energy efficiency, and embraces cutting-edge resilient energy technologies.

“As we face the impacts of climate change, this is an incredibly important topic for our community,” emphasizes James Evans, CEO of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation and co-chair of REWG. “At SCCF, we’re leading by example. Our three facilities being rebuilt or renovated after the storm incorporate energy-efficient designs and solar energy, complementing existing solar installations on other buildings. Resilience is at the heart of our organization’s strategic plan.”

This federal grant and the ensuing collaborative efforts mark a significant step towards a more resilient future for Sanibel and Captiva. By harnessing expert guidance, fostering community engagement, and prioritizing sustainable solutions, these islands are well on their way to weathering future storms and securing a brighter, more energy-independent future.

Stay Informed and Get Involved:

To learn more about SanCap Resilience and their ongoing initiatives, visit their website: https://www.sancapresilience.org/. You can also stay updated on the progress of the energy resilience planning process and find opportunities to get involved in shaping the future of Sanibel and Captiva’s energy landscape.

After weathering the storm alongside its community, Noah’s Ark Thrift Shop at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church in Sanibel is charting a course for a triumphant return in October. The beloved local treasure sustained significant damage from Hurricane Ian, mirroring the challenges faced by so many on the island. But just like the resilient spirit of Sanibel, Noah’s Ark has risen to the occasion, undergoing a series of upgrades and improvements to emerge stronger and more welcoming than ever.

While church services and community gatherings temporarily called the Ark home, the focus now shifts to restocking and preparing for its true calling: serving others through the power of thrift. Soon, the familiar hum of bargain hunters will fill the air once again, fueled by a fresh selection of treasures displayed on expanded racks and shelves. Higher ceilings, brighter lights, and improved accessibility features like scratch-resistant flooring and ADA-compliant restrooms will further enhance the shopping experience.

But the road to reopening isn’t just about paint and shelves. Carefully curating new and exciting merchandise, establishing efficient sorting and check-out systems, and meticulously restocking will take dedication and time. So, while we eagerly await the shop’s return in the latter half of October, remember that patience is a virtue – especially when it comes to finding that perfect vintage gem!

In the meantime, rest assured that your generous donations are still welcomed with open arms (just not literally… yet!). Several alternative drop-off locations in Fort Myers are available, and the team at Noah’s Ark anticipates resuming their usual intake closer to summer’s end.

Remember, Noah’s Ark is more than just a thrift shop; it’s a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring power of community. By supporting this island institution, you’re not just scoring vintage finds, you’re helping those in need.

Stay tuned for updates on the reopening journey via the church website (www.saintmichaels-sanibel.org), Noah’s Ark Instagram (@noahsarkthrift.sanibel), or their Facebook page. And be sure to mark your calendars for the grand reopening this October – because when Noah’s Ark sails again, the whole island will celebrate!

Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium to Reopen with Redesigned Exhibits and More Focus on Conservation

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium on Sanibel Island is set to reopen after more than 16 months of closure and rebuilding from Hurricane Ian. When it does, the public will enjoy redesigned and reinstalled permanent exhibit galleries that emphasize more shells, conservation and marine life education, along with a more dynamic visitor experience.

The museum will reopen in phases, with the Living Gallery of Aquariums expected in early February and Great Hall of Shells later in the spring.

Living Gallery of Aquariums

In the Living Gallery of Aquariums, the exhibits of live animals will be restored with the same mix of over 60 species of marine life, including the giant Pacific octopus, two-spot octopus, flamboyant cuttlefish, giant clam, local mollusks and other favorites. However, the exhibits surrounding the aquariums have been redesigned to dive deeper into the biology and behavior of mollusks, as well as their care and husbandry.

The new exhibits are curated by museum curator and Science Director Dr. José H. Leal, with support from Executive Director Sam Ankerson. They are designed by Matter Practice of New York City, whose recent projects include exhibits for the National Building Museum, Cooper Hewitt Design Museum and Norton Museum of Art, among others.

Great Hall of Shells

The Great Hall of Shells houses exhibits of shells from around the world and debuted when the museum opened in 1995. The space has been fully redesigned to exhibit a greater number and diversity of shells, featuring approximately 3,500 specimens with an array of beauty and global biodiversity. Special exhibit focuses will include Southwest Florida shells, world-record-sized shells, deep-sea species, land snails and ancient fossils. An expanded section of exhibits about shells in human culture will include spotlights on shells in currency, adornment, music, art, architecture, spirituality, food, collecting and medicine.

A new section of the Great Hall devoted to conservation and environmental education will include exhibits on regional water quality, climate change, invasive species, aquaculture and restoration initiatives. Also included will be a new family activity area.

For progress updates and reopening status, visit www.ShellMuseum.org/post-ian-progress.

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium is at 3075 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel.

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Calling all pups and their human companions! Get ready for a pawsome party you won’t want to miss – the Captiva Dog Party! This furry fiesta is happening on January 17th, 2024, from 5-7 pm at the Captiva Civic Center, and it promises to be a tail-wagging good time for all.

Wooftaculous Fun for Your Furry Friend

Let your furry friend unleash their inner party animal at the Captiva Dog Party. There’ll be plenty of space for them to run, jump, and play with their fellow pups. They can chase butterflies in the sunshine, dig in the sand (responsibly, of course!), or simply relax and enjoy the good vibes.

More Than Just a Dog Party

This isn’t just a party for pups; it’s a fun event for the whole family. Well-behaved owners can join the fun for a small fee of $25, and all proceeds will go to the Lee County Community Pet Pantry, helping to provide food and care for homeless animals in need.

What to Expect at the Captiva Dog Party

• Plenty of tail-wagging activities: From frisbee tossing to obstacle courses, there’ll be something for every pup to enjoy.
• Raffles and prizes: Enter to win some amazing goodies for your furry friend, from stylish collars and leashes to delicious treats and toys.
• Music to get your paws tapping: Groove to the pawsome tunes that’ll have both pups and humans shaking their tails.
• A refreshment bar for humans and pups alike: Stay cool and hydrated with a variety of drinks for both two-legged and four-legged guests.
• Food trucks with delicious eats: Treat yourself and your pup to something yummy from the on-site food trucks.

So mark your calendars and get ready for a doggone good time at the Captiva Dog Party! It’s the perfect opportunity to let your furry friend socialize, have fun, and give back to the community. We can’t wait to see you and your pup there!

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Sanibel Island’s fashion heart, Chico’s, has returned to its roots! The beloved boutique, founded in 1983 with treasures gleaned from exotic travels, has reopened its doors at Periwinkle Place, ready to weave its island magic once again.

Having been an integral part of Southwest Florida for four decades, the reopening of Chico’s original store carries a profound significance. It stands as a symbol of the community’s resilience in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, one of the worst storms in U.S. history. The ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, Jan. 11 marked a momentous occasion, complete with the unveiling of a new black and bronze plaque paying tribute to the store’s rich history.

Reflecting on the recovery efforts post-Hurricane Ian, Marketing Senior Vice President Leana Less shared, “As Chico’s reflects on the recovery efforts since Hurricane Ian struck in September of 2022, we recall the devastation, hurt, and hopelessness that washed over the Southwest Florida community within the blink of an eye.”

Chico’s corporate headquarters in Fort Myers played a pivotal role in the recovery, transforming into a hub for over 1,000 essential workers within 24 hours of the storm. This included teams from the American Red Cross Disaster Relief and Power and Light, who utilized the space for two months to restore power and infrastructure.

In response to the impact on its associates, Chico’s swiftly organized recovery services, including an Employee Disaster Relief Fund and mental health prioritization through group wellness sessions. Leana Less emphasized, “As devastating as the storm was, it gave us an opportunity to show up for each other in a meaningful way.”

The brand also launched a program allowing customers to contribute their loyalty points to the Red Cross, with over 4,500 customers generously donating nearly 5 million points.

Celebrating the triumph over adversity, Less expressed pride in the resiliency of customers, employees, and brands. Following the reopening of three top stores in Naples last June, the reopening of the original Sanibel store is a significant milestone.

The renovated store boasts a modern coastal aesthetic, featuring an open floor plan, clear sight-lines, and spacious merchandise displays for a welcoming and user-friendly shopping experience. The grand staircase, adorned with painted millwork, leads to an intimate Soma shop-in-shop with a dedicated fitting area, completing the transformation of this cherished space.

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SANIBEL, Fla. — Breaking new ground, The Moorings Resort, a condominium-style establishment, has become the pioneer in resuming operations on Sanibel Island. General Manager Kari Cordisco expressed her exhilaration about the reopening, emphasizing the substantial efforts invested to achieve this milestone.

The Moorings Resort on Sanibel Island, the first of its kind to bounce back from extensive damages, has made remarkable progress with a recovery investment exceeding $20 million. Concurrently, the island’s largest resort, Sundial, is undergoing renovations and anticipates reopening parts of its facilities within the next four months.
By: Anvar Ruziev Posted at 9:49 PM, Jan 10, 2024, and last updated 9:49 PM, Jan 10, 2024

SANIBEL, Fla. — The Moorings Resort, a distinctive condominium-style retreat, has taken the lead as the first of its kind to resume operations on Sanibel Island.

Reflecting on this pivotal moment, Kari Cordisco, the General Manager of the resort, shared, “It’s an amazing feeling,” underscoring the concerted efforts undertaken to reach this stage.

This unique resort, blending individual ownership with hotel-like amenities, has made 62 of its 122 rooms available for booking. The journey to reopening involved a substantial financial investment, as Cordisco pointed out, stating, “The recovery and the rebuild, we’re looking at more than $20 million.”

Not far away, Sundial, the island’s largest resort, is making strides toward reopening and is now accepting reservations for the month of August.

General Manager Becky Miller highlighted the comprehensive upgrades in progress, stating, “It’s going to be everything new, gorgeous, with new swimming pools and all new amenities.”

The resort aims to reopen a portion of its facilities within four months, featuring five restaurants, tennis and pickleball courts, and a fitness center. Notably, the restaurants will be open to the public.

Despite these positive developments, the overall recovery of Sanibel Island’s hospitality industry is an ongoing process. According to the Sanibel Chamber of Commerce, currently, only about 13% of the island’s rooms are available for guests. The expectation is that this number will double throughout the year and eventually reach 75% by 2026.

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Fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious foodies in South Fort Myers rejoice! A haven for all things protein has arrived: Protein Paradise. Nestled conveniently at 18011 S. Tamiami Trail, Unit 16, in the same plaza as San Carlos Park’s Planet Fitness, this new shop is dedicated to fueling your active lifestyle with delicious and nutritious options.

Stepping into Protein Paradise is like entering a portal to a tropical smoothie paradise. The walls are adorned with refreshing fruit murals, and the air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of fresh berries, creamy nut butters, and a hint of invigorating greens.

Anthony and Danielle Carolina, the passionate duo behind Protein Paradise, understand the importance of proper protein intake for optimal health and performance. Their carefully curated menu goes beyond the typical protein shake, offering a diverse selection of:

• Protein Smoothies: Bursting with fresh fruits, vegetables, and your choice of protein powder, these smoothies are a delicious way to refuel after a workout, kickstart your day, or simply indulge in a guilt-free treat.
• B12 Refreshers: Feeling sluggish? These invigorating concoctions, available in 14 tantalizing flavors like passion fruit, pina colada, and mango berry, will give you a refreshing boost of energy and essential B vitamins.
• Protein Meals: Don’t settle for boring salads or protein bars. Protein Paradise offers a range of savory and satisfying protein meals, perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner on the go.

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a weekend warrior, or simply looking to incorporate more protein into your diet, Protein Paradise has something for everyone. Their commitment to fresh ingredients, creative flavors, and expert guidance on all things protein makes it the ideal destination to nourish your body and fuel your fitness journey.

So, ditch the processed protein bars and skip the drive-thru – head to Protein Paradise and discover a world of delicious and healthy possibilities. Your taste buds and your body will thank you!