Category: Island Update

A new clock was unveiled in Fort Myers Beach, Florida on September 28, 2023, one year after Hurricane Ian destroyed the original clock that stood in Times Square. The new clock was produced in Cincinnati, Ohio by The Verdin Company, who have been making clocks and bells since 1842. The clock was donated by George and Linda Merschman.

The original clock was a beloved landmark on Fort Myers Beach, and its loss was a major blow to the community. The new clock is a replica of the original, and it is a symbol of the community’s resilience and determination to rebuild.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by hundreds of people, including community members, elected officials, and donors. The ceremony began with a moment of silence for the victims of Hurricane Ian. Then, George and Linda Merschman were presented with a plaque of appreciation for their donation.

The unveiling of the new clock is a significant milestone in the recovery of Fort Myers Beach. It is a reminder of the community’s strength and resilience, and it is a symbol of hope for the future

Hurricane Ian caused widespread damage to Sanibel Island, Florida, in September 2022. One of the most heavily damaged structures was Fire Station 172, which served as the island’s primary fire station.

The station was flooded with over 10 feet of water, and the damage was so extensive that it had to be demolished. The Sanibel Fire Department has been operating out of a temporary facility since the storm, but the need for a new fire station is urgent.

The construction of a new Fire Station 172 is underway, and it is expected to be completed in 2024. The new station will be located on the same site as the old one, but it will be elevated to protect it from future flooding.

The new station will also be equipped with state-of-the-art fire and rescue equipment. This will ensure that the Sanibel Fire Department is able to continue to provide the best possible service to the island’s residents and visitors.

The rebuilding of Fire Station 172 is a symbol of the Sanibel community’s resilience in the face of adversity. It is also a reminder of the importance of investing in public safety infrastructure.

The early registration deadline for the 10K/5K Race4FISH is approaching quickly! Runners who register by September 30, 2023 will save on their registration fee.

The race will be held on October 22, 2023 at The Community House on Sanibel. There will also be a kids’ race and family fun day taking place on the same day.

In-person early registration is open now through September 25 for $45. From September 26 through December 1, the in-person fee will be $50; ages 18 and under can register for $35 from now until December 1. On race day, the in-person fee will be $55. The virtual fee is $50.

To register, visit runsignup.com/Race/FL/Sanibel/10K5KRace4FISH.

The Sanibel Island Beach Resort has reopened its doors, just days before the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Ian. The resort was heavily damaged by the storm, but has been rebuilt and is now ready to welcome guests.

The reopening is a major milestone for the island’s recovery from Hurricane Ian. The resort is a major employer and a significant contributor to the island’s economy. Its reopening is expected to boost tourism and bring back jobs.

The resort has made a number of improvements since Hurricane Ian. It has installed new storm-hardened windows and doors, and it has elevated the resort’s electrical and mechanical systems to reduce the risk of flooding.

The resort is also offering a number of special packages to celebrate its reopening. Guests can book a stay in a newly renovated room or suite, and they can enjoy a variety of dining and activity options.

The reopening of the Sanibel Island Beach Resort is a sign of hope for the island. It is a reminder that Sanibel is still a beautiful and vibrant place, and it is ready to welcome visitors back.

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Country music fans rejoice! The Island Hopper Songwriter Fest is back for its 10th year, and it’s bigger and better than ever. The festival kicks off on Friday, September 22nd, and runs through Sunday, October 1st, with dozens of singer-songwriters performing at various venues throughout Lee County.

One of the biggest headliners this year is Chris Janson. Janson is a Grammy-nominated country singer-songwriter who has scored many hits of his own, including “Buy Me a Boat,” “Good Vibes,” and “Fix a Drink.” He’ll be performing a poolside concert with Kristian Bush of Sugarland on Sunday, October 1st at Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina on Fort Myers Beach.

Also, there is no tolls for the Sanibel Island bridge for two days of the fest, courtesy of the nonprofit Collaboratory and the Lee County Tourist Development Council. They’re paying for the tolls to be waived Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 23-24, according to a Collaboratory news release. Tolls still apply for Island Fest shows Friday, Sept. 22.

Other highlights this year include:

• Grammy-winning songwriter Tim James, who co-wrote Toby Keith’s “My List” and The Lost Trailers’ “Holler Back” (Various Captiva Island venues, Sept. 22-24. Free.)
• Ben Burgess, who co-wrote The Jonas Brothers’ “Chillin in the Summertime” and Morgan Wallen’s “Whiskey Glasses” (Various Captiva Island venues, Sept. 22-24. Free.)
• Emily Shackelton, co-writer of Carly Pearce’s No. 1 single “Every Little Thing” (Various Captiva Island venues, Sept. 22-24. Free.)
• Chris Bepko, grand prize winner of Davis Art Center’s annual singer-songwriter competition in Fort Myers (three shows scheduled for Sept. 26-29 in Cape Coral, Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach. Free.)
• Kristian Bush, the Sugarland singer-songwriter is an Island Hopper regular. He’ll play the headlining show with Chris Janson, but he also performs two free Fort Myers Beach shows (9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 29 at Bayside Park, 8:15 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30 at Cabanas Beach Bar & Grille)
• And local singer-songwriters Sheena Brook and Brian Sutherland, playing the outdoor concert Music on the Mound (2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 30 at The Mound House on Fort Myers Beach. $45 includes beer, wine, soft drinks, water, appetizers and museum admission. Brook and Sutherland also play several free shows separately at other venues during the festival).

Most shows are free, although there are several ticketed events this year. Tickets for the Janson and Bush pool party are $45. For tickets and information, download the Island Hopper app or visit IslandHopperFest.com.

Whether you’re a fan of country music, or you just want to enjoy a fun weekend in Lee County, be sure to check out the Island Hopper Songwriter Fest!

The Sanibel Farmers Market is Returning of its 16^th Season. Located at City Hall it will open every Sunday, starting October 1^st to May 26^6th  from 9am to 1pm . The Sanibel Farmers Market is a vibrant and colorful weekly event that showcases the best of local produce, prepared foods, and artisanal goods. It’s a great place to find fresh, seasonal ingredients for your next meal, or to simply browse and sample the many offering.

Sanibel city hall is located at 800 Dunlop Road Sanibel, FL 33957.

Tt’s a popular destination for both locals and visitors alike, and it’s easy to see why. The market has a wide variety of vendors, selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to baked goods, meats, seafood, flowers, and prepared foods.

Here are just a few of the things you can find at the Sanibel Farmers Market:

• Fresh, seasonal produce from local farms
• Baked goods, including breads, pastries, and pies
• Meats and seafood from local farmers and fishermen
• Flowers and plants
• Prepared foods, such as sandwiches, salads, and soups
• Artisanal goods, such as jewelry, pottery, and candles

In addition to shopping, the market is also a great place to socialize and enjoy the outdoors. There are often live music performances and other events happening, and there are plenty of places to sit and relax with a cup of coffee or a snack.

Here are a few tips for making the most of your visit to the Sanibel Farmers Market:

• Arrive early to beat the crowds and get the best selection of produce.
• Bring cash, as many of the vendors do not accept credit cards.
• Bring your own reusable bags to reduce waste.
• Don’t be afraid to sample the different foods and drinks on offer. Most of the vendors are happy to let you try their products before you buy.
• Take some time to browse the artisanal goods and crafts. You’re sure to find some unique and beautiful items to take home.

No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it at the Sanibel Farmers Market. It’s a great place to support local businesses, enjoy fresh, delicious food, and soak up the island atmosphere.

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Emergency restoration work will continue on the Sanibel Causeway from Thursday, September 15 to Friday, September 22, 2023. Crews will be working on McGregor Boulevard and the Sanibel Causeway from Port Comfort Road to Sanibel Island.

During this time, McGregor Boulevard will be reduced to one lane east of the toll plaza to Port Comfort Road. The causeway islands around the temporary roadway are closed to the public, including from the water.

Roadwork will take place from 6:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. each day. Crews will not be working on the weekends.

The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) advises motorists to plan ahead for delays and use caution in the area.

Thank you for your patience as we work to restore the Sanibel Causeway.

Here are some additional details about the work being done:

• Crews are repairing damage to the causeway caused by Hurricane Ian in 2022.
• The work includes repairing the roadway, bridge structures, and seawalls.
• The project is expected to be completed in early 2024.

Breeze Airlines, the low-cost carrier founded by JetBlue founder David Neeleman, is celebrating the launch of two new routes to Florida. The new routes are from Portland, Maine to Fort Myers, Florida and from Plattsburgh, New York to Orlando, Florida. To celebrate the new flights, travel from Portland to Fort Myers starts at just $89 one-way and travel from Plattsburgh to Orlando starts at just $59 one-way.

The sale is valid for travel from November 15, 2023 to April 30, 2024. To take advantage of the sale, flights must be booked by September 18, 2023.

The new routes are a boon for travellers from Maine and New York who are looking for a more affordable way to get to Florida. Fort Myers and Orlando are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Florida, and the new routes will make it easier for people from the Northeast to visit.

In addition to the $59 flight sale, Breeze is also offering a variety of other discounts on its flights. For example, travelers can save 10% on their flights by purchasing a Breeze Card. The Breeze Card is a prepaid debit card that can be used to book flights, pay for checked bags, and purchase onboard food and drinks.

Breeze Airlines is a relatively new airline, but it has been growing rapidly. The airline currently operates flights to 28 cities in the United States and the Caribbean. Breeze is known for its low fares and its focus on customer service.

If you are looking for a cheap way to get to Florida, then be sure to check out Breeze Airlines’ new routes and $59 flight sale.

Here are some additional details about the new routes:

• Portland to Fort Myers: The flights will operate twice weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The flight time is about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
• Plattsburgh to Orlando: The flights will operate once weekly on Saturdays. The flight time is about 2 hours and 15 minutes.

With the addition of Portland, Maine, Breeze will now 14 routes operating to and from RSW.

Other destinations Breeze offers from RSW include: destinations from RSW, including Akron-Canton, OH; Charleston, SC; Columbus, OH; Hartford, CT; Las Vegas, NV; Louisville, KY; New Orleans, LA; Norfolk, VA; Pittsburgh, PA; Providence, RI; Raleigh-Durham, NC; Richmond, VA; and Syracuse, NY.

To book a flight on Breeze Airlines, visit the airline’s website or call 1-855-763-3863.

The owners of the Island Cow and The Mad Hatter have teamed up to open two new restaurants on Sanibel Island: Wickies Lighthouse Restaurant and The Magic Bus Ice Cream & Caffeine. The restaurants are scheduled to open in November 2023 and will be located in the former Lighthouse Café space at 362 Periwinkle Way.

Wickies Lighthouse Restaurant will feature a casual dining atmosphere with a menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items. The restaurant will also have a full bar and signature cocktails. The Magic Bus Ice Cream & Caffeine will be a family-friendly spot with a vintage VW-inspired décor, offering ice cream, coffee, and other snacks.

The two restaurants are the brainchild of longtime island restaurateurs Brian and Elke Podlasek and Max and Bridget Kolshak. The couples teamed up after the Podlasek’s Island Cow restaurant was destroyed by fire and the Kolshak’s Mad Hatter was lost to Hurricane Ian.

“We’re excited to bring two new dining options to Sanibel Island,” said Brian Podlasek. “We think Wickies and The Magic Bus will be a great addition to the community.”

The restaurants are currently under construction and are expected to open in November 2023.

In July of 2023, Sanibel Police responded to a report of identity theft by a Sanibel resident. Initially, the victim’s identity had been used to open multiple accounts at online retailers and withdraw cash from the victim’s bank account. It was later discovered that more than 50 fraudulent transactions were made using the victim’s identity and funds at various online retailers, including multiple purchases of gold bars from a business in Nevada.

During the course of the investigation, Sanibel Police Detective John Eicher was able to identify several suspects at a residence in Miami Gardens, Florida. Detective Eicher then contacted Miami Gardens Police Department whose jurisdiction the home is located in.

Miami Gardens Police detectives immediately began assisting with the investigation, including placing the residence under surveillance and obtaining a search warrant. It was decided to execute the search warrant immediately after the pending delivery of another fraudulent gold bar purchase. Miami Gardens Police detectives executed a controlled delivery and observed a suspect signing the Sanibel victim’s name and taking possession of the delivery.

Upon execution of the search warrant, one suspect was arrested, and the following material was seized:
Identity theft material related to the Sanibel victim including a counterfeit driver’s license.
Identity theft material related to numerous other potential victims including South West Florida residents.
Five (5) firearms and numerous parts for building additional firearms.
Three (3) switches for converting Glock handguns to fully automatic firearms.
Nine (9) cell phones with additional SIM cards.

This is still an active investigation and no further information can be provided at this time. There are potentially additional victims, suspects, and offenses involving additional state and federal agencies. The Sanibel Police Department would like to thank the Miami Gardens Police Department for their prompt and thorough actions while taking over the investigation. The Sanibel Police Department would also like to thank Detective Eicher for his dedication in serving our residents, which in this case led to an investigation spreading much farther than just Sanibel.