Sanibel-Captiva Daily

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Royal Shell, Car Show, PURRE

If you love your car, or love to look at cars, we have a day planned for you! Saturday, March 20 marks the 2nd Annual Tahitian Gardens Car Show on Sanibel. This island style event is open to all types of vehicles and this year benefits PURRE (People United to Restore our Rivers and Estuaries). The Royal Shell Companies (www.royalshell.com, www.royalshellsales.com) and Performance Plus are working to make this a very special day.

This show brings in cars from on and off the island.

The show features:

* NASCAR Hauler (#17 Matt Kenseth)
* Complete line of car accessories
* Raffles
* 50/50 drawings
* Auction items.
* Live Music by The Hat Boys
* And More

Entry fee for cars is $20 and includes a commemorative t-shirt. Contact Barb @239-472-2783 or barb.harrington@RLRLLC.com for entry information.

Admission is free for the public but a donation for PURRE is requested.

Mark you calendars now, shine up your car and join us for a fun day of car talk as we work toward cleaner water.

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No Sweat Productions Celebrates 35th Anniversary

Islands based production company, No Sweat Productions,
is celebrating 35 years of no sweat productions with a day and night

of live entertainment at the American Legion on Sanibel,

Saturday, March 13th, from 2:PM - 10:PM

Headlining the event will be international recording artists

David Pastorius and Local 518

Also onstage Both Hands, Robby Hutto Band, and Troublestarters.

Dougie Fresh’s Legendary Local Bar B Q

Tickets are $10 advance/ $12.50 day of show and can be purchased by calling American Legion at 472-9979 or No Sweat Productions at 472-1605

Donation will be made to the Yele’ Haiti Earthquake Fund

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WIN A CUSTOM BUILT POOL CUE

AT AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY EVENT

MARCH 20 AT TIMBER’S SANIBEL GRILL

Here’s your chance to win a $500 custom-built McDermott pool cue or numerous other prizes at the American Cancer Society Relay for Life fund raising event set for the Sanibel Grill, 11-5, Saturday, March 20.

Again this year, Sanibel 8-Ball Pool League organizer Bob Buntrock will play you a game of 8-Ball.  He shoots one-handed.  You can use both hands.  For each $10 donation you make your name goes in a hat for a drawing for the cue and the other prizes.  If you beat Buntrock your chances of winning the cue are doubled.  The games will be played on a pool table supplied and brought to the Sanibel Grill by Doug Towles of Towne & Country Vending. The table will be set up in the Timbers parking lot where it will share the stage with other planned competitive events.

In last year’s Relay for Life event Buntrock played 24 games against all comers.  He raised $755 for the cancer appeal winning 18 games while losing six.  Winner of last year’s McDermott cue was Cliff Forrest, 1008 Bayview Drive, Sanibel.

Since 2007 Buntrock has raised almost $6000 for the American Cancer Society and other Island charities.  He’s played 198 games shooting one-handed and lost 37.  He explained the losses by pointing out that he had only lost 12 before organizing the Sanibel 8-Ball Pool League.  “The players are getting better and some of them are even playing safe every one in a while,’ Buntrock said.

So come on out.  Get in the drawing for the custom pool cue.  Watch the NCAA Basketball Tournament action and help in the on-going effort to BEAT CANCER!

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Island Flora And Fauna Seen Through The Eyes Of Renowned Local Author, Charles Sobczak, Sanibel & Captiva

If you love nature and live on Sanibel or enjoy time on the Island as a visitor, there is one book that is a “must have” for your personal reference library, Living Sanibel, a nature guide for Sanibel & Captiva Islands by renowned resident author, Charles Sobczak   There is something to “tickle everyone’s outdoor world fancy” in this amazing, comprehensive field guide that includes 540 full-color photographs, illustrations and trail maps.

On March 2, 2010 at 10 a.m., Charles Sobczak will provide a program for The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum.  He will share his experiences compiling the material for his most recent book which not only provides a pictorial guide of Sanibel’s critters but also includes identification tips, anecdotal field experience and practical information about the Island’s kayak and hiking trails. The emphasis of the program will be shells, which hold a special fascination for Charles. The program is free with admission to the Museum.

The Shell Museum has more than a passing interest in Charles’ new release.  Charles’ son, Blake, spent several days at the Museum taking photographs of Sanibel shells in the Museum’s holdings.  Dr. José H. Leal Director/Curator of The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum contributed a number of photographs from the Museum’s online guide to the shells of southwest Florida and served as the project’s shell expert.

“Living Sanibel reminds us once again of the vast natural treasures and biodiversity so well preserved on Sanibel, and will remain the definitive treatise on the islands’ natural history and environment for years to come,” shared Dr. José H. Leal.

Charles’ avocation as an author began in 1999 with the first of four novels, Six Mornings on Sanibel. In 2005 Charles made the switch to non-fiction, penning the award winning Alligators, Sharks & Panthers: deadly encounters with Florida’s Top Predator – Man.

“Charles is sure to captivate the audience,” reports Kathleen E. Hoover, the Museum’s Public Relations manager. “You only have to be with Charles for a few minutes to experience his unbridled enthusiasm for Sanibel and its unique biodiversity.  His passion for sharing the Island’s story is contagious!”

A book signing will take place immediately following the program. For further information about the program please call Diane Orvis Thomas, Public Programs Specialist Programs Specialist, at 239.395.2233.

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Valentine’s Dinner Dance, The Sanibel Community House

Come on by The Sanibel Community House for Valentine’s day to enjoy Big Band Jazz by “JJ and Company” and dinner by Leslie Adams Catering. The good times start at 6:00pm! Click here for the 2010 membership forms! Become a member today and enjoy all of the perks The Community House has to offer!
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“Wave of Hope” Sanibel Beach Walk for Kids Cancer Care

The “Wave of Hope” Sanibel Beach Walk for Kids Cancer Care, hosted by the Sanibel~Captiva Optimist Club, will be held at Bowman’s Beach on Sanibel Island.

Join us for a 2k to 10k walk on one of Sanibel’s most spectacular beaches, featuring the live music styles of our very own Danny Morgan and Pittsburg Mike! Water and refreshments will be provided along the course and afterwards. Free parking for participants.
Cancer is still a leading cause of death in children under the age of 15, second only to accidents. The Sanibel~Captiva Optimist Club is proud to announce all proceeds from this event will benefit Barbara’s Friends - The Children’s Hospital Cancer Fund at Lee Memorial Hospital. The Children’s Hospital is located within the Health Park Medical Center in Fort Myers, Florida.

Registration
Pre-registration is $25 pp. The first 150 registrants will receive a free Wave of Hope t-shirt. On walk day, registration is $30 pp, from 7:30-9:00a.m. Children under 10 accompanied by an adult walk for free.

Online Registration (register by March 18)
Mail-in Registration (postmarked by March 17)
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“SANIBEL UNCORKED” 2010 WINTER WINE FESTIVAL, San-Cap Optimist Club

The San-Cap Optimist Club announces its second Winter Wine Fest called “Sanibel Uncorked!” This year it will be held on February 24th from 5 to 9 PM at the beautiful Lily Co., Jewelers, 520 Tarpon Bay Road, across from Bailey’s General Store where there is plenty of parking.

At least four wine purveyors, each representing an excellent selection of wineries, varietals, and vintages will be available to taste. All wines will be available for purchase at Bailey’s. This is a prime opportunity to taste many fine wines before you buy.

A silent auction will be held offering many fine prizes such as vacation packages, dazzling jewelry, restaurant gift certificates, local activities tickets, theater and concert tickets, works of art, gift baskets, outstanding merchandise – and of course many wines. Also available to patrons will be Lily Bucks, discount certificates from Lily Co.
A cooking demonstration will be held by Sanibel’s Chef Ian. Chef Ian was educated at the New England Culinary Institute and has worked in kitchens in Chapel Hill, NC, Lafayette and New Orleans, LA, Fort Lee, NJ, and Cambridge, MA. He owned and ran his own restaurant, the Windansea, in Morehead City, NC, for ten years. During his sabatical here on Sanibel, he worked at the Mad Hatter. His notable culinary influences include Julia Child for haut cuisine and the late Bill Neal for low country cookery. Ian plans to show us how Shrimp and Grits is prepared - Bill Neal style. Don’t miss this. Music and hors d’oeuvres will accompany the affair.
Tickets for this fun, charitable event are $30 and are available at Bailey’s General Store, at the Sanibel Café, at the San-Cap Community Bank, or at the Fest. A special designated driver admission is $25. Full admission for the first 150 patrons includes a decorative, commemorative, etched wine glass.
Save the date, February 24th, 5-9 PM for a pleasurable outing with some fine wines and a chance to acquire valuable prizes. Direct charitable donations to San-Cap Optimist Club may be mailed to PO Box 1370, Sanibel, FL 33957. Also see the web site at http://www.sancapoptimist.org. Proceeds benefit the health and educational needs of children.
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27th Annual Rotary Club of Sanibel - Captiva, Arts and Crafts Fair, Community House

The Rotary Club of Sanibel-Captiva has been preparing for Florida’s third ranked arts and crafts show. The juried event will run from 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and Sunday until 4 PM, on the weekend of February 13 & 14, 2010. 2009 show was one of the largest shows in the history of the Sanibel-Captivas Arts & Crafts Fair, with more artists and more food. Artists and craftspeople will gather at the Sanibel Community House to display and sell their works at the Rotary Club of Sanibel-Captivas Arts & Crafts Fair 27th Annual event. The show is located at 2173 Periwinkle Way.

The artists and craftspeople come from Maine, California, Washington, Canada, Florida and all points in between to participate in the Sanibel Island Arts & Crafts Fair, considered one of the top three in the state. Those participating have passed a rigorous Jury selection process and are selected from hundreds applying to be part of this long running event, presented each year by the Rotary Club of Sanibel-Captiva. Items displayed and offered for sale include paintings, sculpture, photography, pottery, basketry, jewelry, graphics, fabric, glass, toys and much more.
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Sanibel Community House, SongWriters Blend, Brent Moyer

Come on out to the Community House tomorrow for some great music featuring Songwriter / Artist Brent Moyer. Come buy for some great coffee and snacks! Click here for more info on the Sanibel Community House.
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The Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, The Village Shops, ShopOnSanibel.com

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Florida United Malacologists (FUM)

Have some FUM at the Shell Museum!

Dr. José H. Leal, Director/Curator of The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, has announced that the first meeting of the Florida United Malacologists (FUM) will occur Monday, February 1, 2010, from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m., at The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum. The one-day gathering is designed to enhance communication among professional, amateur, and student malacologists, with topics including but not limited to biology, ecology, paleontology, archaeology, and conservation.

FUM follows the pattern established by similar informal gatherings such as BAM (Bay Area Malacologists), SCUM (Southern California United Malacologists), MAM (Mid-Atlantic Malacologists), and OVUM (Ohio (River) Valley United Malacologists). There is no formal membership and there are no dues, officers, nor publications.  However, presenters were required to submit a brief abstract limited to 150 words or less.  Seventeen abstracts have been received.  Abstracts will be posted on the Museum web site. The gathering will be free of charge to presenters and Museum members. Non-members will be asked to donate the Museum admission fee of $7.  The public is encouraged to attend.

Participants are strongly encouraged to ask questions and discuss data, compare notes on methods and problems, and get acquainted with presenters and members of the audience. Presentations, limited to 15 minutes plus 5 minutes for questions, will be informal and will cover current research and collection efforts and issues.

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The event will be held at:
The Sanibel Community House,
2173 Periwinkle Way
from 11am to 3pm.

There will be over 50 local businesses showing off the wares or services plus refreshments, bounce house, dunk tank and slides and more! Don’t miss this fun time on Sanibel.

Click HERE to download the entry form.

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Rotary Club of Sanibel-Captiva Prepares for This Year’s 27^th Anniversary Sanibel Island Arts and Crafts Fair Feb. 13^th and 14^th

The Rotary Club of Sanibel-Captiva has been preparing for Florida’s third ranked arts and crafts show. The juried event will run from 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and Sunday until 4 PM, on the weekend of February 13 & 14, 2010. 2009 show was one of the largest shows in the history of the Sanibel-Captiva’s Arts & Crafts Fair, with more artists and more food. Artists and craftspeople will gather at the Sanibel Community Center to display and sell their works at the Rotary Club of Sanibel-Captiva’s Arts & Crafts Fair 27^th Annual event. The show is located at 2173 Periwinkle Way.

The artists and craftspeople come from Maine, California, Washington, Canada, Florida and all points in between to participate in the Sanibel Island Arts & Crafts Fair, considered one of the top three in the state.  Those participating have passed a rigorous Jury selection process and are selected from hundreds applying to be part of this long running event, presented each year by the Rotary Club of Sanibel-Captiva.  Items displayed and offered for sale include paintings, sculpture, photography, pottery, basketry, jewelry, graphics, fabric, glass, toys and much more.

Rotarian Robert Monk is chairing the Arts & Crafts Fair committee for the 2010 event.

Proceeds from the Sanibel Island Arts & Crafts Fair are used to support over 15 community organizations, to fund local scholarships, and for human service needs worldwide.  Since 1983, the Rotary Club of Sanibel-Captiva has distributed over $700,000 to people, organizations and for student scholarships.

Contact:

Chet Sadler

Arts and Crafts Fair, Advertising Chairman

The Rotary Club of Sanibel Captiva

239-643-4295

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Twilight Cafe 2nd Annual Breakfast with Santa & Friends

Join Santa & his helpers, Minnie Mouse and Winnie the Pooh, for a Special Breakfast Buffet from 9am - 11am. Kids eat FREE with the donation of a new, unwrapped Toy for the Boys and Girls Club of Lee County. Buffet menu includes Eggs, Bacon, Sausage, Eggs Benedict, French Toast and Potatoes. Adults…$15.95 Children…$9.95 Benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of Lee County

Space is Limited - Reservations are Suggested

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Tribeca Salon host Fundraiser for Friends Who Care

Tribeca Salon in The Village Shops, 2340 Periwinkle Way, hosts a one day fundraising event for Friends Who Care on Monday, December 7^th. A portion of the proceeds from all hair care services done that day will be donated to the Friends Who Care organization. Call Tribeca Salon at 239-395-3800 to participate in this special one day event!

Friends Who Care is an island organization that works on an anonymous basis and assists families in crisis throughout the year. During the holiday season they organize the Giving Tree program. Children from island families and families that work on the island in need of a little extra support during the holidays are the recipients of the gifts from generous islanders.

Pick up a Giving Tree “ornament” and create a brighter holiday for a child. Giving Trees are located at The Village Shops, Tahitian Gardens, Olde Sanibel Shoppes, The Post Office, Fire Department, City Hall, The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club, The Senior Center and local banks. Return new, unwrapped gifts to any of these locations by December 15^th.  Friends Who Care will sort and wrap the gifts and disperse them to the various families.  If you would like to volunteer with the sorting & wrapping, please call Sally at 472-5152; adults only please.

ShopOnSanibel.com centers are a division of R.L.R. Investments L.L.C.  Their Sanibel retail centers – Tahitian Gardens, The Village Shops, Olde Sanibel Shoppes and Town Center – are home to boutiques, restaurants, specialty shops and services. Each center offers variety, quality and value to those who shop with them.

For additional information contact:

Barbara Harrington

239-229-4267

Barb.harrington@RLRLLC.com

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Walk Through Bethlehem

The Sanctuary at Sanibel Community Church will be transformed into the bustling town of Bethlehem for Thursday December 3 through Saturday December 5.   You are welcome to tour our town for free from 6 PM to 9 PM each night.  You will enjoy the wonderful Palm Trees supplied by Gulf Coast Palm & Tree as you stroll through town.  On your way to the Inn you will
meet Roman Soldiers, Shop Keepers, Potters, and Carvers. From what I understand, you should keep your eye out for both beggars and thieves as you walk the streets of Bethlehem!  Your journey will end with a quiet moment at the manger under the Star of Bethlehem. To make your night more enjoyable we will have the Hoof and Pony Petting Zoo each night complete with a donkey and adorable miniature goat!  And to sweeten your time we will have wonderful Christmas cookies to enjoy!   Come and start your Christmas season with a night filled with wonder. Sanibel Community Church is located at 1740 Periwinkle Place, right next to Jerry’s on Sanibel.

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The First Annual Chix-N-Stix Ladies Fishing Tournament

The first event of this caliber for ladies in the fishing industry! Chix-N-Stix is taking over Southwest Florida on December 4th and 5th, 2009 on Fort Myers Beach, FL. With the cash and prize payout reaching over $5,000 and an entry fee of $100 for the ladies and $50 for the men there is no excuse not to come out and be a part of this huge event! The species of fish (ladyfish) has been kept fun to keep the pressure low; and there will be a couple of mystery fish categories, a youth division and a winner for the largest ladyfish.

Tournament Check-In will begin at 5pm on Friday, December 4th.

Ladies will receive their Custom Chix-N-Stix tote bags stuffed with items geared toward the lady angler. The anglers meeting will follow at 7pm with great food and an open bar to be provided by Bahama Breeze Island Grille. Specialty drinks for the first night include Mojito’s, Margarita’s and Sangria. The rules will be read, ladyfish fishing spots will be provided and an auction will take place to benefit a local charity with national recognition, Operation Open Arms to support out troops! Items will be auctioned including jewelry, vacations, fresh seafood and lobster tails, fishing charters, art and fishing equipment just to name a few.

Saturday morning, December 5th lines are in the water at 7am. Teams are fishing for a bucket load of ladyfish. 10 Ladyfish will be allowed per team with a minimum of 12 inches per fish. Anglers may fish by boat (motorized or non-motorized) or by land. All teams must be back to Fish-Tale Marina by 3pm with their bucket load of fish to be weighed. Whitney March with the School of Saltwater Fishing show which airs on the Sportsman’s Channel and Direct TV will be filming a show onsite as well.

The Weigh Station will be packed with vendors, spectators, media and anglers. It opens at 2pm and will remain open until 5pm. Bahama Breeze Island Grille will provide an open bar with “special Island refreshers” including Rum Runners and Mai Tai’s to be enjoyed by all anglers participating in the tournament. Florida Gulf Coast University is providing fraternity boy’s to assist the ladies and men in cleaning boats, serving drinks and taking pictures. A masseuse will be on hand to give 5 minute massages which will be much needed after a full day of fishing. The final weights will be determined by the official CNS Weigh Masters. No cheating will be tolerated!

Following a brief break after the weigh station, the awards dinner will begin at 7pm back at Fish-Tale Marina. Soldiers on leave will join us for a presentation to Operation Open Arms and to enjoy the festivities!  Bahama Breeze will again provide us with an Island Style Dinner and an open bar specializing in Martini’s – Classic, Bikini Apple-Tini and a Pineapple Coconut Martini. The winner’s of the 2009 First Annual Chix-N-Stix Ladies Tournament will be determined. Cash, prizes and trophies will be provided to the top 5 teams.

Fun divisions will also be awarded. The lady with the heaviest Ladyfish will be determined; the youth team with the heaviest weight and the winners in the mystery fish categories will also be announced. Irresistible Confections will be providing chocolates at each place setting.  Drinks will be served in commemorative CNS martini glasses and some of the first place prizes along with cash are custom CNS pink camo rods provided by USA Custom Rods, and CNS charms designed and created by Anisa Jewelry. A tradition will be started with awarding one team the honor of CNS ladies team of the year!

Lodging is available across the street from Fish-Tale Marina at the Holiday Inn, Fort Myers Beach. Special tournament rates of $79 when you tell them you are with CNS.

Special thank you to Bahama Breeze Island Grille for coming in ata Presenting Level Sponsorship!

Additional Sponsors as of 10/13: Max Marine Insurance, Beasley Broadcasting and B103.9, Fish-Tale Marina, Diversified Yacht Services, Hooters, Florida Weekly, Nautical Mile, Fort Myers Daily, Fort Myers Marine, Boatmaster, JM Todd, USA Custom Rods, Irresistible Confections, Caloosa Tournament Series, Screenprint Plus, Shoeless Joe’s, Crowne Plaza, Rush Charters LLC, Custom Packaging and Products, Press Printing, Anisa Jewelry, Navionics, Yo-Zuri and Deans Dive
Center

For more information and sponsorship information, visit www.chixnstix.net or call Kristi Riley at 239-850-1707 or Lacey Rush at 239-980-1436.

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SOUTH SEAS ISLAND RESORT MANAGING DIRECTOR HOSTS EVENT CLOSE TO HIS
HEART WITH 1st ANNUAL BUDDY WALK ON NOVEMBER 7

Raising Funds to Develop Sanibel Sea School Camp for Children with Down Syndrome and other Intellectual Disabilities

South Seas Island Resort hosts
Southwest Florida’s “Buddy Walk” weekend event on Friday, Nov. 6 and
Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009. Resort Managing Director Rick Hayduk
personally identifies with this cause through his four-year-old
daughter, Jamison.

“I have learned how extraordinary Jamison and other Down syndrome
individuals are,” Hayduk said. “They are blessed to keep life simple
and remind us of the meaning of true happiness and unconditional
love.”

Jamison has touched her entire family as well as the large extended
family at South Seas Island Resort. “Jamie is an amazing girl,” said
Carolyn Hudson, Special Events & Community Relations Manager. “She
regularly participates in South Seas’ children’s programs such as Tiva
Kids Camp, where she interacts, plays games and does craft projects
with all the other kids.”

While promoting awareness and acceptance, the Buddy Walk hopes to
raise funds for the National Down Syndrome Society to assist their
legislative, education and advocacy initiatives. Closer to home, a
portion of the funds will also go toward the creation of a summer camp
at the Sanibel Sea School. This camp will be focused on children with
Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities and integrated into
existing programs.

On Friday, Nov. 6, participants can enjoy a barbeque at South Seas’
Holy Smoke Heavenly Barbeque and Better Burgers. On Saturday at 11
a.m., Buddy Walk participants meet at Chadwick’s Square for a walk
along historic Plantation Road. The event concludes with a celebration
near the beach where walkers can enjoy live music, food, kid’s games
and advocacy information booths. That evening, Harbourside Bar & Grill
will host a casual buffet dinner.

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1st Annual
RUN for Reading
benefiting Literacy Volunteers of Lee County

You don’t have to be a runner to take advantage of special room rates for this event at South Seas. Rates begin as low as $125/night for one-bedroom villas. Up to 4 people can share a one-bedroom villa and split the cost. What a great mini-vacation for your family or a good group of friends. Your room can be reserved for one or two nights if you register your room online. (There is also a $12.50 room tax per person.) See details at
www.southseas.com/runforreading.

Thanks to our Presenting Sponsor, Internal Medicine Associates (IMA) and our Hosting Sponsor, South Seas Island Resort.

For more details about this event, visit www.leeadultliteracy.com.

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Best Clothes Around, Fresh Squeezed, Sale!

That’s right, End of Summer Sale at Fresh Squeezed in Chadwick’s Square, Captiva. Print this ad out and get store wide Savings Up to 70%. If you are looking for some beautiful Island clothing, you HAVE to stop by Fresh Squeezed in Chadwick’s Square, Captiva. Women, children and men, Fresh Squeezed has it all. Be sure to check them out for yourself and see all the Lilly Pulitzer designs and more.

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SanCap Cracker Fest on November 6

Make plans now to attend the first SanCap Cracker Fest on November 6, 2009, hosted by the local island chapter of START (Solutions to Avoid Red Tide). Plans are underway to make this a one-of-a-kind evening, which will be a fall celebration of our Florida island heritage, and is an event not to be missed.

“In SW Florida, we have a calendar chock full of community events, but very few accurately reflect our cultural heritage – not so with the SanCap Cracker Fest.” said chapter board president, Bruce Neill.  Held behind the Bait Box in a dirt parking lot, the menu will feature smoked mullet caught and prepared by Ralph Woodring, hushpuppies, pit-roasted pig, coleslaw and homemade desserts.  The live entertainment will be cracker music and a castnet-throwing contest, along with silent and live auctions to generate revenue for the local chapter of START.

START is a Florida non-profit foundation with the mission to minimize the social, biological and economic effects of red tide events.  It is dedicated to education, research and mitigation of the powerful effects of red tide. Proceeds from this event will go toward producing an educational program for students about red tide, water quality and how they can be better marine stewards.

Board member and idea man behind this event, Ralph Woodring will be offering a number of unique auction items that are one-or-a-kind cracker experiences. “We anticipate a sold out crowd and encourage people to contact us if they would like to receive an invitation”, said Co-Chair of the event, Kevin Vertesch.

“I’d like to extend a special thank you to the following event sponsors for stepping up early to support our efforts.  They are Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, Ralph & Jean Woodring, and Lily & Company at the Red Roe Level. Sponsors at the Mullet level are Bailey’s General Store; Dan Hahn Custom Builders; Nave Plumbing; John Grey Painting; Pfeiffer Realty Group, Sand Castle Construction and Big Red Q Quickprint. Event Sponsorships are still available and for more information, contact event coordinator, Birgie Vertesch.

Attendance to the November 6, “SanCap Cracker Fest”, is by reservation only. Tickets are $75 each.  For more information, or to receive an invitation, call 239-292-0566.

Photograph:  Planning Committee members (L to R) Ann Potter, Annie Nachtsheim, Sandy Boyle, Les Boyle, Kevin Vertesch, Diane & Greg Cortese, Henry Nachtsheim, Jean Woodring, Ralph Woodring, Birgie Vertesch and Dave Westra.

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New Art Event Adds to ‘Ding’ Days Excitement

Celebrate festival’s 20th anniversary this yearThis year, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of “Ding” Darling Days, J. N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge is adding a special day devoted to the legacy of conservation art begun by refuge namesake, Pulitzer Prize-winning political cartoonist, and original Duck Stamp artist, Jay Norwood “Ding” Darling. Conservation through Art Day will bring the weeklong “Ding” Days 2009 to a close at the refuge on Saturday, Oct. 24, from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Highlights of the afternoon include presentations and signings by the 2009-2010 Federal Duck Stamp Artist, Federal Junior Duck Stamp Artist, and Florida Junior Duck Stamp contest winner.Family Fun Day on Sunday, Oct. 18, again kicks off the festivities. Below is a complete schedule. For more information, log on to www.dingdarlingdays.com.

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Celebrate Billy’s Rentals 10 Year Anniversary!

Billy and Salli Kirkland, owners of Billy’s Rentals, would like to invite the community to join them in celebrating their 10 years of being in business on Sanibel. The celebration will be held at the Sanibel Community House on August 19, 4pm-8pm. There will be Texas Hold ‘Em and blackjack mini games, food and beverages, raffle prizes, a silent auction, and a chance to win a new Schwinn bicycle, a Schwinn scooter, or a Segway! You won’t want to miss it!All proceeds from the party will be donated for Sanibel bike path improvements and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Team in Training. If you cannot attend the fundraiser and you still want to make a donation, please stop by Billy’s Bike Shop at 1509 Periwinkle Way, or call 472-3620. Ask for Sara Nilsson. August 19, 1999 was the year when Billy’s Rentals opened at 1470 Periwinkle Way. The excited owners saw the location as a place to offer their services to the general public. Previously, Billy had been operating bike and beach rental locations at a variety of island resorts since 1985. With the Periwinkle location, formerly known as Island Moped, he could offer bicycles, surreys, motor scooters, and beach equipment. Today, Billy’s Rentals is still operating out of the original small building, offering fun recreational experiences to all residents and visitors. Billy & Salli have finally fulfilled a big dream: buy land to build a home on Sanibel and work the business they love.Billy and Salli recognize those who helped with the Billy’s Rentals success. “Billy’s Rentals would not exist if it weren’t for the support of the local community and the City of Sanibel. There has been such incredible support to keep the shared-use path in good, safe condition.” Also, much recognition goes towards the staff at Billy’s Rentals. “Slinging bikes all day can be a tough job when you are outside in the heat, rain, and humidity. We give a lot of credit to all the employees that have dedicated themselves to making our business run better. I appreciate all their hard-work and dedication.”In the past 10 years, Billy and Salli have never stopped giving back to the local community. Billy, a Kiwanian, is always volunteering his time and toys (trailers, trucks, tools, bikes) to the many non-profits, civic organizations, and fellow business owners. Billy has also served as Board of Directors for the local Chamber of Commerce, past President of Sanibel Fishing Club, member of the Lee County Pedestrian Committee, member of The 4th of July Committee, and currently serves as a board member for the Sanibel Recreation Department. Salli serves as President on the board for Sanibel Community Association which operates the Community House on Periwinkle Way. “We really care about the community we live in and, as business owners, we like to share in the responsibility of making it a better community for tomorrow.”

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Pink And Green Party!! Click Here To Hear All About It!!

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30 YEARS OF SANIBEL TRADITION

THE 30TH ANNUAL SANIBEL 4TH OF JULY ROAD RALLY

A SPECIAL AFTER-PARADE EVENT ECLIPSING ALL OTHER PARTIES, PICNICS AND GATHERINGS SINCE 1979

Sanibel’s longest-running 4th of July event celebrates 30 years of fun for teams and families as they puzzle out the clues while following a prescribed driving course around the Island.  Prizes will be awarded for time, mileage and for the most correct answers to the quiz about things seen along the route.  A “50/50 raffle” will also be available. Fun for everyone!

Choose your team (a driver, navigator and spotters are usual), fill in the entry form from Bailey’s General Store, Sanibel Cafe, or Sanibel-Captiva Community Bank (also available at the starting line). Mail it, together with this year’s special entry fee of $30, to San-Cap Optimist Club, PO Box 1370, Sanibel, FL 33957.  Entry Fee includes: Car, Driver, Navigator, Unlimited Crew, and 1 Official Road Rally T-Shirt (Additional T-Shirts will be available for $15.00).

NOTE: This year the rally begins in Timbers Restaurant parking lot (only one-half block north of Bailey’s on Tarpon Bay Road) at 12 NOON, and also ends there for the “afterglow” party.  Staggered starting times will be preassigned by the rally master.  See the entry form for more details or call Dani Howard at 239-472-0836.

Sponsorships are available for tax-free donations of $100 or more. Each sponsor gets publicity and a placard on one of the rally vehicles. Call Dani Howard, phone above, to arrange sponsorships.  All proceeds from the rally provide funds for the local Sanibel-Captiva Optimist Club’s college scholarships.

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Celebrate National Fishing Week With Tarpon Bay Explorers!

In honor of National Fishing Week, June 6 through June 14, Tarpon Bay Explorers is offering discounts on equipment rentals to local residents of Lee, Collier, and Charlotte counties.  You can rent a pontoon boat with fishing equipment for half price – a savings of over $100 – and spend the day fishing in the calm waters of Tarpon Bay.  The mangroves and grass flats in the bay make it a great place to catch mangrove snapper, redfish, sea trout, snook, and a variety of other fish.  Make sure you have your fishing licenses and your Lee, Collier, or Charlotte County ID ready and bring the family out to Tarpon Bay for a fun day on the water!  Call Tarpon Bay Explorers today at 472-8900 to reserve your half price boat!  www.tarponbayexplorers.com

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BUNTROCK AND DOANE
TRAVELING TO LAS VEGAS
FOR NATIONAL 8-BALL TOURNAMENT

Bob Buntrock and Dave Doane, the two top percentage shooters in the 2008-09 Sanibel 8-Ball Pool League, will compete in the 2009 BCAPL National 8-Ball Championships in Las Vegas, May 8-16. The national tournament draws more that 6,000 players and 2000 teams annually from the United States, Canada, and eight other foreign countries.  More than $66,000 is guaranteed as prize money. Buntrock shot .750 and Doane .700 as teammates on Bunt’s Ball Busters, first place winners in the second year of the Sanibel League. In that League, 60 Sanibel players compete on Monday nights from October through March on American Legion Post 123’s two pocket billiard tables.  These are the only two tables available for League play on Sanibel or Captiva. Sanibel’s new $14 million Recreation Center has a bumper pool table and a foos ball table but no pocket billiard tables.  How many persons participate in bumper pool or foos ball leagues or tournaments is not known. The two Sanibel players are also members of a team in the Ft.Myers 8-Ball Lounge League.  Their team won the all-expense paid Vegas trip in a four-team playoff for the tournament spot. Both are planning to participate again in the third year of Sanibel 8-Ball League play starting in October.  The League will expand to eight teams this year to better accommodate those islanders interested in pocket billiard table competition.  Anyone interested in joining a team can contact Buntrock at 274-7881 or Doane at 472-3380.

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Kathy Carik 04/24/2009 08:43 am

City of Sanibel Announces Royal Shell Vacations & Royal Shell Preferred Properties to Underwrite 2009 Independence Day Fireworks

Today, Sanibel City Council accepted a donation of $13,200 from Royal Shell Vacations and Royal Shell Properties, to underwrite the City’s annual 2009 Independence Day Fireworks display. While accepting the donation, Sanibel Mayor Mick Denham stated “On behalf of the residents of Sanibel, we express our gratitude to the generosity and civic spirit of the Royal Shell organization. This contribution is especially noteworthy during the current economic climate. All Sanibel taxpayers benefit from this gift.” Donald DeLuca, Broker, Vice President and General Counsel of The Royal Shell Companies stated, “Royal Shell Preferred Properties and Royal Shell Vacations are excited to be able to underwrite the City’s annual patriotic firework display. There is no greater tribute to our national patriotism than Independence Day. We are thrilled to be part of Sanibel’s annual celebration.” Sanibel Island’s annual fireworks display will begin at dusk, Saturday, July 4th. Sanibel’s fireworks are traditionally launched from the northern terminus of Bailey Road.

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The Zonta Human Trafficking Awareness Event to be held at the Sanibel Library from 9 am to 1 pm on Thursday, April 16 has expanded to include a panel of local human services experts who have worked with victims of human trafficking from the local region. These experts include Mary Lewis, Executive Director of Our Mothers Home, Martha Espinoza from Catholic Charities, and Dr. Genelle Grant of the GRACE Project. Attendees also include representatives from Lee County Sheriff’s Department, Sanibel Police Department, Sanibel Churches, Children’s Network, Florida Rural Legal Services, and the Quality Life Center.  The Zonta Club of Sanibel-Captiva spearheaded the Lee County Human Trafficking Task Force in 2005 which has been called a “model of citizen activism.”  Karen Pati, Co-Chair of the Zonta Anti-Trafficking Committee, says, “This is a perfect opportunity for residents and business owners to learn what professionals have been doing to fight human trafficking locally and to also learn what they can do as citizens to fight this crime. We invite business owners and churches to become involved and attend this class.” The class is supported by the Florida Regional Community Policing Institute, the Lee County Human Trafficking Task Force, FGCU’s Esperanza Project of the Criminal Justices Department, the Sanibel Library, Human Trafficking Awareness Partnerships and the Zonta Club of Sanibel-Captiva. You may register for the class by e-mailing: nola@humantraffickingawareness.org or calling 395-2635. There is no charge for the class and light refreshments will be available.

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Benefits the Florida Lions Camp 100%

April 3, 2009 will be the first ever Pancake Breakfast, to raise money solely for the Florida Lions Camp.  The event will be held at the Sanibel Community Center from 8AM until noon.

More info for the Lions Camp can be found here!

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PURRE ELECTS OFFICERS FOR 2009-2010

Last week, the board of directors of the PURRE Water Coalition (People United to Restore our Rivers and Estuaries) elected officers to serve for the upcoming year.
Michael Valiquette, co-founder and current chairman of PURRE, was unanimously re-elected to another term. Michael, chairman of the city’s Planning Commission, has been a home builder on the island since moving to Sanibel in 1991. He and his wife, Maureen, raised awareness of the water quality problems in Southwest Florida with the first Restore Our Waters forum more than three years ago. This event sparked a movement on Sanibel that led to the formation of the PURRE Water Coalition, which now includes members from many Florida counties as well as from other states.
Maureen Valiquette is also a PURRE co-founder and has served in various capacities since PURRE’s inception; she was unanimously elected vice-chairperson. Maureen works as the office manager for Michael’s construction contracting business and is active in the music ministry at the Sanibel Community Church.
New PURRE board member Dan Schuyler was elected treasurer, and Karen Aulino was re-elected secretary. Those votes also were unanimous.
Schuyler opened Lily & Co Jewelry Gallery on Sanibel in 2006 with co-owner Karen Bell. He has been a prominent fixture in the American jewelry industry for more than 29 years. A native of Maryland, Schuyler has dealt in nearly every aspect of the jewelry business, from sales and advertising to buying and designing. In 2002, he set his sights on Southwest Florida and since that time has become a great friend to Sanibel and Captiva, active in many charitable endeavors and fundraising activities on the islands.
Aulino is a registered nurse. She has been a resident of southwest Florida since 1985 and has been active in many community organizations.  She has been a volunteer for the Girl Scouts of America, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Lee County, Sanibel School PTA (president), Sanibel School Fund (vice president) Sanibel School Capital Campaign, Sanibel School Advisory Council, Lee County School District Advisory Council.  Aulino’s drive to support the PURRE Water Coalition comes from her love and enjoyment of our waters and a desire to improve and preserve clean waters for her three children and generations to come.
The current PURRE board consists of, in alphabetical order, Karen Aulino, Secretary; Sam Bailey; Dr. Ed LaMotta; Julie O’Neill; Greg Rawl, P.G.; John Schubert; Dan Schuyler, Treasurer; Maureen Valiquette, Vice-Chairperson; Michael Valiquette, Chairman; Bob Wigley

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April 1 - Save the date for Earth Day 2009

In partnership with Tarpon Bay Explorers and “Ding” Darling Wildlife
Society-Friends of the Refuge (DDWS), J.N. “Ding” Darling National
Wildlife Refuge will host Earth Day 2009 on Saturday, Apr. 1, from 10
a.m. to 4 p.m. The theme is Reconnect: Earth, Family & Fitness.

Free activities will include giveaways to the first 200 kids, bike use
(on a first come basis), bike tours, family yoga, wildlife programs,
kayak rental and tour discounts, nature crafts, and fresh-brewed
shade-grown coffee.

DDWS is a non-profit, friends-of-the-refuge organization that supports
the Education Center, “Ding” Darling Days, and other educational
programs at the refuge.

To join DDWS and become a friend to the refuge, stop in at the Refuge
Education Center, call 239-472-1100 ext. 233, or visit
www.dingdarlingsociety.org.

For more information about “Ding” Darling Refuge, log on to
www.fws.gov/dingdarling.

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Join us at Bailey’s Center on St. Patrick’s Day for the first-annual IrishFest! From 4-7 pm Ric Base, President of the Sanibel Chamber of Commerce, will be the MC for the event with Irish music and dancing, a performance by the Big Arts Chorus and entertainment by the Hat Boys. Biddles Bucket and Bailey’s will be serving Irish food and drink and the kids can enjoy face painting and hair wraps and airbrush tattoos from Sanibel Braids and Henna Tattoos. The Sanibel Rec Center, SCCF and Billy’s Bikes will also be at IrishFest.
All Bailey’s Merchants will be offering special St. Paddy’s Day promotions including photos with a leprechaun with Select Vacation Properties, green popcorn from the Island Cinema and Irish whiskey tasting at the Grog Shop. To get your IrishFest T shirts for $10 that say “Kiss me on Sanibel, I’m Irish…today!” visit Hillgate Communications in the Bailey’s Center.

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BAILEY, SCHUYLER JOIN PURRE BOARD

The PURRE Water Coalition, People United to Restore our Rivers and Estuaries, announces the appointment of Sam Bailey and Dan Schuyler to its board of directors. “The current board is happy to welcome Sam and Dan,” said PURRE Chairman Michael Valiquette. “Sam brings not only his passion for this area and its environment but his understanding and knowledge of its politics, which is essential to PURRE’s mission. Dan is a vital part of our community and a bottomless well of energy and marketing skill. PURRE is working hard to extend its reach and having Dan on our board, who is a resident of Ft. Myers Beach, will help broaden our perspective.” Bailey was born and raised on Sanibel, where his family history dates back to the late 1800s. In addition to being an island son, Bailey was also an accomplished athlete and professional football player in the 1940s and later went on to serve as an award-winning coach at the University of Tampa. Some of Bailey’s longest and closest friends include former Florida Governor Bob Graham, former Sanibel Mayor and U.S. Congressman Porter Goss, NBC newsman Willard Scott, NFL coach John Rauch, Tampa Tribune sports writer Tom McEwen, and photographer Charles McCoulough. Schuyler opened Lily & Co Jewelry Gallery on Sanibel in 2006 with co-owner Karen Bell. He has been a prominent fixture in the American jewelry industry for more than 29 years. A native of Maryland, Schuyler has dealt in nearly every aspect of the jewelry business, from sales and advertising to buying and designing. In 2002, he set his sights on Southwest Florida and since that time has become a great friend to Sanibel and Captiva, active in many charitable endeavors and fundraising activities on the islands.
The PURRE Water Coalition is a nonprofit organization committed to improving the health and quality of the rivers and estuaries in South Florida. To accomplish this, PURRE communicates with government officials about water quality and pollution, promotes projects to move water south from Lake Okeechobee to the Everglades, advocates for a statewide fertilizer ordinance that will reduce the levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in our waters, works to pass legislation that will control and mitigate the effect of harmful algae blooms, and works to increase public awareness of water quality problems and to create and promote solutions.

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Save the date for Second Annual Celebrate Sanibel

Mark your calendars for the Second Annual Celebrate Sanibel the week
of Nov. 8, 2009. Celebrate Sanibel brings together the island’s
charitable, historical, cultural, and environmental organizations and
business community to commemorate the island’s past, showcase the
present, and envision the future.

Last year’s inaugural celebration included events ranging from a
kickoff keynote speaker and party at the Sanibel Community House to
specially designed programs at Sanibel Public Library, “Ding” Darling
Refuge, SCCF, the Sanibel Museum and Historical Village, the
Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, and more.

Kristie Anders, education director at SCCF, will be this year’s
kickoff speaker on Nov. 8. A service club expo is planned for the same
day at SCA. The Celebrate Sanibel committee invites businesses to come
up with ideas for a Celebrate Sanibel drink or dish, special sales,
and other events or promotions to stimulate low-season economy.

Planning for the event will continue with a meeting in late April. Any
business or organization that wishes to participate should email
CelebrateSanibel@zebis.com. Stay tuned to www.CelebrateSanibel.com for
the latest news.

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Holy Smoke Heavenly Barbeque now introduces The Better Burger Made with certified Angus Beef, griddled, seared & finished with your favorite toppings…Guaranteed to be the best burger you’ll ever have!! Bring the entire family for Real Barbeque and Better Burgers
Open daily 11:30am to 10pm
Call 239-472-7501

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Celebrity author luncheon kicks off Children’s Birding Trail fundraising

Two celebrity birding authors/photographers headlined a “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society (DDWS) fundraising luncheon held Feb. 18, 2009, to benefit The Children’s Birding Trail that J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge hopes to build between The Sanibel School and the refuge’s Indigo Trail.

The luncheon celebrated the 100^th birthday of Roger Tory Peterson, author and illustrator of the world-famous Peterson birding guides. Two of his birding books were combined and recently republished as Field Guide to Birds of North America.

Peterson’s son, Lee Allen Peterson, wrote the new guide’s foreword and spoke about his father at the luncheon, mentioning that the “Ding” Darling Refuge was one of the elder Peterson’s favorite birding destinations.

Bill Thompson III, editor of Bird Watcher’s Digest and author of The Young Birder’s Guide to Birds of Eastern North America and other birding books, revised the new Peterson guide and also spoke at the luncheon. Sanibel School Principal Barbara Von Harten, Refuge Manager Paul Tritaik, and DDWS President Susan Cassell talked about the Children’s Birding Trail.

Presenting sponsor for the luncheon was Sanibel Captiva Trust Company. Partner sponsors included Jane Werner, Floral Artistry, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company, and West Wind Inn.

“The Children’s Birding Trail is a home-run project,” said Cassell. “We’re so grateful to our sponsors, donors, and luncheon attendees for getting us to first base. We have a fair ways to go to reach our $80,000 goal. Anyone interested in contributing should contact DDWS at 239-472-1100 ext. 233 or dingdarlingoffice@yahoo.com.”

DDWS is a non-profit, friends-of-the-refuge organization that supports the Education Center, “Ding” Darling Days, and other educational programs at the refuge. To join DDWS and become a friend to the refuge, stop in at the Refuge Education Center or visit www.dingdarlingsociety.org.

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Saturday, February 21

Five Sanibel governmental and community leaders will put their reputations on the line at Sanibel/Captiva’s Relay for Life Celebration for the American Cancer Society on Saturday, February 21 at the Sanibel Community Center.  All will accept challenges to their pool playing abilities from Sanibel/Captiva residents or visitors and their children with the proceeds going to continue the on-going fight against cancer.
Two complimentary pool tables are being provided to the Sanibel Community Center by Doug Towle of Town & County Vending in Ft. Myers.  Doug’s company provides all the amusement vending equipment for Island business.
Scheduled to play on the first table from 1 to 2 p.m. is Sanibel City Councilman Kevin Ruane who has a pocket billiard table at his home.  From 2 to 3 p.m. Marty Harrity, another Sanibel City Councilman will chalk his cue to earn money for the cancer battle.  Marty became proficient in the billiard arts when his restaurant featured two coin-op tables during past years. Randy Wayne White, noted Sanibel author, will take center stage from 3 to 4 p.m. to show that his creation, Doc Ford, can play the game.  Eric Pfeifer, real estate broker and current commissioner of Sanibel’s Little League activities, will show off some of his miracle shots when he takes over the table from 4 to 5 p.m.  Eric has a billiard room at his new Shell Harbor digs which his wife uses to fold clothes.
Challengers to Ruane, Harrity, White, and Pfeifer will be asked to contribute $10 or more to play one of the celebrities.  Winners will be recognized for their victory and receive a special gift from the American Cancer Society.
The second table will feature Sanibel real estate broker and commissioner of the Sanibel 8-Ball Pool League Bob Buntrock who will shoot one handed all day against all comers.  Again, contestants contribute $10 or more and for each $10 contributed their name goes in the hat for a drawing for a custom-made pool cue courtesy of the Buntrock Realty Group, Inc.  Winners against Buntrock double their chances for the cue for each $10 contributed. For those of you who think beating an old guy shooting one-handed will be a snap, be informed that in four charity events last year the old guy played 172 matches and lost 31.
The Celebrity Pool Challenge for was organized by Kip Buntrock who is serving as the Corporate Sponsor Chair for this year’s Relay for Life on Sanibel/Captiva.  Kip is advertising manager of Times of the Island and is Captain of the One Ball Wonders currently with a firm hold on second place in the Sanibel 8-Ball Pool League.

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For more information, or to become a friend of the refuge, call 472-1100 ext. 241 or log on to www.dingdarlingsociety.org.

UPCOMING “DING” DARLING LECTURE SERIES EVENTS

(*Book-signings will follow all starred presentations)
· *Feb. 5 – Sanibel Island, the Cultural Heritage Center
· Feb. 12 - Larry Richardson, Swallow-tailed Kites
· *Feb. 19 - Young Birder’s Guide to Birds by Bill Thompson III
· *Feb. 26 – An Everglades Providence by Jack Davis
· March 5 – – Snorkeling Florida by Brad Bertelli
· March 12 – Refuge Update, Refuge Manager Paul Tritaik
· March 19 – Rick Bonney, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
· *March 26 – Paving Paradise by Craig Pittman & Matthew Waite

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Just get Back?
Don’t Forget the Lions’ Recycle for Sight Program

Since the Lions’ International Convention in 1925, when Helen Keller challenged the Lions to become The Knights of the Blind, Lions’ Clubs around the world have been working to meet that challenge through several important programs. Please participate in the program “Recycle for Sight” which matches your donated eyeglasses (prescription and non-prescription) to needy people worldwide. In most developing countries, an eye exam can cost as much as one month’s wages and a single eye doctor may serve a community of hundreds of thousands of people. Look around your home in dresser drawers and closets, in your workplace and in your car’s console or glove compartment, you may find you have old glasses, outdated prescription glasses, reading or sunglasses. Even if they are in need of repair, they all can help someone to be able to see better. Just since 1990, the Lions vision programs have prevented severe vision loss or restored sight to 27 million people, that’s more than the combined populations of New York and Tokyo.
Look for the Lions Recycle for Sight collection boxes at the following locations: Bailey’s General Store, Jerry’s Foods, Bank of the Islands, Snead Cataract/Eye Physicians, Island Pharmacy, the Island Seniors Center, the Sanibel Library, the Sanibel Post Office and Periwinkle Park. There is also a collection box at South Seas Resort on Captiva. The Lions would like to express our appreciation for contributing to the project’s success by serving as convenient drop-off centers.

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The Lions 26th Arts & Crafts Fair

Over 124 artists and artisans will fill up the park at the Sanibel Community Center on March 27th and 28th . So, mark your calendars. With live music, a fabulous Food Court and prizes, you won’t want to miss these family fun days. You can get your fill of paintings, photographs, sculptures, jewelry, furniture, clothing, a whole host of creative items. There is plenty of parking available plus areas to lock up bicycles. And the requested donation is only $4.00, plus children are admitted free.

See our website for more info

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Lily & Co. to hold benefit for PURRE Water Coalition
“Lily Rocks for PURRE” tops the charts on Feb. 7

Lily & Co. Jewelers is holding a benefit, “Lily Rocks for PURRE,” on Saturday, February 7, from 6 to 10 p.m.
The rock’n’roll-themed event will benefit People United to Restore our Rivers and Estuaries. Event activities include an Elvis impersonator, fine catering, good rock ’n’roll music by DJ Mike Perry, and a live auction of upscale items including jewelry, art work, and more. 1950-style costumes are optional. Tickets are $75 per person, and RSVP is requested by February 4.
Special guests include representatives from the Henderson Collection, featuring their new line of chocolate brown gold. An original oil by Sanibel artist Myra Roberts, “PURRE Tranquility” will be auctioned at the event.
For more information or to purchase tickets please contact PURRE at (239) 274-7873 or info@purre.org. Tickets can also be purchased at Lily & Co., 520 Tarpon Bay Road, Sanibel. Space is limited, so get your tickets early.
To learn more about the PURRE Water Coalition and what they’re doing to help improve water quality in South Florida for the benefit of its residents, businesses, and visitors, go to www.purre.org.

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Sanibel’s Nola Theiss Honored as Purpose Prize Fellow for Innovation, Extraordinary Contribution in Encore Career, After Age 60

Solving Social Problems with Experience, Fellows Disprove Notion that Innovation is the Province of the Young and Demonstrate What Is Possible in an Aging Society Sanibel, FL — Civic Ventures (www.civicventures.org), a national think tank on boomers, has designated Sanibel’s Nola Theiss as one of its 2008 Purpose Prize Fellows. The Purpose Prize is a $9 million program for people over 60 who are taking on society’s biggest challenges. The Prize, now in its third year, is the nation’s only large-scale investment in social innovators in the second half of life. Nola Theiss was named a fellow for her work in combating human trafficking through public outreach, training and community organizing. Theiss has been a leader of the Lee County Human Trafficking Task Force since its inception in 2005. She founded Human Trafficking Awareness Partnerships, Inc., a 501©3 non-profit organization in 2006 and has spoken to citizens around the country, helping them organize working groups to combat human trafficking in their own communities. “In tough economic times, we need more creative solutions to long-standing social problems,” said Marc Freedman, co-founder of The Purpose Prize program and author of Encore: Finding Work That Matters in the Second Half of Life. “It’s reassuring to note that as America ages, we have creativity in greater abundance. Purpose Prize Fellows such as Nola that experience and innovation can go hand in hand, that inventiveness is not the sole province of the young.” “There is no such thing as too young or too old to accomplish something, as long as the will and the skills are there and we all work together. My work fighting Human Trafficking by helping communities figure out ways to most effectively use each others talents has taught me that. ” The Purpose Prize is part of the Encore Careers campaign (www.encore.org), which aims to engage millions of boomers in encore careers, which combine social impact, personal meaning and continued income in the second half of life — and produce a windfall of human talent to solve society’s most pressing issues.The Purpose Prize supports Fellows by helping develop their capacity, linking them with funders and venture philanthropists and connecting them to other social innovators over 60. Theiss attended as a Purpose Prize Fellow the first-ever Encore Careers Summit on December 5-7 at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business’ Center on Social Innovation, one of the world’s leading academic centers focused on social entrepreneurship. An invitation-only event, more than 450 people attended the Summit , including Purpose Prize winners and Fellows, hundreds of others in encore careers, and leaders in education, government, business, philanthropy, and public policy. The goal is to launch a movement of those in the second half of life who want to use longer, healthier lives for social good. Funding for The Purpose Prize comes from The Atlantic Philanthropies and the John Templeton Foundation. Additional funding for the Summit comes from AARP, Erickson Companies, the New York Life Foundation, Hewlett-Packard Company and Legacy Works.

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Former Sanibel Gallery offers free shipping to military addresses

Aboriginals: Art of the First Person, a former Sanibel Island gallery now working exclusively online, announces a special offer to people who want to send healing and protective gifts to friends and loved ones in the military.
Through its ZuniLink.com website (http://www.ZuniLink.com ), the gallery will ship gifts of Zuni fetish carvings to any military address at no charge. Also included are shipments to domestic addresses of members of the armed services.
ZuniLink Owner William Ernest Waites explained, “We think it is especially appropriate at this time of giving and gratitude to offer this free service. Zuni fetish carvings are considered by Native Americans to possess special powers of protection and healing.”
Waites continued, “Whether or not the recipient shares beliefs in special powers, the fact of the gift represents a material wish of good health, protection and power to the person receiving it. We are happy to pay our thanks and do our part by offering free shipping.”
More information about the offer and the special qualities of Zuni fetish carvings can be found at the ZuniLink website (http://www.ZuniLink.com/ZuniLink-Millitary-Shipping-Page.htm )
Contact: William Ernest Waites, 239-482-7025

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The Sanibel Captiva Relay for Life Goes Broadway

The Sanibel Captiva Relay for Life will be held February 21 – 22nd, 2009 from noon until 8a.m. The event will be held at the Sanibel Community Association. Save the Date! We will be there to Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back.
Celebrate the live of people who have battled cancer. The strength of survivors inspire others to continue the fight.
Remember loved ones lost to the disease. At Relay, those who have walked alongside others battling cancer can grieve and find healing.
Fight Back. We Relay because we have been touched by cancer and desperately want to put an end to the disease.
If you or someone you know has been touched by cancer please think about joining a team, volunteering or becoming a sponsor, says Lisa Newmeyer-Cochrane, the team chair. To become involved contact Newmeyer-Cochrane at dorado@myexcel.com , 472-8875 or Ellen Mayeron at Island_Winds@yahoo.com 472-8854. Check out the website at www.RelayForLife.org/sanibelfl
The next big event will be the Team Kick-Off Party at Casa Ybel Resort November 13th at 5pm (Changed from November 6th). Please plan on attending.
Our Mission: The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, community-based, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives from cancer, and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.
Your local American Cancer Society office is located at
4575 Via Royale #110 Fort Myers Fl 33919
Nickole Hendra 239-936-1113 ext: 125

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PURRE would like anyone interested in becoming a PURRE Member to please contact them. For more information and to contact PURRE, Please CLICK HERE.

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SCVRMA or the Sanibel/Captiva Vacation Rental Managers Association is a group of local and professional vacation rental companies located on Sanibel and Captiva Islands in Southwest Florida dedicated to professional vacation rental management. Collectively we represent over 1000 vacation rentals, including cottages, condos and estate homes. Our members are required to adhere to the highest standards of ethical business practices. This ensures that our guests enjoy a positive vacation experience. SCVRMA members recognize that a pleasurable vacation experience leads to repeat business and positive word of mouth.
The members of SCVRMA feel it’s important to help the less fortunate in our community. We encourage all our guests to donate any leftover non-perishable food to the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida, which serves Lee County and the surrounding area. Each participating agency makes the guest aware of this program at check-in, and when they depart they simply drop off their leftover food at the office. All donations are delivered weekly to the distribution center in Fort Myers, and our guests leave with a good feeling knowing they are helping a worthwhile cause. To date SCVRMA has collected a total of 7,149 lbs of food.

SCVRMA has also teamed up with Bailey’s in an upcoming effort to help stock local food pantries. Residents and visitors alike will be able to easily donate approximately $10 dollars worth of food to either F.I.S.H, an on-island food bank, or Harry Chapin Food Bank in Fort Myers while doing their normal shopping at Bailey’s. Visit www.scvrma.org for further information, including the launch date for this worthy cause.

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Health Seminars

Carol Carol Simontacchi of the Island Nutrition Center will be hosting a series of health seminars through the winter months. Upcoming topics include cardiovascular health, digestive health, fatigue, and bone health. Carol is a certified lifestyle educator with FirstLine Therapy.
Many people suffer from chronic pain and inflammation. The classic signs of inflammation (pain, redness, swelling, and heat) can signal a localized inflammation but inflammation can settle into major organs and systems, setting us up for a myriad of health conditions. But what about when your knee hurts? What about fibromyalgia (muscle pain) or other conditions of chronic pain? Does diet play a role in either ramping up the pain measures or in dampening down your body’s inflammatory response? Please reserve your seat by calling the Island Nutrition Center (472-4499).

I will help you take responsibility for your own good health!
www.islandnutritioncenter.meta-ehealth.com
www.juiceplus.com/+cs83848
1633E Periwinkle Way, Sanibel, FL 33957
239-472-4499

“Sandbars to Sanibel” by Rusty Farst, A Fundraising Film for the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village at The Island Cinema, Premier October 18, 2009

Have you heard the buzz about the fundraising film premier at The Island Cinema for the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village? Video Biography LLC, has just completed a local film created on Sanibel and filmed at the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village. This is a fundraising film created by Rusty Farst for the Sanibel Historical Museum and Village, the premier is on October 18, 2009.

A film set on Sanibel Island, Florida, an island in the Gulf of Mexico circa 1929. The islands mail girl drenches the mailbag and the whole town fondles a water soaked letter trying desperately to find the recipient, resisting the temptation to read its contents. A love affair ignites, a school house goes berserk, and a small village becomes re-united. Point of view camera angles keep the audience suspended in the action.

Part one, “Pioneering an Island” is an intimate interview with Island Born Native Son Samuel M. Bailey, and reveals never before seen footage of Sanibel circa 1930’s to 1950’s, a 16 minute journey back in time.

Part two, a fictional narrative, “Sandbars to Sanibel” stars 49 of Sanibel and Captiva’s local residents.  ”Sandbars” a 30 minute film, showcases the pioneers and buildings of old Sanibel in the 1920’s.

Although production has been completed, funding for the project is needed to bring this island treasure to the public. Professionally mastering the DVD and duplication requirements are out of pocket expenses our team does not possess at the moment, and we are asking for your financial support.

During the month of October we are scheduled to screen at the Island Cinema for a private fundraising event, and the evening of November 12^thwe will debut at Big Arts during the Celebrate Sanibel festivities. We are willing to add your advertisement during these two screenings in trade for financial support.

A film of this nature will not only spark interest to the historic value of our islands but also create a bridge of opportunity to reach tourists coming to visit the area. ”Sandbars” has already been entered into local and national film festivals for film competition plus will be on the shelves in many Southwest Florida locations for years to come. We are currently speaking with local television media to air the film.

The “After Glow Party” will be held at Biddles Bucket

Rusty Farst

Producer Video Biography LLC

http://www.sanibelmuseum.org/

PO 903 Sanibel Florida 239-994-9219

www.Sandbarstosanibel.com

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