#Sanibel #Captiva Islands - Reserve your accommodations now!!

#Sanibel  #Captiva Islands  


Build Your Perfect Island Vacation!!!


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                                          availability lasts.

Sanibel Farmers Market (Vendors)

The Sanibel Island Farmers Market is held at City Hall.
Sundays 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
This open air market features 30 vendors including baked goods, live plants, honey, pasta, cheese, sausages, fresh fish, and fresh organic produce
SANIBEL VENDORS 2010-2011:

1. 55 DEGREES CHEESE 
2. AUNT NAN’S CHEESECAKES
3. B & B ORGANICS –WORM POOP
4. BAGEL FACTORY
5. BARK STREET DOG BAKERY
6. CAPTAIN BOB’S SMOKING TO GO - BBQ
7. BIG C’S SALSA
8. BROMELIADS BY APPOINTMENT
9. BUBBA’S STONE CRAB
10. EAST END DELI (THE BIG CHEESE AND PICKLES) 
11. ELFI’S BAKERY
12. EUROPEAN BAKERY AND DELI (IRIS)
13. EVI’S BAKERY
14. EXOTIC ORCHIDS
15. DOMINGA’S FRESH FLOWERS 
16. FRENCH BREAD OVEN
17. GALLEGO’S FARM 
18. GONE NUTS
19. IRENE LAM (VEGGIES AND ASIAN FOOD)
20. DANCING DRAGONFLY SOAP – KAREN FREYSINGER
21. LEE BEES HONEY
22. MAGIC CAULDRON KETTLE CORN
23. ON A ROLL SMOOTHIES
24. P & J’S NUTS-R-US
25. PARADISE PRODUCE
26. PARADISE SOAPS 
27. PEPERONATA PASTA
28. PETE’S MOZZARELLA
29. RALPH’S SEAFOOD
30. SANIBEL DELI – FRESH DONUTS
31. SAUCE LADY 
32. SUGAR ISLAND BAKERY- CUPCAKES
33. THE FRENCH ARTISAN
34. TIM KOPPERT SEASONINGS 
35. VENUS VEGGIES 
36. WORDEN FARM 
37. Poco locos - coffee
38. HEARTLAND GARDENS – WHEAT GREASS SHOTS
39. FORT MYERS FLORIST DESIGNS – FRESH FLOWERS/CANDLES
40. JILL’S SUNSHOWER GARDENS - COOKIES

Sanibel and Captiva Restaurants open on Thanksgiving

Bubble Room – Open, reservations only.
Courntey’s – Open with specials - Reservations mot necessary.
Gamma Dots – Open, 11:30am-8pm.
Bubble Room – Open, reservations only.
Greenhouse Grill - Open with specials.

Holy Smoke BBQ – Open, 12-8pm.
Il Tesoro – Open w/regular menus and specials of pheasant, wild turkey, goose.
Island Cow – Open, with specials.
Island Pizza Company – Open.
Jerry's Foods of Sanibel - Open until 4pm; full turkey dinners to go with advanced orders.
Keylime Bistro – Open serving traditional dinner & specials.
Lighthouse Café (Sanibel) - Open for breakfast 7am-3pm; Lunch 11am-3pm.
Lighthouse Waterfront Restaurant - Open, Buffet $29.99 adult/ $15.99 child. Seating's start at 11am, 12:30p, 2p, 3:30pm, and 5pm.
Old Captiva House - Open, Buffet $42.95 adult/ $18.95 child; 12-8pm.
RC Otters - Open, breakfast & lunch until 2pm.
Sandy Butler – Open, 11:30am-8pm; special menu.
Sanibel Grill - Open, 2-11pm.
Schnapper's Hots, Inc. - Open, 11am-4pm.
Sea Star Cafe & Bar - Open, 8am-10pm with specials.
Sunshine Seafood Café - Open serving traditional dinner & specials.
Timbers – Open 2pm-8pm; turkey & trimmings for $15 p/p
Thistle Lodge Restaurant - Open, Buffet $54.95 adult/ $19.95 child; 11:30am-7pm.

Locations that are closed Thursday: Blue Giraffe, Cantina Captiva, Cheeburger Cheeburger, Doc Ford's, East End Deli,
The Great White Grill, Green Flash, Mucky Duck, Over Easy Cafe, Pinocchio's Original Italian Ice Cream, Traders, Twilight Cafe, Matzaluna, Lazy Flamingo,
Lazy Flamingo II, Subway, Sunset Grill and the Sanibel Café. Stone Crab - Closed Thurs/Fri

Halloween on Sanibel

Fall Family Carnival Returns!

If you are looking for a great place to spend Halloween, The Community House is the place to be. The fall Family Carnival will take place on Sunday Oct.31 from 5 - 7 pm. Admission is one bag of wrapped candy per family.
There will be trick or treating at carnival booths, crafts, games and food. Prizes will be awarded for best costumes and there will be a hayride. visit www.sanibelcommunityhouse.net or check out The Community House on facebook!

About Vip Vacation Rentals

Since 1978 VIP Vacation Rentals, LLC has been servicing the unique needs of Southwest Florida's vacation properties owners who have entrusted us to offer their homes and condos to travelers from around the world. Many of our guests visit our area for a vacation and end up staying a life time. With over 100 years of employee experience - VIP Vacation Rentals is here to help that dream come true. Our reputation for thorough, efficient, and discreet handling of our guests has been hard earned and well known in the vacation rental business. We offer only the best in accommodations that can be found in Southwest Florida. So for that family beach vacation, escaping the cold of the north for the winter, or just relocation to enjoy the lifestyle of Florida, just ask your friends - When they like what they see They call VIP!
Why Rent From VIP Vacation Rentals?

VIP Vacation Rentals - a trustworthy, professional company that has been dedicated to providing excellence in hospitality for over thirty years.
-We have quality accommodations that undergo a large list of quality assurance measures
- We have been in business and located on Sanibel & Captiva Islands for over 30 years.
- We have over 100 years of experience with our on Island friendly & knowledgeable staff.
- We have only the highest standards when accepting properties into our rental program.
- We meet or exceed all State and local regulations regarding cleanliness and safety.
- We are properly licensed by The City of Sanibel, Lee County and The State of Florida.
- We respond to problems, questions, lockouts and emergencies 24 hours a day 7 days a week.
- We have no hidden fees passed along after you book your reservation.
-We offer an unforgettable vacation that is full of relaxation and enjoyment

Making your dream vacation plans should not be a difficult or uneasy proposition. Your vacation is our only business. Our On Island professional staff is here to help you find the perfect property and everything that goes with it.

No surprises. No misrepresentation. We hear all the unfortunate stories from visitors who did not use a professional company.

Our properties meet the highest standards for cleanliness and quality, our linens are sanitized and each property inspected before your arrival. We only use trained and licensed professionals to service our properties in case of an appliance failure or if you simply lock yourself out. To complete your vacation, we also offer travel insurance, beach, bike and baby equipment rentals, and information on our beautiful islands.

Check out our availability on this secure website and reserve your vacation online, or call us now. We look forward to your visit.

Sanibel pair publishes new book detailing everything Disney World has to offer

Sanibel residents and co-authors Mike and Julie Neal.

WDW insider tips from Mike and Julie Neal

Get to a park before it opens. The first two hours are precious, with short lines nearly everywhere.

Make your dining reservations early, a few days or more if possible. You can make reservations online at disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining or by calling 407-WDW-DINE.

Use the free Fastpass automated reservation system. It can save literally hours of time waiting in line. And Disney doesn't advertise it, but the end time for using your Fastpass is the end of the day, not the time of the hour window printed on your Fastpass.

Don't try to do everything. It's impossible. Relax and have fun!

After literally hundreds of trips and thousands of photographs, island residents Mike and Julie Neal know Walt Disney World inside and out.

In fact, they probably have more experience from their frequent visits to the Orlando theme park complex in researching the latest edition of their book, entitled "The Complete Walt Disney World 2010," than most of the cast members and Imagineers that work there!

Released earlier this year to book stores worldwide, the Neal's newest edition follows a successful run of guidebooks detailing the nearly 700 rides, attractions, restaurants, shops and hotels in an around the most visited park on the planet.

But what's the biggest difference between publishing a new book and publishing a new edition?

"The obvious answer is the amount of time it takes," Julie Neal said. "The first edition of the Disney book, which came out in 2007, took us a full five years to finish. Each new edition takes between four and six months to publish, although we do research and photography year-round. One of the best things about producing a yearly guidebook is that we can listen to feedback and make the book better each year."

However, coming up with a few new ideas for every book and keeping track with all of the changes that happen at Walt Disney World is not without its challenges.

"With Walt Disney World as our subject, keeping up with the myriad changes is a constant issue," she added. "We also have a hard time hitting our publishing deadline; we always want more time to tweak our writing or add another photo."

For the most part, Julie writes the text of the books while Mike is responsible for the photography. And with more than 550 full-color images included within the latest version of their guidebook, that keeps the Neals in the Orlando area almost as long as the time they spend on Sanibel.

As they have done in past editions, "The Complete Walt Disney World 2010" provides up-to-date information on new and refurbished attractions at the parks, Downtown Disney shopping area and partner hotels, which seem to change with every visit they make.

"One big change is the new emphasis on interactive experiences for guests," said Julie. "Disney is focusing more and more on having guests be a part of the show, such as in the street party attractions like Block Party Bash at Disney's Hollywood Studios and Move It! Shake It! Celebrate It! in Magic Kingdom. In both cases, guests are encouraged to join the characters and cast members in the street to dance."

Another example Neal noted is the Kim Possible World Showcase Adventure at Epcot, where guests use a cell-phone-like "Kimmunicator" to trigger hidden effects in a secret-agent scavenger hunt.

"Another change is the spotlight on Disney characters, with more and more opportunities for guests to meet their favorites and get autographs and photos," she added. "One of the newest characters, Tinker Bell, has her own meet-and-greet spot called Pixie Hollow, with wait times usually exceeding an hour."

So, what makes Walt Disney World such a great destination for residents of Sanibel and Captiva?

"Walt Disney World is perfect for island residents because it is so different from here," said Neal. "It's like a combination of the two places adds up to the ultimate experience. Islanders can go to Disney for a dose of the world's biggest and best choreographed fun, and then come back home to our peace and quiet. It's really the best of both worlds."

But having visited Walt Disney World several hundred times per year (including more than 1,400 visits total), Julie explained that the theme parks offer her something new nearly each time she has passed through the opening gates.

"I wondered if I would grow tired or bored with going to Walt Disney World after so many trips, but instead familiarity has made me appreciate the place more," she said. "It's like an old friend. And I keep discovering new little gems I hadn't noticed before."

For example, Neal explained, on Soarin' in Epcot, guests can faintly hear a voice that sounds like it's coming from another guest yelling out "Catch anything?" to a fisherman onscreen. Another example: On Pirates of the Caribbean in the Magic Kingdom, painted on the exit ramp's moving walkway, "shoeprints" that indicate where to step consist of a normal right shoe and a peg-leg left mark.

As for her favorite attractions at "The House of Mouse," Neal offered some definitive picks.

"At Magic Kingdom, I love PhilharMagic, which is Disney's best 3-D movie celebrating the best Disney songs. At Epcot is Soarin,' which replicates the sensation of flying. Disney's Hollywood Studios has the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, which always succeeds at being Disney's creepiest and most thrilling ride. And at Animal Kingdom - my favorite park - I love the animal trails and the Festival of the Lion King, Disney's best live show."

And if Walt Disney World weren't the happiest place on Earth, the Neals wouldn't keep on going and going and going.

"The Complete Walt Disney World 2010" ($24.95 MSRP) is available for purchase online at Amazon.com as well as at island and area book stores.
By JEFF LYSIAK

Council approves purchase of lighthouse - City to buy landmark, property for $447.70

Council approves purchase of lighthouse

City to buy landmark, property for $447.70

After waiting more than five and a half years, the City of Sanibel has finally been given the opportunity to purchase the most recognizable landmark on the island.

And without hesitation, local leaders immediately opened up their wallets and bought the Sanibel Lighthouse - and the surrounding 44.7 acres of property - from the United States Department of the Interior for $10 per acre, or a total cost of $447.70.

"I'm hoping to see some good things from the lighthouse," councilman Jim Jennings said after the resolution to purchase the landmark was unanimously approved. "I think there are some good ideas in use around the country with other lighthouses."

On Feb. 5, the city received a letter from the Department of the Interior's Bureau of Land Management, which stated that the land on which the lighthouse sits has been classified suitable for use under the Recreation and Public Purposes Act of 1926.

"The Sanibel Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places," the letter states. "All future rehabilitation of buildings and/or structures on the site must be carried out in a manner that is compatible with their historic and architectural qualities and consistent with the recommended approaches for rehabilitation set forth in the Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines."

Among the conditions of approval for the sale, which must be completed within 30 days of the official notice, is requiring a licensed archaeologist to be present during any an all ground-disturbing activities and requiring revenue generated through usage fees or lease of the facility to be utilized in the management and maintenance of the properties.

According to City Manager Judie Zimomra, the city will now be able to apply for historical preservation grants to assist in the funding of repainting the Sanibel Lighthouse. The city is also working on developing a long-term master plan for the property and cottages at the site.

In other business, councilors continued their discussions of issued related to land development regulations which may affect redevelopment in the resort housing sector, which is expected to be handed over to the city's Planning Commission in the coming weeks.

"We're not going to go into grand detail about this," said Mayor Mick Denham. "I think we'd prefer to leave that to the Planning Commission to handle. I think what we are doing is painting a broad brushstroke of the issues."

The six primary issues brought up for debate included density, short-term occupancy, lot coverage of impermeable areas, setbacks, height limits and coastal construction.

Denham suggested that the city maintain the existing density for all hotels, motels, condominiums and resort properties, as long as the structures remained within their current 3-D footprint. Fellow councilor Peter Pappas offered that extending "grandfathered" policies to the owners of those properties might encourage investors to keep their short-term stay units the same.

"I think we're all in agreement that we don't want to see any density increases," added Marty Harrity.

One topic that will likely become an issue is maintaining the city's height restrictions for commercial properties. Since the release of the new Flood Insurance Maps in 2008, some properties - especially three- and four-floor structures - may require a variance to exceed the current 45-foot restriction.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, several members of the audience offered their suggestions on resort housing redevelopment. Resident Herb Rubin noted that the presence of swimming pools on a property may affect density but added, "I think this is a wonderful way to start."

Planning Commissioner Holly Smith also reiterated her request for a map indicating all properties affected by the upcoming discussions, and submitted an additional request for clarification on "redevelopment vs. modernization."

Lee Olsen, a Pointe Santo resident for the past 35 years, offered that the council should "think as broadly as you can."

"I appreciate your point of view," he added. "And I think you're right on the money."

Planning Department Director Jimmy Jordan told the council that his staff will consider the suggestions posed by the council and prepare a report in time for their next session, on Tuesday, March 2.

The council also unanimously approved the re-allocation of $65,000 from the city's Shared Use Path maintenance budget in order to extend Sanibel's bike path to Captiva, the final step in connecting the pathway between the adjoining islands.

An estimated $80,000 is required to complete the work, which will extend the path along Sanibel Captiva Road between Pine Avenue and the bridge at Blind Pass. The Sanibel Bicycle Club has agreed to pay the remaining $15,000 portion through its Trails In Motion fund.

On Jan. 28, Sanibel's Parks and Recreation Committee approved staff recommendations to move forward with the path extension due to safety concerns for people who use the roadway to travel from one island to the other.

By JEFF LYSIAK

Sanibel landmark opens Coffee Bar @ Bailey’s

Sanibel resident Lydia Lloyd, the 112th customer, received a book of coupons good for one free drink on the 12th of every month for 12 months.

Bailey's General Store opened its most recent addition on Saturday, known as Coffee Bar @ Bailey's. Guests were able to sample the menu, which includes 37 varieties of hot and cold drinks.

"Coffee Bar @ Bailey's is for our guests who were looking for a quality coffee drink that they could enjoy without the hassle of long lines or having to brew it at home," said Richard Johnson, Bailey's General Store general manager. "Bailey's is where Sanibel shops and we are delighted now to be offering Sanibel's 'Best Coffee Bar None'."

Both the 12th and 112th customers were each awarded a coupon book good for one free 16oz. drink on the 12th of every month for 12 months. Shirley from Richmond, Virginia was the 12th customer and Sanibel resident Lydia Lloyd was the 112th customer, both on Saturday afternoon.

Bailey's General Store has contracted the day-to-day operations of Coffee Bar @ Bailey's to Blanaid Colley and her staff of baristas and servers.

"We are so pleased to be able to serve the residents and visitors of Sanibel, and especially the guests of Bailey's General Store," said Colley, who is overseeing the operations of Coffee Bar @ Bailey's.

Guests will enjoy espresso-based coffee drinks, including latts, espressos and cappuccinos, frappuccino-style cold drinks, smoothies and even Italian cream soda. Loyalty cards are available at the counter and reward customers with a free drink for every nine purchased.

Coffee Bar @ Bailey's is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. just inside the entrance to Bailey's General Store, located at 2477 Periwinkle Way. A grand opening and Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 27 from 5 to 7 p.m.

For more information, call 239-577-0026 or visit www.sanibelcoffeebar.com.

Only dress rehearsal tickets remain for Dancing with the Islands’ Stars

With all tickets sold for the first annual Dancing with the Islands Stars, the committee chair has made the decision to have dress rehearsal night added to this exciting fundraising event.

Dress rehearsal night will be held Friday, Jan. 22 at 6:30 p.m. at the Sanibel Community House as an additional opportunity to watch the event in a dress rehearsal setting. Marge Meek, event chair has said "This event has been so well received, we are pleased to offer an additional attendance night and please don't forget to support your favorite dancer and vote (donate)."

This fundraising event is becoming more fun and more competitive and your votes are essential in supporting your favorite islands' star dancer. The proceeds from this fundraiser will go towards much needed facility improvements and programs for the Sanibel Community House. Visit one of the blue boxes for voting (donating) located around the islands: Bank of the Islands, Bailey's General Store, Billy's Rentals, Head To Toes by Tina, Lily & Co., Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, Sanibel Captiva Trust Company, The Mucky Duck, VIP Realty and the Sanibel Community House.

The six islands star dancers preparing to dance for you are Craig Albert, Karen Bell, Liddy Johnson, Billy Kirkland, Linda Naton and Susan Scott. The dancers and their professional dance partners from Fred Astaire Studios, emcee Richard Johnson, judges Rick Zurbriggen, Marjorie Nordstrom and Bobby Logue, videographer Rusty Farst, hostess Evette Zurbriggen and DJ Frederick Sunde will all be part of the dress rehearsal night.

Drinks will be available for purchase and dress rehearsal night tickets are available for $25 each. Call 472-2155 or come in to the Sanibel Community House, located at 2173 Periwinkle Way.

Thanks to the event sponsor, the Sanibel Captiva Trust Company, for making this event possible.

Submitted by KIMBERLY LA BAR

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!"

Holiday decorations across island evoke the true spirit of the season

 "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!"

Some folks may have noticed an increased amount of red and green around the islands of late, a handful of wreaths, ribbons and bunting, plus an assortment of inflatable decorations featuring shapes and faces familiar to both young and old.

Looks like the holidays have arrived!

Residences and businesses have joined forces in welcoming the Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa season to Sanibel and Captiva, with the return of the traditional Lions Club tree lot to Bailey's Center, scores of characters - Santa Claus and his elves, Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the sort - adorning lawns and storefronts, plus twinkling lights of all colors and styles wrapped around the trunks of palm trees.

The Sanibel Historical Museum & Village is all decked out for the holidays, too, after a group of spirited volunteers spent two days decorating each building in The Village.

"They're all volunteers, and they'll be decorating each of the seven buildings within the museum," Blair Wyatt, coordinator of the decorating committee, said on Monday. "They are simple decorations like the ones that might have been seen on early Sanibel."

Many decades ago, Brazilian peppers, Spanish moss, shells and garland made from paper were used in holiday decor, Wyatt noted.

The Village Christmas tree, located in the Old Bailey General Store, is a seven-foot Douglas fir, again donated this year by the Sanibel Lions Club.

In keeping with the holiday season, the museum is selling an exclusive Luc Century etched glass Sanibel Lighthouse ornament/suncatcher as well as beautiful, handcrafted shell wreaths fabricated by Joan Emilius and Peggy Henward.

"There are only about 30 wreaths, and they completely sold out in minutes last year," Wyatt added.

This Friday, Dec. 4, the Museum & Village will offer a free tour to those who purchase an ornament ($45) or wreath (priced from $60 to $75). The Village Gift Shop is in the Bailey Store; shoppers may go directly to the store without paying museum admission.

The Sanibel Historical Museum & Village, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing Sanibel history, is located at 950 Dunlop Road and open on Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. For more information, call 472-4648 during normal business hours.

Also on Friday, Sanibel Mayor Mick Denham, Vice Mayor Kevin Ruane and members of City Council will officiate at the Bailey's Center tree lighting starting at 6:30 p.m. The tree lighting ceremony will take place during the Bailey's Center Merchants' Association (BCMA) "Silver Luminary Celebration" at the corner of Periwinkle Way and Tarpon Bay Road.

Live music will be performed throughout the evening. Santa will be at the Bailey's Center from 5:30 to 5:45 p.m. to take photos with children and families. Complimentary hors d'oeuvres and drinks will also be served while many BCMA merchants will be welcoming their customers, clients and guests with extra festivities to mark the occasion.

In honor of the 25th anniversary of the Luminary Festival of the Islands, guests are invited to wear their finest silver attire and accessories. All are welcome to attend this free community event.

Other Luminary Festival details (SUBHEAD - BOLD)

The 25th Annual Luminary Festival is an islands-wide holiday event that brings together residents, visitors, businesses and organizations, promoting goodwill and community spirit.

As participants "travel the trail," look for several fun and festive places to stop and enjoy. Once again, there will be complimentary trolley service, visits and photos with Santa, a live nativity scene, music and activities for the entire family.

On Sanibel, Luminary Festival participants include:

East End/Seahorse Shops - Reggae band and refreshments

Sanibel Island Book Shop - Book signing, music and refreshments

Jerry's Center - Pictures with Santa and refreshments

Sanibel Community Church - Live nativity, music and refreshments

Tahitian Gardens - Cracker Blues Band and refreshments

Forever Green - Refreshments

Periwinkle Place - Pictures with Santa, entertainment and refreshments

Sanibel Congregational Church - Boutique, music and refreshments

Sanibel Community House - Santa's Workshop, Cypress Lakes Choir and cookie decorating

The Village Shops - Guitarist Michael David and refreshments

Hungry Heron Plaza - Refreshments

Tower Gallery - Refreshments

Olde Sanibel Shoppes - The Sanibel School Choir and refreshments

Bailey's Center - Gospel choir, music and refreshments

Participants on Captiva will include South Seas Island Resort, R.C. Otters, Keylime Bistro, Cantina Captiva, The Bubble Room, The Mucky Duck, Island Store, Royal Shell, Captiva Pizza & Yogurt and The Green Flash.

There will be 13 trolley stops along the trail, including East End/Seahorse Shops, Jerry's Center, Tahitian Gardens, The Herb Strauss Schoolhouse Theater/Sanibel Community House, The Village Shops, Hungry Heron Plaza, Tower Gallery, Olde Sanibel Shoppes and Bailey's Center. Trolleys will operate from 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Sponsors and special contributors for this year's Luminary Festival include ShopOnSanibel.com, SandCastles, The Cedar Chest, CROW, the City of Sanibel, Waste Pro, Sanibel Fire Rescue District, Kiwanis, Lions, Rotary, ABWA, Zonta, Tarpon Bay Explorers, Adventures In Paradise, South Seas Island Resort, Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum, Hillgate Communications, Sanibel Community Church, Sanibel Congregational Church, St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church, 'Tween Waters Inn, Giggles, Sanibel Air Conditioning, Sanctuary Island Electric, chamber staff, ambassadors and volunteers as well as Mr. and Mrs. Claus.

For additional information, call the Islands of Sanibel & Captiva Chamber of Commerce at 472-1966 or visit http://www.sanibel-captiva.org/.

By JEFF LYSIAK, jlysiak@breezenewspapers.com

2010 ABC Sale t-shirts have arrived at the CCA

The 2010 ABC Sale is only months away and, just in time for Christmas, Captivans can begin picking up their own commemorative ABC Sale t-shirt at the Captiva Civic Association.


"The artwork was done by Lauri Kaihlanen. He's a very popular artist here on Captiva. Lauri did a really nice job of incorporating Captiva landmarks - the Island store, the fishhouse, the Chapel-by-the-Sea, the CCA office and Lauri's painted mailbox at the post office," said Sharon Brace of the CCA.
Captivans interested in purchasing a t-shirt will have their choice of white and yellow haze, a kind of pale yellow.

Sizes range from youth small to adult double extra large. Each shirt costs $20.

"If people want to get one before Christmas they can get them at the office here weekday mornings between 10 a.m. and noon. It's helpful if they call first, 472-2111," Brace said.

After Jan. 1, the ABC Sale t-shirts will be available in front of the Captiva post office, though a sale schedule is yet to be determined.

The 2010 ABC Sale will take place on Saturday, March 6.

The Captiva Civic Association is located at 11550 Chapin Lane.
By JANE BRICKLEY, jbrickley@breezenewspapers.com

Adventures In Paradise Outfitters celebrates grand opening

Adventures In Paradise Outfitters celebrates grand opening


Attending the ribbon-cutting were Capt. Steve Bailey, Debbie Bailey, Steve Ehrhart, Sarah Ashton, Craig Stewart, Capt. Bill Hammond, Evelyn Stewart, Ric Base, Allen Meyers, Bryan Hayes, Josh Stewart, Sam Bailey, Kate Stone, Bridget Stone-Budd, Terry Walker, Noah Stewart, Nita Greenwell, Amber, Josh and S

Adventures In Paradise Outfitters celebrated it's grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony last Wednesday, which was attended by more than 200 guests.

The doors opened at 5 p.m. with live music by Jamaican Dave Steel Drums. Guests were treated to delicious hors d'oeuvres provided by Sweet Melissa's Caf and Smoked Mullet trays prepared by Baileys catering. Capt. John Carpenito and Randy Phares tended bar while Joshua Stewart greeted and hosted the billiard play.

Adventures In Paradise Outfitters is a unique shopping experience for travelers, locals and those that love the outdoors. Divided into several areas, the store is fun and relaxing... with a surprise around every corner. Clothing has been meticulously selected to reflect the "island" lifestyle with cool, clean linens, organic cottons and self wicking fabrics.

Perusing through the library, guests came across titles from local author Bob Sabatino's "Every Day Is Saturday" to Hemingway's "Hemingway On Fishing." Next to the library, a handsome humidor houses fine cigars. Gifts with the outdoors in mind were scattered throughout the store, ranging from beautiful hand-etched glassware to classic time pieces. Tucked around the corner from the great Tarpon mount and next to the Heritage Fishing Kayaks, guests found Fly Fishing rods and equipment, tackle, flys, waders and everything you need to go and catch the big one!

Adventures In Paradise Outfitters is located in Tahitian Gardens Shopping Center, at 2019 Periwinkle Way. For more information, call 472-8236 or visit www.adventuresinparadise.com.
Special to the REPORTER

Island prepares to 'Celebrate Sanibel!' with weeklong series of special events

The Second Annual "Celebrate Sanibel!" kicks off this Sunday, Nov. 8 with free festivities and a Club Expo at the Sanibel Community House and culminates on Friday, Nov. 13 with a Historic Beach Buffet at Thistle Lodge.


In between, various non-profit island organizations and sites will host special talks, open houses, tours, and other activities. The week's schedule is included below.

Kristie Anders, education director at Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF), will address Sanibel Island from a historic and natural heritage perspective as Sunday's keynote speaker. City Planning Director James Jordan will talk about Sanibel, in both present and future tense.

Various island clubs will be on hand that day to disseminate information about their services while attendees enjoy free refreshments and can enter a drawing for a pair of six-foot Jamaica dogwood trees, compliments of SCCF.

To celebrate its historic role in Sanibel Island's history, Thistle Lodge will reprise its once-popular family beach buffets on Friday, Nov. 13 from noon to 2 p.m., featuring historic recipes. Cost is $14.95 per person.

The Committee of the Islands, Sanibel Community Association, Sanibel Historical Museum & Village and the Sanibel Public Library are co-partners for "Celebrate Sanibel!," a week of community festivities to commemorate our island's past, showcase its present and envision the future.

For more information, visit www.CelebrateSanibel.com or send an e-mail to CelebrateSanibel@zebis.com.

"Celebrate Sanibel!" Schedule of Events

Sunday, Nov. 8 Kickoff at Sanibel Community House

12:30 p.m. - Island Club Expo opens with host displays by ABWA, Bike Club, CHR, COTI, FISH, Human Trafficking Awareness Partnership, Kiwanis, Lions, Optimists, Rotary, Sanibel Beautification, TIDE, Zonta and more.

1 p.m. - Welcome from Celebrate Sanibel!'s Alex Werner and Vice Mayor Kevin Ruane.

1:15 p.m. - Keynote Speaker Kristie Anders, SCCF Education Director.

2 p.m. - Wrap-up from James Jordan, City of Sanibel Planning Director.

2 to 3 p.m. - Club Expo continues with free refreshments.

Daily Monday, Nov. 9 to Friday, Nov. 13

Special historic pictorial exhibit at Sanibel Public Library.

25 percent off all boat and kayak tours for Sanibel residents (with ID) at Tarpon Bay Explorers.

Monday, Nov. 9

Free admission all day to J. N. "Ding" Darling NWR's Wildlife Drive.

1:30 p.m. - Refuge Manager's free guided tram tour of "Ding" Darling Refuge, limited to first 30 people (Make advance reservations at 472-8900).

Tuesday, Nov. 1010 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Open House at C.R.O.W., with guided tours of the new Healing Winds Visitor Education Center, gifts for the first 50 guests and book-signings by local authors.

3 to 4 p.m. Sanibel Beautification tour of Palm Ridge Garden

Wednesday, Nov. 11 Veteran's Day

11 a.m. - Retired Military Officers Association Flag Ceremony at City Hall.

11 a.m. to noon - Free talk at the Historical Museum & Village about the founding of the City of Sanibel.

11:30 a.m. American Legion Post 123 serves lunch and dinner (4249 Sanibel-Captiva Road).

Thursday, Nov. 12

10 to 11 a.m. - Sanibel Beautification tour of Palm Ridge Garden.

2 p.m. - Free "What's New at the Shell Museum" talk by Dr. Jose Leal at The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum.

6 to 7 p.m. - Sanibel Historical Museum & Village open free to the public for self-
touring.

7 p.m. - BIG Arts screening of "Sandbars To Sanibel: Pioneering An Island" with a reception to follow.

Friday, Nov. 13

Noon to 2 p.m. - Thistle Lodge Historic Beach Buffet and Turtle-Trails-To-Treasure Raffle Drawing. Cost $14.95 per person.

3 to 5 p.m. - F.I.S.H. Open House at 1630-B Periwinkle Way.

Bailey Boys talk about island's past... just for the 'shell' of it

Bailey Boys talk about island's past... just for the 'shell' of it


At last week's special dinner at Twilight Cafe are, standing from left, Michael and Maureen Valiquette and Dan and Sharon Schuyler. Seated from left are Sam Bailey, Karen Bell and Francis Bailey.

In today's world, children groan with displeasure if forced to take the bus to school instead of carpooling with friends. Hard to say how they'd react to Sam Bailey's transportation challenges.

"Every Sunday evening, I took the ferry from Sanibel Island to Fort Myers so to attend Fort Myers High School. I stayed at a boarding house all week and took the ferry home on Friday evening so I could work in the store over the weekend," Sam reported as one of the guests of honor at a special dinner hosted by Robert Parks, owner and chef for the Twilight Caf.

The live auction at The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum's Annual Fundraiser, "Under The Sea," provided a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the highest bidder: dinner with the Bailey Brothers at the Twilight Caf.

The bidding war that ensued prompted the auctioneer to ask for permission to offer two such experiences. Last Tuesday evening, museum board member Dan Schuyler and his wife Sharon, Mike and Maureen Valiquette and Karen Bell lived out the dream evening and took a walk back in time with Sam and Francis Bailey.

Something was different about the ambiance of this charming, dimly lit table for eight. There was a palpable sense of awe, respect, reverence and genuine interest. Sam and Francis didn't seem to mind the questions fired from every side of the table.

"As a child, I dreamed of leaving the island and was sure I'd never come back... but things change," explained Sam.

"While we were growing up, there were many Cuban fishermen hanging around the island, looking for a good catch. Our Dad would invite them over to spend time with our family," Francis reported.

When asked what one thing had the most significant impact on the island, in unison both Baileys answered with conviction: "The bridge."

"I voted against it" said Francis, who quickly added, "I still would today. But if there has to be a bridge, I'm glad we have the beautiful one we have now."

In 1926, a quarter century years before hurricanes were named, what became known as THE Hurricane - or "The Big Blow" - hit South Florida.

"During the summer, we rented a house in North Carolina," said Sam. "We hadn't returned to Sanibel yet in September when the storm hit."

The banter and laugher accelerated when Karen asked Sam if he knew... but before she could utter the name, Sam said, "If she was good-looking and lived on the island I knew her."

Bell let it slip that she always thought Sam was the oldest, but to recover quickly added, "and the best looking!" Then, in a true conciliatory spirit, hoping that the aging process resulted in hearing loss, told Francis she thought he was the best looking.

Although there may have been differences of opinion on certain subjects discussed as the group lingered over a delicious meal, they were all there for the "shell" of it - to share their time and treasure with The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum.

Preserving Our Good Nature - Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation

Preserving Our Good Nature - Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation

The islands’ reputations are known worldwide for shelling, birding, fishing and striking beauty. Located where the temperate mingles with the tropical climate and fresh water mixes with the salty water of the Gulf of Mexico, Sanibel and Captiva Islands are ideally situated to create unexcelled habitat for aquatic and terrestrial life.

The land and sea are so strikingly beautiful, productive and bounteous, they captured the attention of conservationists long before most of the world became aware natural resources were finite.

In the 1930s the Sanibel and Captiva Islands Conservation Association was founded under the leadership of Jay Norwood Darling. The first formal protection came from the State of Florida in 1939. In the next few decades under Darling’s urging, the federal government began protecting lands, and the Sanibel refuge was established.
In 1967, the refuge was renamed to honor the memory of its first conservation hero, Mr. Darling. In that same year, the grass roots organizers incorporated as the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF), dedicating themselves to the preservation of natural resources and wildlife habitat. Complementing the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service’s activities, the foundation began preserving precious freshwater wetlands, while the refuge purchased bayside mangrove habitat.

Lot by lot, acre by acre, SCCF has purchased and restored vegetation and habitat that began to disappear under pressure of development on these islands. Skilled habitat managers have studied the land and needs of wildlife, steadily influencing the preserved lands to provide a place for river otters, bobcats, gopher tortoises, great egrets and more.
Marine scientists conduct research and monitor the health of the waters that surround the islands. Educators help residents and visitors explore the islands and learn more about the world around them. A native plant nursery is available for gardeners to learn more about landscaping for wildlife.

Baileyfest 2009 OCT 25 from 1 to 4p.m.

"Baileyfest 2009 offering $1,700 worth of prizes"

More than 40 different door prizes - valued at more than $1,700 - will be awarded at the 24th annual Baileyfest.

Baileyfest 2009 will be held on Sunday, Oct. 25 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Bailey's Center, located on the corner of Periwinkle Way and Tarpon Bay Road.

All 14 merchants in the Bailey's Center Merchants' Association (BCMA) have donated prizes:

Bailey's General Store $100 gift card

Bailey's True Value Hardware $100 gift card

Biddles Bucket Four $25 gift certificates

The Grog Shop $100 case of wine

Nick's Frozen Yogurt $100 gift basket

Hillgate Communications $100 spa gift basket

Island Cleaners $100 gift package

Island Cinema 10 $10 gift certificates for concessions

Lily & Co. $495 jewelry set

Sanibel Barber Shop Four $25 gift certificates

Sanibel Beauty Salon $100 beauty gift basket

Sanibel Shell Automotive Four $25 gift certificates for parts or labor

Select Vacation Properties $100 BBQ gift basket

The Video Scene 12 double movie rental packages

In order to enter the drawings, individuals need to visit the 14 BCMA merchants through Friday, Oct. 23. Entries are limited to one per person at each merchant. Winners will be announced at Baileyfest, but do not need to be present to win.

The Baileyfest stage will run from 1 p.m. and feature acts from local performers such as The Schoolhouse Theatre, BIG Arts, Jennifer Valiquette (saxophone player), The Sanibel School Steel Drum Band, Ring of Emerald dancers and more.

The family-oriented event will include food and beverages, crowning of Baileyfest King and Queen, mule and wagon rides, a bounce house, dunk tank, inflatable slide, miniature golf, and traditional games, including an egg and spoon race, hula hoop contest, tin can alley and fastest pitch. All proceeds will benefit Sanibel and Captiva non-profit organizations such as CROW, F.I.S.H. and Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation.

LIVE ON THE ISLANDS

Entertainment - Live on the Islands

Ellington's Jazz Club and Restaurant has live jazz seven nights a week from 7 to 11pm at its new location at 1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel phone 337 5299

Biddles Buckets entertainment line up is: Tuesday, karaoke: Wed, David Barbar, Thursday Robby Hutto and the absent-minded band. Friday, Karaoke: and Saturday, Steve Reynolds. Biddles Bucket is at 2499 Periwinkle Way. 472 2323

The Crow's Nest at 'Tween Waters Inn, Captiva, has live entertainment Fridays and Saturdays starting at 9pm.

RC Otter's  11506 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, has live music daily with dining inside and outside.

Keylime Bistro on Captiva features live entertainment seven days and nights each week.

McT's Shrimp House and Tavern's entertainer on Friday and Saturday nights is Ira Wilkes.

The Jacaranda, 1223 Periwinkle Way, has entertainment nightly from 8pm to midnight.

The Island Cow's live entertainment is from 6 to 9:30pm nightly. The line-up: Monday, Dan Confrey; Tuesday, Jeff Key: Wednesday, Ken Wasiniak Thursday, Diana Lynn: Friday, Greg Watts: Saturday, Diana Lynn: and Sunday, Ken Wasiniak.

Doc Ford's Fort Myers Beach Rum Bar and Grille at 708 Fisherman's Wharf, Fort Myers Beach, has entertainment most Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday Afternoon and evening.

Sunshine Seafood Cafe at 8750 Gladioulus Drive Fort Myers has live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights Featuring Jazz and Relaxing Dining entertainment.

The Old Captiva House at Tween Waters Inn Island Resort- Captiva Island, Florida

NASCRAB at the Crow's Nest - Tween Waters Inn Island Resort - Captiva Island, Florida

Beached Whale Shark - Sanibel Sea School

SHARK WEEK 2009 campers built a 40 ft. scale model of a whale shark on Buttonwood beach! Sisbro Studios filmed the process and created this time-lapse sequence. Whale sharks are the largest fish in the ocean, with some adults growing up to 50 feet. Despite their large size, they are gentle filter feeders that consume some of the smallest organisms in the ocean. It is nearly impossible to be killed by a whale shark, but even more predatory species of sharks are unlikely to bother humans. You are more likely to be killed by a toaster or by debris falling from the sky than you are to be attacked by a shark. Sanibel Sea School is a 501(c)(3) marine conservation and education nonprofit located on Sanibel Island, FL. To learn more, visit us at www.sanibelseaschool.org!