PUBLISHER'S LETTER
No one will ever argue that those of us who live on islands, in waterfront houses, and near Florida’s numerous waterways are blessed with the good wisdom of having chosen an idyllic spot to call home. But we can’t ignore the real reason we enjoy our lifestyle. When you look at the whole picture, you realize it’s the community—the people, the organizations and the goodwill—that makes life in Southwest Florida so sweet.
Everyone in our community makes a difference. Whether you’re a philanthropist whose generosity has helped maintain or build treasured places and organizations—The Sanibel Community House, Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW), J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, Barrier Island Group for the Arts (BIG ARTS), The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, Community Housing & Resources (CHR), Sanibel Historical Museum and Village on Sanibel Island, SanCap Cares, F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva, and Captiva Island Historical Society on Captiva—or you’re a resident whose job, whether a sales
When you look at the whole picture, you realize it’s the community—the people, the organizations and the goodwill—that makes life in Southwest Florida so sweet.
clerk or government official, and volunteerism are key to creating a cohesive community life, you should never be taken for granted.
Showing appreciation to others in our fast-paced, technology-driven world can often be overlooked, simply because when one task is finished we’ve already moved on to the next—and, sadly, we often close that first door without a proper “thank you” to those deserving recognition.
So during the season when life in Southwest Florida is in full swing, with galas and fundraisers and plenty of outdoor sporting events to keep us connected, I want to salute the efforts of everyone in our community—no matter how big or how small. Thank you for all you do every day of the year.
For anyone who wants to enjoy and support our community, this issue will give you plenty of suggestions, starting on page 108. Perhaps you’re resting after taking part in water-based adventures such as a fishing charter, kayaking or swimming. Now you’ll find stories to propel you out of your comfy armchair and engage you in community life. March and April are big months for fundraisers and there are galas galore—so take your pick.
And as you enjoy the good life in Southwest Florida, please don’t forget to thank those in the community who make it all happen. Daniela J. Jaeger