38 GROWING ARTISTIC ROOTS ON SANIBEL Rachel Pierce establishes herself as an island artist and business owner FEATURES 42 A SECOND CAREER AS AN ARTIST From the army to art, Al Marcenkus finds his calling SPECIAL SECTION Art Indoors Out 48 In Flow of Light Reflection 52 Patio Furniture Gets New Life 56 The Wood 2 TOTI.COM SEPTEMBEROCTOBER 2025 DEPARTMENTS 18 8 PUBLISHERS LETTER 10 GULFCOAST ZEITGEIST Summers Over Its Back School 12 IN THE COMMUNITY Getting It Together 16 BEAUTY Beauty Trends MAKING WAVES Creative Use Space 24 Designer Wear Within Reach 28 ENTERTAINMENT Go Outside Play 31 EXPLORER Find Your Bliss WHATS STORE Whats Hot in Southwest Florida 60 TRAVEL Ducks Geese Swans...Oh, My 66 CHEERS To Know Pisco 69 RECIPES WE LOVE Cooking SW 70 OUT ABOUT Force Nature NATURE NOTEBOOK 76 Bats 78 BETWEEN LINES Power Friends 79 SERVICES AND PROFESSIONALS Coming up NovDec TOTI Media is celebrating 30 years. Food travel trends. Get ready, eat well, get inspired. CROSSWORD 80 PARTING SHOT 4 ers om ffer. t s o l cu lue ecia etB r a sp j 9 fo ift f g age 7 p See GROUP PUBLISHER Daniela J. Jaeger CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jason Jones PROOFREADER Dan Whicker SENIOR CONSULTING EDITOR Susan Holly CUISINE Gina Birch CONTRIBUTING Beth Luberecki OUTREACH MANAGER Brian Hatley DIGITAL CONTENT CONTRIBUTOR Stephanie ONLINE Francesca Block WRITERS David Acevedo, Birch, Luberecki, Myles Mellor, Dr. Randall H. Niehoff, Ann Marie OPhelan, Glenn Ostle, Andrea Stetson PHOTOGRAPHERSARTISTS Steve Berlin, Jaeger, Mary Lundeberg, Marcenkus, 239-472-0205 adsalestoti.com OFFICE ADMINISTRATION, SUBSCRIPTIONS CREDIT CARD ORDERS totimedia.comcontactus WEBMASTER Philip Lippard, Sanibel Logic ENGINE Ostrovsky Ryan Frisch, Locable Publisher Network ADVERTISING SALES toti.com totimedia.com timesoftheislands.com rswliving.com gulfmainmagazine.com bonitaesteromagazine.com capecorallivingmagazine.com CONNECT WITH US facebook.comtotimediamagazines twitter.comtotimedia pinterest.comtotimedia instagram.comtotimedia FOR E-MAIL INQUIRIES P.O. Box 1227, Island, FL 33957 T 239-472-0205, F 239-395-2125 Founder Friedrich N. Chairman Guy Tober President C.O.O. Times Islands, RSW LIVING, GULF MAIN, Bonita Estero Cape Coral Living ISSN 1521-1207 are published six times year by Media, Inc., Sanibel, 33957. Subscription price 24.00 for one-year domestic subscription. Copyright Inc. All rights reserved. No part this publication may be reproduced without written permission publisher. Opinions expressed contributors not necessarily those Eye Beholder Turning what old into something new I seems there trend that catching on around globe. More people refurbishing old, used items rather than throwing them away. using glass bottles works art repairing decorating damaged furniture, can turned new. see real estate market, too. Rather building brand homes, more home buyers opting find existing need some TLC remodel it. HGTV filled with show focusing fixer-uppers. transformations these houses amazing. We all like good comeback story, remodeling house still has character certainly inspires us possibilities hidden beauty us. Being creation was turning it also benefits environment. things artists doing reclaimed wood, glass, plastic, other materials shows how we respect nature our trash treasures. Maybe you have few pieces your already. If not, many galleries shops throughout specialize everything from jewelry sculptures made daily throwaways. concept even found beauty, wellness, fitness messaging. Spas use slogans encourage refresh soul well body. fresh outlook life changing thinking ideas habits ones. Doing affect body actually make look feel Of course, will say eye beholder. Just because repurpose or repair does mean everyone instantly change their opinion its value. An chair, they might say, chair after being repaired painted. true seen differently different people. One mans another treasure, say. Sometimes, though, value making them. one who actual work often gets most out This benefit hands-on. When young girl, my father taught sisters me afraid kinds handyman tools. He would accept saying, doesnt work. His reply always, Doesnt work, exist. Make Today, thankful skills needs attention turn enjoy working hands saved lot money Later life, signed class chain saws That came very handy when had clean past hurricane seasons. How about Are ready issue favorite magazine explore, taste, maybe try own. Whether crafty, thrifty, just hands-on daredevil me, hope encouraged new--even if way thinking. May doing, whatever be. Group Publisher, Gulfcoast Zeitgeist BY DR. RANDALL NIEHOFF Lets right error become mistake until refuse correct --Orlando Aloysius Battista chemist author S eptember shuts door vacation time For students ages signals go back school. country today at point. Last spring saw highest number high school graduates ever, but next fewer. Why Because U.S. birthrate peaked 2007 last springs were born. Every since then, fewer children been brought population. Therefore, student enrollment going down every foreseeable future grades K-12 college contrast, trade enrollments reached crucial moment decision society. Many declining numbers students, qualified adults education community resources provided necessary teaching learning. History proves civilization endure grow journey, schooling where rubber meets road. Student future. founding document country, climax marvelous sentence begins, hold truths self-evident..., founders aspirational intent Americans ...that among liberty, pursuit happiness. Theres no guarantee happiness--only pursue responsibility mature citizens provide place personnel acquire knowledge grasp Teaching job. So learning Both tasks require effort. reality answer question printed T-shirt Am living live Becoming educated vocation--and life-long learners Especially times, right. lengthy article happiness Washington Post January 5, 2023, intriguing yet troubling piece information showing survey results listing industries ratings workers level well-being. Educational services ranked closer bottom top, coming 11th overall agricultureloggingforestry top financeinsurance bottom. These grades. Even college, could better. 1960s average full-time four-year studied hours week. 2010 figure roughly half that. By 2022, percent reported spending less week studying yet, compared peers 1990s, much likely part-time jobs pay. What Research reveals devices, close seven per day smart phones which pick 113 daily. Higher Education Act codified 1965, revised over years measures effect 2014 states higher-education schools federal grants aid must pledge each credit-hour approximates minimum two studying. So, typical three-credit course requires homework week, then standard 12-credit load calls encouraging educational industry preparing effort Obviously statistics reveal errors--but mistakes begin Ran Niehoff pursuing 1991. 11 ANN MARIE OPHELAN little help organizing ome ability keep closets categorized, kitchens methodized, rooms systematized. others, challenges staying tidy, organized, decluttered seem insurmountable. Thats call professional organizer, such Renee Kinney, Zen Home, organize bathrooms, closets, garage, kitchen, bedrooms, more, transforming places chaos confusion peace harmony. Much do this, says Kinney. first ask clients vision determine priorities. days operate. helps front center take seat, explains interior designer color consultant, rearrange hang artwork, choose schemes, more. Her focus concentrate functionality. She consults her habits, allowing develop plan action initiate MacIntosh BooksPaper offers selection books decluttering. PHOTOS COURTESY OF MACINTOSH BOOKSPAPER Kinney incorporates she refers merge purge process, allows homeowner any item have, pens gravy boats black sweaters. Creating order cabinets, shelves, built-ins bit puzzle, adds strives easy visualize organized space so easily looking for, saving frustration. excess, let older, desirable ones go, organizational process involves reducing unnecessary items. Studies shown 54 overwhelmed clutter, idea it, mountains garages, offices building. Kinneys goal declutter create permanent system. Once done, love frequently, collectively spend 2.7 billion replacing cant find, include spent losing 45 lose television remote controls least once week--with 71 monthly. Additionally, 33 phones, car keys 27 glasses shoes Top Kitchen before Bottom after. ZEN HOME 13 Garage Tidying Up Kondo Netflix series focuses organizing, decluttering, tidying based KonMari Method, encourages keeping only bring joy. Kondo, whose background includes TV personality, presenter, author, various same topic. 20 wallets purses. At five misplaces important single 2.5 lost getting time-saver, stress-reducer, money-saver. As wraps organization plan, explain maintain newly spaces. After am finished, said refreshed renewed zen-like serenity, doubt better, research clutter mess linked negative emotions confusion, tension, irritability, whereas having contribute calmness, sense well-being, increase persons think clearly. OPhelan resident regular contributor Media. Macintosh Books Paper titles organized. available purchase store online Home Therapy, Anita Yokota, 2022 Gentle Swedish Death Cleaning, Margareta Magnusson, 2018 High Vibe Kirsten Yadouga, 2021 1620 Periwinkle Way, 239-472-1447 macintoshbooks.com MORE INFO 202-631-6196 zenhomenow.com 14 Mudroom BETH LUBERECKI lipstick lover face-cream fanatic Then youre place. issue, give lowdown fabulous fragrances, luxurious lotions, must-have makeup, between. DOUBLE DUTY two-in-one, Tarte Cosmetics Maracuja Juicy Melt Mask delivers. balm-mask hybrid night, 15 oils superfruits watermelon, goji, passionfruit lips hydrated. custom lip scoop cushion tip salted caramel flavor application enjoyable. treatment tarte.com. 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Pair Bond Builder Kit 35, Hydration Moisturizing HG Anti-Thinning featuring travel-friendly sizes brands haircare products, wherever takes you. bondiboost.com waves USE SPACE Todays homes multiple purposes extra bedroom becomes elegant office, here Divco Miromar Lakes. Large countertops multifunction ALL DIVCO CUSTOM HOMES AT MIROMAR LAKES BEACH GOLF CLUB W hen comes Instead Dad cozying room couch Sunday evening, he hunched desk office tucked corner room. traditional classroom, Lizzie a.m. Monday, attending classroom Zoom session. College Thomas Wednesday afternoon kitchen counter group chat plans upcoming history project. Grandma, own home, reading book lanai Saturday afternoon. seeing residing households conducting tasks, serve needs. long commutes back, home. jumping bus, youngsters kids campus, theyre taking courses. elderly parents moving retirement assisted facilities, finding adult childrens homes. Thanks pandemic, economy, todays high-tech world, changed drastically According Bureau Labor Statistics, pandemic led significant shift outside approximately 13.8 workforce, 22.5 million people, worked mostly many, efficient workday saves commuting costs, attire, expenses, lunches co-workers. Plus, theres added advantage care including tending school, daycare costs. Not mention, affords family. National Center 3.4 homeschooled during 2022-23 academic year, 1.8 enrolled virtual public private time. often, college-level 2022. Census Bureau, one-third children, Outdoor patios indoors, usable space. Bathrooms spa experiences, model Custom Homes Lakes Beach Golf Club. Inviting exteriors Positano Gulfshore Interior Design 34, increasing children. fact, adults, 31.9 population, shared household. this--Dad desk, quiet space, project area, Grandma spot perform bedrooms double schoolrooms offer workspace accommodate family members. functional peaceful, calm affects emotional, mental, physical There simple ways add calmness house, removing items, noise levels e.g., television, rearranging redecorating, tidy. becoming nation homebodies. 1.5 2023 did 2003, aided activities shopping, banking, working, watching movies, gaming, relaxing. result, sanctuary. Lakes, Naples, Marco Springs, examples created reflect world. Weve collection spaces woven together address multifunctional society, promoting peaceful existence inhabitants. Patios sought-after features 21 embraced functionality promotion well-being weaving natural textures, soft neutral palettes, biophilic elements light, indoor greenery, views water wellness Dave Chernin, Divcos director design development. built consider uses families require. incorporating spa-inspired bathrooms freestanding tubs, steam showers, stone details escape. heart luxury feature quartz countertops, oversized islands, prep areas elevate both form function. Sculptural, statement lighting final layer artistry warmth, creating beautiful livable, Chernin. Brooke Meyer, principal Design, agrees wanted blur line between everyday vacation. step in, met simplicity--organic materials, spainspired interiors prioritize flow. interiors, sometimes so, Meyer companys location. Larger casual seating makes inviting. Nerano FrontDoor Communities Covered enclosed porches inviting whole resort experience infinity-edge pools shelves outdoor equipped comforts inside. lanais motorized screens must, offering shade bug closing off view. With lush, low-maintenance landscaping integrated lighting, environments Meyer. growing desire calming, restorative support most-desired features, according Association Homebuilders NAHB survey, patios, followed four-season rooms, firepits, barbecue areas, decks, sheds aka she-sheds man-caves gyms, offices, reading, hobbies. pool access pool. Garages storage additional room, big plus, Office highly desirable, larger plenty cook card game. People eating meals 81 played bigger role. Addressing older remodeled repurposed. example, homeowners adding desks lanais, workspaces kitchen. 22 Braun Matlacha adjustments started now serves says. incorporated under-desk spaces, above-desk shelving, small lamp, chair. creature comforts, personal pictures low-light plant shelf. double-car garage. side gym mats, stationary bike, weights move needed, adds. Other home-design trends reinventing extend improve usability, furniture shading enclosing screening area multiuse nooks transformed colors, rain showerheads, ambient rethinking micro-offices mini Murphy beds loft below add- ing under-bed storage, dividers, hanging systems, cabinets. put square footage maximum, multipurpose everyone, relaxation restoration. 6628 Willow Park Drive, Naples 239-592-7222 divcohomes.com 8891 Brighton Lane, Suite 101, Springs 239-326-9333 gulfshoreinteriordesign.com 23 Dress gently Style Encore Fort Myers specializes deals storebrand e good, lucky us, afford Gently wear dress breaking bank. start looking. name-brand clothes, shoes, handbags, accessories sold prices 90 retail. Lilly Pulitzer Zara Chicos, Free People, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, hand-selected quality, style, value, excellent condition, wardrobe overspending, Carolyn Rivera. shop business, says, weve trusted fashion-savvy women. Unlike shopping thrift store, mix Encores pieces--whether favorites pieces--are top-notch condition priced affordably. buys sells fill unload. STYLE ENCORE FORT MYERS Whenever Im new, isnt --Natalie Cooper, Besides great deal outfit two, buying greener choice. Environmental Protection Agency estimated discarded textiles measured 17 tons. Only clothing recycled. Also, closet day, appointment needed. drop shop, cash accept, selling mens score amazing less. Those prefer StyleEncore.com shipped up. strictly store-brand shops, ThredUp, shoppers Kate Spade Nicole Miller cocktail dresses, Tory Burch shoes. choices hard beat. TOP MYERS, BOTTOM wardrobe, save 25 Natalie Cooper Myers, enjoys wear. ThredUp favorites, recent purchases included pants, mentions Fashionphile, RealReal, Poshmark sites check. money, overdo brim again Researchers sufficient consists 74 garments outfits total two-climate season, 85 four-climate season. that, cause through unload someone else treasure. TIPS DOWNSIZING YOUR WARDROBE Remove fit, uncomfortable. stained, rag, toss Reassess havent worn year. Consider reasons why. Is wrong style Does wearing perfect Rethink clothes need, especially jobs, moved climate, 26 HANDBAG PHOTO handbags popular Myers. trying with, whether fits youve really choice sell, given fashionable. wardrobes currently worn, means out. IF YOU GO 11621 S. Cleveland Avenue, 239-887-4860 style-encore. comlocationsfort-Myers-fl entertainment Turn backyard sports venue out-ofhome days, alone. study out-of-home decreased 51 minutes 2019. reduces spending, increases eating, drinking, entertaining friends gather patio yard Frisbee, badminton, paddleball, croquet. Some extraordinary installing basketball courts, putting greens, tennis batting cages properties, atmosphere perhaps additions amenities appeal potential buyers. property values 10,000 20,000 landscaped, courts. courts showed 11.3 higher without. investment dollar amounts asv exercise enjoyment options. Engaging chances bond members friends, promote teamwork communication, quality Families increased emotional better exhibit superior performance suffer behavioral problems. Furthermore, digital devices TVs, tablets, placed bit, paving healthier downtime screen company cages, shuffleboard pickleball playgrounds, 360 SportScapes, solutions recreation needs, Ted Renda, president sales. WAYFAIR inflatable, giant Kick Darts game rises feet tall provides variety games. SPORTSCAPES wonderland SportScapes keeps entertained. 29 green installed table pool, tennis, converts dining bench seats. activities. portable tetherball set anywhere adequate 1141 Collier Blvd., Island 239-309-0443 877-937-4360 360sportscapes.com Cornhole fun. TABLE TETHERBALL inclusive full turnkey service design, construction, installation, company, Island. Wayfair, crafted aluminum frame powder-coated finish handle year-round weather fun game-night tournaments. seats parties meal play. options cornhole boards, tether balls, chess games, dice. Most retail sporting goods affordable Frisbees, horseshoes, footballs, hula hoops, lawn darts, pingpong, along volleyball nets hoops swimming apartment-dwellers, speak of, packing heading park beach option. parks, Rotary Coral, Lehigh Acres Acres, built-in equipment stations. Others, Recreation, trails. American Heart recommends 150 moderate-intensity aerobic activity 75 vigorous activity, combination both, preferably spread recommendations 6-17 moderate vigorous-intensity days. U.S., one-half population guidelines. Considering easier exercise, nice recreation. properties. sounds win-win. Need RR Plan weekend ts always self-care. But temperatures warm toasty Florida, ideal head indoors rejuvenation relaxation. Floridas Gulf Coast, array hotels resorts treatments relaxing endeavors. want staycation soothe mind, heres book. HYATT REGENCY COCONUT POINT RESORT SPA Stillwater Spa Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort experiences inspired setting. SUNDIAL Treat yourself Kay Casperson Lifestyle Boutique Sundial Spa. 32 TWEEN WATERS INN MARINA MARGARITAVILLE recently gulfside condominium-style accommodations Tennis state-of-the-art stay. relaxing, Center. full-service massages, facials, manicures, pedicures rejuvenating reset, mellow vibe complimentary chairs umbrellas renting cabana pools. adultsonly yoga sessions lawn, ferry brings guests experience. inspiration surroundings signature Mango Apricot Refining Wrap, coconut scrub apricot firming monoi oils. dry sauna, eucalyptus spacious co-ed serenity treatment. Tween Waters Inn Marina occupies enviable Captiva nestled Pine Sound. scenic setting getaway, Waters. Treatment Ultimate Pedicure, treated mineral bath vitamin-rich clay mask, paraffin treatment, massage finishing polish And classic facial, scrub, deep tissue massage. You regret booking Margaritaville St. Somewhere exude laidback tropical associated Jimmy Buffettfounded brand. naturally, Lime Skinny Margarita Body Scrub Paradise Pina Colada Facial. Platinum HydraFacial corrective serums chosen unique concerns. relaxed, grab 5 oClock Bar Grill stretch lounge lagoon-style overlooking beach. Be sure check website specials offers. relaxed WESTIN CAPE CORAL VILLAGE Sweeping Westin Village. blood pressure soon sweeping guest suite on-site Esterra Salon. range face Signature Massage, customizable blending Swedish, tissue, techniques. wellness-focused resort, state-of-theart WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio, lap classes, two-hour bike rentals guests. NAPLES GRANDE Relax visit Grande Resort. 34 Youll options, 18-hole championship golf three pools, 23-acre escape, oasis tropical-inspired Citrus Blossom Massage revitalizing Swedish-style infused invigorating citrus scents Fijian Scrub, exfoliating noni lime blossom scents. matter choose, youll leave feeling arrived. LAPLAYA LaPlaya never far sand water. SpaTerre, balconies. Popular Facial, face, neck, shoulder Balinese combines acupressure rolling stroking techniques relieving tension. Add Glow Japanese Soaking Tub Ritual level. away enjoying LaPlayas SpaTerre. XXXXXXX 35 RITZ-CARLTON, 51,000-square-foot Ritz-Carlton luxe rejuvenate yourself. 36 unveiling major Ritz-Carlton, celebrates 40th anniversary 2025. 474 redesigned guestrooms suites views, Mindful breathwork visualization, facial launching October cold plungers, infra-red saunas, rooftop stateof-the-art center, reformer Pilates studio. JW MARRIOTT MARCO ISLAND miles Gulf-front Start adults-only Sirene section hotel, settle pampering JW. Five Senses relaxation, Foot refreshing exfoliation soothing reflexology. hot-cold circuit plunge sunset session onehour sound bowl meditation stars, participants option float 5001 Road, 239-444-1234 hyatt.com 9891 Shore 239-597-3123 laplayaresort.com 251 Crescent Street, 239-899-4001 margaritavilleresorts.com Marriott 400 239-394-2511 marriott.com 475 Seagate 239-597-3232 naplesgrande.com 280 Vanderbilt 239-598-3300 ritzcarlton.com 1451 Middle 239-472-4151 sundialresort.com 15951 800-223-5865 tween-waters.com Village 5951 Silver King 239-541-5000 Nokomis, Floridabased freelance writer whos frequent Learn bethluberecki.com. MARCP sessions, opportunities 37 GINA BIRCH PAGES RACHEL PIERCE painting career 2020. 39 eponymous gallery Pierces paintings survived Hurricane Ian gallery. Four months Ian, storm gallerys porch. invited businesses join services. C hances are, colorful murals walls businesses. possible recognize former news anchor connected vibrant dots. name endeared resident, artist, Sanibel. forgone conclusion despite fact mother artist. quite opposite. tough living, elements, grew shows, why adage states, never. aspiring journalist, left northern Wisconsin attend Oklahoma City University, wielding pen instead paint brush--although latter down. core, journalism loved piecing story present Like journalists, took numerous markets country. rotation visits only. sister lived Estero. contract end Des Moines, Iowa, husband, Matthew Pierce, anywhere. stars lined offered morning position NBC-2, Coast News, While family, husband Florida. job, gone. said, else, laugh. recognized organizations knew artistic tendencies commissioned basis. restaurant, Sunshine Caf, forged path islands. know businesses, mined stories, became enamored islands scenery wildlife. tend coastal style. Acrylic oil preferred mediums. 2020 Covid hit. world changed, quitter, laughs. first, remained fulltime anchor. forced stay remodeling, asking help. traveling Wearing lots hats pulled directions, change, scary decision. quit successful During residence J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge, leading groups, journaling walks, dives nature. raise here, recalls. Ten residency destroyed all. Owning land dilapidated sat silver lining. nonprofits temporary They re-creating reinventing, afloat, together. Funny come circle. art-show exactly ended doing--not weekends, weekdays thing, competition. formed healing. efforts unnoticed. won title Business Year SanCap Chamber Commerce. artists, continues evolve. Murals pursue. gaining reputation colorful, life-sized creations mainland. map locations lovers supporters. dabbling watercolors. released pet portrait June showcasing breeds dogs cats, watercolor. best friend, opened Paw Paradise, loaded basics beachy located stocks wide supplies Paradise. Jerrys Shopping humans, aptly named Islands center. turns out, creative member Husband wrote book, Sea Turtles Nest, way. illustrations. now, stop. couple goals exploring housing day. dont paradise rich, accessible well-rounded community, races. bears scars Ian. thanks entrepreneurs spirit strong. row, Mathew, Lydia, Piper Rory Daphne. media personality storytelling. 41 paints landscapes. AL MARCENKUS too late follow passions. Marcenkus. decades either flying helicopters United States Army chemical engineer civilian things, paint. Today focus. artwork beyond. addition, decorate Inspired 19th century French Claude Monet, impressionist. primarily watercolor acrylics brilliance color, wonderful pop canvas Oil messy with. expensive, However, progressing. scrape liking. Shadows Oats original. 43 Since switched subject themes. subtle differences, gives vibrating done right, lines color. Chicago area. interested drawing planned University Illinois Design--that scholarship Military Academy West Point. to, trajectory life. wasnt Knoxville, Tennessee, began nurture ago. instructor, himself outside, majestic Smoky Mountains. fell there, magical, transport colors detailed strokes somehow manage draw there. job wife relocate nearly landscapes, shifted themes water, dunes, sunsets, palms trees, swampy sloughs. type widest scenes beyond beautiful--sweet reminders vacations sun. years, tweaked technique. palette knife, texture. interest pastels mixed pieces. dabbled modern abstract sizes. 44 TODAY, HE STILL PAINTS LANDSCAPES, BUT THEY HAVE SHIFTED FROM MOUNTAINS TROPICAL THEMES. professionally, others hone talents. circle, teacher. lessons learn basic simple, intricate, challenging photograph canvas. grabbed beginning him embrace explore outside. outdoors, connection nature, screens, creativity choosing first. draws in. Next, size wall pull Framing connect taken road, shows. updates exhibits, lessons, almarcenkusart.com. Painting passion. exhilarating blank nothing, magic grabs heart. Gorgeous specialty LARIMAR SAND Dune Jewelrys Milan fall blue larimar, nod Roman craftsmanship pendants, earrings, rings, bracelets. Personalize pinch almost Starting 160 dunejewelry.com READY-TO-BAKE CUPCAKES ultimate stress-free baking, Bunnie Cakes ready-to-bake Chocolate Very Vanilla cupcake batters frosting. mixing, mess, taste. Miamis vegan, kosher, gluten-free bakery, goodies online. 55 bunniecakes.com SUNSET SODAS legendary German beverage States. cola orange lemon juices, spices hint vanilla. drink brewed Paulaner Brewery Munich original recipe. Sunset. 49.99 pack paulaner-sunset. Total Wine TOOTH FAIRY SUMMONS Tooth Fairy Flylight summon tooth fairy avoid under-the-pillow mishaps. begins read bedtime, child tray nightlight beam signaling fairys visit. toothfairyflylight.com MINI RACLETTE miniature raclette Swiss Kuhn Rikon perfectly designed tailgating camping fall. Fill pan ingredients charcuterie cheese dips, smores. candles melts hot. nonstick coating cleanup easy. kuhnrikon.com 46 BURNER BUDDY electric stoves cooktops scratched stained. Burner Buddy full-surface stove cover snaps protect cooktop letting cooking. Comes fit stove. 250 burnerbuddy.com ART WINE third bottling Corrections wine labels advocacy. label, Jesse Krimes, imagery Purgatory display Met York City. liquid inside cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot, franc, malbec, Napa Valley. portion sales goes Advocacy. 100 theprisonerwinecompany.com BIODEGRADABLE CLEANING Made fiber, versatile Floofah cleaning cloths compostable biodegradable. Safe surfaces, dishes skin, zero waste plastic. Try starter kit Floofahs. floofah.com LETTERS BRIDE beautifully designed, linencovered keepsake Ceremony Club anniversaries, brides, birthdays, special occasion. pages thick stock, holding photos heartfelt, messages. customize theceremonyclub.com FASHIONABLE EYEWEAR Dax Eyewear, chic, female-owned sunglasses brand, crafts eyewear UV stylish design. Best all, break nose friendly tangle collections seasonally. 37.99-39.99 daxeyewear.com 47 DAVID ACEVEDO Watercolorist Shah Hadjebi diversity subjects n hum rhythm, light dances chrome fenders colonial shadows, quietly emerged regions distinctive watercolorists. contrast--at meticulous spontaneous, nostalgic contemporary--and firmly rooted memory technical mastery. Though Hadjebis childhood, earliest energies flowed music. early teens adulthood, songs bands another. however, primary outlet watercolors--a medium claimed deliberate intensity. cannot suppress creativity, reflects. blocked, appear. transition visual arts organic, inevitable, nurtured steeped creativity. mother, accomplished porcelain introduced museums age. pivotal moment--a Guggenheim MoMA, which--exposed hyper-realistic car. encounter ignited lasting obsession rendering automobiles gleaming detail, hallmark Architectural studies wildlife favored subjects. 49 Rejecting fixed stylistic spans automobiles, architectural studies, native birds, botanicals, lifes. practice enthusiasm intact. father, retired prolific architect, impression. There, absorbed perspective, drafting tools, structural nuance--lessons continue inform subjects, recall atmospheric weight Edward Hoppers urban vignettes. Despite influences, considers largely self-taught. studio packed formidable library, repurchased essentials, notes, reference today. leans wisdom mentors, notably friend fellow Chailosky. vastly mediums, credits Chailoskys generous insights instrumental exhibited several eventually recognizable language, acknowledges, shifting helped reach audiences sell venues. methods equally intentional. Watercolor choice, unequivocally. location, relies customized palette--prefilled compartments replaced tube pigments Holbein, Winsor Newton, Daniel Smith. pencil sketch, masking key highlights fluid tape applying wet-on-wet backgrounds dry-brushed foregrounds. echoes broader philosophy act joy, obligation. priority aims exhibitions annually, merely visibility challenge watercolors within hierarchy fine art. main equal acrylic galleries. solo show, Translucence, Reflections Light, Sidney Berne Davis February 2026, underscores ambition. smaller Arts December. Meanwhile, remains Tower Gallery prominently fair circuit, events Winter Park. human being, Happenings Magazine editor Jamie Kuser. automobile paintings, vibrancy. Hadjebi, Florida--shared wife, dogs, cat--is vivid unpredictable mastered. Never dull moment, rewarding ends plea, speaks Support craftsmen. Dont buy mass-produced hardware corner. Acevedo award-winning founder DAAS CO-OP Gifts Union Artist Studios. bachelors degree Puerto Rico, Mayagez Campus. Refurbish uring dine table, kick chairs, lay benches dives. tear. tossing rust joints, discarding faded, banishing broken strapping, restore Leisure Furniture, family-owned -operated serving Lee counties restoring commercial powder-coat finishes fabrics match branding. Our commercial-grade ensures long-lasting against sun, salt, humidity--ideal residential high-traffic environments, Joe Rogers. restrapped lease Aluminum sling appropriate LEISURE FURNITURE POWDER COATING INC. D greater opt again. 53 MAINTAINING OUTDOOR Powder durable finish. resistant chipping, peeling, fading colors. Sandblasting removes rust, metal restoration aluminum, iron, wrought sandblasted, powder coated, repainted. Sling mesh fabrics, rip structures, replaced. Vinyl straps repaired. Cushions, foam cores, recovered. restoring, vinyl tabletop patterns from. in-house Furnitures 7,000-square-foot facility Naples. pickup delivery across addition services, top-of-the-line umbrellas, cushions, replacement tabletops, Kicking readily affordable. staycationing slower pace planning. Consequently, backyard, patio, presentable improving worth investment. tidied-up outdoors impressions, warmth appeal, endorses roof. Buyers lives ripped, sun-bleached, rusty, tattered furniture. Redoing usually Wow factor regularly maintained. best, recommend monthly mild soap covers storms, storing cushions possible, dirt debris wipe spills immediately solution recipe below. retailers. Centers Disease Control Prevention soapy clean, empty plastic bottle bucket powdered grams milliliters 1 teaspoon liter Stir shake dissolved. Label Soapy Cleaning. enough needed unused Coating 1076 239-597-4343 leisurefurniture.net ANDREA STETSON ceiling beams mantel fireplace Alva Amish barn Pennsylvania 1880s. Local builders designers transform trees accents wood doors photo. DANIEL WAYNE ood 1880s, gigantic acacia Southeast Asia, towering strands bamboo Japan, petrified volcano Java tables mantels, beams, headboards sculptures. Dodrill, Wayne Homes, barns builds. scattered ceiling, den door, mantel. Small crevices character. retains numerals stamped went. journey tree Asia one. newest Cocoon console Asia. COCOON unique, Dodrill stresses. unique. nothing 140-year-old house. accent. trolly too, repurposed wood. craftsman originally hometown Indiana. owns Indiana 80s. cool. thought cool reclaim barn. accent Everybody commented, conversation piece. outing, farmer transaction man didnt phone, culture permit someones cell phone. arranged drive buggy general pay phone Dodrill. later flew seal deal. February, colder heck four inches snow ground. deal, June, apart foundation rocks. warehouse houses. Alva, den, bases tops unusual specimens above fireMitchell Siegel travels place, doors. gotten look, uniqueness, history. cut construct barn, premade frames near harvested. carved pieces, assemble dragged site carve numbers. carvings visible past, solid Alva. pretty heads Mitchell Siegel, returned trip Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, looks interesting chunks send workshop, experts sculptures, hangings. damage has, character, defects plain, boring plywood veneer. 57 Maitland sourced Texas, slabs directing customers carved. chose shelves. butterfly crags motion holes knots--really beautiful. Norris humongous joints nooks. customer custom-designed mounted bar stools beside Another narrow niche hallway. depends flair, driftwood stand applications. applications Cocoon. motto ahead, Everyone sends acacia. base table. smooth, polished bases. collection, explains. designs. styled sizes, different, depending used. wider choices. root, designed. selected, trucked fumigated leaves upon arriving States, fumigate arrives factory. kiln pressurized leaving box causes cracking. Workers monitor moisture content carving begins. Nobody do, notes. lug extremely heavy imported workshop tables, coffee Experts huge bamboo, eight diameter, dying holes, bends, bulges masterpieces created. Designers went period oak, Luanza Maitland, licensed Interiors. sculptural builder BOTH sliding fashioned 1880s wall, floor. also. painting. one-of-a-kind, writing magazines newspapers 1995. North 602 Fifth 239-263-8889 cocoongallery.com 5961 Northland 239-466-3955 danielwaynehomes.com Interiors 14125 Tamiami Trail, 239-690-9844 norrisfurniture.com 59 GLENN OSTLE Swans... Photographing migrating birds Chesapeake Bay oh, B ird photographers normally far-away exotic birds. spectacular avian species east coast Each fall, flocks ducks geese breeding grounds hundreds, cases thousands, south flyways America, warmer climates winter. Atlantic Flyway Canada partner, Pam, joined videographer Doug Gardner, featured NBC Americas, waterfowl passing shores Maryland. Flock canvasbacks Driving Charlotte, Carolina, gave opportunity cross countrys engineering marvels, BridgeTunnel. length, longest bridge-tunnel complexes perched bridges lights railings. Cambridge Marylands Eastern dinner photographers, dawn. Early morning, dressed insulated chest waders, vests, jackets, subdued spook seawall Choptank River, tributary Bay. peered sight hundreds landing, quacking, honking, milling about. flight Tundra swans depart field Cambridge, Two male mallards flank female casts golden glow River. 61 Although Pam photographed paid geese. watched sky bright intricate markings, odd names wigeons, scaups, redheads, pintails, mallards, canvasbacks, light. cameras tripods seawall, rocks nearby advised landing low tried sitting shallow laid bellies shoot preening mallard impressive photo occurred sunrise pink, painted glow. Swans tundra swan Maryland Male wing feathers 62 glance 63 lesser scaup, called bluebill distintive beak, Choptank. Lesser scaup 64 widgeon splashes active spot, visitors large bags corn throw handful flurry excitement activity. photographing geese, swans. On arrived agricultural secured ultra-white swans, covered camouflage cotton coveralls ditch, hoping feed spilled unharvested grains field. Watching impressive. wingspans feet, incredibly graceful fly tight formations, ghosts blue-gray sky. Looking ducks, Bay, happy able view exceptional species. anyone wonders. Ostle contributing articles publications Hadfield, scuba dive appeared publications, internationally magazines. featherandfins.smugmug.com. 65 cheers Fermantation tanks Santiago Queirolo winery Perus SANTIAGO QUEIROLO spirits liqueurs behind craft bars fascinating. bartender well-stocked discover, pisco. Peru. deserves coveted bar. pisco, described vodka tequila. distilled grapes, technically classified brandy, brandy tried. Spaniards grape vines Peru 1500s. Fast-forward century. Farmers excess grapes fermenting wine, distillation considered national spirit, Chile guidelines, aging oak. Eight varieties Peruvian styles. Puro grape. Acholado blend. pisco variety. single-variety piscos. Mosto verde freshly crushed juice contains seeds, skins, stems fully fermented. Sugar juice. smoother, flavorful, costs combined distilling piscos equally. Bodega prime example. dates 1880. Raggio immigrated Italy opportunities. Initially, produced wines artisanal consumption. PISCO SOUR ounces ounce juice, squeezed syrup egg Angostura bitters garnish syrup, shaker, dry-shake ice vigorously. chilled. Garnish drops bitters. Using straw, toothpick, similar implement, swirl desired. brandy. 67 1990s generation global map. Bordeaux, France, advice vineyards. Everything irrigation pest control trellising upgraded. winery. Fermentation processes modernized. result refined, higher-quality spirits, emblematic wineries curated selections Via Queirolo, creates complex, aromatic spirit. Sipping neat, reminiscent notes figs dried dark fruits prunes. 25.99 Intipalka Italia beautiful, floral botanical palate. complex sophisticated. cocktail, balance purity fantastic neat Ive 31.99 sour. refreshing, cuisine here. Next entertain wow sour aperitivo. whet appetite tone evening. contributor. food, drinks, well-known 68 cooking SWFL TIGRESS RESTAURANT ROOFTOP BAR SERVING PINT, ENOUGH APPROXIMATELY SLICES FRENCH TOAST Ginger Maple Jelly Hong Kong Toast Duck lunch dish Tigress Restaurant Rooftop Perry Hotel jelly sweet Hawaiian bread topped duck confit. toast dipped custard, pan-seared golden, sliced half. 4.5 oz ginger candy maple agar pot heat, candy. continuously whisk, agar, whisking mixture thicken. food pans, nested ice, pour chillfreeze hour. Big Land Trust preserves wild Volunteers receive instructions planting event STEVE BERLIN ig name, mission same. nonprofit previously known Conservation Foundation Manatee, Sarasota, Lee, preserve assets. conserving protecting Christine P. Johnson, Trust. protected acres far. Quite simply, land, ensure reflects intertwined State. explored names, celebrate special, Johnson remarked announced. South Tampa Everglades, realized defines region. rivers lakes, waters. Sarasota County, multicounty approach bolsters impact expanding branching parts DeSoto Highlands counties. bunch Langston, purchased 230-acre eastern shore grant Trusts Forever Grant Program. conservation undertaken conjunction landowner, discount donated funds improvements long-term stewardship. open panthers caught camera Pepper Ranch Preserve. Flatwoods Preserve 72 BACKGROUND MARY LUNDEBERG BIG LAND TRUST PANTHER County acquiring 190 funding. acreage connects conserved giving fish partnered county panther habitat 1,512acre easement. wading alligators, bears, parcel component Corridor lands animal residents. connectivity, Johnson. mega fauna, plants, migrate change. isolated Pacific, gene Coreopsis bloom JERRYS FOODS MOLLY DUVALL Well, thing happen populations jays flower. connectivity enjoy, Along unveiled first-ever Plan. data-driven strategy focused imperiled species, resiliency, sustainable agriculture, carbon sequestration. identifies nine high-priority geographic Terra Ceia, Upper Manatee Lower Myakka Ranchlands, Peace Jacks Branch-Long Marsh, Corkscrew Swamp, Charlotte Harbor, Coral. partnering identify, purchase, conserve vacant burrowing owl habitat, collaboration funding Fish Commission Well easement owls perpetuity, rest builds up, owls, Langston. city selected due qualifications expertise, Sarah Evins, projects coordinator uniquely positioned carry vital accredited trust dedicated initiative Corals commitment environmental stewardship forward beloved owls. Floridians efforts. One, donation, helps. vote conservation, continues. Let elected officials know, city, county, state, federal, matters, anti balance. lists volunteer saplings collecting pine cones. seed pine, rate success seeds cones nursery youd conserve, wants hear Multiple folks Sometimes great. acres, valuable, build puzzle. Trust, bigwaterslandtrust.org. notebook hanks gothic literature horror bats darkness mystery. story. vermin, dirty diseased, droppings, guano, organic fertilizer soil conditioner, Shari Blissett Clark, Bat Conservancy, preserving bats. Clark insectivores consume night-flying insects. bat insects man-made mechanical insect comprehensive consistent provide. nightly critical free charge, Clark. 1,400 worldwide, endangered gray bonneted bat, largest wingspan 19-21 inches. smallest tricolored 8-10 believe, asymptomatic carriers rabies Eagle Scout Calusa reproduce slowly, pup bridge Countys House Opened 2016, chance fish, relax, picturesque officer, Timothy Engstrom. leegov.comparksparksbathouse. CALUSA CENTER PLANETARIUM. FLORIDA BAT CONSERVANCY virus. Fewer .05 rabies, paralyzed quickly die. mammals belong Chiroptera, translates hand-wing. Carrie Nameth, expands mosquitoes, source control. assist pollination dispersal. threats, disturbance, loss, deforestation development, agriculture practices, impacts pesticide use, diseases white-nose syndrome. 105 safe habitat. wet season mosquitoes abundant, night hikes certain caves common colony roosting shelter structures bridges. Solo branches palm fronds, charge. --Shari Conservancy Well-designed properly constructed colonizing roosts. Spanish moss, dead houses, Nameth. Online height. floridabats. orgbackyard-bat-houses.html. avoiding harmful chemicals pesticides, roost, myths surrounding Planetarium 3450 Ortiz 239-275-3435 calusanature.org floridabats.org 77 Fredrik Backman charmer wedish fails impress. breakout hit Man Called Ove, Anxious Beartown trilogy--and latest, Friends--his wit compassion clearly carefully words. world-famous summer 15. summer, depicted Joar, Ali, Ted. sign C. Jat., names. Now later, fortune, cancer. Louisa, homeless 18-year-old recognizes quality--one ago--and decides painting, Sea, considerable savings, Louisa. enlists childhood Ted, girls dies. Because, Louisa believes, sea. damn knows occupy carried postcard backpack picture famous front. Mom. thats encountering dies meeting, sets fulfill wishes resists befriending implores tell friends. difficult relates, reluctantly unfolds train, town lived. Alternating present, is, turns, suspenseful. sweetness poignant portrays friendships story-- suspense unfolding friends--what happened now--as amount peril themselves multimillion-dollar heartwarming fragile be, navigating fragile. RON SONS SECURITY ANDSOUND 239.481.2949 8941 Parkway ronandsons.com Sales Installation Security Alarm Systems AudioVideo Theaters Radio Intercom System Central Vac 239.939.0077 Serving accentbp.com ACCENT BUSINESS PRODUCTS CopierPrinterScanners Printer Service Supplies Print Cost Recovery Management CLAUDIOS PEST MANAGEMENT MINUTE CLEANERS 239.728.7708 MyersSanibel claudiospestmanagement.com 239.466.5115 16970-1 San Carlos Blvd Publix 60minutecleaners.com Across 1.Festive periods 5.Table 10.Fruit pies 11. Furnished 12. Anglers 13. Boats pronoun Lodging 16. Cup, plate, fork example 17. Christmas ___ 18. Burning 22. stream 23. Auction 24. Used 27. Skating surface 29. Carry 30. numeral 32. Makes 34. River 36. Red-nosed hero 37. Observe 39. Exercise 41. Famous carrier 43. fare 44. Years song, 3 words 47. Medico, abbr. 48. Animals retreat 50. Elegant 51. Santas usual entry Down 1.Direction ship 2.Purple flower 3.Provide decoration 4.Christmas 6.Animated 7.Great readers 8. Pecan, 9. Heavenly 14. Roll 19. Seasoned 20. Give 21. Assumed Marine mammal 25. Trailing 26. Facebook appreciations 28. sings carols 31. ____ blockbuster sci-fi movie 33. wave throws beer holder 35. 38. 40. Honeydew, e.g. 42. Baseball innings Objective 45. paper size, 46. Shade spotted casinos 49. vowel PUZZLE O N L E Hidden Word page PAINTING COVER Chances Growing Artistic Roots Cover courtesy SEPOCT VOL. NO. 4.95 TIMES ISLANDS Sanibels Champion plants roots FIND BLISS BATS Preserving SWFLs Published Natural Display