FEATURES 34 THE PUFFINS OF GRIMSEY ISLAND Among Icelands most appealing inhabitants Many changes in two decades, but still impressive REVISITING EGYPT AND RED SEA 40 SPECIAL SECTION SWFL PARTY CRUISES 46 Key West Express 48 Salty Sams Pirate Cruise 50 Cruisin Tikis 54 Off the Leash Charters 2 TOTI.COM JANUARYFEBRUARY 2026 DEPARTMENTS 8 PUBLISHERS LETTER 10 GULFCOAST ZEITGEIST Exercising Wisdom IN COMMUNITY 14 Vital Ecosystems 20 Sanibel Pioneer Esperanza Woodring MAKING WAVES 26 Down River 30 Wild About Water 32 WHATS STORE Whats Hot Southwest Florida 56 OUTDOORS A Trip to Beach 62 OUT ABOUT The Swing 66 BEAUTY Beauty Trends 68 CHEERS New Spirits for Year 72 RECIPES WE LOVE Cooking SW 73 BETWEEN LINES Tomlinson Steps Up 74 NATURE NOTEBOOK Willets at Home 78 SERVICES PROFESSIONALS CROSSWORD 80 PARTING SHOT Coming up MarchApril Whether its Gulf, a river, or lake, being near water is always magical. In our issue, well bring you all things water-related and will explore few resorts which are on radar something special. 4 rs me er. o t l off cus ue pecia B s et j ift f e g pag See GROUP PUBLISHER Daniela J. Jaeger CREATIVE DIRECTOR Jason Jones PROOFREADER Dan Whicker SENIOR CONSULTING EDITOR Susan Holly CUISINE TRAVEL Gina Birch CONTRIBUTING Beth Luberecki OUTREACH MANAGER Brian Hatley DIGITAL CONTENT CONTRIBUTOR Stephanie ONLINE Francesca Block WRITERS Birch, William R. Cox, Virginia Darby, Holaway, Luberecki, Myles Mellor, Dr. Randall H. Niehoff, Ann Marie OPhelan, Glenn Ostle, Ken Sneeden, Andrea Stetson PHOTOGRAPHERSARTISTS Jaeger, Charlie McCullough, Liz Noffsinger, 239-472-0205 adsalestoti.com OFFICE ADMINISTRATION, SUBSCRIPTIONS CREDIT CARD ORDERS totimedia.comcontactus WEBMASTER Philip Lippard, 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 of Islands, RSW LIVING, GULF MAIN, Bonita Estero Cape Coral Living ISSN 1521-1207 published six times year by TOTI Media, Inc., Sanibel, 33957. Subscription price 24.00 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 Vim Vigor Finding energy enthusiasm life he end beginning new one filled with so much warmth. For me, that just because I live work Florida, where temperature usually reaches degrees time year. We did get some cooler days around holidays, dont too jealous if reader living colder climate. warmth am talking about internal--emotional. One way experience kind lighting candles during holidays. More than simply creating ambiance, like do it family, friends, even people have recently met. Sharing flame from candle another brings us closer together fills hearts very special relaxed feeling. Were able light If not, maybe can make tradition wish we could keep emotional moments going throughout year, sort filling lasting vim vigor. But then hits you--a here. It seems come fast, birthday forgot got caught unprepared. On Years Eve, celebrate welcome one. Then, after weeks pass by, makes pause. ask, right now seem automatically kept catching breath. Is vigor has been working Probably not. likely, autopilot. know difference doing self-check Am feeling anxious worried Have edge holding onto unforgiveness showing disrespect Being autopilot stuck. take pause remember candles--the warmth--and let turn into strength need enter This idea hit reading column Rabbi Julie Hilton Danan. She said, And point, face challenge finding forgiveness moving on. Dragging guarantees bad forgive, when receive forgiveness, move already begun my approach, life-changing. fact, powerful battery inside recharged Media celebrating years publishing Reaching such milestone wonderful, possible only you, dear subscribers, advertisers, wonderful team. You each candles, bringing hearts. So, your send best wishes as own renewed 2026. Group Publisher, Gulfcoast Zeitgeist BY DR. RANDALL NIEHOFF Moving muscle mind pursuit happiness Everyone confesses exertion, out powers body mind, thing they rid and, general rule, nobody does more circumstances drive them do. --Harriet Beecher Stowe 1811-1896, author, abolitionist, advocate womens J anuary marks occasion other Happy Year. become reality, however, day must marked personal resolution walk toward talk it. Philosopher Will Durant Pulitzer Prize winner recipient Presidential Medal Freedom asserted wisdom an application present problems... perspective moment vista past come. He taught strongest root health. These there no question among persistent problems high growing number who overweight. National Institutes Health mass index BMI reveals nearly three adults children overweight five obese 11 16 severely obese. beneficial mind. Obesity serious, chronic, progressive disease American approaches hypertension andor cardiovascular disease. Other comorbidities include osteoarthritis, prediabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, liver Factors contributing excess weight gain fall categories 1 individuals cannot control--genetics, medical conditions, disadvantaged, access healthy food safe space exercise control--level physical activity, degree spent sedentary behavior watching TV, textingtalking phone, screen computer. SO... these words wise, clear includes muscles. Yet, along well-being reward Longitudinal studies world demonstrated engage regular activity exhibit lower rates anxiety, depression, loneliness, stress-related disorders. Kelly McGonigal, Ph.D., health psychologist Stanford University best-selling wrote article entitled Five Surprising Ways Exercise Changes Your Brain. treasure her list blueprint resolutions was inspired imagine humorous daily diary Mrs. Stowes what 1. EXERCISE HIGH PRIMES YOU TO OTHERS. muscles causes flow neurobiological responses reducing systemic inflammation oxidative stress. result similar bliss runners releases brain chemicals called endocannabinoids mimicked cannabis, increases dopamine brains system. worry, happy enhance pleasure others. Day entry joined club last 44 bucks. Havent lost pound. Apparently show up. 2. CAN MAKE YOUR BRAIN MORE SENSITIVE JOY. Over time, remodels center, making receptors available. Adults lose 13 percent passing decade Did activated opening bottle wine. Fitness passion. substance abuse loss, prevents decline active older centers closely resemble decades younger, feel motivated maintain hope. removed house. delicious Every body, sensory muscles, tendons, joints information happening. midst sense self shaped qualities movement fluid,Im graceful forceful, Im powerful. McGonigal counsels voice head saying, Youre old, awkward, big, broken, weak, sensations provide compelling counterargument. form mindfulness, distracting negative thoughts pointing capabilities. Our self-esteem strengthened, especially achieve fitness goals. 5 Why God meant touch toes, would put farther body. benefits documented every chapter life, including serious mental challenges. Finally, sweet irony fact improves quality, crucial maintaining optimal tone, cognitive function, stability. Healthy rest--and life. Ran Niehoff exercising since 1991. 5. TRYING NEW ACTIVITY TRANSFORM SELFIMAGE. 3. MAKES BRAVE. Regular modifies default state nervous system, balanced less prone fight, flight, fright. Lactate, metabolic by-product erroneously blamed soreness, travels through bloodstream reduce anxiety. addition, mere itself allows ourselves brave, enduring discomfort achieving measurable goals striding, pulling, lifting--reminding traits are. 3 Got 8K run completed came back prepared vegetable smoothie breakfast... Dont rest dream. 4. MOVING OTHERS BUILDS TRUST BELONGING. 1912 French sociologist mile Durkheim coined term collective effervescence, describing euphoric self-transcendence ritual, prayer, think chain-gang chanting. Similar experiences obtained group exercise, yoga, dance classes, team rowing sync creates increase pain tolerance bonding adding music strengthens effect more. 12 ANN MARIE OPHELAN Keeping wetlands saturated ccording Department Environmental Protection DEP, areas often inundated surface groundwater. Although definition goes beyond that, DEP offers following examples better understanding swamps, marshes, bayheads, bogs, cypress domes strands, sloughs, wet prairies, riverine swamps hydric seepage slopes, tidal mangrove areas. vital ecosystems coastal inland They essential quality natures filtration floodwater storage absorption retention rainfall, endangered species habitat wood duck, muskrat, panther. Wetlands many animals reside them, gators, herons, marsh rabbits, roseate spoonbills, storks, black bears, bobcats, turtles, otters, manatees, zebra longwings butterfly, variety plants also thrive waterlogged areas, red mangroves bald cypress. help stabilize soil, prevent erosion, assist filtration. alligator thrives freshwater wetlands. Below Flood-tolerant trees grow flooded conditions. TOP PHOTO COURTESY CONSERVATION 2020 BOTTOM CONSERVANCY SOUTHWEST FLORIDA J.N. DING DARLING NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE 4,300-square-mile Everglades Park prime example wetland. park established 1947, ringing attention biodiversity. provides home 350 bird species, panther, bottlenose dolphin. Its diverse sawgrass, cypress, mangroves, hardwood hammocks. critical states natural filtering system helps drinking water. forests barriers against storm surges flood depth protect flooding Floridas 60,000-acre Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed CREW straddling Lee Collier counties 3,500-acre Six Mile Cypress Slough Fort Myers 244-acre Marsh Preserve 718-acre San Carlos Bay Bunche 350-acre Redfish Point developers want build waterfront community, causing pushback residents 6,400-acre Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge Sanibel. located found websites various animals, bobcat. wetland J.N.Ding attracts scores different birds, beloved spoonbill. 15 County Parks Recreation leegov.com, floridadep.gov, U.S. Fish Service fws.gov. used cover half Florida-- roughly 20.3 million acres--before developed became 1845. acres, approximately state. What happened vast modern development--in housing, agriculture, urbanization, climate change, pollution, invasive factors. Because multilevel role play, area organizations tirelessly support their protection. Conservancy Florida. remaining priority, says Robin Gould Sr., multimedia specialist conservancy. fighting precious watchdog growth development targets wetlands, flow-ways, aquatic habitats. growth--we believe should occur appropriate scale locations, explains Gould. Simply stated, conservancy works advocates land-use planning. Top over 3,500 acres intermingled upland. Bottom 245 Refuge. habitats plants, fish. BACKGROUND LEEGOV PHOTOS Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation SCCF diligently protects restores manages 2,100 area, South Myers, Coral. focuses science, education, advocacy preserve resources. Nature yet conserve lands waters world. Countys program puts notable effort protection focusing land acquisition management. purchase protected acreage wildlife improve oversees, Greg Kosik, coordinator program. involve removing harm native cause water-quality issues, damage infrastructure property, explains. conduct plantings restore ecosystem, adequate shelter. Prescribed burns, keeping certain allowing debris up, dangerous wildfire event, efforts. recent overview accomplishments 173 properties acquired, 52 preserves, 31,721.97 protected. Federal, state, local agencies play overseeing Army Corps Engineers, Sciences, management districts Management District SWFMD. Often, government permitting dredging odds conservation groups. WETLANDS 239-657-2253 crewtrust.org sfwmd.govrecreation-sitecorkscrew-regionalecosystem-watershed-crew Swamp Sanctuary 375 Road West, Naples 239-348-9151 audubon.orgcorkscrew Drive, 239-472-1100 fws.govrefugejn-ding-darling 6244 Island Road, 239-707-3325 leegov.comparkspreserves esteromarsh 40001 State 9336, Homestead 305-242-7700 nps.goveverindex.htm 18201 John Morris 239-839-3894 leegov.comparksbeachesbunche 7751 Penzance Blvd., 239-826-4426 leegov.comparksparkssixmilecypress importance 17 Florida--roughly worked stake across entire sensitive Big beyond, notes Individuals getting involved organizations, donating money, taking understand education experience. important someone visit places, 2020s Kosik. allow opportunity appreciate learn community. knowledge informed decisions day-to-day lives consider future generations. OPhelan resident contributor Media. INFO 1495 Smith Way, 239-262-0304 conservancy.org leegov.comparksconservation2020 3333 Captiva 239-472-2329 sccf.org TNC 1035 S. Semoran Suite 2-1021B, Winter 407-682-3664 nature.orgen-usabout-uswhere-weworkunited-statesflorida offer beauty attract birds depend survival. 18 LIZ NOFFSINGER VIRGINIA DARBY KEN SNEEDEN Documentary premieres February N early ago, Historical Museum Village, Sanibels favorite son, Ralph Woodring, interviewed. Tall barrel-chested, casts imposing presence. His gruff voice, unique flavor, adds his larger-than-life persona. stories mesmerizing. arose audience, Would tell mother paused. eyes misted, replied softly, cant her. Ill cry. mother, died 1992. Even lifetime, viewed island icon. Articles Islander News-Press described legend. born Cayo Costa, granddaughter Terevo Padilla, commercial fisherman operated ranchos Bay. spirited teenager, she met married Sam Jr. 1918 moved homestead Point. When 1942, left boys. old. fished, ON ALL PAGES SANIBEL HISTORICAL MUSEUM VILLAGE COPYRIGHT CHARLIE MCCULLOUGH Woodrings stove display Village Burnap Cottage, built 1898. 21 cleaned houses, babysat family. At urging neighbors, eventually successful fishing guide winter tourists. known oyster roasts, shore lunches, fish fries--featuring famous biscuits cooked stove. Anyone seen striking images throwing cast net, immortalized white renowned photographer McCullough. woman courage skill possessed succeed mans true lover nature, ardent environmentalist. Charles LeBuff, technician Refuge, started turtle project Caretta Research, sheltered hatchling turtles him large bait tank. Those were unwelcome once eat bait. While neighbor, strict tough. berated Capt. Randy Wayne White, wellknown author Doc Ford mysteries, violently rocking small boat wake. later, forgiven, White interviewed PBS television show, Water. 1950s, before bridge built, sign posted ferry landing read, guides gentlemen except shes lady. --Randy 22 Most islanders, Bailey vehemently opposed construction causeway As predicted Esperanzas 1960 letter News-Press, populations declined built. Kemps Ridley Sea Turtle. 23 journalist Sneeden long intrigued story. Last Society jointly commissioned produce documentary tenacious researcher, uncovered wealth interviewees, authors Robert Macomber, Betty Anholt. fascinating speak friends family members knew enthusiastic telling remarkable Passion Courage Story premiere BIG ARTS Community Film Series. Doors open 6pm guests enjoy popcorn cash bar. film start 7pm. Tickets 25, available both historical organizations. Darby serves board director. produced eight full-length documentaries, shorter works, perfect prepackaged meal roasting oysters fire. 24 Boat tours waterways nesting Peace King Fisher Fleet. Fleet cruises depart Fishermens Punta Gorda, flows Charlotte Harbor. KING FISHER FLEET lthough surrounded water, rivers River, Harbor Orange Caloosahatchee name few. cruise great discover amazing history. Manatee Eco Tours Tour, Sunset Cruise, Tours, passengers educational journey, mention fun ride. Kathy Cookman, co-owns tour company Coast Guard Master Captain C. historians ecological experts standpoint. waterways--they storybooks, carrying centuries history ecosystem own, Kathy. Caloosahatchees journey began LaBelle, original headwaters flowed gently east town. reshaped Cross Shipping Channel, river navigate today. Each bend whispers transformation, resilience, connection. History comes alive River. Tucked banks rests building late 1800s, Menge-Hansen Marine Ways, shipyard, Register Historic Places. Amazingly, rails launch retrieve riverboats visible--a reminder golden era commerce exploration, Kathy, who, Naturalist, narrates educated insights observations. sanctuaries creatures--the manatee. During months January February, gentle giants, John. Gulf dip below Fahrenheit, manatees seek refuge warm outflow Power Light power plant According research Commission FWC, between 400 600 return here annually--many same lines, faithfully coming vessel, Queen II, propeller guards motors. propellers number-one manatee injury death, visiting homes, respectful obey speed limits extra precautions avoid mammals, see crisp cool, jacket-weather mornings steam rises gather close. unforgettable sight--wildlife stop quietly observe habitat, Another waterTOTI.COM 27 photos Alligator bank spoonbill perched limb, Fleets nature cruise. photo Manatees congregate warmer FPL plant, Tours. done via family-owned -operated Fleet, originating enters upriver trips winding begin brackish Harbor, shorelines dense thickets, Allen, owner speaks using details providing expert insights. beneath I-75 bridges salty transition salt marsh. Continuing turnaround ghost town Liverpool, old phosphate mining town, find almost completely fresh. mix oaks cabbage palms shorelines. Passengers might alligators anywhere likely upstream downstream summer rainy season. Bits cultural sights trip 28 MANATEE ECO RIVER TOURS season mixed-species rookery islands boast lots cattle egrets, snowy tricolor others, excursions four decades. operation Cruises, Boca Grande, forget camera. IF GO 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Gorda 941-639-0969 kingfisherfleet.com 16991 Route 31, 239-693-1434 manateeandecorivertours.com sighting mom child highlight 29 Water-loving Zoo W hen zoo, first lions, giraffes, zebras. Caribbean Gardens plenty those, love do--alligators, primates, island. primates close Primate Expedition leave dock zoos Lake Victoria. Once aboard, welcomes aboard catamaran 15- 20-minute several habitats, Courtney Jolly, director marketing public relations. catamarans float next islands, interesting animals. tour, mainly types monkeys, lemurs, apes. classified lands. funded taxes, visit, membership, donations care rare here, relatives wild world, Jolly. tip camera handy, photography exceptional. Visitors per included admission. islands. Showing delight passengers. Near Victoria, wander shoreline. NAPLES ZOO AT CARIBBEAN GARDENS Additionally, array beautiful ibis, anhingas, call home. springtime, grounds becomes birds. Their nests safer within elsewhere gators predators out. chick falls nest, arent raccoons climbing nests. really sight spring. volunteers count baby chicks, nearby environs lesser flamingoes, black-crowned cranes, large, loud southern screamers. addition animal encounters Zoo, giant tortoises. zoo Meet Keepers series chats programs camps. cafes cart, visitors picnic lunches restrictions. gift shop sells zoo-themed souvenirs. Wheelchairs childrens wagons rent. Parking free. free infants under 17.95 3-12 26.95 13-64 25.95 seniors 65. Check online discounts membership opportunities. 1590 Goodlette-Frank 239-262-5409 napleszoo.org Wading hunt dinner zoo. 31 GINA BIRCH COMPOSTABLE CLOTHS Add artsy splash kitchen ecofriendly Swedish dish cloths Recyco. Made plant-based cellulose fibers, compostable, hold quick drying, odor free, alternative plastic sponges paper towels. From 12.99 recyco.co WARM UP SEAT Chair Blanket Marylandbased City Bonfires solves problem sitting cold, drafty, dirty outdoor chairs winter. waterproof bottom dry, fits wide camping Adirondack, compact washable. accessory cool nights. 49.99 citybonfires.com PLAY TENTS Bring outdoors Play Tents MindWare. Designs range glow-in-thedark constellations resembling mini planetarium twilight sky full fireflies. Just expose minutes activate glow feature. Easy set storage. 49.95 mindware.orientaltrading.com DOUBLE-DUTY GOLF TUMBLER ultimate links, 30-ounce stainless steel Tally Tumbler rotating rings track helpful statistics while golf. strokes, fairways hit, balls, drink hot cold. Best all, tracks score 129 hydrated. 39.99 tallytumbler.com DOG ORGANIZER dog owners dream, TreatPurse Cocoa Onyx fashionable functional organizes pups treats, poop bags, items morning walk. digging pockets. Starting 99 cocoaonyx.com GLASS KETTLE rapid-boil Capresso Kettle tea. presets depending needs, tea coffee pour-over direct pour function easy fill, oversized handle, lift. capresso.com BREAD SLICER classic bread slicer gets upgrade German engineering design. Zassenhaus, delivers precise, uniform slices handle. With beechwood base, colors lovely counter. 199.95 zassenhaus-brandshop.com BAG HACK beach kids sporting events, CrapKeeper keeps stuff organized reach. Velcro straps attach bag chairs, strollers, fences, equipment. Neoprene sleeves accommodate tumblers bottles, snacks, keys, phones, Available colors. crapkeeper.com ASTROLOGICAL KITCHEN ACCESSORY Capricorn month, Cheese Fondue Swiss Kuhn Rikon adorned astrological signs iconic mountain goat. signature collection hand-painted ceramic fondue pot, matching plates, forks. Additional making. 290 kuhnrikon.com 33 PUFFI GLENN V. OSTLE FINS Puffins spend bobbing sea diving fish, ashore mate nest. 35 wenty nautical miles north coast Iceland, directly Arctic Circle, lies tiny Grimsey. Formed volcanic rock rising 300 feet above pounding waves, Grimsey fewer 100 residents. charms place draw hordes hikers, lovers, photographers eager capture pictures species. LAND TREASURES To say understatement. takes hours square trails crisscross land. There airport, arrive three-hour ferry, runs regularly round Icelandic city Akureyri. main focus fishing, tourism second population puffins, parrots elegant brightly colored appearance. estimated 60 global Atlantic puffins nest Iceland spring summer--eight locations spot Two Canadian position themselves cliff order photograph flying forth. Shown seated Skarpi, Iceland-based Exposure visit. Puffin beaks hinged notched multiple time. 36 After spending winters sea, thousands scurvy grass grows rocks Grimseys rocky cliffs. decrease hunting collecting eggs nests, abound. OPS CHALLENGES prolific island, photographing appears easy. Clustered cliffs short distance away, targets, carried snapping picture puffin fever. soon shot lot difficult appears. weighing pound, watchful wary. Despite how careful quiet try be, easily startled, lift cloud flapping wings fly quickly en masse location. AS ARE SO PROLIFIC AROUND ISLAND, PHOTOGRAPHING THEM APPEARS BE ALMOST TOO EASY. Lighthouse, southeastern corner 1937 originally featured manual gas lamp. 37 horses adept harsh environments whose bloodlines traced 1,000 Viking origins. resting ground, lens nice portrait shots. dozen sand eels, eel-like dish, dangling colorful beaks. Getting shots flight presents greater requires situated you. means quite cliffs, burrows extend edges, destabilizing ground posing real danger falling misstep. down rockstrewn beaches below. social behaviors mating Parent turns looking offspring, pufflings. hiking unusual horned sheep, breed brought Norwegian settlers 9th 10th centuries. 38 PLUS captivating solely miss equally enticing subjects by. claims 425 features missed. watched territorial terns aggressively defend reason construct ground. result, dive bombed terns. walkers hands object top heads painfully pecked. made acquaintance gulls, northern fulmars, kittiwakes, razorbills, sheer lighthouse south spotting red-necked phalarope, delighted European plovers. Amazing Island. point walking trails, sheep. Turns country Norway Instead having single layer downy fleece, sheep dual coated outer coarse, long, water-repellent inner soft insulating. Terns forth feed chicks wait impatiently SIGHTS ICELAND attractions compelling, mistake incredible itself. Chief coastlines, landscape vistas, numerous stunning waterfalls. particular, satisfy soul any adventurer. Ostle articles publications 25 years. partner, Pam Hadfield, Charlotte, North Carolina, travel scuba wildlife. appeared publications, recognized internationally covers magazines. featherandfins.smugmug.com. waterfalls Iceland. 39 Egypt Red lion-like statue Grand Staircase Egyptian Giza, Egypt. 41 DEPARTMENT NAME XXXXXXXXXXX HEADLINE GOES HERE Ignatimod iam, peribus, tam occhuit, notem deto ponlos, utem ini co cis efac facioraes se inte tereste Clockwise Camels tenders Pyramids Giza 2001. age size, little why Great Sphinx Ancient coffins displayed GEM. D uring 2000s, Pam, mission spots adventure took Sea. Twenty-four later opted join fellow divers returning exotic had changed. trip, impression Cairo, Egypts capital, bustling clinging ancient ways. crouched sandy streets bartered merchants bought jewelry shadow partook Nile entertained whirling dervishes. hired young professor led temples Karnak, Luxor, Hatshepsut Valley Kings view tomb Tutankhamun. Today metropolitan Cairo grown air gigantic brown carpet laid Nile. remembered, buildings, friendly people, cars camels. 42 newly constructed GEM Giza. MODERN Egypt, visited Cairos Antiquities, housed largest antiquities overshadowed billion facility, Museum, GEM, opened November. Under 2002 120-acre plot adjacent archaeological museum Fortunately, arrived peek masterpiece. greeted colossal 3,200-year-old Ramses II tons. Staircase, lined coffins, sarcophagi, statues depicting kings queens, leads galleries periods Tutankhamun artifacts, mask, continue ultimately house collection, Karnak Temple Complex excursion 2001 43 Time alters everything, memories, never disappoint. enthralled historic treasures don fins again CROWDED resort Sharm El Sheikh Sinai peninsula. Strolling evenings, felt movie bearded men headdresses robes puff hookahs outside cafes. boarded week earlier surprised handful divers. provided leisurely lush reefs wrecks known. coast, busy port Hurghada. coastline teeming huge, expensive boats live-aboard on, day-boats designed sports Entering 3,200-yearold high. Right coral populate destination watched, crews scurried unloading snorkelers tourists preparing arrival next. Unlike ended sharing sites groups boats. revisit remembered. history, sites, people--we hope again. SS Thistlegorm wreck British transport ship Suez Canal 1941 supplies, guns, tanks, motorcycles, trucks, locomotive engines, sunk airstrike. cascade reefs. 45 section Boatloads Local charters party Fun KEY WEST EXPRESS Heading M Enjoy ride aking begins ferry. sleek, modern, air-conditioned, high-speed travelers kick either relax exterior sundeck upstairs stay cozy inside. Either way, avail yourself snack bar meals full-service bar--with alcoholic non-alcoholic drinks--and bigscreen TVs. Plus, staff experienced, friendly, accommodating. bonus vacation starts lively boat--no until West. less. first-come, first-served seating options--bar stools tables, comfy booths, airline-style seating, more--so cocktail intimate setting settle booth plans sightsee, card games, conversation. weather Driving least longer, road reach everything bus cab ride--after nothing far away. loved pirates, poets, artists, musicians fine car. Furthermore, worry park. fleet leaves year-round Marco seasonally. website details, fares, terms offers. larger gatherings. Gift certificates BOTH 47 SALTY SAMS PIRATE CRUISE Ahoy, Matey Party pirate hose check Pieces Eight, 65-foot replica Spanish galleon based Marina Beach. Adventure 90 memorable sailing Matanzas Pass Gulf. Theres pub grab drink--theres rum--and dancing watch dolphins upper decks. cruise, partying adventurous interactive featuring Sparrow, Pickpocket Pete, Mermaid Mel, fun-loving, mischievous crew--all costume. outings ages, Adventures cannon, limbo, lighthearted jokes. Dolphin sunset Sight Sea-R seasonal shore, adventures Sams. marina, fun, VanDenabeele, marketing. marina rental boats, shops, charter restaurants, longtime Parrot Grill Cantina Waterfront Tin Tiki. Live entertainment fun. Adult Only 35. Ages 29.50. Children packages further details. MARINA ADVENTURE hosts Adventures, Eight sails 49 CRUISIN TIKIS Tiki Time... C Somewhere ruisin planning level--sea level. handcrafted tiki cruising sandbars, lend festive celebrations co-workers. BYOB flexible options--choose 90-minute, two-hour, adventure. longer option anchor stop, swimming cooling soaking Stacy Becker, captain. comfortably seats wrap-around Moss Marina. Coral, Captiva, St. James City. piloted Guard-trained certified captains. Pack beverages, playlist--from reggae whatever floats boat--and high-fidelity Bluetooth speaker cold coolers. wraparound CRUSIN 51 conform Yacht Council ABYC standards compliant. Life jackets, aid kit, safety measures included. Pit stops taken needed. sit back, relax, soak sun enjoying cocktails--all peace knowing youre hands, Becker. breezes, skies, vibes. celebration charter. Trips hours. 53 OFF LEASH CHARTERS Celebrate Onboard Make backdrop event ith Charters, on--onboard, is. host celebration--birthday parties, community gatherings, customer appreciation meetings, get-togethers, wedding-related holiday parties--right Come lifes ownerevent planner Renee Shelly. snacks drinks, course, boatload members, co-workers, guests, spacious elegantly plus crew members. 40-foot USCG-inspected covered custom comfort, pleasure, operates guests. customized fit event. safety, lounge tables stools, catering table, sound decorative LED lighting, onboard restroom, customize choose date, theme, pick-up location popular Oxbow Bar downtown Sea-Craft Westin Resort onshore establishments, art boutiques, entertainment, canals, nowhere, captain location, fashion duration. Various Beach, 239-365-9900 cruisintikis.comFort-myers Main Street, 239-463-5733 keywestexpress.net Locations Myers. 239-851-4663 offtheleashcharters.com 2500 239-765-7272 floridapiratecruise.com Cruises sightseaflorida.com 55 ANDREA STETSON R esidents paints kaleidoscope Some stooping pick shells others calm waters. sandcastles, read book chat destination. beaches, sun, sand, surf actual there. Naples, Clam sits preserves meander parking beach. tram -mile boardwalk. bays Elly Fortunes, manager Grande Resort. iguanas inches feet. kinds Tram operators give narration seeing. identifies mangroves. wooden bridge, viewing scenery fishing. Beachgoers Keewaydin Gordon Pure leaving Naples. trams seat seven driver. Nancy Joe Priory regulars Park. Sometimes tram. boardwalk admiring scenery. transports beach, Nancy. nice, shaded sides, opens sunlight through, Joe. wood. replaced recycled milk containers composite material 1990s. Then 2024 rebuilt Brazilian ipe hardwood. use perch catch mullet, snook, redfish, asked questions whether answer reptiles away saltwater. 57 Lovers walkways leading sand. 550-foot-long cement 450-foot opened. previous destroyed Hurricane Ian. pressure-treated sections stick viewing. higher elevation, Katie Moses. crest look out, sometimes upside-down jellyfish. shrubbery underwater. crabs--the hermit crabs blue crabs--and juvenile concrete waterways. Along shell osprey Park, Moses way. more, says. go boat. Thats Costa County. 58 Sometimes, scenic stroll 3.5-hour eco-cruise Harry Julian, eight-mile-long, 1,300-acre captains trained naturalists wildlife, ride, Julian. relaxing entertain 59 see. dolphins, osprey, eagles, egrets Julian markers Bay, Ten Thousand Islands. alligators, snakes chance seeing everything. immersing Islands-Rookery trip. dictated nature. Sweet Liberty Dock Keewaydin. traveling nine accessible years, 54-passenger Tropic Star Ian washed dock, forced smaller, six-passenger vessels Vince Tapager business narrated Costa. secluded. unless kayak, Safe Bokeelia Pine hour 45-foot, 49-passenger half-day 30-minute Since pulls Brad Junghans excellent dolphins. learning area. pelicans. narration. Seas offline. tides doing. boating gives do, stress writing magazines newspapers 1995. 61 Out BRIAN HOLAWAY Storms lot, memories. pile shipwreck strewn jagged reef, offering memories before. --Jimmy Buffett S ince Ian, hard pen paper. evolution write changing landscape. quote, attributed poet Frost, through. Here story Few places heart troubled times. hurricane Chapel chapel Thankfully, standing. reachable piece camped sunrise, paddle, shell, cook fire, stargaze. where, storm, search three-foot holes one-inch line running hole, attached gnarly, buttonwood tree. swing daughter 6 two-seater fashioned salvaged 2004. christened campfire swatting mosquitoes. memory, sways seashells sun. tight pull knife cut loose broken branches. 63 My shifts task hand, swing. eight-inch branch wanting admit inevitable, stuck branches probably wont hanging anymore. fill rescue retriever, Dusty, eye rocked drift sunrise waves deposited hear laughing dad swaying thinking. approach inspection, initial confirmed totally broke How flown. Thankful motor Captiva. Hurricanes Holaway Naturalist shelling ecotour Sound, Cabbage Key, 64 BETH LUBERECKI Are lipstick face-cream fanatic place. lowdown fabulous fragrances, luxurious lotions, must-have makeup, between. PROTECT YOURSELF staying somewhere winter, sunscreen must. simpler ultraportable stash purse carry-on bag. Espieves Tinted Sunscreen SPF TSAfriendly 1.7-ounce size light, medium, dark shades. Sheer Mineral Lip 13.95 resistant, reef safe, enjoyable subtle kiwi-lime-ginger flavor. Stock sunscreens espieve.com. HAIR HEROES Take good hair planet products Everblue. Zealand-made, plant-powered haircare uses ingredients jojoba oil, cocoa butter, aloe vera offsets 120 carbon footprint. Repair Hydrate Shampoo Conditioner 14.99bottle moisturize dry damaged hair, Volume Shine nourish boost flat dull Scalp Care 15.99bottle soothe scalps. Find everbluenaturals.com Sprouts Farmers Market stores. GRAY ZONE Move mascara Thrive Causemetics Liquid Lash Extensions Mascara shade Whitney charcoal color lashes thats softer black. easy-to-use gentle-toremove lengthen ophthalmologisttested -approved contact wearers. thrivecausemetics.com--and product purchased, nonprofit partners country. thrivecausemetics.com. DOUBLE DUTY makeup routine turned Kim Cheeky Cheek Sticks KimChi Chic Beauty. multiuse cream blush lip duos feature candelilla wax, shea castor oil moisturize, hydrate, smooth skin lips. shades blend effortlessly flush layered want. kimchichicbeauty.com CVS cheers ts liquor cabinet. didnt, chances tastes evolving ready new. list. spirits releases. aficionado serve them. newer brands iterations wellestablished distillers. suited neat, chilled, rocks. enough mixers needed harsh, unbalanced tones. mixed drinks certainly elevate go-to beverage. REID SINGLE MALT VODKA award-winning high-scoring vodka Zealand. packaging hint store. droplet, box. giving buy friend Reid crafted Cardrona Distillery. whisky-making foundations distillerys celebrated malts, typical practices vodka. locally malted barley alpine 70-hour fermentation. filtered, aspect. spirit complexity balance. citrusy texture bit creamy. layers flavors shame heavy mixers. enjoyed ice, martini. 75 FAR-FLUNG BOURBON III bourbon Lost Lantern Whiskey, Vermont. indicates third iteration blend. straight bourbons states. ambitious Far-Flung Bourbon yet, Nora Ganley-Roper, cofounder blender. tribute exploration. Bourbons Frey Ranch Nevada, Wollersheim Wisconsin, Rock Town Arkansas, Rich Grain Mississippi, Still Austin Texas, Smooth Ambler Virginia. bottled cask strength, 124.8 proof. craft seamless expression whiskey. Mission accomplished. Like well-made spirit, uncover. inviting nose chocolate, spice, coffee. palate, toast citrus characteristic. finish rich, spicy. LOCA LOKA AEJO TEQUILA Loca Loka innovative tequila brand blends vibrant cultures India Mexico. cofounded Indian star Rana Daggubati, musician Anirudh Ravichander, entrepreneur Harsha Vadlamudi. Aejo Tequila label. additive Weber agave Jalisco, slow brick ovens autoclaves qualities. distilled, aged oak barrels. warm, smooth. faintly smell greenness vanilla. vanilla, dried fruit, nuts. smooth, sweet, peppery spice. complex lingering 69.99 69 DON Q DOUBLE-AGED PEDRO XIMNEZ CASK FINISH RUM limited-edition Don Qs acclaimed Seleccin Exclusiva 2,000 bottles worldwide. booze-cruise, fruity punch rum. sipping savoring. Americas oldest businesses 160-year, six-generation rum-making tradition. Based Ponce, Puerto Rico, flagship. rum minimum aging ex-bourbon finished imported Pedro Ximnez sherry casks Spain. combination results rich fruits fig, toasted oak, spicy honey. solo. 58.99 GUNPOWDER IRISH GIN ITALIAN FIG LAUREL Gunpowder Irish Gin launched flavor profile blending botanicals Italian viola fig Tuscan juniper. flavorful striking, graduated violet-colored represent elegance. stand cart. laurel added Gunpowders sourced countries. versatile gin smells fresh flirty. flavors, Asian spices, seamlessly add soda tonic, slice orange, enjoy. exclusively Publix. 37.99 contributor. food, well-known media personality 70 cooking JWB Grill, Margaritaville Ancho Rub Pork Chop Serves 14-ounce Berkshire pork chop tablespoons ancho rub tablespoon cilantro butter fingerling potatoes taste serving haricot verts Place tray, coat rub, pressing sides crust well. preheated iron pan 500 degrees. Sear 3-4 side. Watch heat level burning. Transfer oven 450 7 minutes. Remove center plate fingerlings offset. potatoes. sprig cilantro. Fords endearing sidekick assumes bigger character Whites string novels is, far, Tomlinson, Zen Buddhist hipster pal. otherworldly grounded now. loyal books, went missing installment, Deadly Eye. boat, Ms, monster Dinkins readers Tomlinsons fate, foregone conclusion endeavor, Wake, summer, buddy. surviving encounter Ms Mosquito Honduras. entangled corrupt politicians, human traffickers, charismatic orphan descendant Mayan king. arrives disentangle current predicament, slide recurring mysterious international operative unnamed spy agency. Unknown wasnt tells reader. Honduras key player trafficking pipeline women, children, drugs, weaponry. guys. Tomlinson. Introduced Flats 1990, sixties eyes, hearing music, hand psychedelic visions, man weathered badly care. Ph.D. Harvard Eastern religions. Now neighboring apparently conventional source income. speculation inspiration character. contenders Peter Matthiessen professional baseball Bill Spaceman Lee. Both men, Whites, claim traits. Matthiessen, 2014, master won Book Award fiction non-fiction. Lee, left-handed pitcher Boston Sox Montreal Expos 1969-1982, leftist political views counterculture philosophy. ran unsuccessfully governor Vermont 2016 representing Union party. Regardless speculation, remains books. books writ title--and sidekick. deserves notebook WILLIAM COX Common permanent willet shorebird common coasts, though fall. inhabits agricultural fields inland, saline subspecies America. eastern willet, Catoptrophorus s. semipalmatus, coasts. marshes western inornatus, migration accounts willets wintering length wingspan inches. stocky, billed, gray legs breeding eyebrow upperparts mottled underparts belly. nonbreeding whitish underparts. prominent wing stripe seen. incubation period, lasts days, shared parents. Courtship entails male bowing female flashing. chooses site prepares shallow depression mud lay eggs. Before egg laying vegetation. grasses sedges bent hollow, rushes. laying. elaborate, conspicuous, concealed short, thick vegetation, lays heavily spotted, buff olive eggs, millimeters size. incubates day, night midday. precocial 2, meaning mobile, downy, follow parents, shown abandons brood post hatching attends weeks. parents fledge. synchronously semicolonial. maintains separate feeding territories. develops strong fidelity territory mate. defends muddy beaches. diet consists worms, mollusks, insects, grasshoppers, crustaceans, crabs. observed probe prey. tire this, prey change mostly lie sudden movements shorebirds me. learned Barefoot region wiitness willlet Cox ecologist Visit williamrcoxphotography.com. 76 RON SONS SECURITY ANDSOUND 239.481.2949 8941 College Parkway ronandsons.com Sales Installation Security Alarm Systems AudioVideo Theaters Radio Intercom System Central Vac Much 239.939.0077 Serving Of accentbp.com ACCENT BUSINESS PRODUCTS CopierPrinterScanners Printer Supplies Print Cost Recovery CLAUDIOS PEST MANAGEMENT MINUTE CLEANERS 239.728.7708 MyersSanibel claudiospestmanagement.com 239.466.5115 16970-1 Blvd Publix Shopping Center 60minutecleaners.com Across Cooling wind, swells 10Witch washes Lessened, Pull behind Large edible flatfish Vessel Noah 19 Investors return, abbr. Famous 500-mile race Affirmative Primary Narrow passage Type Pacific salmon 31Raise Climbing devices rungs Cookie quantity An airline award Wine restaurant Flying mammal Wrinkly breed, Heavenly Sailors song Consume Radiating dressing consume Elite NHL goaltender, ___ Belfour Path celestial Where meets 9 Doze Particular cuts beef, Romantic gestures terrier Operate vehicle Luxury vessel cured sausage Repeating Depletes entirely, Disney deer Spoken rather Informal TPA airport estimate, PUZZLE O L E Hidden Word parting Without kindness compassion Mother Natures creatures, joy internal peace, happiness. Happiness caring sentient beings essence connected Earth. Sylvia Dolson, conservationist COVER page 20. Cover courtesy McCullough JANFEB VOL. NO. 4.95 TIMES ISLANDS icon topic Published VALUE EXERCISING WISDOM Display