Category Archives: 4th of July

Best Winter Weather & Great Opportunities for Buyers

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If there is one thing that remains terrific on Sanibel and Captiva Islands, it is the winter weather. Though occasional showers (like on Monday this week) are appreciated, it is the dry sunny 70+degree F days that make most beachgoers, bikers, and water enthusiasts happy.

Certainly, traffic is weather related, as many joked Monday that the forecast made it a breeze traveling both up and down Periwinkle, and on-/off-island. Once the sun came up Tuesday though, it was back to “season” fun with more patience required when traveling.

Both Finnemore’s Beach & Bike Rentals and Billy’s Rentals look to have more business as the shared-use paths often are busy. Being extra vigilant around those bikers is a must, as I recently heard a pal say, “You’ve gotta be careful as some of those riders haven’t been on a bike in 30 years and they are in unfamiliar surroundings.” That reminded me of other good things about the islands. It’s laid-back, where neighbors and visitors are kind and thankful.
 

Upcoming Events

Taste Of The Islands – is tomorrow Sat Mar 1 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the grounds of Sanibel City Hall. Parking is limited and attendees are encouraged to get tickets in advance ($10/each) at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/taste-of-the-islands-tickets-1027327884357

88th Annual Sanibel Shell Festival – is at The Community House from Thurs Mar 6 through Sat Mar 8 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Yesterday, at the islands Association of Realtors weekly East-End Caravan Meeting, there were many empty seats and just a handful of announcements. Following the meeting, eight Sanibel homes and a condo were open for easy viewing. Traffic was brutal, however, with Periwinkle at a crawl at noon, for the 2nd day in a row. Hopefully some of those vehicles are carrying “buyers”.

A West-End Caravan is scheduled next Thurs.
Below, with data from the MLS are summary tables of the island residential sales statistics, followed by the details of the MLS action reported this week.

Though it is nice to see seven new island sales posted this week (three Sanibel condos, two Sanibel homes, and two Captiva condos), with 582 residential properties actively for sale (497 on Sanibel and 85 on Captiva), inventory is huge and continues to grow by the day.

There have been 47 price reductions posted since last Friday, some excellent values – many bests in years!

Even more surprising is that there was only one closed island sale posted since last Friday – a Sanibel condo for $310K. Usually the last day in February, particularly when it’s on a Friday, equates to many closings. So far, 2025 is not shaping up well, but the wonderful winter weather prevails!
May March1st bring more buyers!

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

170

981,750

117

289

1,768,046

96

38

911,507

266

Under contract

16

884,093

77

28

1,756,412

75

2

1,647,000

82

Sold to 2/28/25

10

828,166

174

20

1,468,930

63

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2024

75

818,493

117

165

1,472,757

114

15

1,403,533

192

Sold 2023

98

955,261

65

263

1,267,390

73

24

920,645

76

Sold 2022

123

1,136,199

44

185

1,602,745

52

26

779,528

223

Sold 2021

287

875,127

113

355

1,341,881

89

69

698,862

442

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

CONDOS

HOMES

LOTS

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

#

Avg Price

DOM

For sale:

51

1,219,322

139

31

6,191,166

137

3

9,916,666

203

Under contract

2

1,797,000

537

1

6,250,000

40

0

N/A

N/A

Sold to 2/28/25

0

N/A

N/A

1

910,000

86

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2024

13

1,728,846

185

8

4,887,187

182

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2023

17

834,176

98

17

2,716,647

70

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2022

28

1,458,983

52

22

5,636,386

133

0

N/A

N/A

Sold 2021

64

1,150,373

145

44

2,988,520

261

2

2,950,000

731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity Feb 21-28

Sanibel

CONDOS

10 new listings: Signal Inn #10 1/1 $549K, Sanibel Moorings #212 1/1 $550K, Sanibel Shores #C1 1/1 $560K, Sanibel Shores #B2 1/1 $570K, Sanibel Shores #A2 2/2 $590K, Sanibel Moorings #232 2/2 $779K, Loggerhead Cay #303 2/2 $899K, Sandalfoot #1A2 2/2 $999K, Sundial #O201 3/2 $1.19M. Sanctuary Golf Village #2-PH6 3/3 $1.55M.

1 back-on-market: Loggerhead Cay #264 2/2 $899K.

9 price changes: Seashells #26 2/2 now $415K, Mariner Pointe #312 2/2 now $429K (SanibelSusan listing), Mariner Pointe #811 2/2 now $595K, Sanibel Moorings #1441 1/1 now $599K, Oceans Reach #2B2 1/1 now $699K, Oceans Reach #3X3 1/1 now $725K, Sand Pointe #238 2/2 now $765K, Loggerhead Cay #362 2/2 now $853K, Tamarind #B201 2/2 now $1.659M.

 

3 new sales: Sandalfoot #5B2 1/1 listed at $599K, Oceans Reach #4D1 2/2 listed at $850K, Sayana #203 2/2 listed at $895K.

1 closed sale: Captains Walk #A4 2/2 $310K.

HOMES

10 new listings: 1440 Sandpiper Cir 3/2.5 $725K, 4534 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 $989K, 554 East Rocks Dr 3/2 $989K, 2596 Roosevelt Pl 3/2 $1.1M, 1817 Long Point Ln 3/2 $1.579M, 821 Lindgren Blvd 3.3 $1.795M, 1828 Buckthorn Ln 4/4.5 $1.925M, 1672 Hibiscus Dr 4/4.5 $1.95M, 9113 Mockingbird Dr 3/3.5 $1.995M, 1680 Hibiscus Dr 3/3.5 $2.3M.

33 price changes: 586 Boulder Dr 3/2 now $539K, 220 Hurricane Ln 2/2 now $699K, 1657 Atlanta Plaza Dr 3/2 now $699K, 495 East Lake Rd 3/2 now $749K, 455 Peachtree Rd 2/2 now $775K, 1846 Farm Tr 3/2 now $790K, 5089 San-Cap Rd 3/2 now $798K, 1813 Long Point Ln 4/2.5 now $799K, 662 East Rocks Dr 3/2 now $799K, 589 Rabbit Rd 2/2 now $824K, 235 Palm Lake Dr 3/2 now $839K, 1615 Serenity Ln 3/2 now $845K, 887 Casa Ybel Rd (multi-family) 5/3 now $849K, 486 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 now $874K, 4546 Buck Key Rd 4/2 now $895K, 5869 Pine Tree Dr 3/2 now $899K, 9490 Peaceful Dr 3/3 now $949K, 1410 Albatross Rd 3/3 now $999,999; 1048 Fish Crow Rd 3/3 now $1,057,300; 1563 Sand Castle Rd 4/4.5 now $1.1M, 4639 Brainard Bayou Rd 3/2.5 now $1.155M, 673 East Rocks Dr 3/2 now $1.195M, 1270 Par View Dr 3/2 now $1.195M, 3711 Agate Ct 3/2.5 now $1.37M, 5753 Pine Tree Dr 3/4 now $1.495M, 4775 Rue Helene 4/3 now $1.555M, 526 N Yachtsman Dr 3/2 now $1.695M, 788 Birdie View Pt 3/3 now $1.749M, 4166 Dingman Dr 4/4 now $1.98M, 5435 Osprey Ct 4/3.5 now $2.149M, 4090 West Gulf Dr 5/3 now $2.4M, 1266 Par View Dr 4/4 now $2.495M, 5071 Joewood Dr 4/5.5.5 now $5.45M.

2 new sales: 209 Robinwood Cir 3/2 listed at $599K, 4352 West Gulf Dr 5/3.5 listed at $3.33M.

No closed sales.

LOTS

1 new listing: Gulf Pines Dr Lot 16 $674.5K.

1 price change: 3730 Coquina Dr now $480K.

No new or closed sales.

CAPTIVA

CONDOS

7 new listings: Tennis Villas #3233 2/2 $699K, Beach Villas #2217 1/1 $710K, Bayside Villas #320 3/3 $1.149M, Bayside Villas #4318 3/3 $1.149M, Beach Cottages #1423 2/2 $1.625M, Lands End Village #1645 2/2 $1.79M, Beach Homes #33 4/3 $4.35M.

3 price changes: Bayside Villas #4116 1/1 now $550K, Beach Homes #29 4/4 now $3.249M, Captiva Beach Villas #E 5/4.5 now $3.75M.

2 new sales: Gulf Beach Villas #2126 2/2 listed at $1.195M, Lands End Village #1650 3/3 listed at $2,399M.

No closed sales.

HOMES

No new listings.

1 price change: 16512 Captiva Dr 7/5.5 now $8.5M.

No now or closed sales.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association, or its MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend,
Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

It’s Another Bright Sun-Shiney Friday on Sanibel & Captiva

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Hooray, we finally got a couple of spring showers, after sunsets midweek. Island vegetation is greening up. Inland showers are expected later today and over the weekend as record temperatures are reported all over the state. The rainy season is beginning.

Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported on Wednesday (June 5) that maximum recorded temperatures had topped 90 degrees F in the prior ten days at multiple River, Estuary, and Coastal Observing (RECON) sites in the Caloosahatchee Estuary and Gulf of Mexico.

Following those first on-island showers, I have also heard reports of several Gumbo Limbo trees unexpectedly toppling over. This is the time of the year when those trees leaf out, but some are showing signs of rot. Be sure and check yours. When I checked mine, I found a big one with leaves, but also falling over.

2024 Independence Day Celebration

With July 4 right around the corner, the City has posted about two events. The Independence Day Parade will be back this year. This is its 31st year, following the usual route beginning at 9 a.m. after forming on Island Inn Road, then traveling from Tarpon Bay Rd to Periwinkle Way east to Casa Ybel Rd. Both commercial and non-commercial entries will be lined up in order of registration, so participants are encouraged to sign up early. Entry forms and 2024 parade tee-shirts are available at Bank of the Islands.

Then, after the parade, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., Sanibel Recreation Center is hosting a free event at the Rec Center with hot dogs, gym games, open pools, stilt walker, bounce house, face painting, and Kona shaved ice truck.

(Note: No City fireworks this year.)

4th of July Road Rally

Presented by the Friends of Randy of Sanibel (FOROS), the 4th of July Road Rally also is back. It will start at noon at The Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market on Sanibel, Registration is open. Marking its 44th year, this year proceeds will benefit F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva. A donation also will be made to CHR (Community Housing & Resources) families to help with back-to-school supplies.

This event is an in-vehicle visual scavenger hunt for answers to questions. Participants are provided instructions, questions, and driving directions, finding clues along the way. It is not a speed race – it is scored on correct answers, time, and mileage. It takes under two hours, finishing back at Timbers where a party will be held. (FOROS is an all-volunteer island non-profit.)

More Openings & Re-Openings

Blind Pass Condominiums – They reopened and starting taking reservations in March, but just had their official celebration with ribbon cutting last weekend, with special thanks to contractors and returning guests.

CHR (Community Housing & Resources) – Their offices just reopened and also had a ribbon-cutting this week. Their new location is in The Village Shops, 2340 Periwinkle Way, Suite K2.

Sanibel Fire Station #172 – This morning was the ground-breaking ceremony for the new fire station being built at 5171 Sanibel-Captiva Rd. It replaces the one that was removed after damage by Ian.

Tarpon Bay Explorers – June 1st marked the first day of Tarpon Bay Explorers’ new contract as the concessionaire to the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. The contract is for ten years with a five-year renewal option. Tarpon Bay Explorers first earned a Refuge contract in 2002, offering tram tours of Wildlife Drive, plus canoes, kayaks, and electric pontoons. They also added a Sea Life and Nature Cruise and built the Aquarium and Touch Tank Exhibit. After Hurricane Charley in 2004, their old building was demolished and in 2008 a new one was built. Now that this new contract is signed, they are expected to replenish equipment lost from Hurricane Ian and rebuild their operation. By the end of the year, they plan to have pontoons for rent, fishing charters, bike rentals, and a new kayak and paddleboard fleet. The Nature Cruise is expected to follow including the Touch Tank and Aquarium experience, more bike and boat rentals, live bait tank, and more. Tarpon Bay Explorers currently operates on a limited schedule. At 900 Tarpon Bay Rd, including the nature gift store, they are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays for kayak and paddleboard rentals, Kayak tours of Commodore Creek and tram tours of Wildlife Dr are on a limited basis. More details and reservations are at http://www.tarponbayexplorers.com.

Sanibel & Captiva Real Estate Scoop

There was no caravan meeting at the local Association of Realtors this week, but instead the annual SCIS (Sanibel & Captiva Islands Specialist) classes continued plus a day with instructions covering the new app offered by our Multiple Listing Service (MLS) provider, Paragon.

Next week, there is a Professional Development Committee Meeting on Wednesday and Caravan on Thursday.

Below, with data from the islands Multiple Listing Service (MLS) are summary tables of the residential sales statistics, followed by the Sanibel/Captiva MLS action reported this week. It was another slow week with sales, no new ones on Captiva, while a condo, a lot, and three homes went under contract on Sanibel. Also, a surprisingly low sale price on the one Sanibel condo closing.

SANIBEL

RESIDENTIAL

 CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale: 93 1,079,243 167 133 2,220,889 127 31 831,996 241
Under contract 6 1,239,816 160 15 1,427,799 110 4 1,922,000 75
Sold 2024 to 6/7 41 831,498 125 99 1,425,267 96 8 1,869,500 174
Sold 2023 98 955,261 65 263 1,267,390 73 24 920,645 76
Sold 2022 123 1,136,199 44 185 1,602,745 52 26 779,528 223
Sold 2021 287 875,127 113 355 1,341,881 89 69 698,862 442

 

CAPTIVA

RESIDENTIAL

 CONDOS HOMES LOTS
# Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM # Avg Price DOM
For sale 32 1,516,906 183 19 7,271,842 215 2 13,750,000 211
Under contract 2 2,087,500 189 1 2,850,000 57 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2024 to 6/7 9 1,736,111 148 5 4,944,500 146 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2023 17 834,176 98 17 2,716,647 70 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2022 28 1,458,983 52 22 5,636,386 133 0 N/A N/A
Sold 2021 64 1,150,373 145 44 2,988,520 261 2 2,950,000 731

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity May 31 – Jun 7

Sanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Donax Village #10 2/2 $600K, Spanish Cay #E4 2/2 $649K, Ibis at The Sanctuary #A302 2/2 $815K.

No price changes.

1 new sale: Sunset South #9B listed at $599.9K.

1 closed sale: Spanish Cay #C6 2/2 $385K.

HOMES

5 new listings: 567 Rabbit Rd 2/2 $875K, 1846 Farm Tr 3/2 $929K, 9448 Begonia Ct 3/2.5 $1.095M, 2525 Lands End Pl 4/3 $2M, 592 & 629 Lighthouse Way 3/2 $6.836M.

10 price changes: 1196 Sand Castle Rd 2/2 now $750K, 9126 Mockingbird Dr 3/2 now $799,999; 5305 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/2 now $995K, 248 Christofer Ct 2/2.5 now $1.044M, 3343 Saint Kilda Rd 3/2 now $1.087M, 1270 Par View Dr 3/2 now $1.325M, 742 Nerita St 3/2 now $1.45M, 836 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 now $1.949M, 1507 Angel Dr 3/2.5 now $1.995M, 5435 Osprey Ct 4/3.5 now $2.550M.

3 new sales: 1454 Sandpiper Cir 4/3 listed at $699,999; 315 Periwinkle Way 3/2 listed at $850K, 4340 West Gulf Dr 5/3.5 listed at $1.85M.

4 closed sales: 560 Piedmont Rd 3/2 $600K, 863 Rabbit Rd (1/2 duplex) 3/2 $652K, 235 Daniel Dr 3/3 $1,343,750; 1511 Angel Dr 4/3 $2M.

LOTS

No new listings or price changes.

1 new sale: Bowen Bayou Rd 25 listed at $145K.

No closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings, price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: Beach Cottages #1414 2/2 $1M.

HOMES

1 new listing: 1072 South Seas Plantation Rd 3/3.5 $6.75M.

No price changes or new sales.

1 closed sale: 11516 Wightman Ln 5/4.5 $3.25M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association, or its MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend, Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Wrapping June & Looking Forward to July On Sunny Sanibel

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It’s another sunny Friday on Sanibel, with island merchants, restaurants, and Realtors® all hoping for a boost in business from soon-arriving holiday vacationers and visitors. With very little rain this week until a couple of late day thunderstorms yesterday, bay and gulf waters remain clear and bright.

The weather continues to be warmer than usual for this early in the summer, with near-record temperatures almost every day. Those temperatures dropped a little after the showers last night, with more typical high-80’s expected for the next few days with occasional scattered thunderstorms. Betcha we have another one tonight.

First another royal poinciana tree photo – a great vision of red against a blue sky. They are about gone by now, but will be back in bloom next May/June.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association or Realtors® June Membership Meeting

Yesterday was the June Monthly Membership Meeting of the local Association of Realtors®. Attendance was light.

Speaker was Ashley Gibbons, Member Services Manager at the Sanibel-Captiva Chamber of Commerce. She explained how visitor traffic to both islands, their facility, and their website continue to increase following a tough period after last summer’s red tide. The Chamber’s renovation is complete, several staff members are new, and their social media, including Instagram, also continue to get more followers.

The real estate announcements that followed were few, with just a handful of sales and price reductions. Caravan included six new listings open for viewing.

SanibelSusan Realty Associates

It was a busy week for the team, with a closing, a new sale, and action items accomplished with both active listings and upcoming closings. Our detailed report of the activity in the Sanibel and Captiva Multiple Listing Service follows a few news items below, including the local island July 4th events.

Island Holiday Happenings

Pancake Breakfast from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Sanibel Community Church, complimentary all-you-can-eat pancakes, sausage, juice, & coffee, with donations to benefit Boy Scout Troop 1740. 

29th Annual Independence Day Parade begins at 9:30 a.m. at the intersection of Periwinkle Way and Tarpon Bay Road. The theme this year is “Seas the Day” with Captains for Clean Water serving as grand marshal. The parade runs east on Periwinkle and ends at Casa Ybel Road. Parade judges will be stationed in front of Winds. Parade watchers are reminded to arrive early, Periwinkle Way from Donax Street to Tarpon Bay Road will be closed beginning at 9 a.m. (and reopen about noon).

July 4th Celebration at Jerry’s Shopping Center begins after the parade, until 2:30 p.m. with complimentary hot dogs & snow cones, plus water slide, bounce house, face painting & other patriotic fun for kiddos.

40th Sanibel-Captiva Optimist Club Road Rally which is an automobile scavenger hunt, begins at noon at The Timbers parking lot. Proceeds fund local youth benefits and scholarships. Entry forms are available at Bailey’s, Sanibel Café, Sanibel-Captiva Community Bank, or online at www.sancapoptimist.org. Rally is limited to 50 vehicles. Prizes are awarded for correct time and mileage, most correct answers to the quiz, best decorated vehicle, team coming from the farthest location, and team finishing last. I’ve done this several times and it ain’t easy, but it’s fun!

An Awesome 4th of July as advertised by The Dunes Golf & Tennis Club from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m., includes a backyard BBQ dinner, DG, swimming, putting course, and fireworks. Reservations required 239-472-3355.

Fireworks at dusk from the end of Bailey Road out over the bay. Best viewing on the causeway and bay side of the island.

The Future of Southwest Florida International Airport

Southwest Florida International Airport, aka RSW, is one of the newest airports in the nation, with a terminal less than 15 years old. Even so, with 9 to 10 million travelers a year passing through the airport, lines often are backed up “in season”. With more and more people moving to SW Florida, plans are in the works to stay ahead of the growth with a $200M renovation in the works.

In the local news this week, it was reported that getting through TSA (Transportation Security Administration) will be faster as part of this airport expansion with a new plan to make checkpoints more efficient. Even with RSW’s unique design of three separate security checkpoints determined by airline, there are reports of it taking more than an hour to get through security in the throes of season. Lee County Port Authority already had announced a $1.7 million plan to cut back on these wait times.  The plan creates up to two additional security lines per concourse. These changes are expected to be completed by October/November and will allow passengers to board faster.

Plans to expand RSW are more than halfway complete, with renderings including a new gate, amenities, and consolidating concourses. The most significant change planned is an 18-line centralized security checkpoint, which will be usable by 2023. According to a Wink News article published Tuesday, airport leaders are looking even farther ahead of this project with their long-range plan including space for a second runway.

Florida Gov. DeSantis Signs Budget With Real Estate Priorities

On Tuesday, posted by FloridaRealtors® on-line:

“TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the 2019 state budget late last week, and while he used his line-item veto power to remove some budget items, a number of items that impact real estate made it through the process.

“$682 million for environmental projects – A massive bill to help the environment includes $400 million for Everglades restoration, $100 million for springs restoration, $50 million for beach restoration projects, $25 million to combat blue-green algae and red tide, and $25 million for a septic-to-sewer cost-share program.

“$200 million-plus for affordable housing projects – Lawmakers allocated money from the state and local government housing trust funds for affordable housing programs, with more than half the money ($115 million) destined to assist Panhandle residents whose properties were devastated by Hurricane Michael.

“$15 million to continue LIDAR mapping – The Division of Emergency Management may continue spending the

$15 million currently being used for LIDAR (light detection and ranging) mapping. LIDAR is a next-generation mapping technique and has the potential to lower flood insurance rates throughout Florida.

“$500,000 to prevent unlicensed real estate activity – The Legislature allocated money from the Professional Regulation Trust Fund to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) for its ongoing effort to combat unlicensed real estate activity.”

Gov. DeSantis Announces Plan to Crack Down on Environmental Crimes

There was more good “water” news on Tuesday when, during a visit to Stuart, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced a new plan to crack down on Florida’s environmental crimes. During a news conference at the Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center, he signed a bill that creates a Division of Law Enforcement within Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) which allows the DEP to conduct criminal investigations into environmental crimes. Officials said the DEP’s Division of Law Enforcement will be made up of sworn officers. Since taking office in January, Gov. DeSantis has made Florida’s environment a top priority.

Construction Progress at BIG ARTS

If you have attended an event or taken a class at BIG ARTS, you will appreciate how quickly their new building is progressing. The former buildings were demolished in early April, right after their annual Spring Concerts. Click on the blue link below for a 4-minute walk through the construction site with Architect Amy Nowacki.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SrTXWQXSyA

(Amy is a busy multi-talented gal, also singing for many years in the BIG ARTS Community Chorus. She also is the architect for the renovations underway at the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, scheduled to reopen mid-July.)

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity June 21-28, 2019

Sanibel

CONDOS

No new listings

4 price changes: Seashells #36 2/2 now $375K, Mariner Pointe #642 2/2 now $593K, Sanctuary Golf Villages I #5-1 2/2.5 now $773.9K, White Pelican #114 2/2 now $895K.

4 new sales: Tennisplace #D31 1/1 listed at $235K; Sanibel Moorings #1622 2/2 listed at $499K; Surfside12 #A3 3/2 listed at $749,999; White Pelican #133 3/3 listed at $1.595M.

3 closed sales: Mariner Pointe #122 1/1 $347.5K (our buyer), Tarpon Beach #304 2/2 $987.5K, Compass Point #183 2/2 $1.15M.

HOMES

2 new listings: 6496 Sanibel-Captiva Rd 3/3.5 $899K, 1285 Par View Dr 4/2.5 $919K.

11 price changes: 785 Rabbit Rd 3/2 half-duplex now $379K, 1550 Centre Ct 3/2 now $599K, 1418 Sanderling Cir 3/3 now $649.9K, 9446 Beverly Ln 3/3.5 now $674K, 9401 Beverly Ln 3/3 now $719K, 1559 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $754K, 1350 Middle Gulf Dr, #1F 3/3 half-duplex now $779K, 731 Durion Ct 3/2 now $785K, 335 Cowry Ct 4/3.5 now $799.9K, 0 Dinkins Lake Rd 3/3.5 now $969.5K, 4080 West Gulf Dr 3/2 now $995K.

5 new sales: 993 Fish Crow Rd 3/3 listed at $684.9K, 3284 Twin Lakes Ln 4/4 listed at $785K, 947 Cabbage Palm Ct 3/3.5 listed at $995K, 1349 Eagle Run Dr 3/2.5 listed at $999K, 1351 Middle Gulf Dr, #2C 3/3 listed at $1.495M (our listing).

6 closed sales: 745 Martha’s Ln 3/2 $462.5K, 1427 Sandpiper Cir 2/2 half-duplex $460K, 458 Cas Ybel Rd 3/2.5 $655K, 702 Durion Ct 3/2 $754K, 2984 Wulfert Rd 3/4 $1.09M, 1561 San Carlos Bay Dr 3/4 $1.8822M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: Sunset Beach Villas #2216 1/1 now $519.9K.

1 new sale: with contingencies: Tennis Villas #3230 2/2 listed at $469K.

1 closed sale: Bayside Villas #4124 1/2 $387.5K.

HOMES

1 new listing: 16525 Captiva Dr 3/4 $1.65M.

No price changes.

2 new sales: 16801 Captiva Dr 3/3.5 listed at $2.095M, 17030 Captiva Dr 6/7.5 listed at $6,999,990.

1 closed sale: 16798/802 Captiva Dr 4/4 $5.65M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association or its MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating or participated in these transactions.

Best wishes for a fun safe 4th of July holiday,

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Happy 1st Friday in July 2018!

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It’s SanibelSusan with the week’s report of the action posted in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service. It follows a couple of news items below.

Lots of folks have been asking about the water, so there is more about that below too. Here’s a photo taken just before the holiday, the further west you go, the better it looks!

Beach 06-28

Follow-Up on Sanibel’s 4th of July Parade & Fireworks

Parade 2018 beginningThe 28th annual island Independence Day parade Wednesday morning was terrific.

2018 parade judgesWith the judges set up right across the street from SanibelSusan Realty, we got to see the 50+ entries at their best.

The parade photo album posted on my personal Facebook page is available for public viewing (at Susan Andrews).

Later, following a huge early evening thunderstorm with heavy rain, the City was forced to cancel the fireworks.2018 Ding parade

Many boaters and causeway hold-outs were disappointed, as it is advertised as “rain or shine”.

The below follow-up notice was posted the next day on www.MySanibel.com.

“Please read this important news release regarding the status of the City’s 2018 Fireworks Display.

“Unfortunately, an early evening storm last night inundated the electrical components that are an essential element of the City’s annual Independence Day fireworks display, which is typically launched rain or shine.

“This morning, all unexploded fireworks were safely removed from the Island by 4 a.m.  Prior to last evening, the City had paid the vendor 50% of the cost of the $20,000 contract.  This afternoon, the City worked with the vendor who has agreed to credit the entire $10,000 down payment towards the City’s 2019 fireworks display.

This scenario eliminates the risk of a second cancellation due to weather during the rainy season as well as the additional labor expenses of a re-scheduled fireworks display.  The City of Sanibel again apologizes for any inconvenience resulting from last evening’s failure to launch.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors

Sanibel realtors logoNo caravan of new listings this week, but next Thursday morning will be “open” Caravan.

Also next week, I will be working with the Association’s Communications & Public Relations Committee as they finalize plans for our upcoming “Meals of Hope” food packaging event on July 24 from 3 to 5 p.m.

meals_of_hope(1)Last year, we hosted our 1st event like this and packed 28,000 meals in less than two hours. It’s fun, fast, furious, and for such a good cause. The meals are distributed by Meals of Hope to local food banks, including F.I.S.H. of Sanibel-Captiva food pantry. Our goal this year is again to pack at least 20,000 meals. That requires 50 volunteers and $5,000 to defray the food cost. Teammate Elise and I have already contributed and signed up to help. If you’d like to participate too, contact Megan at the Association Office, 239-472-9353, megan@SanibelRealtors.com.

Island Summer Projects Underway

  • Bailey Tract still is closed with the restoration project which began in early June. Work was scheduled to be completed in four to six weeks, so should be done soon.
  • New Pavers at Spanish Cay – The west half of the parking lot is done, looks terrific. A nice improvement over the black hard-top.
  • Roadway Trimming continues along Periwinkle Way and Tarpon Bay Road.
  • Temporary Library Closure The Sanibel Public Library will be closed for a few weeks beginning Monday, July 9. As part of the next phase of “Your Library Reimagined” project, this interruption is to complete utility work and relocate library materials. The Library’s eShelf for eBooks and downloadable movies, music, and magazine, will be available during this time, however the children’s special events on July 10 and 24 have been moved to the Community House. More info on the Library’s calendar at www.sanlib.org. No definite reopening date yet.

2018 Hurricane Season May Not Be So Busy After All

USATodayLOGOThis morning, FloridaRealtors® posted on-line the below article from USATODAY.com. Good news!

“Some good news from top hurricane forecasters: The 2018 Atlantic hurricane season should be quieter than normal, according to a new prediction this week.

“Meteorologist Phil Klotzbach and other experts from Colorado State University – regarded as the nation’s top seasonal hurricane forecasters – predict 10 named tropical storms will form, of which four will become hurricanes.

“That is a sharp decrease from their forecast in April, when they said seven hurricanes would form. One system, Subtropical Storm Alberto, already formed in May.

“If the forecast comes to fruition, 2018 will be a welcome relief after the 2017 season, which saw monsters like Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria tear paths of death and destruction across the Caribbean and the U.S.

Hurricanes need warm ocean water to develop and strengthen.

“El Nino is a natural warming of tropical Pacific Ocean water, which tends to suppress the development of Atlantic hurricanes. During an El Nino, strong upper-level winds roar across the Caribbean and Atlantic, tearing apart developing tropical storms.

“In its most recent forecast, the Climate Prediction Center gave a 50% chance of an El Nino forming in late summer or early fall.

“”With the decrease in our forecast, the probability for major hurricanes making landfall along the United States coastline and in the Caribbean has decreased as well,” Colorado State said. The probability of direct hit on the U.S. coast from a major hurricane – classified as a Category 3, 4, or 5 on the Saffir-Simpson scale – is down to 39% from 63%.

Sanibel’s “Sweet Melissa” Going to New Orleans

sweet-melissa-sHere is a notice for island foodies. Sanibel’s Melissa Donahue-Talmage, owner/chef of Sweet Melissa’s Café was just announced as one of the eight chefs participating in the 2018 Chef’s Taste Challenge on September 7 at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

Tickets go on sale next week for this one-night culinary clash called the “Battle-of-the-Gulf Edition” which is a one-of-a-kind cooking competition and culinary experience. Participating chefs include:

Wondering About the Water?

Sanibelcityseal logoBelow are links to the panoramic aerials taken on July 4th, posted on the City’s website. The reduced water releases from Lake “O” are helping in clarity of the water, but the news of algae up in the Caloosahatchee River is disheartening, so we must continue to keep the pressure on.

Thanks to Sanibel Mayor Kevin Ruane and others for leading the charge. More details on www.mySanibel.com.

Lighthouse Beach Park Aerial Image:

Link to 360° panoramic view of Lighthouse Beach Park taken July 4, 2018; SanCap Aerial

Gulfside City Park Aerial Image:

Link to 360° panoramic view of Gulfside City Park taken July 4, 2018; SanCap Aerial

Bowman’s Beach Aerial Image:

Link to 360° panoramic view of Bowman’s Beach Park taken July 4, 2018; SanCap Aerial

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity June 29-July 6, 2018

sancap GO MLS logoSanibel

CONDOS

1 new listing: Sundial #H108 1/1 $475K

No price changes.

2 new sales: St Croix #4 2/2.5 listed at $995K, By-the-Sea #C102 2/2 listed at $1.149M.

5 closed sales: Tennisplace #D31 1/1 $215K, Sanibel Moorings #1312 2/2 $538K, Loggerhead Cay #214 2/2 $615K, Sanddollar #A104 2/2 $815K, Sundial #Q404 2/2 $897K.

HOMES

4 new listings: 4245 Gulf Pines Dr 3/2 $775K, 707 Cardium St 3/2 $879K, 1225 Seagrape Ln 3/3 $899K, 1740 Middle Gulf Dr 3/3 $989K.

6 price changes: 325 East Gulf Dr 1/1 now $569K, 1323 Par View Dr 3/2 now $629K, 746 Cardium St 4/2 now $690K, 1043 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $749K, 617 Lake Murex Cir 3/2 now $797K, 772 Birdie View Pt 3/3.5 now $1.369M.

2 new sales: 1555 Bunting Ln 2/2 listed at $569K, 734 Anchor Dr 3/2 listed at $899K (our listing).

7 closed sales: 956 Dixie Beach Blvd 2/1 $400K, 9225 Belding Dr 3/2 $400K, 1938 Roseate Ln 3/2 $465K, 3825 Coquina Dr 3/3 $815K, 1001 Lindgren Blvd 3/2 $845K, 805 Lindgren Blvd 3/3 $900K, 1316 Eagle Run Blvd 4/3 $1.23M.

LOTS

2 new listings: 1246 Sand Castle Rd $299K, 5170 Sea Belle Rd $334.9K.

No price changes, new or closed sales.

Captiva

CONDOS

Nothing to report.

HOMES

1 new listing: 14865 Captiva Dr 4/4 $1.699M.

1 price change: 16447 Captiva Dr 6/5.5.5 now $3.5M.

1 new sale: 15155 Wiles Dr 3/2 listed at $1.249M.

No closed sales:

LOTS

Nothing to report.

 This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association or its MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating or participated in these transactions.

Enjoy your weekend!

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan

Looking Forward to July 4th on Sanibel Island

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BonneParade

From a parade many years ago!

It’s Sanibel Susan, reporting that Dave, Elise, Lisa and I are counting down to the Independence Day holiday next week. Fingers crossed that some of the many vacationers arriving tomorrow want to view and buy real estate. The SanibelSusan Team is ready to help them, if they are.

The activity posted since last Friday in the Sanibel & Captiva Multiple Listing Service follows a few news items below.

4th of July Happenings on Sanibel

Pre-Parade All-You-Can-Eat Pancake Breakfast – 7 to 9 a.m. at Sanibel Community Church. Event is free with donations accepted to benefit the church’s Summit Christian Preschool Scholarship fund.

crow 2015 parade

CROW’s 2015 parade entry. With this year’s theme, their entry should be another winner!

office pix 09-12-1728th Annual Independence Day Parade – starts at 9:30 a.m. on Tarpon Bay Road in front of Bailey’s Center and travels down Periwinkle Way, ending at Casa Ybel Rd. Theme is “Wild About America”. Periwinkle Way closes at 9 a.m., so be sure and get to your favored parade-watching spot early. Good vantage points are in front of SanibelSusan Realty, both in the shade under the trees at City Park across the street or under the overhang in front of our office building. The office will be open.

Post-Parade Celebration – at Jerry’s Shopping Center, begins at 10:30 a.m.

39th Annual Road Rally – begins at noon from The Timbers parking lot. This automobile scavenger hunt has vehicles deployed every two minutes. Hosted by the Sanibel-Captiva Optimist Club, more info at their website www.sancapoptimist.org.

fireworks clip artFireworks Cruise – by Adventures in Paradise departs Sanibel Marina “G” dock at 7:30 p.m. Call 239-472-8443 for reservations.

Fireworks – at 9 p.m. rain or shine, from the end of Bailey Road out into the bay, above the causeway. Sponsored by the City of Sanibel.

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors July Membership Meeting

Yesterday at our local Association of Realtors® monthly breakfast meeting, staff from BIG ARTS gave members a quick preview of some artists scheduled to perform in the upcoming season. BIG ARTS is celebrating its 40th year with their calendar filling up. Tickets often are sold out to see big name bands, singers, and musicians, so it’s never too early to plan to attend those events. Check out their full schedule at www.BIGARTS.org. Many tickets go on sale this summer and can be purchased on-line. Beginning in January 2019, here are a few mentioned that caught my eye.

Bumper-Jacksons1/5 – Beginnings (Chicago tribute band)

1/12 – DePue Brothers Band (named Musical Family of America in 1989)

1/17 – Bumper Jacksons (7-piece band known for their roots jazz, country swing, & street blues)

iLuminate1/30 – iLuminate (dance & acrobatic performance team featured on America’s Got Talent)’

2/2 – m-Pact “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” (often called one of the best pop-jazz vocal groups in the world)

LMLMP_Simon_Gar_CP

2/22 – Judy Collins

3/16 – Live in Central Park Revisited (recreation of Simon & Garfunkel’s performances on 9/19/1981)

New Condo Association Laws Go Into Effect July 1

The below article by Attorney Richard D. DeBoest was posted on-line this week at FloridaRealtors®:

Florida Realtors logo“July 2, 2018 – Question: We heard there were some new laws impacting condominium associations. Would you please give us a summary of the changes we need to know about? – B.T., Port St. Lucie

“Answer: Below is a summary of new laws as of July 1, 2018, applicable to condominiums:

  1. Official records – 718.111(12)(b)/HB841. Plans, permits, warranties, declaration, articles, bylaws, rules, meeting minutes and accounting records from the inception of the association must now be kept forever. Chapter 718 previously required these documents to be kept for only 7 years. All other records must still be kept for 7 years with exception of ballots, proxies and related voting material that only needs to be kept for 1 year.
  2. Access to official records – 718.111(12)(b)/HB841. Access to official records must be made available within 10 “working” days. Formerly it was 5 working days but since the penalty did not arise until after 10 working days effectively nothing has changed. Records must still be made available within 10 “working” days.
  3. Website creation – 718.111(12)(g)1/HB841. The requirement imposed in 2017 that condominiums (excluding timeshares) must create a website and post digital copies of most of its official records on its website by July 1, 2018, has been extended to January 1, 2019. The term “association” has been replaced by the term “condominium” thereby making it clear that multi-condominium associations that manage several condominiums each with less than 150 units but cumulatively 150 or more units are now exempt from the website requirement.
  4. Website records – 718.111(12)(g)2.e and g/HB841. A list of all bids in excess of $500 received by the association for materials, equipment or services within the past year must now be posted on the website if a website is required. Additionally, the “monthly income or expense statement” must be posted.
  5. Website records failure to post – 718.111(12)(g)4/HB841. The failure to post required records on the website is not sufficient to invalidate any action or decision of the association’s board or any committee.
  6. Board and members meeting notices on website – 718.112(2)(c)1 and (d)/HB841. In addition to sending and posting notices for board and members meetings by regular mail, the board may now adopt a rule to allow the posting of such notices on the website if a website is required. The rule must also require that an e-mail be sent to all owners who have requested electronic notice with a link to the posted notice.
  7. Term limits – 718.112(2)(d)2/HB841. The 2017 law limiting a director from serving no more than four consecutive two-year terms has been changed. The law now provides that regardless of the length of the term (one year or two years) a director cannot serve more than eight consecutive years unless no other eligible candidates run or at least 2/3 of those who vote approve the person to continue serving beyond eight consecutive years. The revised language also clarifies that if the governing documents so provide, directors may be elected to serve terms of more than two years each.
  8. Electronic notice – 718.112(2)(d)6/HB841. An owner who consents to electronic notice is solely responsible for removing or bypassing filters that block receipt of e-mails. This will prevent an owner from objecting to a lack of notice if the notice is stopped by the owner’s spam filter.
  9. Recalls – 718.112(2)(j)1/HB841. A director is recalled immediately at the conclusion of the board meeting held to consider the recall if the recall is deemed “facially valid.” Under the prior 2017 change in the law which created a number of procedural ambiguities, the director was apparently recalled even if the recall agreements were clearly insufficient in number to effectuate a recall. Note that a definition of “facially valid” is not provided.
  10. Recalls attorney fees – 718.112(2)(j)6/HB841. If a recalled board member files a petition for arbitration to challenge the recall and is successful, then the arbitrator may award reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs. If the board member is unsuccessful, the arbitrator may award the other party its attorneys’ fees and costs but only if the challenge is found to have been “frivolous.”
  11. Material alterations – 718.113(2)(a)/HB841. Clarifies that any material alteration or substantial addition to the common elements that requires owner approval must be approved before the work is commenced.
  12. Electronic vehicle charging – 718.112(8) and 718.121(2)/HB841. Allows unit owners to install electronic vehicle charging stations in their limited common element parking spaces under certain conditions and subject to certain requirements. Among other things, the owner must pay to install a separate meter and pay for the electricity. Further, the owner’s insurance must also name the association as an additional insured, and if the association’s insurance premium goes up as a result of the charging station, the owner must pay the increase. Moreover, if the owner fails to pay the contractor that installs the charging equipment, the contractor cannot file a construction lien against the association.
  13. Contracts with directors – 718.3026(3) and 718.3027(2)/HB841. The 2017 change in the law allowing an association to contract with a director under certain circumstances but allowing owners to void any such contract with a vote at the next members meeting was removed from 718.3026 and relocated to 718.3027.
  14. Fines and suspension committees/Payment of fine – 718.303(3)(b)/HB841. Provides that the fining committee has three members and that the members cannot be the “spouse, parent, child, brother, sister or employee” of any director. Formerly, the condominium law did not set the number of members and only prohibited board members and persons residing with a board member from being on the committee. Oddly, the new law removes the prohibition that a member of the committee cannot be residing with a director. If the committee approves the fine it must be paid within five days of the committee meeting. The association must give written notice of the fine or suspension after the committee approves it by mail or hand delivery.

“The information provided herein is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The publication of this article does not create an attorney-client relationship between the reader and Goede, Adamczyk, DeBoest & Cross, PLLC or any of our attorneys. Readers should not act or refrain from acting based upon the information contained in this article without first contacting an attorney, if you have questions about any of the issues raised herein. The hiring of an attorney is a decision that should not be based solely on advertisements or this column.

“Editor’s note: Attorneys at Goede, Adamczyk, DeBoest & Cross, PLLC., respond to questions about Florida community association law. The firm represents community associations throughout Florida and focuses on condominium and homeowner association law, real estate law, litigation, estate planning and business law.

© 2018 Journal Media Group. Richard D. DeBoest II, Esq., is co-founder and shareholder of the Law firm Goede, Adamczyk, DeBoest & Cross, PLLC.”

Sanibel & Captiva Islands Multiple Listing Service Activity June 22-29, 2018

sancap GO MLS logoSanibel

CONDOS

3 new listings: Seashells #36 2/2 $380K, Sanibel Inn #3 2/1 $779K, Gulfside Place #123 2/2 $1.398M.

No price changes.

3 new sales: Sanibel Moorings #1611 2/2 listed at $489K, Seawind #A105 2/2.5 listed at $545K, Loggerhead Cay #483 2/2 listed at $549K.

3 closed sales: Sandpebble #4D 2/2 $420K, Sundial West #I404 1/1 $455K, Bougainvillea #B 3/3 $1.17M.

HOMES

1 new listing: 4772 Tradewinds Dr 3/2.5 $819K.

15 price changes: 9248 Kincaid Ct 2/1 now $429K; 4542 Bowen Bayou Rd 3/2 now $499K; 3784 Coquina Dr 3/3 now $549,999; 1304 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $570K; 325 East Gulf Dr 1/1 now $575K; 396 Lake Murex Blvd 3/2 now $599K; 836 Donax St 3/2 now $599K; 5430 Osprey Ct 3/3 now $649K; 1043 Sand Castle Rd 3/2 now $749K; 5267 Ladyfinger Lake Rd 3/2 now $795K; 3941 Coquina Dr 3/2 now $929K; 3136 Twin Lakes Ln 3/2 now $945K; 478 Sea Oats Dr 3/3 now $1.145M; 500 Kinzie Island Ct 3/3 now $1.525M; 1206 Bay Dr 4/4.5 now $3.574M.

3 new sales: 1717 Atlanta Plaza Dr 2/2 listed at $440K, 3708 Coquina Dr 3/2 listed at $779K, 805 Lindgren Blvd 3/3 listed at $945K.

3 closed sales: 9471 Peaceful Dr 3/2 $432K, 9408 Moonlight Dr 3/2 $590K, 829 Pyrula Ave 3/3 $1.1001M.

LOTS

1 new listing: 1292 Par View Dr $369K.

2 price changes: 4538 Bowen Bayou Rd now $239,999; 3354 Barra Cir now $379K.

2 new sales: 5723 Baltusrol Ct listed at $349K, 1036 Bayview Dr listed at $3.695M.

1 closed sale: 555 Piedmont Rd $200K.

Captiva

CONDOS

No new listings.

1 price change: 48 Oster Ct 2/2.5 now $839K.

1 new sale: Beach Cottages #1408 2/2 listed at $1.16M.

1 closed sale: Marina Villas #610 2/2 $635K.

HOMES

No new listings.

2 price changes: 48 Oster Ct 2/2.5 now $839K, 15735 Captiva Dr 4/5 now $6.795M.

No new sales.

1 closed sale: 16167 Captiva Dr 4/3 $1.465M.

LOTS

Nothing to report.

This representation is based in part on data supplied by the Sanibel & Captiva Islands Association of Realtors® Multiple Listing Service. Neither the association nor its MLS guarantees or is in any way responsible for its accuracy.  Data maintained by the association or its MLS may not reflect all real estate activity in the market.  The information provided represents the general real estate activity in the community and does not imply that SanibelSusan Realty Associates is participating or participated in these transactions.

The SanibelSusan Team wishes you a wonderful holiday. Happy Birthday, America!more fireworks slip art.jpgT4thOfJulyWording

Susan Andrews, aka SanibelSusan