On September 28th, 2022 Hurricane Ian devastated Southwest Florida's barrier islands creating a wake of destruction that will take a tremendous effort to rebuilt, repair and restore.

To help property owners who could not be here in person, we began consolidating recovery resources from every direction. As lives were turned inside-out, it was the most productive thing we felt we could do to help. We had no idea that demand for organized, vetted information would be so great. As the days and weeks unfolded, updates became emotional lifelines. They helped us know we were not alone on our journey. During those early days the only way to stay sane was to focus on one square foot at a time, one shovel of sludge, or one grout line at a time. On the one year anniversary of Ian's landfall we sent our FINAL update intentionally at 2:30pm EST, the exact time most of us lost cell service connections to friends and loved ones as watched the unthinkable happen.

View our Final Comprehensive List of Recovery Topics

The following is a diary of progress and emotions the first year of our recovery journey...

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #1 - September 29, 2022 - 319 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Our family is safely evacuated in Orlando's Rosen Shingle Creek Resort and it's difficult for me to confirm the information you are seeing in the news. Our area was hit with one of the strongest hurricanes in history as the path took an unexpected turn. Initial images and reports are very concerning. We need to remain calm and wait for the area to be fully assessed for the true level of damages.

Local governments have set up emergency operation centers and are continuing emergency plans and procedures. Local infrastructure and services are being evaluated which will take time and require everyone's patience. We are seeing the same information you are on the news and in social media. Like you, we are anxious to see what has become of our homes and how we can help everyone rebuild.  

With all of this said, I want to let you know that Pfeifer Realty Group is here for you and your family. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the area, emergency procedures or need assistance in assessing your property please let me know. You can always reach me on my cell: 239-851-3699

Until we fully understand the scope of the damage, we encourage you to contact your flood, wind, homeowners, auto and boat insurance carriers for specific guidance. It is recommended to initiate a claim to get into the queue for processing. Given the number of impacted homes, we are anticipating a longer than normal response time for carriers to respond. This is something you can be working on now.

As I hear more information, I will continue to keep everyone updated. Until then, we all need to remain patient and allow the first responders to do their jobs. 

We will rebuild and we will be stronger!  ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #2 - September 30, 2022 - 338 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, In an effort to be a part of the solution, we will be updating everyone with accurate vetted information. Thank you for all your concerns about safety. This morning we were able to confirm that our entire Pfeifer Team is safe and we will be assisting others to the best of our ability.

Sanibel Captiva Update:Dana Sousa delivered a message to all residents this morning to re-emphasize that owners will not be allowed on the Islands today and there is a Lee County Wide mandatory curfew in place until further notice. We need to stay clear so that these first responders can pave the way for us to return to see our homes safely. Please Note the City of Sanibel has issued a new phone number: (239) 603-7261

Insurance Claims:We urge you to start your own claims to get in the queue. It's important to remember that when you return to your home, take photos of all the damage to your home structure, contents, boat, cars etc. FYI: Do not throw anything away and resist the urge to start cleaning up your property. We have been told that nothing will be processed until the insurance claims adjuster personally visits your home.

BEWARE: Predator Calls: There are disgusting individuals actively calling property owners and sounding like they are reporting on the condition of your home. My wife Mary Ellen received one of these calls yesterday afternoon and the caller then said they would like to make an offer for our home. Obviously, I can't repeat her reply. Do not fall prey to these scammers.Fake Contractors: Please verify all charities, contractors, etc. If you are in doubt about a contractor or charitable organization contact someone on our team and we will do our best to vet them. We already received a call from an individual offering to re-do roofs, but then he asked if he needed a license.

As we learn more, we will be sending out new updates. Please feel free to reach to us with your questions and concerns. We will do our best to address them all. ~ Eric and Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #3 - October 1, 2022 - 398 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, This is day 3 post-storm and we understand your concerns and frustrations. Our family filled a rented U-Haul with supplies in Orlando and our son John drove it down last night to help Ft. Myers friends, who in turn will help Sanibel residents when we can do so safely. Our family looks forward to being a part Sanibel's Structural Assessment Team on Monday.

Volunteers Needed: If you are interested in helping the City of Sanibel after structural assessments are completed and have skills that can help recovery efforts, use the link below. Insurance Tip: Take pictures first, but don't throw anything away. For example if you rip up a rug or remove drywall, photograph it before and leave it outside your home for the insurance adjuster to see when they arrive. Third Party Claim Representation: A client recently asked us if they should utilize an attorney to assist with their claim. One attorney that has experience with this is Aaron Pruss, Shareholder, Becker & Poliakoff 239-989-1008 Finding Gas, Food & Supplies: Wink News has created a live blog page that updates where you can find necessary resources.

Private Facebook Group: This Private group for island homeowners started after Hurricane Ian. Please provide proof of ownership, and let us know if there are others who should be added. Mark Pfeifer has joined as an Admin as well as Mary Ellen Pfeifer. Let your neighbors know what's happening! You are newsmakers.

We are here and ready to answer all your questions the best we can. Remain safe and #SanibelStrong

Sincerely, Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #4 - October 4, 2022 - 488 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Yesterday I assisted the Sanibel's Structural Assessment and Safety Team and my group was assigned to the East End and I personally covered 2 streets. In general, the island looks like a war zone. Streets are covered with a silty slippery mucky ash. Some power poles are leaning and some power lines are down. It appears that the East End storm surge averaged between 5 and 8 feet above street level. Ground level homes have significant damage inside. Elevated homes have lower level damage. Receding water left a silty residue inside every home. In my small representative sample, this residue is in the magnitude of inches, not feet and, it some areas it reeks.

There is wind damage to some homes. Most notably to pool cages, which were knocked over. I also saw many garage doors blown out either from wind or from items floating in the surge knocking them out from the inside. 

The biggest challenge in the coming days will be to remove moisture, and wet materials to avoid mold growth. This is not an easy task without access to the island, without contractors, and without power. 

Residents will be given access to the Island starting Wednesday, October 5, 2022. To do so, they must find a boat, then find a boat-ramp to launch, and location to land. Once on Island, there is no inland transportation. Reaching inland homes will require strenuous hikes. There's no running water, electricity, or sewer. Be prepared.

This is a very difficult time for all of us. My immediate hope is that officials find a way to build a temporary bridge to Sanibel. It's my understanding that the Army Corps of Engineers and FDOT are working with Lee county to address this ASAP. 

The City of Sanibel live FB will occur at 6:30pm today. Sincerely, Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #8 - October 8, 2022 - 519 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, This is Eric's wife Mary Ellen. As I type this update from the safety of my brother-in-law's Gulf Harbour condominium, Eric, our son John and my brother-in-law Mark Pfeifer are on Sanibel for their third visit. They hitched rides on three different boats to get there. Like many of you, our home had 8 feet of water inside, the roof of our office is gone, and I can go on, but there are so many others with more damage to both property as well as physical and mental health. Everyone is walking their own mile and we will never truly know what that mile in their shoes is like. Right now, hugs, a listening ear, and a cold bottle of water are more valuable than gold.

The pathway to a "new normal" is truly overwhelming, but our love of Sanibel ties all of us together. We are leaning in to the aftermath of Ian with positive attitudes, strength, determination, and a commitment to help our Sanibel family. Disasters define people's character very quickly as we hear heartwarming stories of giving and heartbreaking tales of greed. We will continue to surround ourselves with kind, hopeful and positive people. The bright spots are many, the kindness of strangers is humbling and we are blessed to call Sanibel home.

The two greatest immediate needs are transportation and housing. Short-term repairs require transport both by land and sea and local housing will lead to long term recovery.

Housing: Most of SWFL's rental inventory is gone and those remaining are price gouging. Please ask friends, family and co-workers if they can help locate owners in SWFL (that don't normally rent their home) if they would consider allowing a displaced family stay there. Mark Pfeifer and I are working together with other like-minded problem solvers on an additional housing resource that we hope to unveil as soon as we have the bandwidth to finish the project.

Boat Transportation: The only way to reach Sanibel & Captiva is by boat and we have identified many boat owners willing to help you travel back and forth and will continue to add more options.

Sincerely, Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Updates #6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 - October 10, 11, 16, 17, 19, 22, 2022 - 648 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

We are incorporating resources as quickly as they become available. If you know others who would like to receive these updates, please forward their email(s). We are doing our best to keep up with the demand and our own debris clean-up.

Updates 6 thru Update 11 contained 26 recovery topics with details.

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #12 - October 24, 2022 - 660 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, WARNING: Several companies are offering cash to sellers for quick closings. Just yesterday, I personally visited 2 homes to prepare estimates of values for the owners, and both owners were negotiating with one these companies. While I am keenly aware that in some instances, time is more valuable than money, I would like everyone to understand that these opportunists are offering 50% to 60% of current market value. To understand the value of your home, please reach out to your Realtor. In the next 3 months, the Islands will look better and prospective sellers will be able to negotiate more attractive sales prices. We hope each day brings more help and useful information. ~ Eric Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #13 - October 26, 2022 - 682 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Tonight's FEMA meeting may be the most important announcement for many owners with non-conforming structures. The 50% Rule is a regulation of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) that prohibits improvements to a structure exceeding 50% of its market value unless the entire structure is brought into full compliance with current flood regulations. This may include elevating the structure, using flood resistant materials, and proper flood venting. ~ Eric Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #14 & 15 - October 30 & 31, 2022 - 716 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, To help others more efficiently and effectively, Mary Ellen and I will be moving into our Sanibel home full-time November 2nd. We know how difficult it is for owners to address post-storm issues when they're not within driving distance of the Islands. We are here, and ready to help.

As a Structural Engineer, it's nice to see the bridge progress and it appears that there's a plan in place to connect the elevated bridges.

There will be live Facebook coverage of the Sanibel's City Council meeting Tuesday November 1st at 9:00am which will include important information to be addressed by Thompson Engineering. The city will continue to conduct live post-storm update facebook events every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 5:00pm. Reach out with any questions, we're here. ~ Eric

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #16 - November 2, 2022 - 747 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, We moved into our Sanibel home full-time today and are using limited cell service to amend and send these updates. We understand how difficult it is for owners to address post-storm issues when they're not within driving distance of the Islands. Know that we are here, and ready to help. Our son loaned us his Ford F-250 to navigate the island terrain safely and our daughter is shipping her Jeep from California to replace Mary Ellen's destroyed car. Some of the most notable improvements are the ability to use water more effectively (if you have power) to do laundry, run a dishwasher and shower. We are still under a boil water notice. Another bright update is the successful installation of STARLINK WiFi Hot Spots in several Island locations.

Our apologies for any confusion on this week’s FB Live schedules as the City made changes due to the lengthy Tuesday Morning City Council Meeting. City updates will resume this Friday November 4th. 

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #17 - November 5, 2022 - 764 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Eric and I've been in our Sanibel for 3 days now to help others more effectively who can't be here. We are “ALL-IN” and ready to help you with any needs. Our recovery is going to be a long road that requires positive attitudes, generosity, tenacity, teamwork and a victorious mindset. We all need GRIT: courage and resolve; strength of character.

Almost hourly we experience the true character of individuals a disaster reveals. We’ve seen incredible GREED versus limitless GIVING as well as those who have chosen a VICTIM versus VICTOR mindset. Yesterday I helped absentee neighbors address the smoking generator installed by their remediation company that is necessary to save their home. Thanks to firemen from Manatee County, a disaster was averted, but we we’re sad to hear that the diesel gas needed to run this giant generator was siphoned overnight by “mischief makers”.

Yesterday, the Sanibel Police published photos of items discovered during police operations. If you are missing any property that you believe may be included in one or more of these photographs, and can provide proof to support your claim, please contact the Sanibel Police Department (239) 472-3111.

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #18 - November 7, 2022 - 777 Subscribers

We are “ALL-IN” and ready to help you with any needs. Please reach out to us as we are here and ready to help in any way we can.

As each day unfolds there are more positive strides in all directions. Just an hour ago, IWA lifted the boil water notice with one neighborhood exception (details below). Vegetation and debris is being picked up, trees are budding, flowers are blooming, and last night a beautiful rainbow over the Gulf of Mexico was a bright spot of better days to come, and they will come. ~ The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #19 - November 10, 2022 - 797 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Hurricane Ian made landfall 44 days ago, and everyone is in a different stage of their “Recovery Phase” and for many owner’s it’s “Day One” as they see their property for the first time. Everyone is in a different stage of their recovery and it can be overwhelming. Know that we are here on Sanibel full time. We’re ready, willing and able to help you any way we can.

Vegetation and debris is being picked up, trees are budding, flowers are blooming, and the much needed rain from Hurricane Nicole helped wash the island of the airborne “mucky dust” that covered everything. While many of us with compromised structures dread more rain, the fresh water is vital to the survival of many animals and plants struggling with salty muck. We will do our best to find and vet useful information. ~ The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #20 - November 13, 2022 - 806 Subscribers

We've been in our Sanibel home for 11 days and being here day after day has been both difficult and rewarding.

It’s difficult to see mountains of “debris” that represent cherished memories and treasured belongings. The're giant piles of emotion left for trash trucks to haul away. Yet among the destruction, there are many rewarding sights and sounds.

I want to share my own rewarding experience from this past week. I’ve been obsessed with collecting Sanibel shells since I was 5 years old. My lifelong collection was displayed in tall glass cylinders organized by species (yes, I'm a shell nerd) in our Periwinkle office. Because we were remodeling our front office, I relocated my collection to our garage only to lose them all in the surge. They would have been lost regardless when the roof blew off our office. Needing a daily bright spot to focus on, I’ve been hiking my way to the beach twice daily helping SCCF find, tag and return displaced box turtles to their appropriate habitats. During Thursday morning’s walk, I found box turtle #10, and the most amazing shelling I’ve experienced in years. It’s rewarding to see hundreds of live shells thriving in the tidal zone. Yes, we have a red tide bloom, which is common following any major storm. However, nature is incredibly resilient and we need to be resilient too.

We all need to dig deep to be strong for one another. We need to share resources, lend a hand, and shoulder to cry on. Our Island journey to a new normal will require incredible strength, positivity, perseverance, patience, and generosity from everyone if we are going to rebuild successfully. Amid the devastation, nature is resilient. All Eagles have returned, uprooted trees are sprouting, salt submerged flowers are blooming, Ospreys are building nests. Nature is showing us the way and we need to draw strength from their examples.

We are having conversations with 100s of owners as they wrestle with overwhelming decisions. Everyone is in a different stage of recovery and it can be daunting. We’re here for you no matter what you’re facing. ~ The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #21 - November 16, 2022 - 860 Subscribers

Ian made landfall 50 days ago, and we all began new jobs on September 29th operating chain saws, generators, pressure washers, swinging sledge hammers, prying off doors, shoveling sewage smelling sludge, and trying to come to grips with our losses. It’s exhausting and overwhelming. As long as the landscape of our recovery continues to change, we will continue to add and amend resources.

Everyone receiving this email is in a different stage of their “Recovery Phase”, and facing unique challenges. Even on our street (a small sample of the island as a whole) some homes still remain unvisited since Ian. If you have neighbors and friends who have not been able to visit their homes, let us know so we can be their eyes and ears providing help they need to move forward.

Being here day after day for the past 13 days isn't easy. We try to focus on one hour at a time, one square foot at a time. I’m also keenly aware of how fortunate we are compared to so many others. Our home is “livable”. So many are not. Daily I try to remind myself that home is where our friends and family live, home is not the 4 walls that surround us. Let’s continue to help each other and ensure that our homes will once again be surrounded with friends, family and neighbors.

Dig deep and stay strong, keep sharing your resources, lending a helping hand, and providing a shoulder to cry on. We can do this! Together we are so much stronger. Nature is showing us the way and we need to draw strength from their resilient examples. ~ Eric, Mary Ellen, Mark & The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #22 - November 19, 2022 - 925 Subscribers

Ian made landfall 53 days ago, and we are all inundated with “TO DO” lists that keep growing. As I type this message, I’m sitting outside on the front steps of our Sanibel home - the only place with a cell signal hoping I can finish the update before losing the signal. I apologize if I’ve left out any valuable information. The list of resources has become quite lengthy.

Living in our home since Nov. 2nd, it’s encouraging to hear chain saws, generators and pool pumps finally breaking the eerie silence. We take baby steps and progress is slow. Some days it’s hard to notice what’s missing, and when we do, it’s usually a great pile of trash that has been picked up. Yesterday as I walked our street, I found 3 laminated bible verses in my neighbor's yard. As I dusted them off, our regular trash crew stopped to say hello. When the gentleman riding the back of the truck saw them, he said “that nice lady gives me one of those bible verse cards every Christmas and I have three of them in my wallet right now”. It made me wonder if our neighbor knew how much that small random act of kindness meant to him. I wish that all of our neighbors and friends could return home. It’s lonely being only one of only two "livable" homes on our street. Until we can reach some normalcy, I hope we will keep sharing random acts of kindness. They are worth more than gold right now.

Everyone is in a different stage of their “Recovery Phase”, and facing unique challenges. Many island properties remain unvisited since Ian. Friends and neighbors need those of us who are here to be their “boots on the ground”. Many absentee owners, don’t realize their remaining trash hasn’t been moved to the right of way for pickup. We need to be their eyes and ears.

Having been home for 17 long lonely days, I’m keenly aware of how fortunate we are compared to others. Our home is “livable”. So many are not. Yesterday was my 60th birthday celebrated quietly with an impromptu gathering on our screen-tattered, dust covered lanai where friends brought orchids to replace the many lost to Ian. Eventually these orchids will bloom in the few trees that remain in our yard. It will be a friend’s garden, a living reminder that home truly is where friends and family are, not the 4 walls that surround us.

Dig deep, stay strong, keep sharing, lend a hand, give hugs, and provide a shoulder to cry on. Together we are so much stronger, and we can do this! Many hands always make for lighter work as we saw yesterday when Eric joined our great neighbors Tom and Lynn Meline and Pat Tremble to clear the Shell Harbor beach path. Armed with one chain saw, 2 rakes and a wheel barrow, and grit, they opened a path in just a few hours for all of us to use and enjoy. It’s not perfect, but it’s a baby step to normal.

We're off-road in uncharted territory on journeys that require incredible strength, positivity, perseverance, patience, and generosity from everyone if we are going to rebuild successfully. We're ready to help no matter what you're facing. ~ The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #23 - November 23, 2022 - 1,034 Subscribers

We hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

We have so much to be thankful for. Thanks to Mission BBQ, we will be having Thanksgiving in our Sanibel home. Since Hurricane Ian made landfall 56 days ago, our gratitude list is massive. Thank you the young fishing guide Jack who helped Mary Ellen get to Sanibel for the first time on October 5th and would not take any money. Thank you Shawn Stilley (Owner of P & S Plumbing) and his son Koi for the many boat rides to Sanibel during the early recovery. Thank you to our neighbors Jim and Melissa for lending their boat, the only one still functioning on our street. Thank you to the Calib Street owners for letting us use their dock. Thank you to the electrician Erick Tabin for turning down a big Naples job to help our neighbors connect to power. Thank you to the lineman for the can of neon pink spray paint to ID our house numbers. Thanks to all of you reading this, you are our neighbors and friends and without you, Sanibel and Captiva would not be home. Our list is endless and we know that when this is over, there will not be enough thank you notes or words to express our gratitude.

This morning I was reminded of how hard it can be to see Sanibel for the first time. Last night a dear friend and his daughter spent the night so they could pick up a few things from their Island home. It was her first time back after Ian and I saw the sadness and shock in her eyes. We all still wonder how one storm in 8 hours could do all this. However, while those seeing our Islands for the first time see devastation, we see progress. So many of us find ourselves saying “I know it looks bad now, but you should have seen it before”. There’s been tremendous progress made whether it’s visible or not.

We Islanders are so fortunate that we all have something in common that binds us together: our love of Sanibel & Captiva. And together is the only way we will restore our home. So keep that GRIT. We can do this. One day, one hour, one square foot at a time. ~ The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #24 - November 28, 2022 - 1,049 Subscribers

This Thanksgiving weekend there was a sliver of “normal” as we attended ‘Tween Waters annual tree lighting. Thank you Doug Babcock and Tony Lapi for a wonderful holiday season kick off and giving us a place to gather! There was lively music, and hugs, cold beverages and hugs, beautiful Christmas lights, fireworks and more hugs.

Eric and I have been in our damaged Sanibel home for 28 days avoiding injuries until we both needed Tetanus shots within 24 hours of each other. Hazards are everywhere. Please don’t take this lightly. A vaccine can easily prevent the infection. Sanibel & Captiva will be under construction for several years and there will be many unforeseen challenges. Having a plan for that flat tire, the unexpected cut, running out of fuel, another boil water notice, will all bring peace of mind.

We’re fortunate that we have something in common that binds us all together: our love of Sanibel & Captiva. Together is the only way we will restore our home. Keep that GRIT. We can do this. One day, one hour, one square foot, and one rusty nail at a time.

Many of you have expressed interest in helping and volunteering. When there is an organized outlet, we will let everyone know where they can focus their efforts. We hope that each day brings more helpful and useful information. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer & The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #25 - December 1, 2022 - 1,099 Subscribers

Ian made landfall 65 days ago and the best thing happening across the island is the return of neighbors. We’ve gone from being the only home occupied on our street to one of 4 homes filled with great neighbors with arriving by January! It’s incredible to experience the determination of those to return, regardless of the challenges and the condition of their homes. One of our neighbors who is a widow in her 80s said to me yesterday “Who would ever thought that at my age, I would be this excited to pick out colors and designs for my home’s remodel? I hope to move in soon”. Her positivity was overflowing. Others are camping out in the upper levels of their homes despite ground level damage. Many neighbors, who’s homes are uninhabitable are here daily cleaning not only their homes but helping others.

After Eric attended this week's Chamber of Commerce Luncheon he was raving about how wonderful it was. He was most inspired by Simple Social Marketing owner Will Hutchinson’s opening remarks. He shared that his fondest memories were made on Sanibel and Captiva Islands and reminded everyone that their hard work now is not just restoring a home, a yard, or a business. We're creating and restoring so much more. Our collective labors will produce future memories for many. A child’s first trip to the beach, landing that first tarpon, spotting a dolphin, magical engagements, beautiful weddings, and family reunions.

So as we continue to shovel, rake, sweep, saw, haul, pressure wash and in my case, wear the same work clothes over and over, we are all working towards a bigger collective result: great memories. We’ve got the grit and determination to do this and together our islands will be the magical place were memories are made. Once there is an organized volunteer outlet, we will let everyone know where to focus their efforts. ~ The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #26 - December 8, 2022 - 1,259 Subscribers

Ian made landfall 72 days ago and positive progress is continues. Recently, City Council Member Dr. Scott Crater stressed the importance of normalcy, and re-creating those routines and rituals that bring us peace and joy. His "normal' was cycling on a road bike which is not possible with the debris so he bought a bike suitable for the conditions. I replaced my normal walks to and from our office and on the Shipley Trail with walks to absentee neighbor’s homes to be their eyes and ears and walks along damaged dunes searching for displaced box turtles to be tagged by SCCF.

This week has brought some amazingly normal events, so normal in fact that many of us witnessing them might not even notice. Who knew that Mullet jumping, a Manatee basking in the canal, or White Pelicans and Frigates soaring high could be so exciting? They are beautifully normal. As I type this message a barge moved along our canal lifting out sunken limbs and furniture which will foster more “normal moments” for us all to enjoy. This desire for normal inspired me to climb a ladder to the top of our roofless office to salvage The Sanibel Elves and gather them in front of our broken and battered office building.

As we continue to shovel, rake, sweep, saw, haul, pressure wash, hydrate and do it again the next day, our collective labors ARE resulting in more normalcy, not only for ourselves but for all who will visit our beautiful islands for generations to come.

We continue to add and amend resources as soon as they become available. We’re here for you no matter where you fall in your recovery/restoration and what you’re facing. Please reach out to us, we want to help you any way we can. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #27 - December 12, 2022 - 1,275 Subscribers

Ian made landfall 76 days ago and we hope you will consider signing up to help SCCF clean the beach. Details for volunteer signup are found in our resource topics. Last week I joined SCCF's Board of Trustees for a second term. When we bought our first property on Sanibel in the 90's nearly 60% of the Island was held in conservation. That percentage has continued to grown to nearly 70% largely due to the successful land acquisition efforts of SCCF - a GIFT for all of us to enjoy this holiday season. In the spirit of giving, SCCF has unveiled their "TREE-BUILD" campaign. You can purchase a gift card to help friends and neighbors replant their yards with native plants or you may sponsor a plant to help the Native Landscapes and Garden Center restock storm-depleted inventory.

There's great news for those of you on Sanibel's East End: the Periwinkle Bridge is open to vehicle traffic! Right after Ian, many felt like they were taking 1 step forward and 2 steps back, but now many have switched their tempo to 2 steps forward and 1 step back. Debris removal has been our litmus test for progress. I was personally fixated on the king size mattress on the tennis court at the Moorings. Each morning that it remained untouched I would proclaim it was once again "Ground Hog Day" as that nasty mattress mocked me with its enduring presence. It disappeared on day 73! Another symbol of positive progress. I'm sure I will find something else to fixate on, it's human nature, but for now, I'm still celebrating the disappearance of that silly mattress.

We hope everyone continues to take 2 steps forward and hopefully no more than 1 back every now and then as together we restore our beautiful islands. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #28 - December 19, 2022 - 1,340 Subscribers

Ian made landfall 83 days ago and with Christmas less than a week away, we have all be given the gift of cleaner beaches! Organized piles of debris gathered over countless hours by many hands dotted the shoreline last week allowing crews to easily dispose of them. The large tangled masses of roots and limbs are also being cleared and washouts are becoming less pronounced. Our cleaner beaches truly are a gift for all of us to enjoy this holiday season.

There's still time if you want to volunteer to help SCCF clean the beaches on December 20th and 21st! As the largest private land holder on Sanibel and Captiva Islands, SCCF helps plants, animals and humans live in harmony on our our beautiful islands. Ding Darling also needs volunteers to help clean the refuge with a ranger. If you are interested in helping, space is limited. Every little bit helps!

Today our next door neighbors received a big gift as a massive land crane anchored in our front yard attempting to perform a miracle. Once fully extended, the crane attracted the attention of many who gathered to witness a seemingly impossible task. Over the next 4 hours they extracted a brand new boat (used only once before Ian) from between two homes across the street, raised it 100 feet to clearing tree tops, placed it on a trailer, repositioned the crane and repeated the process over again lowering their beautiful undamaged boat back into the canal. Their boat is back up on the lift as if Ian didn't occur. It's truly hard to comprehend how this boat floated up and over the lift, between our two homes over fences and trees, continued across the street, up a driveway, and came to rest on top of a tangled mass of trees between the two homes across the street without a scratch. Truly miraculous! What a wonderful gift for the holiday.

For those of us who are on the Islands frequently, it's a challenge to see if we can spot and appreciate what's missing. It's in those missing items we find the gifts. The gift of cleaner beaches, the gift of rubbish-free refuges, streets with less broken glass, and the gift of trees without boats for ornaments. It's in those gifts that we find hope and strength.

We wish everyone a wonderful holiday and we will continue to add and amend resources as soon as possible. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer & The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #29 - December 28, 2022 - 1,410 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Hurricane Ian made landfall exactly 3 months ago today and as we look to the future, we hope that 2023 is a year of positivity and resilience as we turn the page to a new chapter in the book of our lives.

The new year is always a time to reflect and make resolutions. Goals we hope to achieve or promises we try our best to uphold. For our family, we hope to give away many of the things we've been storing for decades. It's difficult to face generations of collected and stored "stuff" and we hope that other families all over Southwest Florida find joy in the many things we have decided to let go. For me, the hardest part of this New Year's resolution will be to resist the urge to replace these items over time. For those of you who know me well, I'm still a "shell hoarder" and may need an intervention to face this collecting problem. Perhaps I can procrastinate a shell purge until next year.

We wish everyone a Happy New Year and we will continue to add and amend resources as soon as they become available. Regardless of where you fall on your recovery and restoration journey, we’re here for you. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer & The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #30 - January 5, 2023 - 1,494 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Happy New Year! We would like to add "Goodbye twenty twenty two, we will not miss you!"

Hurricane Ian made landfall exactly 100 days ago today and as we look to the future, we hope that this will be a year filled with positivity and resilience as we begin a new chapter in the book of our lives.

Positive sights and sounds are outshining the devastation many of us have grown accustom to these past 3 months. My daily beach walks to find wayward box turtles for SCCF to tag have morphed into journeys to collect trash washed up after each tide cycle. The great news is that it now takes more than a mile to fill a trash bag as each day are beaches are more beautiful. Each high tide cycle deposits a wide variety of debris, but many hands make light work and there are thousands of hands working everywhere.

If you're on Sanibel this weekend, consider helping the Sanibel Bike Club as they will gather Saturday Jan. 7th to collect debris along Periwinkle. Ding Darling also continues to organize volunteers each Wednesday to help clean the Refuge with a Ranger. No matter where you roam on the Island, consider taking a trash bag. Every little bit helps and together we are making tremendous progress.

Many neighbors and friends have yet to see their property in person and everyone is in a different stage of processing, remediating and repairing damage while experiencing a wide range of difficult emotions. Regardless of where you fall on your recovery and restoration journey, we’re here for you. .~ The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #31 - January 11, 2023 - 1,526 Subscribers

Ian made landfall exactly 106 days ago today and there is positive progress everywhere. Beaches are cleaner, Gulf waters are shimmering and clear, dolphin are jumping and birds are diving on schools of bait fish.

The FEMA and SBA application deadline is tomorrow Jan. 12th. Also looming is the deadline for Florida Department of Emergency Management funding for debris collection which will end sometime in February after which homeowners will need to find other collection options. We have also added more Public Adjusters should you need additional help navigating your insurance claims. We've also created a new Vendor category for Builders of Modular Homes due to the speed with which they can be built and their lower cost per square foot.

Like many others, we've been "ghosted" by several contractors leaving us no choice but to reach out to others. Many contractors are simply stretched too thin and overwhelmed. If you are trying to find a responsive contractor, please reach out. We will help you find an option as many contractors with manpower and supplies are reaching out to our team. We just had our roof repaired quickly and reasonably by a contractor we didn't know prior to Ian. There are options out there.

Beach walks to collect trash have become longer as I must walk further each day to fill a bag, which is great progress. It's also a struggle to find a wayward box turtle for SCCF to tag, which hopefully indicates they've found suitable habitats. I continue to measure daily progress by trying to spot and appreciate things that are missing. Yesterday it was the giant pile of debris dumped on a vacant lot on Lindgren that disappeared leaving only a motorized wheelchair. I'm sure that chair will be my next visual obsession and benchmark of progress when it too disappears. I wonder where that wheelchair came from. I wonder who it helped before Ian. Each bit of debris has a story, a life before Ian. Honoring and acknowledging that before placing it in a trash bag helps me move forward more productively.

Many neighbors and friends have yet to see their property in person and everyone is in a different stage. We're all mourning different losses. There are only 6 homes out of 30 on our street occupied from time to time. We really miss our neighbors. Let us know what resources you need. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #32 - January 18, 2023 - 1,554 Subscribers

Ian made landfall 113 days ago and at times it seems like a lifetime ago as we have all been busy walking our own recovery mile. This week's best news is that the City hopes to open 2 Beach Parks in February.

Last evening it was nice to see my own "debris mountain" along with many others on the beach picked up by a rake truck. Yesterday's south wind and surf washed quite a bit of debris ashore. Hoping to fill another bag before it was too dark, I walked past our deeded beach path and encountered a couple needing help with an injured bird. They held my dog's leash, and took my bag of trash so that I could place the Gull in my backpack without drawing Tucker's attention. It was humbling to see the efforts of so many to help one bird on a long journey to CROW's temporary clinic. All CROW patients must go to Blue Pearl near I-75 where they are then picked up by a staff member and transported to CROW. It's easy to take things for granted and assume they will always be the same. After this Laughing Gull's journey, we won't ever take the efforts of CROW for granted.

It's wonderful to see more neighbors come home and it's easy to make new friends as we venture out and about. There's no need for icebreakers as Ian is the conversation starter with complete strangers. The Farmer's Market at Jerry's was a tremendous success with some vendors selling out of inventory. It's also exciting to have Ace Hardware back. Many more businesses are opening and we won't take them for granted.

While progress is happening in all areas, many friends and neighbors are still at square one. Some without power, others without roofs, walls, AC or internet. These hardships are compounded by insurance claim hurdles, price gouging and contractor delays. We joke that our own office has an "open door, open roof policy" but we are so fortunate that our business can work remotely, while most don't have this luxury. There are now 7 homes out of 30 on our street that can be occupied. Sadly neighbors in 5 of the remaining 23 unoccupied homes have made the difficult decision to sell. We miss everything that we took for granted before September 28th 2022. Reach out to us with anything you need.~ The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #33 - January 23, 2023 - 1,580 Subscribers

Hurricane Ian made landfall 118 days ago and each day brings progress and encouragement mixed with a wide array of other emotions. While there was not a City of Sanibel FaceBook Live Update last week, there was a lengthy Council Meeting viewable on their FB page.

Yesterday, Eric and I were able to safely enter the top floor of our roofless office for the very first time, thanks to a great group of men armed with chain saws. Because we were in the midst of remodeling the office, everything was stored upstairs before Ian blew the roof off and collapsed the front wall creating a "Jenga puzzle of hazards". Wearing Army boots and armed with a flat shovel, we untangled insulation covered debris allowing us to salvage several things including irreplaceable photos, works of art and historical items. We're thankful that the wall collapsed in a way that protected some contents from the elements. Like so many others, we are in a holding pattern as the future repair/recovery path of our building is not a clear and easy decision.

I continue to scour the beach for trash daily and now carry extra bags to share with others. It's encouraging to see so many people engaged and actively pursuing the same goal. Debris piles that dot the shoreline are a visual reminder that we are all doing our best to clear a path to recovery.

Watching our neighbors see their home for the first time over the weekend, was a poignant reminder that we are walking our own path to recovery. There are still homes and businesses without power, others without roofs, walls, AC or internet. Progress and hardships to be compounded by insurance claim hurdles, price gouging and contractor delays. On our street, there are now 7 homes out of 30 that can be occupied. Sadly neighbors in 6 of the remaining 23 unoccupied homes have made the difficult decision to sell and 2 neighbors have shared that they will demolishing and rebuilding their homes. Who knew that our paths would change so dramatically on September 28th, 2022. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #34 - February 2, 2023 - 1,610 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Happy Groundhog Day! Hurricane Ian made landfall over 4 months ago. Since the City of Sanibel has cancelled their last two updates, we waited a few more days to include as much new information as possible. Sanibel's City Council meeting next Tuesday will include progress updates and broadcast live on FB and can be attended in person for those who are here at BIG ARTS.

In these updates I try to focus on positive news however, at times it feels disingenuous when my own emotions don't align with my message. Progress is happening, but the visuals are much harder to spot. In many areas, especially along the beach, properties seem to be frozen in time, as they stand dark, silent and gutted. This week as I collected some Cockle shells for Sanibel Sea School projects, giant tire marks made walking difficult. Beach debris continues to be removed but it was heartbreaking to see several trash piles (painstakingly collected by so many of us) plowed over and scattered back into the sand. We say we're strong and resilient and at the same time feel frustrated and defeated.

Our own roofless Periwinkle Way office has been frozen in time since Ian. Initially told it needed to be demolished, we left it alone, but now that's being debated leaving us with mountains of debris to move to the curb before Feb 20th. On a positive note, after 4 months the pottery-like shards of hardened sludge are easy to shovel off the floor, and the shattered glass cubes that were once the front door sparkle like jewels scattered throughout. Thanks to Magdiel of EMI Construction and his hard working crew, we will gut our office together this Saturday.

Frozen by the inability to control situations, many feel like they're stuck in quicksand watching life pass in slow motion, unable to move forward. It's been 4 months and the outside world has moved on. Often we're asked by those who didn't experience Ian's devastation "How are you?" but they don't want the real answer, so we just say "fine". It's the default emotionless answer that's easiest to deal with. My friend Jacque gave me a car magnet that reads "ITS FINE. I'M FINE. EVERYTHING IS FINE." I love it. It's the perfect amount of sarcasm to suit our situation. Even though the 'no-see-ums' are so thick you can actually "see-um" I've been taking out my negative energy and frustrations physically attacking sludge in the yard. It's here that our newest residents seem to mock me. The Screech Owl has made a comfortable home in the owl box and the Ospreys have finished rebuilding their home too. If birds can get back to normal, certainly we can do the same? Once my sludge attacking tantrums are over, I'll be back out on the beach gathering trash.

We're trying our best to vet information and will continue to do so. ~ Eric and Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #35 - February 9, 2023: 1,628 Subscribers

Ian made landfall 135 days ago. There are some great strides being made especially the opening of two Sanibel public beaches this past weekend: Tarpon Bay Beach and Blind Pass Beach. The Sanibel School also opened this week, another great milestone of progress. With the Debris pick-up deadline 11 days away, we are seeing several new piles appearing street-side.

This week I enjoyed asking friends what the following have in common: a dock, a tagged box turtle, a perfect angel wing, & a gutter. Any guesses? I'm back gathering trash along the tide lines and found all these things Monday morning. Gathering the gutter was easy, but the dock will require heavy equipment. Yesterday I found an unopened package of resort coffee in some branches in our own "debris-free" backyard. The power of this storm continues to be mind-boggling.

Just as mind-boggling as the storm's power, is natures ability to rebound. It's amazing that every nesting pair of Eagles returned. One pair built a new nest on SCCF's Puschel Preserve, a parcel of land that SCCF generously allowed to be temporarily used as a debris staging area. These Eagles not only survived, they thrived and were even spotted picking iguanas off of the trash.

Our roofless office, frozen in time for the past 133 days, is now the newest debris pile on Periwinkle Way. Initially told it needed to be demolished, we left it alone, but now we'r'e being told it might be salvageable. The crew helping us remove debris were astonished to find a large fish in the office (obviously not alive) and a tiny mud turtle no bigger than a quarter still alive in the dried sludge. SCCF relocated this tiny "tortuga"" to a more suitable home. Just another mind-boggling example.

Regardless of where you fall on your recovery path, we can help. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer & The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #35 - February 16, 2023: 1,634 Subscribers

Ian made landfall 142 days ago. With only 4 days left to place debris on the right of way for "free" removal, most property owners have addressed this issue and Crowder Gulf is doing an excellent job clearing the streets. Equally encouraging, the City of Sanibel's Public Works Department removed all the debris piles along the beach that were spontaneously created by hundreds of helping hands.

Like so many of you, the progress of our gutted, roofless office on Periwinkle Way is in limbo as we wait on a survey and a certified appraisal to determine the recovery path available for us to take. Fortunately, thanks to Covid, we incorporated all the tools needed to work efficiently without an office. Unfortunately many businesses don't have that luxury. One such business is Billy's Bikes and we hope you will join us this Sunday to celebrate their grand re-opening!

This week as I passed by neighbors on my way to gather trash on the beach, they exclaimed "Hey we have power now!" Prior to this, their power came from the generosity of a next door neighbor and a long outdoor extension cord. As we hear of more events and business openings, it's easy to forget how many of our friends and neighbors are still struggling to obtain the basic necessities. Some are living in RVs on their property while others, like two of our neighbors, are camping out in the top level of their homes. We are fortunate to be able to live in our home, while so many are not.

As progress continues, many sights are starting to look almost pre-Ian normal. On one hand I never want to think about Ian again and on the other hand, it terrifies me that I might forget Ian's devastation.

To address many questions, several industry experts will come together for a live webinar: Ask the Experts - Navigating Post-Ian Real Estate Challenges. Panel experts include: Chris Heidrick - Heidrick & Company Insurance, Marc Gizzi - Gizzi Appraisal & Consulting, Janet Davis - Midland 1031, David Wright - Sanibel Captiva Community Bank and Eric Pfeifer- Real Estate Broker. Webinar will be held on February 27th at 1:00pm.

Reach out to us with anything you need. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer & The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #37 - February 22, 2023: 1,651 Subscribers

Ian made landfall 148 days ago and the recovery topic list continues to grow. The most important news is the deadline to place debris on the right of way for "free" removal has been extended by DEP to March 1st and Crowder Gulf has until March 29th for final removal. It was also a stressful weekend for those who heard that FEMA had concerns regarding the use of the Leepa.org Tax Role Letter to determine property value. Fortunately after Matt Caldwell's clarification FEMA issued another letter Saturday accepting this tool. We can also celebrate the Ground Breaking on the EAA Reservoir. Details on this and several other topics have been updated below.

Last night it was great to attend the Captiva Civic Association's Porch & Patio series and see so many familiar faces. It felt normal. As we left, the night sky over the Gulf was spectacular with the sliver of moon low over the water and Venus and Jupiter shining like diamonds on a black slate. It felt normal. We finished the evening at Doc Fords, and like other open restaurants, it was filled. It felt normal. Our server Michelle continued to thank us and everyone at other tables for coming, reminding us of how many others are affected by Ian's ripple effect. They're loyal, thankful to return to work, and crave the same "normal". After nearly 5 months, I think we all know that normal is a long way down our journey path and when we finally get there, will we know it? Will it fell normal? ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #38 - February 28, 2023: 1,661 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Five months ago today, Hurricane Ian made landfall and this morning at 6am, Sanibel's Historic Lighthouse beacon was lit for the first time since the storm. What a great symbol of our community's determination, resiliency and resolve to build back. Another incredible sight is occurring on the Causeway Islands and it's not heavy equipment or today's major traffic jam, but an amazing gathering of White Pelicans. While many neighbors and friends are determined to return home, these beautiful "snow birds" are setting an example of embracing the changes Ian has created. For those who love to hike, the Shipley Trail behind the Bailey Homestead just opened and while several animals along the trail have been displaced, we hope they will return home like the White Pelicans have done.

These days it's more difficult to spot major changes that signify progress with one big exception. With 90+ demolition permits submitted, it's unsettling to pass by a cleared lot and find yourself struggling to remember what was there. So much of life is a comfortable routine. Driving the same street a thousand times without actively noticing our surroundings is one such routine. However, the loss of familiar landmarks makes driving regular routes uncomfortable. For those who are here, watching a neighbor's home demolished and disappear so quickly, is extremely difficult. It was someone's dream. On our street of 30 homes, 8 are now habitable, 6 owners have chosen to sell, and 2 homes will be demolished and built back. Intuitively we know everything will be built back better and stronger but that doesn't make the sights and the journey any easier.

Yesterday, over 400 people registered to attend our free Ask The Experts Webinar - Navigating Post-Ian Real Estate Challenges. Due to the overwhelming response and number of questions posed to the panel, we hope to organize a follow-up webinar to continue to assist with everyone's recovery journey. A special thank you to David Wright from Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, Janet Davis from Midland 1031, Chris Heidrick of Heidrick & Co. Insurance & Marc Gizzi of Gizzi Appraisal Services for sharing your time & professional advise. Thanks also to Brenda Whetsell and Mark Pfeifer for setting up the technology for this event.

Let us know what we can help you with. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer & The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #39 - March 11, 2023: 1,658 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, As I type this update, It's been 5 months, 11 days and 1 hour ago since Ian made landfall, (not that I'm counting), and progress is all around us even if it's hard to "see". Humanitarian progress is lifting the spirits of all who are willing to attend events, support local businesses, volunteer and get involved. This week's packed house at BIG ARTS for the first in a series sponsored by the newly formed SanCap Citizens for a Resilient Future: Emerging from Hurricane Ian: Stronger & More Resilient exemplifies humanitarianism in action. Thank you to Sanibel's first Mayor, Porter Goss, moderator & Sanibel Councilman John Henshaw, Traci Sharp (owner of Island Paws & Over Easy Cafe'), Jerry Muench (owner of Periwinkle Park), Sharon Michie (owner of Cottage to Castles) and Dick Bourdow (Sanibel resident since 2010) for reminding us that we are not alone in our recovery journey. This event can be viewed on The City of Sanibel's FaceBook page, and more events are being planned.

This week it was uplifting to attend SCCF's 2-day retreat as the Board of Trustees together with CEO James Evans and every department leader gathered to developed the organization's 5-year strategic plan. We all came away energized and excited for the future of our Islands and SWFL. It's humbling to see SCCF's tireless efforts that make Sanibel and Captiva one of the most amazing coastal communities in the world. As we "build back better" we hope our islands will be a model of resilience and sustainability where humans and nature thrive in harmony.

Our recovery journey is challenging. Franklin Delano Roosevelt once said "a smooth sea never made a skilled sailor", and we will all emerge from this voyage stronger and wiser. Until then, we need to keep an eye on the horizon and be prepared to occasionally reef the main, baton the hatches, and adjust course until we succeed.

If you are feeling alone, frustrated, depressed or disconnected, PLEASE attend CFI's Volunteer Expo at BIG ARTS on March 30th. Every non-profit will be represented and they will be sharing all the areas where you can lend a hand, get involved, find support and outlets to help others with your time, talent and treasure.

As many homeowners are beginning to focus on their yards, Sanibel City Councilman Dr. Scott Crater would like to remind everyone to incorporate native vegetation into gardens that allow wildlife to thrive and SCCF's Replanting Guide is an excellent resource. Demand for scheduled house calls with SCCF's Native Landscapes and Garden Center experts has been so great that their onsite visits are booked out until July which is exciting. Additionally, SCCF garden center experts are available for consultations at the Bailey Homestead every week Tuesday - Thursday 10:00 to 3:00.

Regardless of where you fall on your recovery journey, we can help. We will need each other's help, kindness, patience, understanding and support all along our journey to "normal". Please reach out to us anytime. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer & The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #40 - March 17, 2023: 1,659 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Happy Saint Patrick's Day! May the luck of the Irish be with you as you continue your recovery journey on day 171 post-Ian. The signs of progress are more beautiful each day. All across the islands native flowers are flourishing everywhere, literally in areas where plants shouldn't survive. Pink, white and lilac Periwinkles and Dune Daisys are popping up like bouquets in gravel, sludge, and among the weeds. Another plant has islanders so bewildered that we have created a way to help solve this mystery. Tomatoes! Ripe, edible tomatoes are flourishing all across the islands. Why? We don't know yet, but we are determined to solve this phenomenon and we need your help to do it! If you have found tomatoes on your property, be sure to be a part of the Tomato Mystery Solution.

Another welcome sign of progress is not a sight, but a sound, one we have missed for months. It's contagious giggling, and splashing as visiting grandchildren play in nearby pools. Who knew you could miss something so normal this much?

On a very serious note, there's a COUNTY WIDE BAN ON BURNING. Due to the amount of dry, brittle vegetation and lack of rain, just one cigarette or spark can start a fire that has the capacity to grow and spread rapidly. While our unusually dry conditions have been favorable for many with damaged roofs, these same conditions have made control burns impossible. Please let friends, neighbors and contractors know to be extra careful.

Our recovery journey will remain challenging and if Franklin Delano Roosevelt was right when he said "a smooth sea never made a skilled sailor", then we are all going be skilled seafarers. We will all emerge from this voyage stronger and wiser. Until then, we need to keep an eye on the horizon and be prepared to occasionally reef the main, baton the hatches, and adjust course until we succeed.

If you are feeling alone, frustrated, depressed or disconnected, PLEASE attend CFI's Volunteer Expo at BIG ARTS on March 30th. Every non-profit will be represented and they will be sharing all the areas where you can lend a hand, get involved, find support and outlets to help others with your time, talent and treasure. Our team is ready, willing, and able to assist in all efforts to heal our community. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer 



Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #41 - March 25, 2023: 1,664 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, This Tuesday marks the 6-month anniversary of Ian's impact, and for many of us living on-island, time continues to move at a very strange pace as we go about our daily routines. While the rest of the world has moved on, we fell forgotten, as if we are in a time warp.

While many businesses continue opening, our islands have a long road ahead to recover. Everywhere you go, there is so much to do. Even today, on a beautiful Saturday afternoon in the middle of our traditionally "high season", walking on Lindgren and Periwinkle Way, only a few cars pass by. Taking a different route on my walk home I was reminded once again how fortunate we are to have a habitable home as I passed a pop-up camper run by a generator. Later today, it was shocking to meet a resident with 2 FEMA trailers on their property that still are not habitable because they are waiting for FEMA inspectors to give them approval to to connect the trailers to a power source. It seems like we are living through a tragic comedy playing out in slow motion.

On a fun note, thank you to those of you who participated in our "Solve Sanibel's Tomato Mystery!" Over 65 people shared where they found tomatoes growing in their yards. With the help of SCCF's Jenny Evans, we hope to find out why this is occurring.

We're all in this together and together we will recover and eventually be back to normal. Please reach out to us anytime. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #42 - April 4, 2023: 1,664 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, When we started this update on September 29th, 2022 we never thought we would still be adding resource topics as we head into month 7 of our Post-Ian recovery journey.

This week's events underscored how well everyone is working collectively to help one another. During the Community House Celebration, Marty Harrity reminded us that the "unity" in our "community" will be our success. CFI's Sold-Out Volunteer Expo at BIG ARTS was a tangible example of our unity with every non-profit represented and the tremendous outpouring of willingness to get involved. Porter Goss, Chauncey Goss, David Mintz, John Lai and Chip Roach deserve a tremendous thank you for making the volunteer expo informative and entertaining. Last night our "community unity" was shining bright once again as we gathered in Bailey's General Store parking lot to give back to a family that has supported our island residents for 125 years. Bailey's Waterline Wine Auction was a tremendous success and a big thank you to Melissa Donahue of Sweet Melissa's and Tommy Williams for keeping the crowd well fed and entertained.

On another positive note, mail is being delivered to anyone in residence with a standing mail box. Our first piece of mail after 6 months was a lovely note sitting inside our sludge-coated mailbox. Propped up by a piece of plywood and strapped with an extension cord to a salvaged flag pole, it's quite tacky but that flag has waved proudly for months on our post-Ian work of art. Yes, it's time for a new mailbox.

"Unity in our community" will be the path that helps us all move forward in our recovery journey. As important as it is to lend a hand, it's equally important to ask for help. There are so many friends and neighbors who are ready, willing and able to help. Please reach out anytime. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #43 - April 13, 2023: 1,687 Subscribers

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Saturday will mark 200 days since Ian made landfall, and slowly but surely we are successfully navigating the hurdles in our recovery path. What a journey we have endured thus far. It's easy to lose perspective when there is still so much left to accomplish, but we are all doing a remarkable job. If you need a reminder of our progress, we've summarized our Hurricane Ian Recovery Journey Here.

Amidst all the progress, there are still so many questions. Some are voiced while others are kept silent. Some are rhetorical, and others unanswerable. I find myself wondering "How can 8 hours do this much damage? What use to be on that vacant lot? Why can't I remember what was there? Why are electric meters put back below the base flood elevation? What's going on with all the caterpillars eating the Strangler Figs? How long do roof tarps last? How did a 7 foot tomato plant grow so quickly in my yard unnoticed?, Will I still have my sanity when we get back to normal?" And the questions keep going...

One big question that we all need to attempt answering is "How can we be more resilient like nature?" No matter where you look, the plants and animals are taunting us with their ability to adapt and thrive. Canals are filled with Snook, Sheepshead, & mating Manatees. Dolphins and Tarpon are jumping. Osprey and Eagle nests have fledglings. Periwinkles and Dune Daisys are thriving and trees are sprouting foliage everywhere. It's beautiful.

Our team is ready, willing, and able to assist in all efforts to heal our community. ~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer & The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #44 - April 26, 2023: 1,685 Subscribers, 200 Resource Topics

Dear Friends and Neighbors, This Friday will mark 7 months since Ian made landfall. Time is difficult to judge or quantify anymore. As we enjoyed Monday evening's Bailey Matthew's National Shell Museum fundraiser at Broadway Palm featuring Kevin Nealon, it was hard to believe that only a year ago we enjoyed Kevin's humor at the Sanibel Community House. It seems like a lifetime has passed during the last 365 days. A lifetime of emotions, a lifetime of memories, a lifetime of cleaning, a lifetime of sorting, a lifetime of sharing and caring and most of all, a lifetime of giving!

The level of giving is truly amazing. It's been humbling to see the incredible generosity of our friends and neighbors helping others in need. During last week's fundraiser for F.I.S.H. of Sanibel and Captiva nearly $1,000,000 was donated by 88 attendees. The donation that set the stage was $500.000 from a Sanibel couple who shared that they would much rather see the impact their gifts can make now while they are a vibrant part of our community. What an example for us all! There are many examples of selfless generosity playing out all across Southwest Florida. It's truly incredible. THANK YOU to everyone who is giving their time, talent and treasure to help those in need.

We hope this information is helpful for your family. ~ The Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #45 - May 9, 2023: 1,685 Subscribers, 203 Resource Topics

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Here we are 224 days after Ian made landfall and the recovery progress spans a wide range. Some properties have been completely repaired inside and out with beautiful blooming gardens while others remain empty shells and yes, a few properties still stand untouched literally as grim reminders of Ian's devastation.

One thing that has become more obvious as the days and weeks roll by is our inability to have engaging conversations that don't eventually pivot into storm talk. A life long friend came to visit our Sanibel home last week and it was so apparent that storm talk was everywhere we went: every restaurant, every shop, every neighbor or stranger we passed. It's our ice breaker, it's our small talk, it's our obsession, it's what binds us. Is this normal? Is it healing? Is this healthy? When will this stop? Should it stop?

It's challenging to hold engaging conversations that don't pivot into storm topics. Even this weekend while attending a beautiful wedding in Dallas, it was remarkable how quickly the conversation switched. All someone needs to ask is where you're from and look out! Here come the questions!

Friends of ours in the British Virgin Islands whose restaurant, hotel and home were were all severely damaged by Hurricane Irma in 2017 shared that even now, not a day goes by that they aren't reminded of Irma. Eventually we will move away from our storm-driven conversations and place Ian in our memories, but for now it's apparent that friends, neighbors and complete strangers need to talk, to share, and to know they are not alone.

On a side note, before sending this email, I walked on the beach to enjoy the low tide at sunset. The cotton candy skies, the shells, the birds, the gentle lapping waves, it was breathtaking, but that was not the most amazing thing. It was the first time since Ian, that I took my shoes off and strolled barefooted in the low tide and exposed sand bar. What a wonderful thing to feel the sand between your toes again. Who would think something so simple could be appreciated this much!

We understand this email is extremely lengthy! However, when we attempt to remove some older topics, we encounter individuals who have just begun their clean-up efforts.  ~ Eric and Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #46 - May 26, 2023: 1,685 Subscribers, 205 Resource Topics

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Today marks 8 months since Ian made landfall and hurricane season officially begins in 4 days.

It's hard to put emotions into words. As we head into hurricane season, questions are endless and emotions are conflicted. The plants and animals desperately need rain and lots of it, but with that comes more issues for so many owners with structures tangled in an endless web of gridlock created by unresolved insurance claims, permit and inspection delays, and limited contractor availability. With our roofless building on Periwinkle Way stuck in this same web, we understand the frustrations so many are wrestling with.

As I type this update, we are exploring Moab and Zion Utah, a much-needed mental break from living on Sanibel day after day. It's hard to type these words. Sanibel was always the place we couldn't wait to come home to, and now it's the place we need to escape from periodically to remain sane. What is most shocking being in Utah, and oddly refreshing, is how most people here are Ian-oblivious. When asked where we're from, there's either no reaction or an envious response regarding our how lucky we are to live on and island. How can they not know about Ian? The reaction is complete different from the Texas residents we encountered during a wedding weekend. Could it be that people focus on natural disasters only based on where they live?

Sanibel will always be the place we look forward to returning home to, regardless of the challenges. Words can't describe how beautiful many things are right now: the sparkling emerald waters of the Gulf, the incredible shells washing up with each tide, the Snook swimming between the sandbars along deserted beaches, the abundant sea turtle nests, the thriving shore birds, the newly fledged eagles soaring, and the wildflowers sprouting island wide.

~ Eric & Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #47 - June 8, 2023

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Summer is here and the frequent rains are nourishing the plants and animals that desperately need fresh water. Salinity levels in our inland waters need rain, and lots of it! Today marks 8 months since Ian made landfall and hurricane season officially begins in 4 days.

It's hard to put emotions into words. As we head into hurricane season, questions are endless and emotions are conflicted. The plants and animals desperately need rain and lots of it, but with that comes more issues for so many owners with structures tangled in an endless web of gridlock created by unresolved insurance claims, permit and inspection delays, and limited contractor availability. With our roofless building on Periwinkle Way stuck in this same web, we understand the frustrations so many are wrestling with.

As I type this update, we are exploring Moab and Zion Utah, a much-needed mental break from living on Sanibel day after day. It's hard to type these words. Sanibel was always the place we couldn't wait to come home to, and now it's the place we need to escape from periodically to remain sane. What is most shocking being in Utah, and oddly refreshing, is how most people here are

Ian-oblivious. When asked where we're from, there's either no reaction or an envious response regarding our how lucky we are to live on and island. How can they not know about Ian? The reaction is complete different from the Texas residents we encountered during a wedding weekend. Could it be that people focus on natural disasters only based on where they live?

Sanibel will always be the place we look forward to returning home to, regardless of the challenges. Words can't describe how beautiful many things are right now: the sparkling emerald waters of the Gulf, the incredible shells washing up with each tide, the Snook swimming between the sandbars along deserted beaches, the abundant sea turtle nests, the thriving shore birds, the newly fledged eagles soaring, and the wildflowers sprouting island wide.

Please reach out with any help or resources you need. ~ Eric and Mary Ellen Pfeifer

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #48 - June 19, 2023

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Father's Day brought with it several inches of rain and you can almost see the daily change in our foliage as leaves and branches continue to turn our islands a beautiful shade of new-growth green.

The City of Sanibel celebrated an amazing milestone last week as they opened Lighthouse Beach Park after nearly 9 months of repairs and restorations. While there are many milestones to celebrate, we find our recovery energy diverted as if we've been hijacked by our own Lee County. A controversial request to change land use codes to benefit one Captiva property owner has robbed islanders of countless hours of productivity as we must shift our time and energy to an issue that should never be on the agenda. All Sanibel & Captiva owners could be impacted by TOMORROW'S Board of County Commissioner's vote. Please let your voice be heard. ~ The Entire Pfeifer Team

Hurricane Ian Post-storm Update #49 - June 28, 2023

Dear Friends and Neighbors,Thank you to everyone who contacted Lee County Commissioners regarding concerns surrounding South Seas building plans resulting in a continuance until September 5th. We are hopeful for a favorable outcome.

As most of you know, today marks 9 months since Ian made landfall. While so much progress has occurred, it's still difficult to comprehend the changes resulting from an 8 hour event. Yesterday, the second home on our street was torn down and our neighborhood is a ghost town. Actually, the entire island feels deserted after work trucks leave. It's not uncommon to walk our 3 mile loop on Periwinkle Way, East Gulf Drive and Lindgren Blvd and see only 5 or 6 people (most of whom we know) and so few cars that you can walk in the middle of the road. It's eerie.

Defined as "conforming to a standard; usual, typical, or expected", the word normal has new and puzzling meanings for many. There are times when normal sights are nearly paralyzing. How how can some areas so close to devastated areas look, feel and seem so normal? Do each of us also look and act so normal that others forget to ask how things are really going in our lives? When were things normal? Were we normal on September 27th, 2022?

While speaking this week with a long-time friend, filmmaker and self-proclaimed adrenaline junkie Rusty Farst, he asked what should be documented. I could only think of one thing: The emotional toll of a storm and the ripple effects throughout a community. Our island represents countless heartwarming and heartbreaking stories of dedication, patience, determination, loss, sorrow, mourning, perseverance, generosity, grief, denial, ingenuity, joy and grit. This should be documented.

Hurricane Ian Update #50 - July 28, 2022 - 10 Months After Landfall

Today it's been exactly 10 months since Hurricane Ian made landfall and one month since our last update. In short, the theme of this update is "THE GOOD, THE BAD, & THE UGLY."

The "GOOD" is easy to spot everywhere, especially if you know where to look. Sanibel remains the crown jewel of Southwest Florida. Our beaches have rebounded and are beautiful, our conservation areas are budding, blooming and growing. Sea Turtles are nesting along our shores in record numbers, snowy plovers are feeding along the wrack lines and the inshore and offshore fishing is incredible with many anglers "limiting out" on their catch.

The "BAD" is also easy to spot everywhere. Just drive up and down East, Middle or West Gulf Drive or along Periwinkle Way and you will see that very little work is occurring at the condominiums, hotels and commercial properties. This lack of work has nothing to do with available contractors or the City of Sanibel's building department.

The "UGLY" behind the lack of activity is due to the ongoing battle with the insurance companies. If our office building is any indication of what the condo complexes, hotels, restaurants and shops are going through, the insurance companies' goal is to wear their clients down to the point where they end up paying as little as possible. After years of owners promptly paying their premiums, there's no similar urgency on the part of the insurance companies to pay owners what is covered in the property owner's policy.

So here we are... waiting... and waiting... and wondering what will become of all these properties. Frequently we're asked "What's going on with your building?" and the answer is "we don't know yet". But like everyone else, we're fighting for what our coverage states in our policy and we will continue the good fight along with every other commercial property owners.

There's a GREAT coming in this saga. In a few years, Sanibel will be better than ever before with new hotels, new condominiums, new office buildings, new restaurants and shops. We just need to focus on the GOOD and get past the UGLY.

Until then, we hope you find inspiration in these sage words:

"Good, better, best. Never let it rest til' your good is better, and your better best." ~ Saint Jerome

"It always seems impossible until it's done" ~ Nelson Mandela

"It doesn't matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop." ~ Confucius

Hurricane Ian Update #51 - August 28, 2023 - 11 Months After Landfall

Today on the 11 month anniversary of Ian's landfall, we never would have imagined that all eyes would be focused on Tropical Storm Idalia. Experts predict it will become a major hurricane. It's truly surreal that we find ourselves storm-prepping once again. While we know what to do, it's almost paralyzing to figure out how to secure storm-damaged properties. For those with fully repaired homes, they remain surrounded by homes in mid-construction with supply-scattered yards and debris-filled dumpsters. One thing is sure, we've helped one another through Ian, and together we will face any new challenges.

As progress moves forward, many sights, sounds and smells remain astounding reminders of September 28th, 2022 and our post-storm journey. It's astounding to see a traffic cone still lodged in the top of a Norfolk Pine and the sheer size of weeds when left unattended. It's astounding to hear the sounds of a smoke detectors still chirping in gutted houses mixed with the sounds of cracking wood, glass and drywall as a backhoe takes down another home. Its astounding to smell barnacle-covered, unrecognizable debris hauled to the canal surface by barge cranes.

These astounding reminders will continue. They are all signs of progress. While many properties have progressed so well, others sit gutted and stuck in time. It's these owners who have experienced recovery roads filled with pot holes, detours, hazards and u-turns. Let's astound these neighbors and friends with compassion, patience, understanding and helping hands as they navigate a much slower recovery road. ~ The Entire Pfeifer Team

Our FINAL Hurricane Ian Update #52 - September 28, 2023 - One Year After Landfall

Dear Friends and Neighbors, It has been one long year since Hurricane Ian, and we will always remember exactly where we were, and who we were with a year ago today as we watched the unthinkable unfold, changing our lives forever. We will never forget the lives lost, the precious memories tossed, and the long journey we have endured thus far.

Today we are sending our 52nd and FINAL "Comprehensive Post-Ian Recovery Resource Update". We've scheduled this last update to be delivered intentionally at 2:30pm EST, the time on September 28th, 2022 when most of us lost cell connection to friends, neighbors and loved ones. From this moment on, the minutes crawled by as the unthinkable happened.

We thank you for taking this recovery journey with us for the past 365 days, and with so many friends and neighbors still facing a lengthy journey home, "normal" is a long way off for all of us, but it is coming. As we look towards the future, we feel it's time for us to place Hurricane Ian in our rearview mirror and focus forward. Sanibel and Southwest Florida will rebound stronger and more resilient than we can possibly imagine when "normal" arrives. We also hope that there will never ever be another event that requires an extensive list of recovery topics.

Even though we're stopping these updates, please know that we are here for you regardless of where you fall on your recovery journey. We realize that many of you are still facing hurdles, obstacles, detours and pot holes on your winding road home. This is a collective journey back to "normal" and we will continue to need each other's support and compassion every step along the way. Everyone of us has "grit" and that laser focused determination will guide us home. Our team is ready, willing, and able to assist in all efforts to restore our beautiful coastal paradise, one yard, one house, one condo, one business, one street, one neighborhood at a time. Collectively, we've got this! ~ Eric, Mary Ellen & The Entire Pfeifer Team