Last week proved a prosperous week for island recovery and a busy one for the SanCap Chamber ribbon-cutting team. It welcomed John R. Wood Christie’s International Real Estate’s Captiva office, Pierce’s Paw Paradise, and Sanibel Inn.
The Feb. 18 John R. Wood ribbon-cutting celebrated the reopening of its office at 11495 Andy Rosse Lane on Captiva Island following damage from the 2024 hurricane season.
“While a ribbon-cutting event last year marked the post-Ian reopening of the office, this event signifies a continued commitment and strengthened position in Captiva,” said Corey McCloskey, president. “We’re celebrating both the resilience of the local community and John R. Wood’s ongoing dedication to serving its real estate needs, especially in the luxury market.”
The firm specializes in waterfront estates, beachfront cottages, and other exclusive properties in Southwest Florida. Throughout Lee and Collier counties, it has 900 agents in 21 offices, including Sanibel Island.
“The support we’ve received from the Captiva community and the SanCap chamber of commerce has been essential to our success,” said McCloskey. “The community’s warm welcome and the chamber’s support have been instrumental in furthering our reputation as a trusted real estate resource on the island.”
A ribbon-cutting for Pierce’s Paw in Paradise took place Feb. 20 at Jerry’s Food shopping center, 1517 Periwinkle Way on Sanibel. Rachel Pierce, who owns three other island businesses, opened the new shop last summer with her husband, Matthew, both devoted pet lovers.
“We always wanted to have this store, but there wasn’t really a spot or need for it until after Hurricane Ian,” said Pierce, who also reopened Rachel Pierce Art Gallery and started up Home by Rachel Pierce and Pierce Properties Group since Ian. “It was a little bit of a rough start with two hurricanes in 2024, but we are full steam ahead.”
The shop carries thousands of items for dogs and cats — everything from treats, to carriers, to silly clothing. Most popular items include coastal themed leashes and collars and a wide variety of pet toys.
“We love this island and wouldn’t want to invest our time, energy, recourses anywhere else,” said Pierce. “The chamber has been a wonderful resource for us to connect with other businesses and incredibly helpful in the rebuilding of our islands.”
The opening of Sanibel Inn’s 95 guestrooms, suites, and condominiums on Feb. 1 at 937 East Gulf Drive, Sanibel, was cause for much joy at the Feb. 21 ribbon-cutting.
“Sanibel Inn is best known for its incredible views and close proximity to 600 feet of resort beachfront as well as the friendly, professional service of our staff,” said Bill Wellman, vice president and area general manager of The Inns of Sanibel. “The current redesign puts the resort at the top of the list for Sanibel Island resorts with guest amenities and luxury accommodations.”
The Sanibel Inn has a brand-new look and feel, completely rebuilt from the ground up after Hurricane Ian nearly destroyed it. Renovated units feature a fresh, coastal design with a sleek, modern aesthetic. Guest comfort, sustainability, and eco-friendliness drove the remake.
Island Time Tiki Bar at the pool is currently open and serving breakfast and light fare to guests. Dante’s restaurant will be open for full service with coal-fired offerings starting March 1.
Originally opened in 1968 and the flagship property of the Inns of Sanibel, the resort attributes its ability to reopen among the island’s first of gulf-front properties to its staff, community support, contractors, and outstanding leadership from the Dahlmann family.
“I’ve not met many local business owners or residents who weren’t watching and getting excited about our progress and offering to help in any way they could,” said Wellman. “Our partnership with the SanCap Chamber has likewise been a critical element of our progress – from sharing our updates and touring their CEO through the property as key milestones occurred, they have been so supportive, and so appreciated.”
“It’s always a good day when we can celebrate the opening of more island accommodations,” said John Lai, “Add more retail and real estate services, and you have a week that brings the islands that much closer to complete recovery. We are so proud of the progress we’ve seen our islands make already this season.”
ABOUT SANCAP CHAMBER
The SanCap Chamber is dedicated to promoting the prosperity of its members and preserving the quality of life of our community. The Chamber plays a key role in facilitating communication and cooperation between business, residents, and government to enhance the economic health of the islands. Its website, sanibel-captiva.org, receives over 1.3 million visits per year. For more information about the chamber, visit sanibel-captiva.org or contact John Lai, president and CEO, at 239-472-2348 or [email protected].
