THE COMMUNITY HOUSE

The Community House will host its last event in a new summer series for residents and visitors.

Launched in June, the fourth and final monthly Summer Salutations will take place on Aug. 15 from 3 to 5 p.m. at TCH on Sanibel. Free and open to the community, it will feature activities and more.

Acting Executive Director Kyle Wilson explained that TCH typically follows the snowbird schedule and is quieter in the summer, but many were still on island as post-hurricane recovery continues.

“It was an opportunity to open up The Community House for people to see what we do here,” she said of the gatherings. “And as we rebrand, we want people to come in and see what we have available.”

The theme for the last event will be “Bubbles and Pops.”

Sanibel-Captiva Art League member and Sanibel resident Sherry Fonseth-Lais will share the inspiration behind her piece, “Butterfly Lady,” as well as demonstrate the methods for her work.

“She will be doing an interactive demonstration with the attendees, showing her painting techniques for the butterflies,” Wilson said. “She will be bringing the supplies, so it would be an interactive event.”

Hand-painted backgrounds and acrylic Posca pens will be provided for people to create their own butterflies, which they will be able to take home with them as a memento from the gathering.

“She’ll talk about her own background and how she fits into the Sanibel-Captiva Art League,” she added. “And what other types of work she does.”

Other SCAL members have been invited to take part in the event. Those who are still in town and available will be on-site to talk about their artwork, as well as their pieces on display at TCH.

In addition, the Shellcrafters will be on hand to showcase how the group made the shell flowers that won the Sanibel Community Association “Best Not-For-Profit Float” in the Independence Day Parade.

“A liaison from the Shellcrafters will be here to demonstrate their flower making,” Wilson said.

There will be a postcard writing station, which has been available at every gathering.

Designed by Melissa Gindling at The Island Octopus, the specialty postcard features the Sanibel Lighthouse, roseate spoonbill and more. Attendees can fill them out to be sent to family and friends.

“We will have that available,” she said. “We’ve been sending those out.”

TCH will provide champagne and cake pops.

There will also be a cash bar, with beer and wine available for purchase.

Those attending can browse and purchase items made by the Shellcrafters, including centerpieces, jewelry and more, along with a mix of Shell Critter Kits and the city’s 50th anniversary merchandise.

Residents and visitors are invited to swing by and enjoy the camaraderie.

“It is just a great way to meet your neighbors, learn about the local art league and enjoy some light refreshments,” Director of Engagement Kristin Van Olst said.

For more information, visit www.sanibelcommunityhouse.net.

People can also contact Van Olst at kristin@sanibelcommunityhouse.net.

The Community House is at 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.

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IF YOU GO

What

Summer Salutations

When

Aug. 15 from 3 to 5 p.m.

Where

The Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel

Details

Free and open to the public