Ribbon-cutting set for refuge’s The Roost
The “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge reported that as Hurricane Ian hit on Sept. 28, the building of The Roost pavilion was well underway at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel. The storm set back its completion by a year. The $1 million project will serve as an outdoor classroom for visiting schools and other groups. The DDWS envisions creative new uses for it to reflect the refuge’s arts legacy and experiential mission, including music and artist events, puppet shows, lectures, mindfulness classes and culture-driven programs. As a kickoff to the inaugural Art in the Wild, the DDWS and SanCap Chamber will host a ribbon-cutting for the facility on Oct. 21 at 9 a.m. Local officials, refuge staff and volunteers, and distinguished artists will be present for the event.