provided to The Santiva Chronicle
FISH of SanCap is kicking off its 2026 Friendly Faces Luncheon lineup with a fun and engaging January program featuring America’s Boating Club of Sanibel-Captiva members Pat Schmidt, Joanne Heroy Giller, and longtime FISH volunteer Ed Holden.
The Great White Grill will provide this month’s meal. FISH invites community members to join at 11 a.m. on Jan. 13 at the Sanibel Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way.
There is no cost to attend, thanks to Chuck Bergstrom, REALTOR® with RE/MAX Realty Group, who will partially sponsor the January–June luncheons.
“FISH has been there for so many of our neighbors, and I’m proud to help make these luncheons possible,” said Bergstrom. “Friendly Faces is such an easy way to stay connected—good food, good company, and something new to learn.
“I hope folks will come out, bring a friend, and enjoy a great afternoon together. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone there,” said Bergstrom.
America’s Boating Club of Sanibel-Captiva is known not only for boating education but also for fostering a community of friends who enjoy life on and around the water.
Mary Holden, Education Lead for the America’s Boating Club, will also be on hand to share highlights from their upcoming education season.
“For anyone who has ever been curious about boating these waters—whether you’ve been on a boat for decades or have never stepped foot on one—this session offers a friendly introduction to local classes, seminars, and ways to get involved,” said Holden.
America’s Boating Club of Sanibel-Captiva has deep roots on the islands. Initially formed in 1975 as the Sanibel-Captiva Power Squadron, it remains a welcoming place where members gather to learn, swap stories, take part in day and overnight cruises, and enjoy boating-related activities together. You don’t even need to own a boat to join; many members enjoy the camaraderie and the chance to learn something new.
The club offers national-level courses through the United States Power Squadrons® while also providing local programs tailored to the unique waterways around Sanibel and Captiva. Classes range from basic boating to more advanced topics such as Boat Handling and Marine Navigation. For those just starting, ABC boating courses are open to the public and begin in January.
FISH is excited to begin the new year with such a community-minded program. “Friendly Faces is one of my favorite ways to start the year,” said Erika Arnowitz, FISH Senior Services Director. “We get to sit down together over a good meal, catch up after the holidays, and learn something useful at the same time.”
The luncheon is open to everyone, and there is no fee to attend. Reservations are required by Jan. 9. A new, simple reservation process is now available for easy digital RSVPs. Participants can reserve their spot by clicking here and adding their name and email.
For those preferring to RSVP by phone or email, please feel free to contact Erika Arnowitz at FISH at 239-472-4775 or erika@fishofsancap.org.
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