What islanders say about MOTI
To the editor:
As I have become increasingly involved in the Museum of the Islands, I have had the opportunity to talk about it with many Pine Islanders. Your recent (2/9/11) Eagle piece highlights many of the features of MOTI, yet, I would like to share remarks locals have made showing how important the museum is to our community.
Recalling the early days of the museum, Calusa Land Trust board member and Pine Island Village resident, Sonny Koutsoutis, has talked with me about the beginnings being in an old building.
James Brewer of St. James City, has added to this “just being a part of the museum’s history has allowed Naomi (spouse) and me to see the evolution from being an old, outdated library building to the present facility. We were there since nearly the beginning of the museum and we’ve remained active throughout the years, there is a definite satisfaction you get.”
Bokeelia resident and artist, Honora Seider, related to me how the museum actually got her to move to Pine Island. “My sister has a time share in Key West. One time, she was driving north from there and she took a wrong turn, in fact, she took several wrong turns. She somehow ended up on Pine Island where she stopped and spent some time in the museum.” After seeing the museum, her sister called Honora and told her that Pine Island was the place she had to come and live. So, Honora did, and has been here for the past 11 years.
Knitting group leader, Susan Johnson, expressed enthusiasm about one particular display in the museum, a large beaded representation of George Washington. “Everyone should see the tapestry,” Johnson told me. “It’s amazing.”
Lois DeNinno, currently staying at KOA, has told how her aunt bought a book at MOTI’s gift shop titled Pine Island Road Girl, a memoir about local families. “We both enjoyed the book and the museum.”
Other residents have shared their thoughts as well.
“I love places like that,” said Bokeelia’s Deborah Zwetsch. “It’s so genuine.”
“In today’s fast-paced world, it’s nice to have a local perspective on the history of Pine Island,” said Bob Skribiski.
Jack Kershlis, St. James City resident, related his experience. “We visited the museum when we first got here. The displays and artifacts gave us better insight into what it was like in the early days. It’s a good place to learn about Pine Island history.”
Donna Martin, Lions Club and St. James City Civic Association member, reiterated that view. “It’s wonderful that the island has the museum. The location makes it convenient for locals and tourists to learn about the history of Pine Island.”
Brooklyn born and part-time resident, Sal Anastasio, has said, “The museum is a vital part of life on the island. It lets us know about where we are living, what has made it the wonderful place it is. It is unique.”
In my opinion, St. James City resident, Linda Selleck, has summed it up, “Supporting the museum, whether you volunteer time, purchase a commemorative brick or join as a member, honors the early settlers and the Calusa before them.”
Let’s carry on that tradition of honor by supporting MOTI.
Lynn Sarda
Pine Island