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Important Announcement from the Shell Factory

   September, 2024 Shell Factory & Nature Park to permanently close   After 86 years…

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Important Announcement from the Shell Factory

   
September, 2024

Shell Factory & Nature Park to permanently close

 
After 86 years of serving the community as a family-friendly, entertainment des-
tination, the Shell Factory & Nature Park is announcing its plans to close.   

The park’s final days of operation will be the weekends of Sept. 20-22 and Sept.
27-29 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., after which all operations will close to the public.
During this time, the Nature Park and Gift Shop will be open and the park’s on-
site restaurants, the Southern Grill and Tommy’s Outdoor Café, will serve a limit-
ed menu while supplies last. The Fun Park will be closed, effective immediately.   

Established in North Fort Myers in 1938, the 18-acre, old-Florida roadside attrac-
tion has entertained multiple generations with amusement-style rides, arcade
games, miniature golf, 50,000 square feet of gift shops, a 4.5-acre nature park with
over 400 animals, birds, reptiles and fish, and much more. Despite efforts to find a
buyer to take over the park’s expansive operations, long-time owner Pam Cronin,
who has worked tirelessly to preserve the property and its proud traditions for the
past 27 years, has made the difficult decision to close the Shell Factory and sell the
property.  

LEARN MORE HERE   

To celebrate our shared memories, we invite you to share your favorite moments at
the Shell Factory at Facebook.com/ShellFactoryNaturePark using the hashtag #My
ShellFactoryMemories.  Together, we can honor the incredible legacy of this com-
munity treasure.    

Thank you for your support of the Shell Factory & Nature Park! 

   

‘The Man in Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash’ Brings the Legendary Singer’s Greatest Hits to Seminole Casino Hotel

       ‘The Man in Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash’ Brings the Legendary…

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‘The Man in Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash’ Brings the Legendary Singer’s Greatest Hits to Seminole Casino Hotel

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‘The Man in Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash’ Brings the
Legendary Singer’s Greatest Hits to Seminole Casino Hotel Feb. 8  

Tickets on Sale Friday for Feb. 8 Show

Image  

IMMOKALEE, Fla. (Sept. 16, 2024) –  Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee will host “The Man in Black: A
Tribute to Johnny Cash” Saturday, Feb 8 with doors open at 7 p.m. with the show beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets
will be on sale Friday, Sept. 20 starting at $68 and will be available from Ticketmaster or at www.moreinpara
dise.com. Attendees must be 21 and older. Parking is free.  

With his strikingly similar looks, baritone voice, and spot-on mannerisms, Shawn Barker’s uncanny resemblance
to the original “Man In Black” revitalizes the true character and spirit of Mr. Cash himself, one of America’s great-
est musical icons, for a truly one-of-a-kind show. The energetic show features Barker in character throughout the
entire evening, walking the audience through each era of Cash’s life and music, including hits like “Folsom Prison
Blues,” “I Walk The Line,” “A Boy Named Sue,” “Hurt” and “Ring of Fire,” complete with a full backing band.  

Barker’s first Man In Black show was held in 2004 at a casino in Niagara Falls and he has since performed over
1,000 shows in 12 countries, selling more than half a million tickets over the course of his career.  

Born and raised in a working-class suburb of St. Louis, Barker took a schoolboy love for singing in church with his
family and turned it into a career. The path to his current success wasn’t a straight line from gospel choir to Johnny
Cash tribute act. After serving his country in the Army, Barker returned home to Missouri, took a job as a carpenter,
and spent his free time learning how to play the guitar. He developed strength and versatility in his voice by model-
ing his crooning on a cast of legends – Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Buddy Holly and Gene Vincent. His
performances quickly turned from hobby to profession, but oddly enough, Barker’s first touring gigs were portraying
Elvis, not Johnny Cash. Everything changed, however, when Barker was asked to audition for the part of Cash in a
Hollywood production, as it became evident to the director and Barker himself that Johnny Cash was his true calling.  

About Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee is Southwest Florida’s premier gaming
and entertainment destination. Located at 506 South 1st Street in Immokalee, Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee is eas-
ily accessible to all of Southwest Florida. The 51,000-square-foot casino offers 1,400 slots and 39 live table games. For
the full Vegas experience, play at one of our two craps or three roulette tables. Place cash bets on sports with the Hard
Rock Sportsbook kiosks available only at Seminole Casinos in Florida. Dining options include the award-winning 1st St-
reet Deli, Asian fusion restaurant Lucky Mi Noodle House, and the EE-TO-LEET-KE (“The Camp”) Grill. Seminole Casino
Hotel’s nightlife is highlighted by the Zig Zag lounge, home of the Zig Zag Girlz, “where the party never ends” featuring
nightly live entertainment and no last call. Additional entertainment and events are held at the Seminole Center, an in-
door/outdoor special event center featuring state-of-the-art sound and lighting system. The Seminole Casino Hotel is the
first upscale hotel to open in or near Immokalee and offers suites and deluxe guestrooms with modern décor and upscale
features. Seminole Casino Hotel participates in the Unity Card Rewards Program whereby players earn and redeem Unity
points at all Seminole Casinos in Florida. For more information, call toll-free (800) 218-0007 or visit moreinparadise.com
or facebook.com/SeminoleCasinoHotel/.  

FGCU Academy - Fall Program Guides are Now Available!

Hundreds of lectures. Knowledgeable instructors.  Join us in-person at one of our 19 locations or…

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FGCU Academy - Fall Program Guides are Now Available!

Hundreds of lectures. Knowledgeable instructors. 
Join us in-person at one of our 19 locations
or participate online.

         

OCTOBER – DECEMBER 2024 PROGRAM REGISTRATION
IS NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE OR VIA PHONE  


Keep your mind active and engaged!
Register for a lecture with FGCU Academy!  
 

The Fall 2024 Program Guide is Now Available for you to View! (see below)  

They will be available in print here at our Naples Center
704 Goodlette Frank Rd. N / Suite 330 / Naples,
by the end of September.

They will be distributed to all local libraries in Lee / Collier Counties for your convenience.  

If you want a printed copy sooner, please call our office for details on getting one.  

We have many classes with many new speakers this fall.
Get your copy and get registered soon so you don’t miss out!    

VIEW FALL PROGRAM GUIDE HERE    


VIEW SUMMER PROGRAM GUIDE HERE  

REGISTER FOR COURSES HERE  

Call our office for assistance with your registrations at 239.434.4737.  

Featured Lecture


The Making of Modern China  

Online via Zoom
September 17 | 10 – 11:30am, Tuesday
Speaker: Jeff Steinberg  

China emerged from a “Century of Humiliation” and a 20-year civil war and
is now one of the world’s leading economies and global policy shapers. How
did the Chinese governing system evolve? Does China’s more authoritarian
model meet the challenges of the 21st century? How should the U.S. respond
to China’s rise? This lecture reviews China’s global investment program (Belt
and Road Initiative) and considers the pros and cons of China’s approach to
global economic engagement. What are the long-standing traditions of China
that are now incorporated into Communist China? Is China really a Commun-
ist state with market characteristics? Where is China headed? Join a 40-year
national security affairs analyst as he examines these important questions.

Week of September 16 – 20  

Monday September 16
How the Modern Bible Came to Be
Affordable Housing: Needs and Impacts
Queen Elizabeth I – Gloriana

Thursday September 19
Napoleon III
Influential Speeches of World War II  


Fall Featured Happenings



Contract Bridge for Beginners
October 3 – November 21 | 10 – 12pm, Thursdays
Naples Center



Bridge for Advanced Beginners / Intermediates
October 15 – November 19 | 10 – 12pm, Tuesdays
Naples Center



Mah Jongg for Beginners (3-part series)
November 4, 8, 10 | 10 – 11:30am, Mon/Wed/Fri
Naples Center




Advanced Mah Jongg Strategies (3-part series)
November 18, 20, 22 | 10 – 11:30am, Mon/Wed/Fri
Naples Center  


Featured Day Trips & Special Events



Appetizers with Wine Pairing Social Event at Mare Terra
November 12 | 5 – 7:30pm, Tuesday
Bonita Springs



Miami’s Little Havana Culinary, Artistic and Cultural Tour
November 19 | 7am – 6pm, Tuesday
Miami



Henry B. Plant Museum & Tampa Art Museum
December 3 | 7am – 6:30pm, Tuesday
Tampa
   


Miami Millionaire’s Row™ Boat Cruise & Bayside Marketplace
December 10 | 8am – 6pm, Tuesday
Miami    

Become a “Friend of FGCU Academy”    

Travel with FGCU Academy

   

2025 TRAVEL PROGRAMS

 

Cuba: Art, Culture & History In Support of the Cuban People  

March 3 – 9, 2025  

Traveling to Cuba has been described as “life-changing.”   

VIEW BROCHURE
 
 

Natural Treasures of Indonesia,
Borneo & Taiwan Yacht Cruise

Departure: April 1, 2025  

View Brochure  

View Video Presentation

 

Northern Italy: From the Alps
to the Adriatic
Departure August 20, 2025  

View Brochure

 

Journey Through Central Europe
Departure: August 30, 2025  

View Brochure

 

Insider’s Japan
Departure September 8, 2025  

View Brochure

 

Paradores and Pousadas:
Portugal & Spain
Departure: September 15, 2025  

View Brochure

 

Machu Picchu to the Galapagos
Departure October 28, 2025  

View Brochure

 

Egypt and the Eternal Nile
Departure: November 17, 2025  

View Brochure

 

Moroccan Discovery: From the
Imperial Cities to the Sahara
Departure November 18, 2025  

View Brochure

   

Portugal and the Douro River Cruise
Departure: September 17, 2025  

View Brochure  

View Video Presentation

   

Gems of Eastern Europe River
Cruise Hungary, Croatia, Serbia,
Bulgaria, Romania,

Departure September 24, 2025  

View Brochure  

View Video Presentation    

Travel Abroad with FGCU Academy  
Call our office 239.434.4737  for assistance with
registration or Click to View our Website

FacebookTwitterInstagramYoutube 
       
FGCU Academy

FGCU ACADEMY NAPLES CENTER
704 Goodlette-Frank Rd N Suite 330
Naples, FL 34102  

239.434.4737  


[email protected]

Seminole Casino Hotel - October 2024 Entertainment and Special Events

    October 2024 Special Events   Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month With Latin Legends: Selena…

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October 2024 Special Events  

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month With Latin Legends: Selena & Shakira
Saturday, Oct. 5

GOLD Entertainment presents Latin Legends: Selena and Shakira, a live musical tribute to the iconic singers appearing at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee Saturday, Oct. 5 with doors opening at 7 p.m. and the show beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are $49 and are available from Ticketmaster or at www.moreinparadise.com. This electrifying performance will ignite the stage during Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrating the unparalleled contributions of two of Latin music’s most legendary stars. Attendees must be 21. Parking is free.  

Seminole Casino Hotel Welcomes Comedy Pioneer Paul Rodriguez
Friday, Oct. 25

GOLD Entertainment presents iconic comedian Paul Rodriguez performing live at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee Friday, Oct. 25 with doors opening at 7 p.m. and the show beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets are $59 and are available from Ticketmaster or at www.moreinparadise.com. Attendees must be 21. Parking is free.  

Paul Rodriguez is a pioneering figure in the world of comedy, known for his significant contributions as a Mexican-American stand-up comedian and actor. He began performing stand-up in the early 1980s, quickly making a name for himself with his unique blend of humor, which often touched on the complexities of Mexican-American identity, immigration, and cultural assimilation, topics that resonated deeply with both Latino and broader audiences. His breakthrough came when he started appearing on television and in films. Notable TV appearances include hosting the Univision talk show “El Show de Paul Rodriguez” and acting in a wide range of TV series. Rodriguez’s film career is equally impressive, featuring roles in comedies and dramas alike, such as “Born in East L.A.” (1987), “Blood Work” (2002), and “Ali” (2001), where he showcased his versatility as an actor.  

Elle King Brings Her ‘Baby Daddy’s Weekend’ Tour To Seminole Casino Hotel
Saturday, Oct. 26

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee welcomes multi-genre singer-songwriter Elle King and her “Baby Daddy’s Weekend” tour Saturday, Oct. 26 with doors opening at 7 p.m. and the show beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $69 and are available from Ticketmaster or at www.moreinparadise.com. Attendees must be 21. Parking is free.  

King is the first female artist in history to have scored radio No. 1 singles on four different formats, including Adult Pop Songs, Adult Alternative Songs, Alternative Songs, and Country Airplay charts. Her debut, 4x platinum-certified single “Ex’s & Oh’s,” earned her two GRAMMY nominations, and her award-winning “Drunk (And I Don’t Want To Go Home)” with Miranda Lambert has nearly 300 million worldwide streams. She recently released her new single, “Baby Daddy’s Weekend,” which brings all the swagger King is known for. Her unique blend of music has found her a diverse fanbase, and she tours with multi-genre artists like Jelly Roll, Tyler Childers, Dierks Bentley, Melissa Etheridge, and The Chicks.  

Seminole Casino Hotel Offers Live Music, NFL Football  
at Zig Zag Lounge  

Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee offers live performances at Zig Zag Lounge seven days a week. Zig Zag Lounge is Southwest Florida’s premier destination to catch your favorite teams during the NFL season as well as other sporting events with TVs located throughout the bar. There is no cover for live entertainment; entertainment is subject to change. For complete details, visit moreinparadise.com.  

Face masks are now voluntary at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee following an update to “Safe + Sound” program guidelines at the casino complex. Other components of the industry-leading “Safe + Sound” program remain in place to ensure a quality entertainment experience in an environment that helps to keep guests and team members safe. The “Safe + Sound Clean Team” will clean and disinfect surfaces throughout the casino complex, with special emphasis on high-touch surfaces and common areas. Casino air will pass through a high-quality air filtration system. Finally, hand-sanitizing stations will be available at entrances and throughout the casino complex. For a full list of safety protocols, and the most up-to-date information, please visit https://www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com/good-clean-fun.htm.      

About Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee is Southwest Florida’s premier gaming and entertainment destination. Located at 506 South 1st Street in Immokalee, Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee is easily accessible to all of Southwest Florida. The 51,000-square-foot casino offers 1,400 slots and 39 live table games. For the full Vegas experience, play at one of our two craps or three roulette tables. Place cash bets on sports with the Hard Rock Sportsbook kiosks available only at Seminole Casinos in Florida. Dining options include the award-winning 1st Street Deli, Asian fusion restaurant Lucky Mi Noodle House, and the EE-TO-LEET-KE (“The Camp”) Grill. Seminole Casino Hotel’s nightlife is highlighted by the Zig Zag lounge, home of the Zig Zag Girlz, “where the party never ends” featuring nightly live entertainment and no last call. Additional entertainment and events are held at the Seminole Center, an indoor/outdoor special event center featuring state-of-the-art sound and lighting system. The Seminole Casino Hotel is the first upscale hotel to open in or near Immokalee and offers suites and deluxe guestrooms with modern décor and upscale features. Seminole Casino Hotel participates in the Unity Card Rewards Program whereby players earn and redeem Unity points at all Seminole Casinos in Florida. For more information, call toll-free (800) 218-0007 or visit moreinparadise.com or facebook.com/SeminoleCasinoHotel/.                                       

ARE YOU READY TO UPSKILL YOUR RESUME?

        UPSKILL VILLAGE NEW CLASSES!   Are YOU looking to .... -BUILD…

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ARE YOU READY TO UPSKILL YOUR RESUME?

       

UPSKILL VILLAGE

NEW CLASSES!  

Are YOU looking to ….
BUILD your resume?
-IMPROVE job productivity?
-ENTER the workforce?  

SIGN-UP TODAY!!!!    

We are so pleased to be offering
FREE Soft Skill classes for our adult community
in Southwest Florida.  
 

What are SOFT SKILLS?
Soft skills are general traits not specific to any job, helping
employees excel in any workplace.

These skills relate to how you interact with colleagues,
solve problems, and manage your work.

Improving your soft skills improve your employability and
productivity in your professional career.    

What is UPSKILL VILLAGE?
These FREE classes are offered to any Lee County Resident,
ages 16 and older, who is looking to improve soft skills and
upskill his/her resume in the professional realm.
Each participant will earn a micro-credential digital badge upon
completion of the course.  

In order to take these classes, student must be proficient in English.
Para formar parte de esta clase, el estudiante debe dominar el idioma ingles.
Pou ka pran klass sa, etidyan ta sipoze pale angle tres byen.  
 

REGISTER USING LINKS BELOW
Sign-up for email updates HERE  

LOCATION: Lee County Public Education Center
2855 Colonial Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33966    

CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING MON. 6 – 8 pm
class dates: 9/16, 9/23, 9/30, 10/7 
REGISTER HERE  

CRITICAL THINKING TUES. 5 – 7 pm
class dates: 9/17, 9/24, 10/1, 10/8  
REGISTER HERE  

INITIATIVE WED. 6 – 8 pm 
class dates: 9/18, 9/25, 10/2, 10/9 
REGISTER HERE      

If you have any QUESTIONS please contact Marliss Brockington
at 239.939.6321 or
[email protected]                                                                      
Lee County Adult & Career Education | 2855 Colonial Blvd | Fort Myers, FL 33966 US   Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice
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Storm Smart Triumphs in Three Southwest Florida Cities

Storm Smart Triumphs in Three Southwest Florida Cities, Named Best Window Company by The Official…

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Storm Smart Triumphs in Three Southwest Florida Cities

Storm Smart Triumphs in Three Southwest Florida Cities,

Named Best Window Company by The Official Community’s Choice Awards

[Fort Myers, FL. Sept 13, 2024] – Storm Smart, a leader in outdoor enhancement and weather protection, has once again cemented its legacy by winning the prestigious title of Best Window Company in not just one but three different cities: Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and Naples, as part of The Official Community’s Choice Awards. This extraordinary recognition comes directly from the people, reaffirming Storm Smart’s unwavering commitment to delivering top-tier protection, unmatched customer service, and groundbreaking innovation.

As Southwest Florida’s go-to provider for hurricane protection, Storm Smart’s journey has been one of relentless dedication to safety, and excellence. Known for its innovative and code-approved hurricane protection products, the company’s expertise has set a high standard across the industry.

“Our mission has always been clear: to protect and enhance the homes of our neighbors with the best hurricane protection solutions available,” said Scot Burris, Storm Smart CEO. “To be honored in three separate cities is both humbling and inspiring. It reflects the trust that our community has placed in us, and we are committed to continuing to earn that trust with every product we design, every installation we perform, and every customer we serve.”

The Official Community’s Choice Awards is a celebration of excellence, where businesses from over 180 regions across the country are nominated and voted on by the very people who know them best: their local communities.

Storm Smart’s triple win in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and Naples is a testament to the company’s deep-rooted connection with its community and its tireless efforts to provide innovative solutions that protect what matters most – homes and families.

About Storm Smart: Since 1996, Storm Smart has been recognized as Florida’s premier provider of outdoor enhancement and weather protection solutions, with over 100,000 installations and growing. We offer a one-stop experience – from custom manufacturing to installation to service and warranty. Storm Smart provides the ultimate hurricane protection while enhancing covered outdoor living spaces for year-round enjoyment. Experience our personalized service and tailored solutions to Enhance & Protect™ your home today.

Find a whole new meaning to the site through programs

Is this email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser.   Weekly News    September…

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Find a whole new meaning to the site through programs

Is this email not displaying correctly? View it in your browser.

 
Weekly News   

September 13, 2024
   
We are Open for Business!

Due to roadwork on McGregor Boulevard, visitors should access
the site through a rear entrance. Click here to view the detour map. 

The site will be closed September 17-19 for maintenance work.  


Digital Discussions 


Digital Discussion: O Say Can You See – The Story of
Fort McHenry and the Star-Spangled Banner 

September 17, 10:30 a.m.


Acknowledge the monumental events that reflect the vigor of America and shaped
our anthem! On September 13, 1814, the Battle of Baltimore occurred a few weeks
after Bristish troops attacked Washington D.C., burning the United States Capitol,
the Treasury Building, and the White House. Join Museum Manager, Holly Shaffer,
for this free virtual presentation. Click here to register online.   

Upcoming Events and programs



Annual Quilt Show 

October 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
 
See the homes lined with quilts featuring intricate, whimsical designs! Dozens of
quilts from the SWFL Quilters Guild will be on display, suspended from clothes-
lines between the palms in front of the historic homes. Quilters Guild participants
will also have quilts for sale. Included with admission; free for Edison Ford mem-
bers. 

Certified quilt appraiser, Lars Cain, will be on site conducting appraisals. Verbal
appraisals will be offered for $25 and the fee for a written appraisal will be $35
per quilt.



Silk Scarf Painting
 
October 6, 9 a.m. 
 
Craft your own style in our Silk Scarf Painting Class with Marie Dyer! Participants
will be surrounded by Edison’s gardens as they create a silk scarf that can be worn
or hung as a piece of artwork. All materials are included. Advance registration is re-
quired. Click here to register online. 

Edison Ford members: $90; non-members: $100   

Just for Kids



Homeschool Series – Historical Engineering

Marvels: Colosseum in Rome 

Grades 1-3: October 9 and 17, 10 a.m.

Grades 4-6: October 10 and 16, 10 a.m. 

Explore early architectural genius and engineering concepts in this fun and educational
series. Classes are for grades 1-6 and facilitate homeschool or virtual science education.
Advance registration is required. Register online at edisonford.org. Edison Ford mem-
bers: $15; non-members: $25 



Creative Animation Camp

October 3, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Fuse art and science into an intriguing motion picture! This camp is focused on stop-
motion animation and how to create motion from still images. Campers explore the 12
principles of animation as they learn how to make their ideas come to life on the page.
Advance registration is required. Click here to register online. 

Edison Ford members: $45; non-members: $50   

Membership



Membership News

Join or renew through September and be entered into a drawing to win a Family
membership and an Edison Ford cap. You can keep the membership for yourself
(your membership will be extended at the family level for a year), or you can give
it away as a gift!



September Reciprocal Partner

Learn what lies down under in the deep blue and get up close with sea life
at Mote Marine Laboratory this month with our mutual reciprocal agreement!
They are offering free admission for the month of September (Individual: 1
adult, Dual: 2 adults, Family and above: 2 adults and up to 4 children under
the age of 18). Edison Ford members must present their current membership
card and I.D. This is in addition to the regular reciprocal opportunities.  

Become a MEMBER and get unlimited free visits, discounts on
purchases in the Garden Shoppe, retail stores, special events and
adult education classes!  Join today!    


Ongoing Programs 


Piano Performance
Takes place every Wednesday 
1 p.m.
 
Timeless beauty resides where classical music is performed by 
Curatorial Registrar, Chet, on Mina Edison’s 1932 George Steck
piano in the guest house. Included with admission. 



Step into History Presentations 
Tuesdays and Thursdays
10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

 
Cool off inside with our Site Historians. This program is held
in the 15,000-square-foot museum. Included with admission. 



Yoga by the River 
Mondays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m.
 
Class will be held in the River Pavilion (weather permitting). All
skill levels are welcome. This class is taught by Bonnie D’Angelo,
a certified yoga instructor. 

Edison Ford members: $15; non-members: $20 per class. Tickets may
be purchased online or at the ticket counter. Bring a yoga mat, water,
and towel. Admission to the site is not included. 
   
Exhibits



Tempest in the Tropics: Historic Hurricanes of South Florida
 
The elements are stirring inside the “Tempest in the Tropics” exhibit in the
Edison Caretaker’s House! The exhibit will run through December 29. Join
us as we explore the turbulent past of South Florida through the “eye” of its
most formidable natural force: Hurricanes. South Florida has a long history
of devastating storms that have left enduring marks on its landscape, com-
munities, and residents over multiple generations. Come take a whirlwind
tour through history to learn about the relationship between South Florida
and hurricanes. From the earliest storms recorded to the most powerful
ones, the exhibit examines the force of nature that has tested the area’s
resiliency, fortitude and perseverance. Included with admission.  

Help restore our beautiful gardens. Donate today!  

What’s Blooming 



Dwarf Tree Jasmine

The Dwarf Tree Jasmine, Radermachera kunming, is garnished with little arrangements
of flowers with tubes of gold! This evergreen tropical tree is native to Taiwan and can
reach heights up to 15 feet tall. Between late summer and early fall, this tree will produce
large clusters of trumpet-shaped flowers with gold centers that emerge from pink flower
buds. The flowers are known to be fragrant and resemble the scent of a rose, juicy fruit or
candy. The blooms are complemented by ornamental leaves with a fountain-like structure.
For best growth, this tree should be planted in locations that receive full sun or semi-shade
in well-draining soils. Visitors can find this unique plant in the Garden Shoppe.


Bangar Nut Tree 

The blooms of the Bangar Nut Tree, Sterculia foetida, give it a very unique style with curls
of red petals! This soft-wood tree can grow up to 115 feet high and is native to Tropical Asia
and Eastern Australia. Typically around March, but also during other times of the year, it will
produce bell-shaped, yellowish-green flowers that turn a rich red when they mature. The tree
is dioecious, meaning it has separate male and female plants. After the blooms fade, they are
followed by woody bright red fruits filled with seeds. This tree grows best in locations that
receive full sun in well-draining soils. Visitors can find this tree on the east side of the property.  

News



USS Thomas A. Edison SSBN/SSN-610 Association reunion

Pieces of the past live on through people who represent an extension of Edison’s legacy! We had the
honor and privilege to host the USS Thomas A. Edison SSBN/SSN-610 Association reunion. Members
were treated to an Inside-the-Homes tour led by curators where they could learn about the two invent-
ors and get a visual of their time in Southwest Florida. After the tour, they presented us with a special
donation of a model of the USS Edison submarine, a hull penetration (piece of a submarine), and sever-
al old photographs of crew members aboard the vessel that will become a part of our permanent collect-
ion for the public to enjoy. The group holds reunions every two years at different locations across the
United States. Our site was chosen as the location for this year’s reunion because it is the winter home
site of the boat’s namesake, inventor Thomas A. Edison. We are so grateful to this group for their service
and wonderful donation of items that will serve to enhance our mission for many years to come and up-
hold the amazing contributions of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford to society.

The USS Thomas A. Edison was first launched on June 15, 1961. It was commissioned on March 10, 1962
and decommissioned on December 1, 1983. The vessel was sponsored by Mrs. Madeleine Edison Sloane
(Thomas and Mina Edison’s daughter).

Thomas Edison received the Navy Distinguished Service Medal in 1920 for his work on the Naval Consult-
ing board during World War I. The first USS Edison was a Destroyer (DD-439) during WWII. That vessel
was sponsored by Mina Edison. The second was a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, which was
sponsored by Madeleine Edison Sloane.  


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Shoeless Joe’s Sports Café reopens with new renovations

After more than six months of renovations, Shoeless Joe’s Sports Café has officially reopened its…

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Shoeless Joe’s Sports Café reopens with new renovations

After more than six months of renovations, Shoeless Joe’s Sports Café has officially reopened its doors to guests, offering an even better atmosphere for sports enthusiasts and food lovers alike. The sports café is located in the DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops hotel, which is set to unveil its own extensive renovations and rebranding of the former Crowne Plaza Hotel later this year.

Sporting a new elevated look, renovations were completed to give Shoeless Joe’s a refreshed and more contemporary feel, marking the first remodel in over 20 years. Renovations included replacing all 45 HDTVs with larger and brighter screens and installing a new sound system in the restaurant. Patrons can now use a new smartphone app, AudioFetch, to listen to the sporting event they are watching through their phone while dining at their table.

While keeping customer-favorite features, like the pool table and indoor bar, the restaurant has also upgraded its outdoor bar and pet-friendly deck. Guests can enjoy the same all-star lineup of weekly specials, including their popular Friday Fish Fry, a fan favorite for over two decades.

Shoeless Joe’s features a variety of daily specials and activities throughout the week, including:

· Happy Hour Specials – From 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, enjoy $1 off domestic drafts, half-price wells and wines.

· Pulled Pork Monday – Start your week off at Shoeless Joe’s to enjoy two delicious sliders of BBQ pulled pork topped with pickles and served with chips for $10.

· Tuesday Burger Day –Swing by every Tuesday and enjoy a juicy burger and fries for just $9.

· Trivia on the Deck – From 6 to 8 p.m. each Tuesday, join trivia night on our pet-friendly deck.

· Wing Wednesday – Enjoy the $6 wing special with six wings and your choice of mouthwatering sauce: hot, medium, mild teriyaki, garlic parm or BBQ.

· Taco Thursdays – Dig into two tacos of your choice: chicken, beef or fish served with rice and beans.

· Friday Fish Fry – Each Friday, enjoy a $15 fish fry with the choice of blackened, fried or grilled fish served with fries, coleslaw and tartar sauce.

· Music on the Deck: From 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays, tune into live music on the deck!

· Karaoke on Deck Saturday Nights – Step up to the mic every Saturday night on the deck for live karaoke and showcase your vocal talents with the crowd cheering you on.

Additionally, Shoeless Joe’s is bringing back its Game Time Specials food and drinks menu, available during all college and NFL games at the sports bar.

Located at 13051 Bell Tower Drive in Fort Myers, Shoeless Joe’s is open from 6:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 6:30 a.m. to 12 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. To learn more about Shoeless Joe’s, visit Shoeless-Joes.com or call 239-437-0620.

About Shoeless Joe’s Sports Café

Named after the famous White Sox slugger, Shoeless Joe’s Sports Café is the perfect escape to enjoy great food, drinks and company while watching the latest game. With a long history of entertaining sports and food fans of all ages, Shoeless Joe’s offers a fun, lively atmosphere with more than 40 big-screen HDTVs, a pool table, indoor and outdoor bars, as well as live music on Fridays and karaoke on Saturdays. Shoeless Joe’s is located within the DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops and open seven days a week with dining and happy hour specials daily. For more information, visit Shoeless-Joes.com, call 239-437-0620 or follow Shoeless Joe’s on Facebook at Facebook.com/ShoelessJoesFortMyers.

City of Fort Myers Councilmember Teresa Watkins Brown Appointed to Florida League of Cities Policy Committee

City of Fort Myers Ward 1 Councilmember Teresa Watkins Brown Appointed to Serve on Florida…

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City of Fort Myers Councilmember Teresa Watkins Brown Appointed to Florida League of Cities Policy Committee

City of Fort Myers Ward 1 Councilmember Teresa Watkins Brown Appointed to Serve on

Florida League of Cities Legislative Committee

Watkins Brown appointed to Utilities, Natural Resources and Public Works Committee

FORT MYERS, Fla. (Sept. 12, 2024) – The Florida League of Cities, the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments, announced that City of Fort Myers Ward 1 Councilmember Teresa Watkins Brown was recently appointed to serve on the Florida League of Cities 2024-2025 Utilities, Natural Resources and Public Works Committee, one of the League’s five Legislative Policy Committees.

Legislative Policy Committee chairs, vice chairs and members were appointed by Florida League of Cities President Michael C. Blake, Mayor of Cocoa.

As a Legislative Policy Committee member, Watkins Brown will help develop the League’s Legislative Platform, which details priority issues that are most likely to affect daily municipal governance and local decision-making during the upcoming legislative session, as well as help League staff understand the real-world implications of proposed legislation. Committee members are also asked to serve as advocates for local decision-making throughout the legislative process.

“As I previously served on the Florida League of Cities Board of Directors, I’m thrilled to serve in this new capacity, representing the state as well as the City of Fort Myers,” said Watkins Brown. “Given my professional experience and tenure on the Fort Myers City Council, I look forward to serving alongside other municipal leaders to exchange best practices, align on strategies, and provide better services to our communities impacting generations to come.”

Watkins Brown is a Fort Myers native. She began her career in Telecommunications in August 1975 with United Telephone Company of Florida, which has now evolved to CenturyLink. She worked across various departments and as the Public Affairs Coordinator for 15 years, subsequently retiring September 2010 after 35 years of service.

For a complete list of committee members, as well as more information on each committee and the League’s legislative policy development process, click here.

About the City of Fort Myers
Incorporated in 1886, the City of Fort Myers is committed to providing exceptional municipal services to residents, businesses and visitors in a fiscally responsible manner while preserving the City’s rich history, diverse culture and charming lifestyle. To carry out its mission, the City of Fort Myers strives to provide economic opportunity, personal growth and a high quality of life surrounded by a beautiful natural environment, while fostering an atmosphere where citizens and businesses can thrive. To learn more and get involved, visit
www.cityftmyers.com.

About Florida League of Cities

Founded in 1922, the Florida League of Cities is the united voice for Florida’s municipal governments. Its goals are to promote local self-government and serve the needs of Florida’s cities, which are formed and governed by their citizens. The League believes in “Local Voices Making Local Choices,” which focuses on the impact citizens and city leaders have in improving Florida’s communities. For more information, visit flcities.com.

River Cruise after the meeting…. Please RSVP

Generous offer from one of our newest members: Join Off the Leash Charters for a…

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River Cruise after the meeting…. Please RSVP

Generous offer from one of our newest members:

Join Off the Leash Charters for a 1-hour cruise along the Caloosahatchee River following the RDA meeting.

  • Depart Oxbow Bar & Grill at 5:00 PM
  • Bottled water will be provided.

Limited seats available. Please RSVP with the following information to Renee Shelly at [email protected]:

  • Full Name
  • Organization (if applicable)
  • Title (if applicable)
  • Email Address
  • Cell Phone Number

Thank you! 

Renee

Lisa Sbuttoni

President & CEO

River District Alliance

www.explorefortmyers.com