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"Theatre Conspiracy has a distinguished history as a leader in the development of new…
 “Theatre Conspiracy has a distinguished history as a leader in the development of new work from having presented over 30 world premiere plays in Fort Myers. I can’t wait to see how audiences react to this amazing season. Be sure to join us for the very best of live theatre in SWFL!” -Bill Taylor, Producing Artistic Director  August Wilson’s Radio Golf October 19-21, 26-28 at 7:30pm and October 29 at 2pm Directed by Sonya McCarter Set in Pittsburgh in the late 1990s,Radio Golf is the story of a successful entrepreneur who aspires to become the city’s first Black mayor. But when the past begins to catch up with him, secrets get revealed that could be his undoing. The struggle between history and progress plays out in the performance starring local actors Mark Drew as Harmond Wilks, LaShaun Collier as Mame Wilks, Elvis Mortley as Roosevelt Hicks, Lemec Bernard as Sterling Johnson and Cicero McCarter as Elder Joseph Barlow. Purchase Tickets →  Clown Bar Nov 9-26 • BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND! This immersive experience transforms the Alliance theatre into an actual functioning bar. The Clown Bar plunges you into the dark & secret world of these hilarious, yet frightening, gangster clowns. Directed by Theatre Conspiracy’s own Bill Taylor. Get Tickets →  Which Way to the Stage Jan 18-Feb 3 • A playful yet profound comedy about friendship, ambition, and what happens when dreams fall just out of reach. Get Tickets →  The Women Who Mapped the Stars Feb 8-18 • Follow the five women astronomers working together at the Harvard Observatory help to shape the development of astrophysics. THIS SHOW WILL BE PERFORMED AS A FUNDRAISER FOR AND AT THE PLANETARIUM/CALUSA NATURE CENTER. This performance is generously sponsored by Janet & Bruce Bunch. Tickets →  Fringe Fort Myers 2024- Applications Open Now! May 30-June 2, 2024 • Application for the Lottery Drawing must be submitted no later than Friday, December 8, 2023, at 5 p.m. EST. Lottery Drawing will occur on Monday, December 18, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. Fringe Fort Myers is dedicated to supporting independent performers and artists while creating opportunities for diverse communities to experience boundary-pushing theatre and live performances at affordable rates. Find Out More → For tickets, call 239-939-2787 or visit ArtInLee.org. Alliance for the Arts (239) 939-2787 • 10091 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers     Membership • Donate • Exhibits • Events • Classes • Theatre • Digital Arts Lab 2023-24 Theatre Season Brought to You By  |
Florida Chamber Foundation Report Shows Florida's Economy Loses Nearly $5.4 Billion Annually Due to Childcare Crisis
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Megan Sweat, Director of Media Relations msweat@flchamber.com850.521.1258 Florida Chamber Foundation Report Shows Florida's Economy Loses…
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Megan Sweat, Director of Media Relations msweat@flchamber.com 850.521.1258 | |||
| Florida Chamber Foundation Report Shows Florida’s Economy Loses Nearly $5.4 Billion Annually Due to Childcare Crisis | |||
| “Untapped Potential in FL” report brings light to the impact Florida’s childcare gaps have on early learning, workforce productivity, and Florida’s economy. | |||
| TALLAHASSEE, FL (September 13, 2023) — The Florida Chamber Foundation released a new report examining the impact of childcare challenges on Florida’s economy. This report is part of a national “Untapped Potential” research effort that reveals the cost of childcare challenges and opportunities to unlock economic potential for states, employers, and working parents. “Increases in costs of housing, food, and daily necessities have changed the landscape of the U.S. economy and, by nature, America’s workforce,” said Florida Chamber Foundation Senior Vice President of Equality of Opportunity Kyle Baltuch. “However, for working parents of young children, there is one issue that exceeds all others in impacting their decision, or ability, to work and contribute to Florida’s economy. That issue is access to high-quality early learning and childcare.” The study, conducted in partnership with the National Chamber Foundation, found that childcare issues result in an estimated $5.38 billion loss annually for Florida’s economy, including a $911 million annual loss in tax revenue and a $3.47 billion yearly cost due to childcare-related employee turnover and absenteeism. Childcare gaps drive parents out of the workforce, reduce tax revenue for Florida, and put undue strain on Florida households and businesses. Key findings from the Untapped Potential in FL report include: Childcare issues result in an estimated $5.38 billion loss annually for Florida’s economy. Florida misses out on $911 million annually in tax revenue due to the childcare crisis. Childcare-related employee turnover and absenteeism costs Florida employers $3.47 billion per year. 48% of parents attending school or work training needed to make a significant adjustment to their schedule due to childcare issues in the past year. 64% of parents of young children missed work or class at least once in the past three months for childcare-related reasons. 15% of parents left a job in the past six months due to childcare issues. To learn more about how barriers to childcare may be impacting your community and Florida’s economy, check out the Untapped Potential in FL report by clicking HERE>. As we strive to secure the path to prosperity in Florida from cradle to career, we invite you to join our Florida Equality of Opportunity Initiative’s efforts to tackle barriers to opportunity in Florida. Contact Zenani Johnson at zjohnson@flchamber.com to find out how you can get involved in your neighborhood. | |||
| About The Florida Chamber Foundation The Florida Chamber Foundation is a business-led solutions development and research organization working in partnership with state business leaders to make Florida even more competitive and secure Florida’s future. The Foundation’s “Six Pillars” serve as a visioning platform for developing the first-ever, long-term strategic plan for the state. The Foundation’s work focuses on: 1) Talent Supply and Education, 2) Innovation and Economic Development, 3) Infrastructure and Growth Leadership, 4) Business Climate and Competitiveness, 5) Civic and Governance Systems, and 6) Quality of Life and Quality Places. Founded in 1968, the Foundation is a crucial voice for improving the state’s pro-business climate to enable Florida to grow and prosper. Visit www.FLFoundation.org for more information. |
Lee County Port Authority Media Advisory: AIRPORT MEETING CANCELLED
AIRPORT MEETING CANCELLED The Lee County Port Authority Airports Special Management Committee meeting scheduled for…
Plumbing Nerds expands to South Naples
Naples, FL (Sept. 14, 2023) – Plumbing Nerds is thrilled to announce the opening of…
Naples, FL (Sept. 14, 2023) – Plumbing Nerds is thrilled to announce the opening of its newest location at 660 Tamiami Trail North in Naples. Plumbing Nerds is proud to bring its expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction to south Naples.
In response to the growing demand for reliable plumbing solutions in the South Naples area, Plumbing Nerds’ expansion signifies its dedication to providing top-notch services and cutting-edge technology to a broader community.
“With this expansion, we’re not just opening a new location; we’re opening doors to a more convenient and reliable plumbing experience for the South Naples community,” said John Verhoff, founder of Plumbing Nerds. “Our team is excited to bring our nerd-like enthusiasm and expertise to this new location, ensuring that every plumbing issue is solved with precision and care.”
Plumbing Nerds’ five essential guarantees define its service philosophy: 100 percent customer satisfaction, unmatched cleanliness from technicians to vehicles, upfront pricing with no hidden charges, access to the latest technology and services and an unparalleled commitment to exceptional service.
“Being part of the South Naples community is a privilege, and we are committed to enhancing the lives of our neighbors through our plumbing solutions,” Verhoff said. “The opening of our South Naples location is a significant milestone for us, and we can’t wait to contribute positively to this wonderful community.”
About Plumbing Nerds
Plumbing Nerds, a fully licensed and insured plumbing and drain expert, has been dedicated to serving Southwest Florida since 2007. With offices in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, and Bonita Springs, Plumbing Nerds is at the forefront of the industry, offering upfront pricing, financing options, and a membership plan for their valued customers. Their mission is to provide reliable plumbing solutions with a blend of the latest technology and enthusiastic service. For more information, visit plumbingnerds.com or call 239-500-6373.
Be BearWise® as bears become more active in fall
(Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.) Sept. 14, 2023 Photos…
 (Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.) Sept. 14, 2023 Photos available Suggested Tweet: Be #BearWise this fall & remove food attractants to reduce conflicts with #bears: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLFFWCC/bulletins/3704ccc @MyFWC #Florida  Be BearWise® as bears become more active in fall The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds residents and visitors that our state’s black bears are more active in search of food as autumn approaches. Following BearWise® practices can help prevent negative interactions with bears and other wildlife, including securing garbage and removing food attractants. During the fall, bears start consuming more calories to pack on fat reserves for the winter, even if they are not hibernating as long as they do in colder climates. Adult bears need to consume approximately 20,000 calories a day during the fall, meaning they are more active while in search of food, including female bears with cubs. If given the opportunity, bears will take advantage of easy meals from things like unsecured trash cans and bird feeders. “Any accessible food source, such as unsecured garbage, pet food or bird seed, can be enticing to a hungry bear preparing for the winter, potentially drawing them into conflict with people,” said FWC Bear Manage- ment Pro-gram Coordinator, Mike Orlando. “However, if bears don’t find a food source in a neighborhood, they’ll move on.” You can avoid attracting bears to your neighborhood and help prevent negative interactions with bears and other wildlife by following these six BearWise Basics: 1. Never feed or approach bears -Feeding bears can make them lose their natural fear of people. -It is illegal in Florida to intentionally feed bears or leave out food or garbage that will attract bears and cause conflicts. -Getting close to a wild animal is dangerous. 2. Secure food and garbage -Store garbage in a sturdy shed or garage and then put it out on the morning of pickup rather than the night before. -If not stored in a secured building, modify your existing garbage can to make it more bear-resistant or use a bear- resistant container. -Secure commercial garbage in bear-resistant dumpsters. -Protect gardens, beehives, compost and livestock with electric fencing. -Pick ripe fruit from trees and bushes and remove fallen fruit from the ground. 3. Remove or secure bird feeders -Remove bird feeders where bears are present. -If bird feeders are left up, only put enough food out for birds to finish eating before dark. –Use other options to attract birds, not bears. 4. Never leave pet food outdoors -Feed pets indoors. -If feeding pets outdoors, only put food outside for short time periods and bring in leftover food and dishes after each feeding. 5. Clean and store grills -Clean and degrease grills and smokers after each use. If mobile, store them in a secure shed or garage. 6. Alert neighbors to bear activity -If you see a bear, let your neighbors know. -Share tips on how to avoid conflicts with bears. -Encourage your homeowner’s association or local government to institute bylaws or ordinances to require trash be kept secure. While black bears generally are not aggressive, they can injure people and pets. Female bears with cubs can be particularly defensive and protective of their offspring. Dogs can trigger defensive behaviors from bears; 60% of incidents where bears injured people in Florida involved dogs. When walking dogs, keep them close to you – preferably on a non-retractable leash and be aware of your surroundings. Before letting your dog out at night, flip lights on and off and bang on the door to give bears and other wildlife a chance to flee. As bears increase their movements in search of food this time of year, they also increase the number of roads they cross. For the safety of yourself and bears, remember to slow down when driving, particularly on rural highways at dawn or dusk. Watch for road signage identifying known bear crossing areas. Having conflicts with bears? Call one of the FWC’s five regional offices. Go to MyFWC.com/Contact, and click on “Contact Regional Offices” to find the phone number for your region. If you want to report someone who is either harming bears or intentionally feeding them, or to report injured, orphaned or dead bears, call the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922). More information is available at MyFWC.com/Bear, where you can access the “Guide to Living in Bear Country” brochure. Find additional ways to be BearWise at BearWise.org. Help us help bears and other wildlife by purchas- ing the Conserve Wildlife tag at WildlifeFlorida.org/CWT.  QUESTIONS? Contact the FWC STAY CONNECTED: Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission · 620 S. Meridian Street · Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600 · (850) 488-4676  |
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
MEDIA ADVISORY/REQUEST FOR COVERAGE Alliance for the Arts Presents Vamonos de Parche on Sunday, September…
MEDIA ADVISORY/REQUEST FOR COVERAGE
Alliance for the Arts Presents
Vamonos de Parche on Sunday, September 17
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
WHAT: Vamonos de Parche
WHEN: 11am to 5pm, Sunday, September 17, 2023
WHERE: Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers
DESCRIPTION: Event is FREE and family friendly
AFTA celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with Vamonos de Parche, featuring food trucks, games, music by @djswayj_, activities for kids, raffles and more. AFTA shows appreciation for culinary and performing arts, while cultivating community connections and supporting small and local businesses of Fort Myers. Guests will experience cultural foods from the SWFL community at a fun, free, and family friendly event.
Website: Vamonos de Parche – Alliance for the Arts (artinlee.org)
About Alliance for the Arts
The Alliance for the Arts is a nonprofit community visual and performing arts center located in the heart of Fort Myers, Florida. Since 1975, the Alliance has been committed to transforming lives and improving community through the arts. The Alliance campus and galleries are open to the public from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Located at 10091 McGregor Boulevard just south of Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers. For more information, please call 239-939-2787, visit us at www.ArtInLee.org, find us on Facebook or Instagram.
FALL in love with our discounted rooms!
Get ready to FALL in love with our hotel rooms, now at discounted…
FWC, FDACS and partner agencies to conduct two additional public meetings to discuss new regulations to slow the spread of chronic wasting disease in north Florida
(Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.) Sept. 13, 2023 Suggested…
| (Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.) Sept. 13, 2023 Suggested Tweet: State agencies @MyFWC and @FDACS conducting two more public meetings in #Bonifay and #Marianna to discuss chronic wasting disease, new regulations and #CWD management prior to hunting season: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLFFWCC/bulletins/37028d3 #Florida #deer FWC, FDACS and partner agencies to conduct two additional public meetings to discuss new regula- tions to slow the spread of chronic wasting disease in north Florida Following confirmation of a positive test for chronic wasting disease (CWD) in a single white-tailed deer in Holmes County, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) have scheduled two additional public meetings in Bonifay and Marianna. The meetings will provide information about chronic wasting disease, updates on the unified agency and par- tner response, new hunting regulations for the area, sampling and testing procedures, and an opportunity for area residents to ask questions about CWD and CWD management strategies. Details for the public meetings are as follows: Tuesday, Sept. 19 6 to 8 p.m. (CDT) Bonifay K-8 School Auditorium 140 Blue Devil Drive Bonifay, FL 32425 Tuesday, Oct. 10 6 to 8 p.m. (CDT) Rivertown Community Church Auditorium 4535 Lafayette Street Marianna, FL 32446 Questions for both meetings can be asked in advance by emailing CWD@MyFWC.com. A recording of the first public meeting can be found at The Florida Channel. The FWC and its agency partners take CWD very seriously and have implemented a comprehensive response plan. As part of the plan, the FWC and FDACS have been collecting samples from established zones to further assess any spread of the disease. The FWC is asking anyone who sees a sick, abnormally thin deer or finds a deer dead from unknown causes to call the CWD hotline, 866-CWD-WATCH (866-293-9282) and report the animal’s location. For more information, visit MyFWC.com/CWD. QUESTIONS? Contact the FWC STAY CONNECTED: Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission · 620 S. Meridian Street · Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600 · (850) 488-4676 |
FWC to host Florida State Fish Art Contest
Sept. 13, 2023 Suggested Tweet: Calling for K-12 #Florida #FishArtContest…
| Sept. 13, 2023 Suggested Tweet: Calling for K-12 #Florida #FishArtContest entries https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLFFWCC/bulletins/37022dd @MyFWC  A mahi-mahi created by last year’s seventh-ninth grade, first place saltwater winner, Penelope Horwitz. FWC to host Florida State Fish Art Contest The annual Fish Art Contest is now open! Students in kindergarten through 12th grade can create an original piece of artwork and compete in this free contest for a chance to win state and national honors and prizes. In partnership with Wildlife Forever, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is excited to announce the second annual category for a Florida Native Fish Award! This State Specialty Award is an addi- tional award to the national Fish Art Contest that participating students will qualify for by submitting a Florida native species from the specified list below. The goal of the Florida Native Fish Award is to celebrate fish species native to Florida’s inland and marine waters. “The Florida Native Fish Award is an amazing opportunity to introduce students to some of Florida’s most iconic native fish species in a fun and creative way,” said FWC Commissioner Sonya Rood. “This award helps connect Florida’s students to the fish species that help make Florida the Fishing Capital of the World, which is critical in inspiring the next generation of fisheries resource stewards.” One first place winner and one runner up will be selected for each grade bracket (kindergarten through third grade, fourth through sixth grade, seventh through ninth grade, and 10th through 12th grade), one for illustrating the best freshwater fish species and one for the best saltwater fish species. Digital artwork will not be accepted this year, all submitted pieces must be created with a traditional media. All first-place winners will advance to the National Com- petition to be judged for top prizes, such as Best of Show. The deadline to enter is Feb. 28, 2024, so start designing! To enter, students from Florida should submit their entry at Wildlife Forever – Florida Art, consisting of the following: -An original piece of physical artwork featuring any fish including one or more of the following Florida native species from the same category: Category 1 – Freshwater: largemouth bass, striped bass, black crappie, bluegill, redear sunfish, spotted sunfish, chan- nel catfish, Florida gar, chain pickerel, bowfin Category 2 – Saltwater: snook, redfish, spotted seatrout, flounder, tarpon, mahi-mahi, Spanish mackerel, hogfish, queen snapper, black grouper A piece of creative writing, no longer than one page, about the chosen species (required for grades 4-12). -A Florida State-Fish Art Contest entry form. Note: Digital artwork will not be accepted this year, all submitted pieces must be created with a traditional media. Florida Prizes -First-place winners in the 10-12 grade bracket will receive 10 T-shirts printed with their artwork to give to family and friends from our partner The Florida Nomad and the shirts will also be available for sale on their website. -The two first-place winners from each grade bracket, from each category will have their artwork displayed in FWC’s freshwater or saltwater regulations guide. -All first-place winners will have their artwork displayed at FWC headquarters in Tallahassee. QUESTIONS? Contact the FWC STAY CONNECTED: Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission · 620 S. Meridian Street · Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600 · (850) 488-4676 |
