Member News

FORT MYERS, FLA., January 23, 2023 – Internationally-acclaimed author Robert N. Macomber will headline the annual Cracker Dinner Monday, Feb. 20, at the Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, hosted by the Southwest Florida Historical Society.
Macomber will speak on the topic “The Adventurous Life and Strange Death of the U.S. Navy Schooner Annie on Our Coast.” Annie was a U.S. Navy blockade ship during the Civil War that captured five ships. “Her life was impressively successful, her skipper wildly unpredictable, and her strange demise is still a mystery to this day,” Macomber said.
Macomber is a multi-award-winning author best known for his Honor Series of naval thrillers describing the life of a fictional American naval officer Peter Wake. His 16th novel in the series, “Code of Honor,” was released last April and has received the Editor’s Choice Award by Historical Novels Review. He also has been honored as the Florida Writer of the Year by the Florida Writers Association, among dozens of other awards.
In addition to his writing, Macomber is an internationally-recognized lecturer on 58 maritime topics and has been a consultant to the U.S. Department of Defense, specializing in strategic vision and planning by utilizing historical analogies.
When not traveling the world on research treks, lecture tours or book signings, he lives on Pine Island, the same coast where he grew up.
The presentation will be accompanied by music performed by local singer John Goulet.
Buffet dinner starts at 5:30 p.m. and the program begins at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $40 and are available at the Broadway Palm, 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers. There also will be door prizes, a silent auction and a book signing by Macomber.
The annual Cracker Dinner is sponsored by George T. Mann General Contractor and Susan Bennett Marketing & Media, L.C., among others.
Funds raised at the annual dinner will be used to support the mission of the Southwest Florida Historical Society which is dedicated to preserving the history of our area by archiving donated historical documents, photos and maps and stimulating public interest and appreciation for local history.

About the Southwest Florida Historical Society

February 19 | 7:00
Music & Arts Community Center
13411 Shire Ln, Fort Myers

Anchored on the great piano trio in C minor by Mendelssohn, the program will also include works by the Spanish composer Joaquín Turina, as well as the “Gypsy” trio by Haydn. From the great pioneer of the piano trio, to the poetry of a Romantic giant, to the irresistible flavor of Spanish music, this evening is certain to inspire. Pianist Catherine Lan will be joined by violinist Huifang Chen and cellist Claudio Jaffe. These veteran artists will bring the music to life through their passion, dynamism, and virtuosity.

Tickets only $30!

Meet the Musicians

Dr. Catherine Lan

Born in Taiwan, Dr. Catherine Lan has concertized across the US, Canada, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, Mexico, Thailand, China, United Kingdom, Italy, Croatia, and Slovenia at prestigious venues such as the Carnegie Hall in New York and Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge.

Claudio Jaffé

Cellist Claudio Jaffé launched his solo performance career at the age of 11 with an orchestral debut in his native Brazil. His recitals and guest solo appearances with multiple orchestras have brought him to play in prestigious artistic centers around the world including those in New York City, London, Tokyo, Ottawa, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, and Buenos Aires.

Huifang Chen

As an international violin soloist, Chen has appeared with many orchestras around the globe including New Taoyuan Philharmonic and Taipei Symphony Orchestra in Taiwan, Brno Philharmonic in Czech Republic, Macomb, Rochester, and Warren Symphony Orchestras in Michigan, Alhambra Orchestra, Dreyfoos Philharmonic, Florida Youth Orchestra, Frost Symphony of University of Miami and the Greater Miami Youth Symphony in Florida among others. She was the recipient of the 1999 Young Concert Artist of the Year awarded by the National Concert Hall of Taipei, Taiwan and a Concerto Competition Winner at the University of Miami in 2003.

Series Sponsored in part by
Douglas & Linda Garde

239.277.1700 | GulfCoastSymphony.org

Gulf Coast Symphony, PO Box 60878, Fort Myers, FL 33906, United States

Love is an art of the heart, and the heart of the arts. This February, bring your Valentine and join us for an upcoming event or theatre production, an art class or gallery exhibition! If piano music is your love language, then consider us fluent. Click here to see a list of all our upcoming concerts.

February’s Featured Gallery Exhibit

Unearthed: Camyljah Rose and Khaysie Tiburcio

Friday, February 3-25 • Through their individual practices, Camyljah Rose and Khaysie Tiburcio create art meditating on the idea of discovery. Both artists approach their work with a sense of playfulness. Through experimentation, both artists allow their practice to evolve and change organically, letting one piece grow into the next. This exhibition presents a series of paintings made on the artists’ road to self-discovery. Each painting represents an idea or emotion the artist has unearthed from the tangled roots of her mind. Both artists paint in an effort to understand herself, and with the hope of being understood by the viewer.

Friday, February 3 • Opening Reception: Friday, February 3, 5-7 p.m. • See it first. See it free. This event is open to the public. Come meet your neighbors at this free event!

Find Out More →

View All Events →

Share the Love: Dueling Pianos Dinner Under the Stars

Tuesday, February 14 • This Valentine’s Day, share the love and enjoy an interactive outdoor dueling piano concert with a catered buffet dinner benefiting two great organizations: the Alliance for the Arts and Our Mother’s Home.

Tickets are $100 per person and include dinner, dessert, entertainment and a champagne toast. Gates open at 5 p.m. and the show takes place from 6 – 10 p.m. on the Alliance for the Arts festival grounds under our new café lights.

Purchase Tickets →

View All Events →

In the Theatre this February

February’s Theatre Performance

The Last Show, Written & Performed by Derek Lively, Directed by Bill Taylor

Performances February 16 – 26 • Set in an illegal underground nightclub in a city where all public social gatherings and all forms of art have been banned, a performance artist risks arrest to perform for the first (and last time) in front of his dying mother. With nothing but props, a microphone and a bottle of cognac, the performance artist holds nothing back because this show is unlike any other that he has performed.

Performances are February 16 – 18 and 23 – 25 at 7:30 p.m. and February 26 at 2 p.m.

This production contains adult content and language. Please use discretion.

Purchase Tickets →

View All Performances →

An Intimate Evening of Jazz Featuring Ben Rosenblum

Performance February 1, 7:00 pm • Join us in our Foulds Theatre for an intimate evening of Jazz by Award-winning New York City jazz pianist Ben Rosenblum. Rosenblum, the internationally-touring, multi-instrumentalist has been described as a talent not to be missed. The band never repeats the same program twice in a row – every evening is a unique experience shaped by the audience and the setting.

Tickets are $25 and available on Eventbrite.

Find Out More →

Purchase Tickets →

Storytelling Showcase: Stories of Love

Friday, February 3 • When was the last time that a story transported you into another world? Join us as our tellers get up on stage and tell their tales of love. In this second of a series of storytelling events, Storytellers of the Round Table and The Elephant Showcase Storytellers bring you stories in the oral tradition. Captivating, spellbinding, and entertaining.

Featuring Dr. Joel Ying, Mary Lou Williams, Rhonda Brazina, Marilyn Graham.

Tickets are $18 for members, $20 for non-members.

Purchase Tickets →

View All Events →

Patchouli: Landscape of Guitar

Saturday, February 4 •Live music continues at the Alliance for the Arts, and what better backdrop for a performance than the gorgeous Florida sky? Patchouli is an award-winning folk festival headliner and Public Radio favorite with pure, sparkling lead vocals and beautiful harmonies. Reserve your tickets now for Patchouli’s one and only show, happening on February 4, 2023. Gates open at 6:00 pm.

Tickets are $18 for members, $20 for non-members.

Purchase Tickets →

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Outdoor Bluegrass Concert (Bill Metts and Bear Hill Bluegrass)

Sunday, February 5 • Join fellow bluegrass music lovers for great live music by bands from southwest Florida and beyond! Our popular Palmgrass bluegrass concerts are always a toe-tapping good time.

The concert will be held on our Green Market Stage. Gates open at 2:00 p.m. with Bill Metts playing at 3:00 p.m. and Bear Hill Bluegrass taking the stage at 4:00 p.m. Chairs and coolers are permitted.

Tickets are $15 for members, $16 for non-members.

Purchase Tickets →

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Grand Piano Series: Boyd Meets Girl

Saturday, February 11 • Grand Piano Series presents Boyd Meets Girl for family-friendly concerts with inspiring music.

Each Concert is limited to 30 minutes to ensure the best experience for all ages.

Our youngest community members are free to crawl, walk, play, and otherwise enjoy themselves throughout the performance!!

Purchase Tickets →

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Artist Mixer

February 9, 5-7:00 pm • Connect with the creative community at our Visual Artist Mixer. See familiar faces, introduce yourself to new ones and share some laughs for an evening of connection. The evening will feature light refreshments and of course, lots of art. While this event is free, an RSVP is required.

RSVP→

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Art Classes for All Ages and Abilities

Your creative journey starts with you, so pick your level and don’t stop until you get to your destination. Stay connected and inspired from your living room, kitchen table or studio with our online art classes or connect outdoors or in our classroom. Upcoming classes include:

ADULT & TEEN
• Zentangle for the Seasons (13+)
• Playing with Pastels Class for Beginners and Intermediate (16+)
• Fluid Art Series: Create Big Cells!
• The Art of Qigong Exercise
• Palette Knife Painting in Oil (16+)
• Groundbreaking: Centuries of Black American Art (Lecture)
• Come Together: The Art of Assemblage
• The Art of Finding Love in the Stars (18+)
• Step-by-Step Batik Sea Turtle
• Leatherworking-Small Journal (12+)
• Getting Your Art Into the Retail Environment Series
• Fine Art Acrylic-Plein Air Painting (18+)
• Fine Art Acrylics (18+)
• Portrait Drawing
• “Are You Stuck” Workshop (16+)
• Painting with Terry Lynn (16+) Morning, Afternoon and Evening Studio
• Animal Pastels (18+)
• Beginning Belly Dancing (Ages 18+)
• Belly Dance Bliss (18+)
• Poets of the 3rd Dimension: Six Renaissance Sculptors (Lecture)
• Mosaic Jewelry Making
• The Art and Craft of the Personal Story
• 3 Day Batique Techniques Workshop

YOUTH
• Zentangle for the Seasons (13+)
• Playing with Pastels Class for Beginners and Intermediate (16+)
• Painting with Eunique (ages 5-10)
• Manga and Pizza (Ages 12-18)
• Free Family ArtLab
• Painting with Eunique (ages 5-10)
• Rising Artist Experience Mixed Media (Ages 5-9)

Register →

View All Classes →

Wednesday Night Market

Every 2nd Wednesday • Join us under the stars, every 2nd Wednesday of the month from 5 pm to 8 pm for our monthly pop-up Market. We feature a selection of fresh produce, art, live music, food trucks and beer and wine.

Interested in becoming a vendor? Contact Emily at Exhibitions@ArtInLee.Org

Find Out More →

View All Events →

Spring Break Arts Camp

Registration, scholarship opportunities and volunteer applications open January 27 • Our Spring Break Arts Camp combines hands-on art-making activities, creative games and playtime in the park for the opportunity to connect and craft in our classrooms, galleries and theatre spaces. Participants will explore a new artistic medium each day.

Open to all students currently enrolled in First-Sixth grade. Daily and weekly rates available to members and non-members.

Find Out More →

Register →

Free Family Art Labs

Saturday, February 18 • Drop in for free, hands-on family fun from 10 a.m. to noon! This month, we’ll take inspiration from the gallery and work with pastels to explore February’s themes such as Valentines day, President’s Day and of course Black History Month. Come ready to imagine and create! After the fun, peruse local produce and products at our GreenMarket.

Find Out More →

View All Events →

Arts on Tap

March 11 • Hurricane Ian couldn’t stop us from bringing back Arts On Tap! Our popular fundraising event for the Alliance for the Arts combines all of your happiest hours into one incredible evening!

On March 11, mingle, play, sip and savor as local craft brewers pour award-winning, rare and brand new artisan brews or delight your senses with an awesome selection of hand-selected wines and tasty culinary creations, play twisted pub and oversized lawn games.

Purchase Tickets →

Sponsorship Opportunities →

Alliance for the Arts • ArtInLee.org
239-939-2787 • 10091 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers

Membership • Donate • Classes • Exhibits • Theatre • Digital Arts Lab

Alliance for the Arts | 10091 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919

March 5 | 7:00
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW
13350 FSW Pkwy, Fort Myers

After rocking the house with his Billy Joel concert last season, Michael Cavanaugh returns to the Gulf Coast Symphony with an all new program of some of the greatest singer-songwriters: Paul Simon, Neil Diamond & James Taylor.

Get Your Tickets Now!

Meet the Star

Michael Cavanaugh

Michael Cavanaugh is the new voice of the American Rock & Roll Songbook and a charismatic performer and musician made famous for his piano/lead vocals in the Broadway musical Movin’ Out. Handpicked by Billy Joel to star in Movin’ Out, Cavanaugh evokes a style rivaling the Piano Man. He appeared in the show for three years with over 1,200 performances and received multiple accolades. The show culminated in 2003 with both Grammy and Tony award nominations.

Sponsored in part by
JAKE GOLDBERGER & MARGARITA GALMARINI, METAMORPHOSIS COACHING

239.277.1700 | GulfCoastSymphony.org

Follow us on our social media for more updates

Gulf Coast Symphony, PO Box 60878, Fort Myers, FL 33906, United States

Hundreds of courses. Knowledgeable instructors.
Have it your way, online or in-person.

Support FGCU Academy | Make a Memorable Gift Now

JANUARY 2023

FGCU Academy
Membership has its perks!

Greetings,becoming a member of FGCU Academy is easy and the perks are very rewarding. Free gift with purchase of membership, selected free classes and the standard 20% savings on most programs. And that is just the beginning. Exclusive programs are being planned for you too. Stay tuned for more information!

As January draws to an end, February brings the beginning of our Day Trip programs. Register now for the trips as they are filling up fast!

Great Decisions – one of the most popular world topic discussion groups begins February 7. There is still room to register. This is one of the most dynamic conversational groups available.

Jump down to our Looking Ahead section to view upcoming lectures. We have added some additional courses you won’t find in the catalog due to overwhelming popularity.

For assistance with registration – call ur office (239) 434-4737, and we will be glad to assist you.

Free Gift with Purchase of a Membership

When you purchase a membership, you are supporting lifelong learning in the SWFL community. As a token of our appreciation, we have a free gift for all those who purchase a membership, in-person or online. Visit the FGCU Naples Center at 704 Goodlette Frank Rd North to receive your free gift.

Free Class For Members

iPhone & iPad for Beginners
Wednesday February 1, 2023 | 10 – 11:30 am
FGCU Main Campus – Kleist Center / Room 102 / Fort Myers

The iPhone provides access to phone, voicemail, email, the web, photos, calendars, texting, maps, games and more. iPads have revolutionized computing since their introduction. With its larger screen the iPad is absolutely a viable replacement for your desktop or laptop! Whether you already own an iPhone or iPad, or are considering purchasing one, join us as we explore the capabilities of these remarkable devices. This lecture-style demonstration teaches you the important basics of: installing, reorganizing and deleting apps, using the touch interface, keyboard basics, text selection and editing, Spotlight, Apple ID, settings and more.

You must pre-register by calling our office at 239.434.4737

PROGRAM GUIDE

CLICK HERE TO VIEW AND DOWNLOAD THE 2023 PROGRAM GUIDE

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR PROGRAMS ONLINE

CLICK HERE FOR FEBRUARY DAILY CALENDAR

Call us for assistance with registration – 239.434.4737

If you would like to have FGCU Academy provide programs at your community, click below and send us an email with your information: who the contact person is, their email and phone number along with name of your community. We will be happy to reach out and discuss the possibilities with them.

Schedule a Private Education Session
for Your Community!

Discussion Groups

PREPARE TO DISCUSS THE WORLD

Great Decisions Discussion Group (8-part series)
@ Naples Center or Online via Zoom
Feb 7, 14, 21, 28, Mar 7, 14, 21, 28 | 10 – 12 pm

Participants must register for the entire series.The fee includes the Great Decisions Briefing Book necessary for class. Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. The program model involves reading the Great Decisions Briefing Book, watching the DVD and meeting in a discussion group to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today. Basic preparation for each session includes reading the information provided in the briefing book prior to the class and watching the video segment prior to our discussion. Mailing of the Great Decisions Briefing Book will require an additional postage fee.

2023 SUNDAY MOVIES
@ FGCU Academy

January
February

March
April

International Film and Documentary Discussion Series
(8 Films)
(All movies begin at 2pm)

January 29 – Faces Places * February 12 – Wadjda * February 26 – Petite Maman * March 12 – Lion * March 26 – Hive * April 9 – Pain and Glory * April 23 – A Sun

Join FGCU Academy for a casual afternoon enjoying the above movies and participating in open discussion afterwards with our moderator – John Guerra
You can register for the series or an individual movie. Register early.
Advanced registration is strongly recommended

2023 DAY TRIPS

February 9 – Miami’s South Beach Art Deco Artistic, Culinary and Cultural Tour
February 15 & March 16 – Miami Millionaire’s Row Boat Cruise & Bayside Marketplace
February 21 – Miami’s Little Havana Culinary, Artistic and Cultural Tour
February 23 & March 22 – Tour of Immokalee
March 1 – Vizcaya Mansion & Gardens Tour with Lunch
March 9 – Morikami Japanese Gardens & Bento Box Lunch
March 21 – Flagler Mansion and Gilded Age Afternoon Tea
March 28 – Miami’s Wynwood Artistic, Culinary and Cultural Tour
April 4 – The Dali Museum in St.Petersburg

remember to book your trips early as they sell out fast

LOOKING AHEAD

See what else is happening in January!
click on any title below for more information

• Sugar in Florida: A Critical History
• Current Events: Discussion Group (2-part sessions)
• Vanished! The Stories Behind Some of History’s Greatest Art Heists – Due to an overwhelming popularity for this class we have added another session of this class to our schedule – March 2 at 10am at Naples Center or Online via Zoom
• Paul Revere: Patriot, Courier, Entrepreneur
• Art of the 19th Century French Salon and the Rebellion that Became Known as the Impressionist Movement
• Russian “Sleeper” Spies: The Illegals Program
• Whatever Happened to the World’s Fair?
• Catherine the Great
• FBI: Politicization and Integrity
• Kennedy-Nixon: The 1960 Campaign for President
• Sidney Reilly “Ace of Spies” – The Real James Bond
• Religion in the White House
• Yoga Nidra Meditation (2-part series)

2023 Travel

Travel The World With FGCU Academy
Travel is not reward for working, it’s education for living

View our
Pre-Recorded Travel Open House Presentation Now

INSIDER’S JAPAN – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
May 20 – June 1, 2023 | 13 days
It’s a land of delicate art and bustling commerce, of rich traditions and dizzying modernity; a jumble of sights, sounds, and tastes that for visitors are truly foreign – and truly fascinating. This well-crafted tour features the highlights of Tokyo and Kyoto, engages us in local life, and takes us off the beaten path to the lovely historic cities of Takayama and Kanazawa.

UNTAMED ALASKA – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
August 20 – 30, 2023 | 11 days
Awe-inspiring natural beauty and outdoor adventure await as we explore Alaska’s varied landscapes and noteworthy cities. From Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, and Kenai Fjords national parks to the energy of Anchorage and scenic Seward, our small group encounters the breadth and beauty of America’s Last Frontier.

LEGENDARY TURKEY – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 1 – 15, 2023 | 15 days
Exotic sights, scents, and sounds reign in this fascinating land where Europe and Asia meet. From Istanbul, magnificent “Empress of the World,” to ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and the dramatic – and legendary – Turquoise Coast, Turkey engages and beguiles, offering us an unparalleled small group experience.

ACROSS SPAIN & PORTUGAL – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 10 – 26, 2023 | 17 days
Fortified cities and tiny fishing villages, rugged Atlantic coastline and commanding Pyrenees peaks, iconic shrines to both religion and fine art, and intimate lodgings in historic paradores and pousadas – it all awaits on this singular small group journey from Lisbon across the north of Spain, ending in vibrant Barcelona.

PEARLS OF DALMATIA – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 14 – 28, 2023 | 15 days
Independent, democratic Croatia welcomes visitors eager to absorb its remarkable history and culture – and its beautiful and unspoiled Dalmatian coastline. As our small group travels from historic Zagreb and beautiful Lake Bled to the Habsburg resort of Opatija, the island of Hvar, and beloved Dubrovnik, we see why this cherished region lays such a claim on the hearts of all who visit.

SICILY IN DEPTH – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
September 28 – October 9, 2023 | 12 days
Crossroads of the Mediterranean … the “toe” in Italy’s boot … “God’s Kitchen” … Sicily is all this, and much more, as we see on our stellar small group journey around this Italian island. It’s lively cities and ancient ruins, temples of man – and of nature, hospitable people and delectable cuisine … a feast for all the senses.

ISRAEL: TIMELESS WONDERS – View Full Itinerary/Travel Brochure
October 14 – 25, 2023 | 12 days
Encounter a land of extraordinary beauty and belief, of spirit and story, history and hospitality. From modern Tel Aviv to scen¬ic Upper Galilee, ancient Tiberias and storied Nazareth to Jerusalem, “City of Gold,” we engage all our senses in a small group encounter with this extraordinary and holy land, with a five-night stay in Jerusalem at the legendary King David hotel.

DONATE NOW

FGCU Academy Needs Your Support Today to Ensure that Our Critical Mission of Senior Education and Enrichment Continues!

FGCU Academy is ready to serve the SWFL community for the 2023 Season—Learning, Growing, Sharing, Socializing. I am excited to welcome you this year to the new FGCU Naples Center, which is located at 704 Goodlette Frank Rd N, Suite 330 in Naples. Also, we have two new locations in Lee County, Pelican Landing in Bonita Springs and the FGCU Kleist Center on main campus. As always, both locations are open to all our students.

Our passion keeps us moving forward and your donations will do the same. Please take a few minutes to consider donating to ensure our continued success. All amounts make a difference in strengthening the work we do in the community.

Your gift will allow the Academy to offer more than 1,500 diverse and fascinating programs at more than fifteen locations throughout SWFL. Please visit our website to review the rich and varied programmatic offerings that are available this year. Through our mission we promise to enrich the lives, minds and social well-being of more than 10,000 SWFL adults and seniors during our 2023 season.

Donate online at https://www.fgcu.edu/academy/givenow

I am grateful for your consideration to support this vital community outreach program this year.

I look forward to seeing you at a FGCU Academy program soon. Please contact me directly at jguerra@fgcu.edu or 239-434-4838 with questions or to learn more.

In gratitude, John J. Guerra Director of FGCU Academy

FGCU Academy
Collier / Lee / Charlotte

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

239-434-4737

fgcuacademy@fgcu.edu

FGCU Academy | 704 Goodlette-Frank Road N., Suite 330, Naples, FL 34102

View as a webpage here

News Release

South Florida Water Management District and the National Park Service Break Ground on Everglades Restoration Project to Move More Water South

Improvements will increase the flow of clean, freshwater south

EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK, Fla. – Today, the South Florida Water Management District along with the National Park Service broke ground on the Taylor Slough Flow Improvement Project within Everglades National Park. This environmental restoration project will allow more clean, freshwater to flow south through Taylor Slough and onto Florida Bay, where it is needed to balance salinity levels and promote ecological health.

“The South Florida Water Management District remains focused on expediting Everglades restoration and water quality projects to protect Florida’s natural resources for future generations,” said South Florida Water Management District Governing Board Member Cheryl Meads. “As we work to reconnect the water flow in the historic Everglades and send more water south, we celebrate this groundbreaking–another step forward for Florida Bay and the Greater Everglades Ecosystem. In the Florida Keys, our economies and communities are built around Florida Bay. Each additional drop of water that moves south nourishes the bay and supports our community. Thank you to our local, state and federal partners including the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Everglades National Park, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Department of Interior, and more who work hand-in-hand with us to advance restoration projects across the region. This is what doing even more now looks like.”

“Bringing more water to Florida Bay is an essential piece of Everglades Restoration efforts,” said Superintendent Pedro Ramos of Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Park. “We are grateful for the collaboration and ongoing partnership with the South Florida Water Management District to accomplish this vital project.”

Taylor Slough is located in the southeastern part of Everglades National Park and was historically a major contributor of freshwater to Florida Bay. The duration, timing and extent of wetland inundation of Taylor Slough’s interconnected wetlands and freshwater flows through Florida Bay are a critical component of the Everglades ecosystem.

In the early 1920’s, surface flow was substantially reduced by the construction of Old Ingraham Highway, which was opened as the first motorway to Flamingo, a small fishing village on the edge of Florida Bay. Old Ingraham Highway acted as a dam, cutting off and redirecting freshwater flow away from Taylor Slough. Additional infrastructure changes, including the building of the regional flood control system known as the Central and Southern Florida (C&SF) Project, have also reduced the flow of water to this important ecological resource.

The Taylor Slough Flow Improvement Project will install up to 18 culverts at nine locations along a 3.2 mile section of Old Ingraham Highway in Everglades National Park to improve the distribution of freshwater flows and restore natural plant communities and wetlands. The project is expected to be complete in Summer 2023.

The project also supports the overall restoration goals of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP)-the world’s largest and most ambitious ecosystem restoration effort. CERP is led by the South Florida Water Management District and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and implementing CERP involves important partners at the local, state, federal, and Tribal levels.

Record State funding for Everglades restoration has allowed the South Florida Water Management District and our federal partners to expedite the completion of projects that improve water management across South Florida, reduce harmful estuary discharges, and allow more clean, freshwater water to be moved south to Everglades National Park and onto Florida Bay.

Download Video of Taylor Slough Flow Improvement Project Groundbreaking Download Video of Taylor Slough and Everglades National Park
Download Photos

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The South Florida Water Management District is a regional governmental agency that manages the water resources in the southern part of the state. It is the oldest and largest of the state’s five water management districts. Our mission is to safeguard and restore South Florida’s water resources and ecosystems, protect our communities from flooding, and meet the region’s water needs while connecting with the public and stakeholders.

South Florida Water Management District · 3301 Gun Club Road · West Palm Beach, FL · 33406

Year-Round Virtual Races
Healthy. Generous. Happy.

Hi there,
Ready to run a low-cost, high-impact fundraiser and boost community engagement? Try Charity Footprints’ Year-Round Virtual Race Fundraisers.

Our virtual races provide easy, weather-proof and location-flexible options for participants. Plus, with 85% savings compared to physical races, it’s a win-win for everyone.

Take a sneak-peak at our comprehensive list of virtual running events and see which interests you the most. From January’s New Year’s Resolution Challenge to July’s Fitness & Fireworks, there’s something for everyone.

Schedule a demo call with our team to learn more and get started today.
Schedule A Demo!

Cheers,
Rahul Razdan

Founder & CEO | Charity Footprints Inc.

 
Are you looking for an extra special Valentine date night idea? Join us on February 14 for dinner and a show. Proceeds will benefit both Alliance for the Arts and Our Mother’s Home.

Share the Love: Dueling Pianos 2023

This Valentine’s Day, share the love and enjoy an interactive outdoor dueling piano concert with a catered buffet dinner benefiting two great organizations: the Alliance for the Arts and Our Mother’s Home.

Feel good about doing good, eating good and drinking good, as proceeds from this event will benefit both the Alliance for the Arts and Our Mother’s Home.

Tickets are $100 per person and include dinner, dessert, entertainment and a champagne toast. Gates open at 5 p.m. and the show takes place from 6 – 10 p.m. on the Alliance for the Arts festival grounds under our new café lights.

Purchase Tickets →

Need More Piano?

If an evening of piano music is your love language, then consider us fluent. Bring your Valentine to one of our other upcoming piano performances.

An Intimate Evening of Jazz ft. Ben Rosenblum

Ben Rosenblum, the internationally-touring, multi-instrumentalist has been described as a talent not to be missed. Rosenblum combines his modern, melodic sensibility with his broad knowledge of a variety of musical lineages from the past one hundred years.

Drawn from an eclectic repertoire which includes selections from the jazz and popular music traditions, as well as global music influences from South America, Eastern Europe, Ireland and the Caribbean. The band never repeats the same program twice in a row – every evening is a unique experience shaped by the audience and the setting. Foulds Theatre at the Alliance for the Arts will be the perfect venue for An Intimate Night of Jazz.

Gulfshore Opera Professional Artists: Opera to Broadway

Opera Professional Artists in Residence will present an ‘Opera to Broadway’ concert featuring solos and ensembles by great American composers with piano accompaniment.

The concert program will explore how opera influenced American music theater starting with early 20th century works by Jerome Kern, Cole Porter, George Gershwin and Irving Berlin and ending with great contemporary American works by André Previn, and Stephen Sondheim.

Tickets are $35-$45 and available though Gulfshore Opera.

 
Purchase Tickets →

Purchase Tickets →

We know every love story is beautiful, and your favorite is your own personal. Bring your Valentine and join us as our tellers get up on stage and tell their tales of love. In this second of a series of storytelling events, Storytellers of the Round Table and The Elephant Showcase Storytellers bring you stories in the oral tradition. Captivating, spellbinding, and entertaining.

Featuring Dr. Joel Ying, Mary Lou Williams, Rhonda Brazina, Marilyn Graham.

Purchase Tickets →

Find Out More →

Alliance for the Arts
10091 McGregor Blvd
Fort Myers, FL 33919
239 • 939 • 2787
ArtInLee.org

Alliance for the Arts | 10091 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919

Alliance for the Arts Continues the Bluegrass Concert Series into 2023 with Feb 5th Performance.

Bring your chairs & coolers to this outdoor concert series featuring Southwest Florida Bands.

Contact: Bill Taylor (239) 939-2787

theatre@artinlee.org

FORT MYERS, FL (December 20, 2022) – Join fellow music lovers for another of our popular Outdoor Bluegrass concerts on Sunday, February 5th at 10091 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers. The concert will be held on our Green Market Stage. Gates open at 2:00 p.m. with Bill Metts playing at 3:00 p.m. and Bear Hill Bluegrass taking the stage at 4:00 p.m. Chairs and coolers are permitted. 

The series continues into 2023, with performances on February 5 and March 5. Tickets are $15 for members, $16 for non-members and are available online at ArtInLee.org or by calling 239-939-2787. 

Pre-sale seating is limited to 132 and is first come, first serve. In the case of bad weather, the show will be moved indoors to the Foulds Theatre. Additional tickets may be available at the door, weather permitting. More information, including a list of performers, can be found at artinlee.org/bluegrass.

About Alliance for the Arts

The Alliance for the Arts is a nonprofit community arts and cultural center located in the heart of Fort Myers, Florida. For over 40 years, the Alliance has been charged with the mission to facilitate and nurture the creation, development, promotion and education of arts and culture in southwest Florida. For more information, please call 239-939-2787 or visit us at www.ArtInLee.org.

The Thing About Men opened at Music & Arts Community Center in Fort Myers on Thursday, January 19.

Get a first look at production photos below!

JANUARY 19 – FEBRUARY 4

Music & Arts Community Center
13411 Shire Ln, Fort Myers

“Smart and funny!”
– The Wall Street Journal

A hilarious, lighthearted musical about cheating spouses, affairs of the heart, and men all around.

Tom is cheating on his wife Lucy (with several women). Lucy is cheating on her husband Tom (with Sebastian). Tom moves out on Lucy and, in disguise, moves in with Sebastian. These are the circumstances that set the mood of hilarious intrigue in this often moving – but always light hearted – musical about men.

MEET THE CAST

Kole Mitchell McKinley

Kole is thrilled to be back in Fort Myers, FL! Last seen on The Gulf Coast Symphony Stage as Dr. Madden/Fine in Next to Normal back in 2022.

Kimberly Suskind

Kimberly Suskind is a professional performer, director, choreographer and teaching artist who is thrilled to call Fort Myers her new home! She made her Off-Broadway debut last fall starring as Sarah in the new musical, Brilliant, and has been fortunate enough to perform at several wonderful regional theaters across the country, including New York, Philadelphia, New Jersey, Florida, Delaware, Seattle and Boston.

Robert Justin Dresner

Robert is thrilled to be back with the Gulf Coast Symphony! He was most recently seen as King Arthur in Camelot, Max in The Royale and Toad in A Year With Frog and Toad in Orlando, and could also be seen in The Studio Theater Tierra Del Sol’s production of Elegies, A Song Cycle.

Caleb Pless

Caleb is excited to be joining the team here at Gulf Coast Symphony and performing alongside such a talented cast and crew. Caleb is from Nashville, TN and received his BFA in Musical Theatre from Western Kentucky University.

Laura McKenna

Laura McKenna, a Sarasota native, is thrilled to be making her debut with the Gulf Coast Symphony! Laura is a graduate of Florida Southern College with degrees in BM Vocal Performance & BFA Musical Theatre with a minor in Dance.

239.277.1700 | GulfCoastSymphony.org

Gulf Coast Symphony, PO Box 60878, Fort Myers, FL 33906, United States