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Share the beach with shorebirds this holiday weekend 

May 25, 2023 Photos available  Suggested Tweet: This holiday weekend, be a hero for beach-nesting birds with #shorebird-friendly tips from @MyFWC: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLFFWCC/bulletins/35c7e41 #Florida #conservation  Share the beach with shorebirds this holiday weekend  With residents and visitors alike flocking to our coastlines this Memorial Day weekend, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds beachgoers…

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Share the beach with shorebirds this holiday weekend 

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
May 25, 2023 Photos available  Suggested Tweet: This holiday weekend, be a hero for beach-nesting
birds with #shorebird-friendly tips from @MyFWC:
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLFFWCC/bulletins/35c7e41 #Florida #conservation  shorebird montage
Share the beach with shorebirds this holiday weekend 
With residents and visitors alike flocking to our coastlines this Memorial Day weekend, the Florida
Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) reminds beachgoers how they can help protect
vulnerable beach-nesting birds while enjoying Florida’s coastal habitats. Each spring and summer,
shorebirds and seabirds rely on Florida’s sandy beaches for critical nesting habitat. Anyone headed
to our shorelines this weekend can make a big difference in shorebird and seabird nesting success.
Want to help our beach-nesting birds this Memorial Day weekend?
Follow these simple shorebird-friendly tips:

Do the flock walk.
Give birds plenty of space by walking around flocks of birds, keeping at least 300 feet from nesting
birds when possible and staying out of posted areas. Getting too close to nesting shorebirds,
seabirds and wading birds can cause them to flush from their breeding sites, leaving vulnerable eggs
and chicks exposed to the elements and predators. Egg temperatures can increase to lethal levels
after just a few minutes of direct sun exposure. Shorebirds and seabirds nest in shallow scrapes in
the sand and their eggs and chicks are well-camouflaged, making them vulnerable to being stepped
on unless people look out for them and walk around flocks of birds.

Look for Critical Wildlife Area closures.
Be on the lookout for signs designating Critical Wildlife Areas on the beach or coastal islands –
these areas are closed to public access to protect high concentrations of wading birds and shorebirds
while they nest and raise their chicks. Boaters and beachgoers can help nesting birds by keeping
distance and noise volumes low near CWAs.

Keep pets at home.
Even well-behaved dogs frighten shorebirds and can cause them to abandon their eggs and chicks.
If you bring your dog with you to the shore, go to a beach where they’re allowed and follow all leash laws.

Properly stash all trash.
Trash and food scraps attract predators, such as raccoons and crows, that prey on shorebird eggs and
chicks. Litter on beaches and in the water can entangle birds, turtles and other wildlife. Beachgoers
can help beach-nesting birds and other native wildlife by properly disposing of all trash, filling in human-
made holes in the sand, and removing all personal gear from the beach before sunset. Fishing line can be
deadly to waterbirds, sea turtles and other wildlife, so be sure to dispose of it properly. To find a mono-
filament recycling station near you, visit mrrp.myfwc.com. For more information about beach-nesting
birds in Florida, go to MyFWC.com/Shorebirds and download the “Share the Beach with Beach-
Nesting Birds” brochure. Or go to the Florida Shorebird Alliance website at FLShorebirdAlliance.org 
to learn more about how to participate in shorebird and seabird conservation efforts.
shorebird with chick
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Logo

QUESTIONS? Contact the FWC STAY CONNECTED:

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission · 620 S. Meridian Street · Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600 ·
(850) 488-4676 GovDelivery logo

Thanks to sponsors, more than $30,000 up for grabs at the 2023 Florida Python Challenge®

May 24, 2023 Pictures and videos: FlPythonChallenge.org/Newsroom  Suggested tweet: The 2023 #Florida #Python Challenge® offers an opportunity to win your share of more than $30,000 in prize money, thanks to sponsors: https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLFFWCC/bulletins/35c63c3 #FLPythonChallenge #snake   Thanks to sponsors, more than $30,000 up for grabs at the 2023 Florida Python Challenge® Thanks to the generosity of…

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Thanks to sponsors, more than $30,000 up for grabs at the 2023 Florida Python Challenge®

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
May 24, 2023 Pictures and videos: FlPythonChallenge.org/Newsroom 
Suggested tweet: The 2023 #Florida #Python Challenge® offers an opportunity to win your share
of more than $30,000 in prize money, thanks to sponsors:
https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/FLFFWCC/bulletins/35c63c3 #FLPythonChallenge #snake python in grass 
Thanks to sponsors, more than $30,000 up for grabs at the 2023 Florida Python Challenge®

Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, participants of the 2023 Florida Python Challenge® have the
opportunity to win a share of thousands in cash prizes! The event, which is hosted by the Florida Fish
and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the South Florida Water Management District
(SFWMD), features an Ultimate Grand Prize of $10,000 sponsored by Inversa Leathers. There is also
a prize of $7,500 for the Grand Prize Runner Up, sponsored by the Bergeron Everglades Foundation.

“This year we’re going to have $30,000 worth of prizes,” said FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto.
“We want to thank the private sector. Without them we couldn’t offer such great incentives.”

Prizes will also be awarded in the professional, novice and military categories courtesy of
Edison National Bank/Bank of the Islands and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida.

Under the leadership of Gov. Ron DeSantis, the FWC, SFWMD and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation
of Florida host the Florida Python Challenge® to raise awareness about invasive species in Florida
and their impacts. The event, which runs Aug. 4-13, encourages people to get directly involved in
Everglades conservation through invasive species removal. Visit FLPythonChallenge.org to register
for the competition, take the required online training, view the optional training opportunities, learn
more about Burmese pythons and the unique Everglades ecosystem, and find resources for planning
your trip to south Florida to participate in the Florida Python Challenge®.

About Invasive Burmese Pythons  Burmese pythons are not native to Florida and they negatively
impact native wildlife. This invasive species is found primarily in and around the Everglades
ecosystem in south Florida where they prey on birds, mammals and other reptiles. A female Burmese
python can lay 50 to 100 eggs at a time. Since 2000, more than 18,000 Burmese pythons have been
reported to the FWC as removed from the environment. For more information on Burmese pythons,
visit MyFWC.com/Python

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Logo
QUESTIONS? Contact the FWC STAY CONNECTED:
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission ·
620 S. Meridian Street ·
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600 ·
(850) 488-4676 GovDelivery logo

Governor Ron DeSantis Announces 2023 Florida Python Challenge®

News Release  Governor Ron DeSantis Announces2023 Florida Python Challenge®   TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announces that registration for the 2023 Florida Python Challenge® is now open. Participants this year will have the chance to win a share of more than $30,000 in prizes while removing invasive Burmese pythons from the wild. Starting…

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Governor Ron DeSantis Announces 2023 Florida Python Challenge®

new banner 2021 News Release  
Governor Ron DeSantis Announces
2023 Florida Python Challenge®  

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announces that registration for the 2023 Florida Python Challenge® is now open. Participants this year will have the chance to win a share of more than $30,000 in prizes while removing invasive Burmese pythons from the wild. Starting today, those interested in participating in the 2023 Florida Python Challenge® can complete the required online training to compete in the 10-day competition which runs August 4–13, 2023. The competition is open to both professional and novice participants.

“Since day one, we have prioritized Everglades restoration by investing record funding for conservation projects and increasing resources for the removal of invasive Burmese pythons that harm this treasured ecosystem,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Because of this focused commitment, my tenure in office has accounted for more than half of the 18,000 pythons removed from the Everglades since 2000. The Python Challenge allows folks to participate firsthand in Everglades restoration efforts, and I look forward to seeing this year’s results.”

“Since the first Florida Python Challenge® in 2013, we have reached a countless number of people across the globe, alerting them to the negative impacts caused by Burmese pythons and other invasive species in Florida,” said Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Chairman Rodney Barreto. “Thanks to Governor Ron DeSantis and our partners with the South Florida Water Management District, we are once again hosting this event for the public to get involved in protecting our native wildlife while competing to win thousands of dollars for their efforts removing Burmese pythons from our iconic Florida Everglades ecosystem, a place like nowhere else on Earth.”

“There is nowhere in the world like America’s Everglades, and we need to continue to protect and restore this national treasure. Removing invasive pythons from across the Greater Everglades Ecosystem is absolutely critical, and we must do everything we can to combat this invasive species. I very much look forward to seeing the results of the 2023 Florida Python Challenge®,” said South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) Governing Board Member “Alligator Ron” Bergeron. “I am grateful for the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, who continually demonstrates his commitment to Everglades restoration and protecting Florida’s iconic natural resources. The incredible partnership between the South Florida Water Management District and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is extremely important as we work to protect our ecosystem, conserve native wildlife, and remove invasive pythons. I appreciate every python hunter who is participating in this year’s Python Challenge. Long live the Everglades!”

Click here to register for the competition, take the required online training, view the optional training opportunities, learn more about Burmese pythons and the unique Everglades ecosystem, and find resources for planning your trip to South Florida to participate in the Florida Python Challenge®.

Participants in the 2022 Florida Python Challenge® removed 231 invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades, an increase from the 2021 number and more than double those removed in 2020. Nearly 1,000 people from 32 states, Canada, and Latvia registered to take part in the 10-day competition in 2022.

In addition to python removal opportunities on 25 Commission-managed lands which are available year-round, pythons can be humanely killed on private lands at any time with landowner permission — no permit or hunting license required — and the FWC encourages people to remove and humanely kill pythons from private lands whenever possible.

About Invasive Burmese Pythons

Burmese pythons are not native to Florida and they negatively impact native wildlife. This invasive species is found primarily in and around the Everglades ecosystem in south Florida where they prey on birds, mammals, and other reptiles. A female Burmese python may lay 50 to 100 eggs at a time. Since 2000, more than 18,000 Burmese pythons have been reported to the FWC as removed from the environment. For more information on Burmese pythons, visit MyFWC.com/Python.

Media Resources Download Video from the 2023 Florida Python Challenge® Media Day Download High Resolution Photos from the 2023 Florida Python Challenge® Media Day   Media Contact: 
Randy Smith | rrsmith@sfwmd.gov   |  Office: 561-682-6197  |  Cell: 561-389-3386 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.

Non Slip Bathroom Memorial Day Sale!

Memorial Day Weekend Sale! Are you ready to never slip in the shower or tub again.... ​ Have you ever slipped, even a little, while in the shower to tub? Slip Stoppers Shower and Tub Treatment service is the answer. Never worry about slipping again with our propriatory CLEAR coating that leaves your shower or…

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Non Slip Bathroom Memorial Day Sale!

Memorial Day Weekend Sale!

Are you ready to never slip in the shower or tub again….

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Slip Stoppers Shower and Tub Treatment service is the answer. Never worry about slipping again with our propriatory CLEAR coating that leaves your shower or tub safer to walk, wet or dry.

Exclusive Memorial Day Sale!

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BOOK YOUR SHOWER OR TUB TREATMENT TODAY!

FGCU Academy Honors Our Fallen Soldiers

Hundreds of courses. Knowledgeable instructors.  Have it your way, online or in-person.       May 2023   FGCU Academy Memorial Day: Honoring Those Who Died in Military Service   Greetings, FGCU Academy newsletter will be taking a break and will return Sunday June 4th with new and updated information for you. Until then, we…

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FGCU Academy Honors Our Fallen Soldiers

Hundreds of courses. Knowledgeable instructors. 
Have it your way, online or in-person.
     
May 2023  

FGCU Academy Memorial Day: Honoring Those Who Died in Military Service
 
Greetings, FGCU Academy newsletter will be taking a break and will return
Sunday June 4th with new and updated information for you. Until then,
we wish all of our fallen soldiers’ families peace and comfort.  

Memorial Day is the time we celebrate our fallen heroes while in service. See below
for a bit of historical tidbits.  

Memorial Day, which is celebrated on the last Monday in May, honors service members
who have died in military service to the nation. The holiday has roots dating back to the
post-Civil War era, when citizens would informally place spring flower memorials on the
graves of fallen soldiers.  

There are many claims as to when and where “Decoration Day” started. The town of
Waterloo, New York, has come to be known as to where it all began. On May 5,
1866, the town hosted a city-wide celebration of “Decoration Day,” encouraging its
citizens to create memorials on soldiers’ graves with flags and flowers. A few years
later in 1868, Gen. John A. Logan declared that the first-ever national Decoration
Day should take place on May 30, as the date was a neutral day for On May 20, 1868,
over 5,000 first-ever National Decoration Day participants decorated the graves of the
20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers buried at Arlington National Cemetery in
Virginia. By the late 1800s, cities and communities across the United States began
to observe the day and several states declared it a legal holiday.  

Over the next few decades, the day transitioned from being called Decoration Day to
its current name of Memorial Day.  

In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which established
Memorial Day as the last Monday in May instead of a set calendar day. By 1971,
the three-day weekend for federal employees went into full effect.  

Today, Memorial Day is often associated with the start of summer, discount sales
and cookouts with friends.  

Everyone is invited and welcome to take classes at ANY of our locations.
Make sure to register early as space can be limited.  

For assistance with registration – call our office (239) 434-4737, and we will be
more than happy to assist you.
 
PROGRAM GUIDE  
VIEW SUMMER PROGRAM GUIDE NOW! (summer classes begin June 1)    

View May Daily Calendar  

View June Daily Calendar  

Register Online      

We are available to assist with registration – 239.434.4737  

FEATURE CLASSES

Information, Misinformation, Disinformation
@ Bentley Village May 25 | 10 – 11:30 am  
Sources of information do matter. Dr. Elliott, Dean of the FGCU Bradshaw
Library, provides participants with the tools to identify quality information
while identifying misinformation and disinformation. Thanks to the internet
and social media, you can get answers to just about every question you have.
However, there are some contributors to these sites that either provide the
wrong information unintentionally, or worse, intentionally. This lecture
helps you find the most accurate answers in the shortest amount of time.

Chinese Intelligence
@ Bentley Village May 30 | 1:30 – 3 pm  
China has a large and highly proficient intelligence organization. They
are particularly effective in human intelligence, economic espionage and
cyber warfare. They are also very aggressive in co-opting students,
academics and businessmen. Topics include: structure; mission; effectiveness;
operations; Ministry for State Security; People’s Liberation Army; industrial
and economic espionage; cyber warfare; and TikTok.    

Bring FGCU Academy to Your Community
 
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!  

LOOKING AHEAD  
See a sample of what is coming over the next week
click on any title below for more information      

Tuesday May 30
The Invisibility of Social Issues in Southwest Florida  

Thursday June 1
Franz Joseph – The Last Habsburg Emperor
Great Discussions Group (2-part sessions) New Session  

Monday June 5
The Berlin Wall
Sydney Reilly “Ace of Spies” – The “Real” James Bond?   

Tuesday June 6
Queen Victoria – The Grandmother of Europe
Writers Collaborative Workshop (4-part series) New Session  

Wednesday June 7
Napoleon Bonaparte  

Thursday June 8
Apple Watch Tips, Tricks & Secrets of the New Watch OS 9  

Friday June 9
Voyage to Mars      

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
   

LEGENDARY TURKEYView 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 & PORTUGALView 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 DALMATIAView 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 DEPTHView 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 WONDERSView 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 scen­ic 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.    

FGCU Academy Travel 2024  Call for More Info – 239-434-4838 
Travel Brochures will be available Summer 2023

Moroccan Discovery, May 12-27, 2024    
This land of dramatic contrasts invites us to encounter its ancient ruins and
sacred mosques, endless desert and storied mountains, imposing kasbahs and
spirited souks. As we travel from the imperial cities of Rabat, Fez, and Marrakech
to the High Atlas and vast Sahara, we open our eyes, and hearts, to a truly foreign
land, an age-old culture, and genuinely hospitable people. 

Classic Safari: Kenya & Tanzania, August 13-28, 2024   
“On safari” … it’s one of the most alluring phrases in all of travel. And Kenya and
Tanzania count among the most alluring places to be “on safari.” As our small group
travels from grasslands to highlands, to reserves and national parks, we enjoy intimate
game drives, see stupendous landscapes, stay in excellent accommodations, and meet
gracious local people. 

Exploring Iceland, August 15-25, 2024    
It’s a surprising, even astonishing land; one of massive glaciers and rumbling volcanoes,
bubbling mud holes and powerful waterfalls; hugely abundant bird life and just 340,000
people; and where the sun never sets for six splendid weeks. It’s also perfect for exploring
in a small group, as we discover traveling the breadth of the country and getting an up-close
view of this natural “wonderland.” 

Southern Italy & Sicily, September 4-18, 2024    
Delight in a special exploration of Italy’s southern climes, from striking Sicily and the
breathtaking Amalfi Coast to unheralded Apulia, the alluring “boot heel” where a vivid
history, unique architecture, and bountiful plains join the sun and sea in creating a prized
(and crowd-free) region. Add Italian hospitality, outstanding cuisine, and notable lodgings
for la dolce vita, small-group style.

Scotland: Highlands & Islands, September 9-20, 2024    
“My heart’s in the Highlands,” said Robert Burns – as will you, as we travel from city
to country, mainland to island, on this sweet journey. From loch to loch and glen to glen,
we encounter stunning natural beauty and welcoming clans, while city life serves up the
colorful past – and cosmopolitan present.

Provincial French Countryside, September 27-October 11, 2024   
Experience the beauty, allure, and hospi­tality of provincial France, at an easy pace
and in a unique style. Anchored by stays in vibrant Toulouse and enchanting Paris,
the journey ­features diverse Languedoc, the remote Dordogne, the lovely Loire Valley,
and historic Normandy as we stay in charming rural inns and small country hotels.
It’s a small group tour de force!

New Zealand Adventure, October 10-25, 2024    
It’s a tale of two islands as our small group journeys from New Zealand’s North
to its South, through lively cities and pristine fiords, past lush farmland and
enchanted forests in a land where the outdoors is the national shrine. Add
engaging “Kiwis” and intriguing indigenous cultures – it’s a pure New Zealand
experience. 

Southeast Asia Odysseys, October 31-November 18, 2024   
Engaging, diverse, intriguing … This just begins to describe Southeast Asia and
our small group odyssey. We cruise the Mekong through Laos; explore the spectacular –
Angkor Wat – and the sublime – Ha Long Bay; and engage with local farmers and hill
tribespeople on this comprehensive, well-paced adventure    

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 Unsubscribe info@fortmyers.org Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by jguerra@fgcu.edu

In Remembrance of the Fallen

In Remembrance of the Fallen ...they hover as a cloud of witnesses above this nation... Sunday, May 28th 6:00 pm Browning Hall @ Saint Hillary's Episcopal Church 5011 McGregor Blvd Fort Myers _______________________________________ Music-Readings-Solemn Remembrance Special Guest Speaker: James Dozier, Maj. Gen., US Army Retired Featuring: Cypress Lake High School (TAG) The A Capella Group…

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In Remembrance of the Fallen

In Remembrance of the Fallen

…they hover as a cloud of witnesses above this nation…

Sunday, May 28th 6:00 pm

Browning Hall @ Saint Hillary’s Episcopal Church

5011 McGregor Blvd Fort Myers

_______________________________________

Music-Readings-Solemn Remembrance

Special Guest Speaker: James Dozier, Maj. Gen., US Army Retired

Featuring: Cypress Lake High School (TAG) The A Capella Group

Join us us for light refreshments following the Program

Children and Families are welcome.

For more information please call 239-936-1000

Alliance for the Arts Issues Call to Artists for Juried Hurricane Ian Exhibit

Submissions open June 1 and run until August 7 FORT MYERS, FL (May 23, 2023)-The Alliance for the Arts announced today a call for artists for a juried exhibit in conjunction with its Storm Stories oral history program about Hurricane Ian and its aftermath. “At the Alliance for the Arts (AFTA), we believe in the…

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Alliance for the Arts Issues Call to Artists for Juried Hurricane Ian Exhibit

Submissions open June 1 and run until August 7

FORT MYERS, FL (May 23, 2023)-The Alliance for the Arts announced today a call for artists for a juried exhibit in conjunction with its Storm Stories oral history program about Hurricane Ian and its aftermath.

“At the Alliance for the Arts (AFTA), we believe in the healing power of art,” said Gallery Manager Emily Radomski. “In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, we have seen a great need for healing in our community. Following Hurricane Ian, AFTA teamed up with the Gulf Coast Writers Association to launch the oral history project, Storm Stories, where anyone could submit their story from Hurricane Ian. Those collected stories will be compiled into a printed book, and available for purchase at AFTA during the month of September.”

September’s featured gallery exhibit will be aptly named Hurricane Ian. This will be a juried exhibit where artists are asked to create artwork about their experiences during or after the storm in any capacity. It may be stories of resilience or trauma or loss. It can evoke a wide range of emotions. It is meant to be cathartic and therapeutic and shareable, something everyone can relate to in some way.

Beginning June 1, artists may submit 1 – 3 works for consideration for this exhibition. There is no entry fee, and the prospectus is available on the Alliance website. Artists are encouraged to submit 2D and 3D artwork using found objects and recycled materials collected after Hurricane Ian. Alternatively, artists are asked to submit artwork expressing their experiences during and after Hurricane Ian. All media will be accepted, such as paint, collage, photo, drawing, print, etc. Only original artwork will be accepted. No giclée.

All entries must be submitted online no later than August 7 at 5pm. No materials will be accepted at AFTA – this exhibit is online entries only. Full details can be found on the Prospectus. 

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, Instagram or follow us on Twitter.

Volunteer With Us @ FRINGE Fort Myers 🦩 Updates!

    Discover a world that promises to stimulate your imagination and inspire new ways of seeing and thinking. Share your talents with the world and volunteer with us!       Volunteer With Us @ FRINGE Fort Myers: Performing Arts Festival • May 29th - June 4th starting at 10:00 a.m. •   Flock…

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Volunteer With Us @ FRINGE Fort Myers 🦩 Updates!

   
Discover a world that promises to stimulate your imagination and inspire new ways of
seeing and thinking. Share your talents with the world and volunteer with us!      

Volunteer With Us @ FRINGE Fort Myers:
Performing Arts Festival • May 29th – June 4th starting at 10:00 a.m. •
 
Flock yeah! We’re FINALLY introducing Fringe Fort Myers – the newest Fringe
performing arts festival in the United States and the first ever in southwest Florida!
With 51 performances on 4 different stages, Fringe Fort Myers has something for
everyone – from one-person shows, to dance and music, magic, stand-up comedy
and so much more. Most shows are 60 minutes in length, some are shorter. This
inaugural event maintains long-standing Fringe traditions of being 100% independent,
100% unique and 100% inclusive. Even better, 100% of ticket sales go directly to the
artists. Which means you’re 100% guaranteed to have the single greatest experience
of your life.  

Volunteer positions for this Festival start on May 29th 2023 and end June 4th at 7:30pm.
Positions include, but are not limited to:
– Set up help
– Performance Ushers
– Bartenders
– Noise control Help
– New Wave/Glow Dance Party Set Up
– And so much more!  

There are no training sessions required for any available volunteering positions,
as we are moving back to paper ticket sales. Information about volunteer check-in
will be sent out on May 29th by 9:00am!    

We are currently asking for :  
-up to 6 individuals on May 29th  
-up to 6 individuals for May 30th  
-up to 8 individuals for June 1st  
-up to 19 individuals for June 2nd  
-up to 38 individuals for June 3rd
-up to 32 individuals for June 4th

Scan or click hereto find more info on volunteer times!
 
Sign Up to Volunteer → Find Out More →              

Coming Up Next…

 
Arts Education Help – Summer Arts/Musical Theatre Camp Volunteers    

Want to connect with Alliance for the Arts as a Volunteer?  

Our mission is to transform lives and improve our community through the arts.  

We’d love to introduce you to what Alliance for the Arts does for the arts and for our
community. From building theatre sets to representing the Alliance at community events,
volunteer opportunities are endless.  

To our current volunteers: We thank you for your hard-work and dedication to the
Alliance, we wouldn’t be the same without you!  

Become a Volunteer→ See Upcoming Events→        

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

Membership • Donate • Classes • Exhibits • TheatreDigital Arts Lab

     

Janet & Bruce Bunch · The Claiborne & Ned Foulds Foundation Leigh Frizzell Hayes ·
Mary Lou & Richard Helms Meisenberg Family Trust · Jon & Megan Romine · Arthur Zupko  
And incredible people like you!  

Former Crowne Plaza Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops Announces Conversion to DoubleTree by Hilton

Hotel is expected to welcome guests in December 2023 FORT MYERS, Fla. – May 23, 2023 – Cooper Hotels, owners of the Crowne Plaza hotel located at the upscale Bell Tower Shops, announced the hotel will join the Hiltonportfolio by year-end 2023. The property’s conversion to a DoubleTree by Hilton will consist of major renovations to the…

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Former Crowne Plaza Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops Announces Conversion to DoubleTree by Hilton

Hotel is expected to welcome guests in December 2023

FORT MYERS, Fla. – May 23, 2023 – Cooper Hotels, owners of the Crowne Plaza hotel located at the upscale Bell Tower Shops, announced the hotel will join the Hiltonportfolio by year-end 2023. The property’s conversion to a DoubleTree by Hilton will consist of major renovations to the lobby, meeting rooms and its Shoeless Joe’s Sports Café. The hotel’s 225 guest rooms recently underwent extensive renovations.

The new DoubleTree by Hilton hotel will continue to be operated by Memphis-based Cooper Hotels, and there will be no staff changes.DoubleTree by Hilton is famous for its proud tradition of greeting guests with its signature, warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie at check-in, symbolizing a warm welcome and comfortable stay.

“Our entire team is excited to partner with the iconic Hilton hospitality brand,” said Jim Larkin, longtime general manager of the property. “The entry of the first DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Fort Myers will bring a fresh, new lodging and gathering option to the city.”

Renovations underway include the addition of an expanded lobby market, a yoga room and Pelaton bikes in the updated fitness center. Meeting rooms will be refurbished and undergo a modernization. A new media wall will be installed in the hotel’s popular Shoeless Joe’s Sports Café, along with a complete renovation. The popular outside deck portion of the restaurant will be completely replaced and a new outdoor bar will be built.

Located at 13051 Bell Tower Drive, the new DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers will offer an outdoor pool with water feature, a fitness center and a business center, with complimentary Wi-Fi available throughout the hotel. Guest rooms will feature microwave ovens, refrigerators, coffee makers and 55” TVs with premium entertainment options.

DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers will be part of Hilton Honors®, the award-winning guest loyalty program for Hilton’s 18 world-class brands. Members also have access to contactless technology exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app, where Hilton Honors members can check-in, choose their room and access their room using Digital Key.

About DoubleTree by Hilton

DoubleTree by Hilton is a fast-growing, global portfolio of 661 hotels with more than 151,000 rooms across 52 countries and territories. For more than 50 years, DoubleTree by Hilton has continued to be a symbol of comfort for business and leisure travelers around the world, from welcoming guests with its signature, warm DoubleTree chocolate chip cookie, to serving the local community. DoubleTree by Hilton offers contemporary accommodations and amenities, including unique food and beverage experiences, state-of-the-art fitness offerings and meetings and events spaces. Experience a positive stay at DoubleTree by Hilton by booking at doubletree.com or through the industry-leading Hilton Honors app. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about DoubleTree by Hilton at stories.hilton.com/doubletree, and follow the brand on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Alliance for the Arts Issues Call to Artists for Juried Hurricane Ian Exhibit

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Therese McDevitt or Jen  Falk (239) 939-2787 therese@artinlee.org or jen@artinlee.org Alliance for the Arts Issues Call to Artists for Juried Hurricane Ian Exhibit Submissions open June 1 and run until August 7 FORT MYERS, FL (May 23, 2023)-The Alliance for the Arts announced today a call for artists for a juried…

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Alliance for the Arts Issues Call to Artists for Juried Hurricane Ian Exhibit

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Therese McDevitt or Jen  Falk (239) 939-2787

therese@artinlee.org or jen@artinlee.org

Alliance for the Arts Issues Call to Artists for Juried Hurricane Ian Exhibit

Submissions open June 1 and run until August 7

FORT MYERS, FL (May 23, 2023)-The Alliance for the Arts announced today a call for artists for a juried exhibit in conjunction with its Storm Stories oral history program about Hurricane Ian and its aftermath.

“At the Alliance for the Arts (AFTA), we believe in the healing power of art,” said Gallery Manager Emily Radomski. “In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, we have seen a great need for healing in our community. Following Hurricane Ian, AFTA teamed up with the Gulf Coast Writers Association to launch the oral history project, Storm Stories, where anyone could submit their story from Hurricane Ian. Those collected stories will be compiled into a printed book, and available for purchase at AFTA during the month of September.”

September’s featured gallery exhibit will be aptly named Hurricane Ian. This will be a juried exhibit where artists are asked to create artwork about their experiences during or after the storm in any capacity. It may be stories of resilience or trauma or loss. It can evoke a wide range of emotions. It is meant to be cathartic and therapeutic and shareable, something everyone can relate to in some way.

Beginning June 1, artists may submit 1 – 3 works for consideration for this exhibition. There is no entry fee, and the prospectus is available on the Alliance website. Artists are encouraged to submit 2D and 3D artwork using found objects and recycled materials collected after Hurricane Ian. Alternatively, artists are asked to submit artwork expressing their experiences during and after Hurricane Ian. All media will be accepted, such as paint, collage, photo, drawing, print, etc. Only original artwork will be accepted. No giclée.

All entries must be submitted online no later than August 7 at 5pm. No materials will be accepted at AFTA – this exhibit is online entries only. Full details can be found on the Prospectus.

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, Instagram or follow us on Twitter.

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