As an icon rises along the Vanderbilt Beach skyline, it represents a rare expression of perfection—the only Ritz-Carlton-branded residences in Naples, recently named the best place to live in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report . It’s a marriage that brings together masterfully crafted residences, 50,000 square feet of sublime amenities, the endless charms of Naples, and the thoughtful service of The Ritz-Carlton.
Occupancy Early 2026
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104 / Men & Women of the Year
Meet the power players reshaping Southwest Florida in 2024.
HARBOR SPRINGS | ROCHESTER | TRAVERSE CITY | NAPLES
Naples Showroom Opening Fall 2024
126 / What’s New for Season
From Matisse masterpieces to all-star athletic centers—we direct you to the most exciting arrivals for winter.
CRAFTED WITH BRILLIANCE
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140
Stylish Living: Artist Mally Khorasantchi’s artful abode
158 Talking Shop: Interiors emporium Republic of Decor
Editors’ Pick: 42 Birds’ yoga mats
Agenda: Top events for November Contents Departments
168
Favorite Things: Joyce Owens’ modernist picks
— Life on the Gulf
298
Dining Guide: 150+ essential restaurants
322
168
Fort Myers architect Joyce Owens points us to a few of her favorite design pieces for elevating coastal homes. Pictured: Secto Design’s 4200 Pendant. sectodesign.fi
Southwest Florida Guide to the Arts
-
Insert — p. 11 Find our comprehensive list of Southwest Florida arts and culture events, running from November to May.
“Leadership is the ability to get extraordinary achievement from ordinary people. ” – Brian Tracy
FineMark National Bank & Trust applauds the Leadership of the 2024 Men & Women of the Year for making a difference in our community.
A special congratulations to our clients and friends: John Cooney, Kristen Coury, James Evans, Anne Fleming, Kiran Gill, Matthew Kragh, Joe North, Brian Stock, Elizabeth Star, and Ralph Stayer.
Publisher
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Editor in Chief
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Editorial Fellows
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ART
Art Director
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P hoto Editor
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Springs, FL 34134
Gulfshore
Ingrid Aielli Co-Owner, Aielli Group 2016 Woman of the Year
Dwayne Bergmann Principal Designer/ Owner, Dwayne Bergmann Interiors
2020 Man of the Year
David Corban President, David Corban Architects 2020 Man of the Year
Brooke Denson
Real Estate Professional, Dina Marie Realty Trustee and Treasurer, SWFL Children’s Charities
2019 Woman of the Year
Mark Loren Head Jewelry Designer/Owner, Mark Loren Designs 2016 Man of the Year
Elliott H. Singer Managing Director and Founder, Fairview Advisors Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation Member-at-Large
Mary Susan Clinton Founder, Gallien Global Vision Inc. Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation 2002 Woman of the Year
Shirlene Elkins Real Estate Professional, John R. Wood Properties Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation
2003 Woman of the Year
Rebecca Maddox Owner/Developer, Three60 Market, Three60 Wine and Celebration Park
2019 Woman of the Year
Adria Starkey President, Collier FineMark National Bank & Trust Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation 2000 Woman of the Year
Denise Cobb Chair, Community Advisory Board Trustee, Naples Children & Education Foundation 2000 Woman of the Year
Ellin Goetz President, Goetz+Stropes Landscape Architects 2000 Woman of the Year
Gail Markham Founding Partner, Markham Norton Mosteller Wright & Company 2011 Woman of the Year
Sandra Stilwell Youngquist Owner and CEO, Stilwell Enterprises 2006 Woman of the Year
McCurry Jewelry Buyer and Curator, G. J. G, Marissa Collections
Kathleen van Bergen CEO and President, Artis—Naples 2012 Woman of the Year
Anna Nguyen (13), Brian Tietz (2); Courtesy Ellin Goetz
Jennifer
Leopoldo Baccaro, MD
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On the Cover
North photographed on location in a Port Royal home by
Omar Cruz; Ralph Stayer images by Brian Tietz
Man of the Year Joe
Omar Cruz
Stylist Erica Thebaud HMUA Duality Artistry
Anchored in Unity
As we send this issue to print, Hurricane Milton is forcefully approaching the Gulf Coast. While we don’t yet know its exact path or impact, our thoughts are with each of you as we brace for what may come. In times of uncertainty, the strength and resilience of our community shines brightest.
This issue was planned as a celebratory preview to season, filled with stories of growth and innovation in Southwest Florida. Depending on how events unfold, some content may feel out of step with our current reality. Even if we awake to find the best outcome, with a near-miss or weakened hit, we know many locals will still be contending with home clean-ups, the loss of days or weeks of business, and triggered traumas from recent storms. We hope the stories in this issue remind you of our region’s vibrancy and potential— qualities that will serve us well in any challenge we may face.
I recently saw our community’s vigor in full display at the
opening of Kaleidoscope Floral’s new shop and gathering space.
Floral designers Sean and Melissa Stevenson’s East Naples locale was filled with young creatives, multigenerational clans, sharply dressed groups conversing between English and Spanish, and toddlers running around the garden while hip parents sipped Aperol spritzes. Guests snacked on sandwiches, courtesy of Kaleidoscope’s partnership with Bonita Springs’ Wolfmoon Bakery.
That’s how I like to think of Southwest Florida as we head into a new season—a tapestry of diverse, innovative spirits united in the pursuit of beauty, camaraderie and exalting our Gulfside paradise. We’re lucky to be in the thick of it, reporting on the people, projects and ideas pushing our region forward with intention.
The best stories center on improbable visionaries and soul-stirring changemakers—the very people who rise to the occasion in times of need. That’s what you find with our 2024 class of Men & Women of the Year (p. 104). From Kristen Coury and Brian Stock, who turned living room projects into multimillion-dollar entities, to James Evans, who champions conservation with persuasive clarity and actionable solutions, these
individuals embody the resilience, innovation, and community spirit that will see us through any storm. Thanks to them—and all of you— we’re equipped for any challenge.
As we navigate the coming days, know that Gulfshore Life stands with you, ready to document our community’s resilience, recovery, and inevitable return to growth. Whatever challenges we may face, we face them together. Stay safe, and take care of each other.
Stephanie Granada Editor in Chief
Gunselman
Season in Motion
As I reflect on my first year at Gulfshore Life , I am filled with gratitude and wonder at the incredible journey it has been. I already feel the vibrant energy in the air as our beloved snowbirds return, heralding the joy of the upcoming holidays and a host of charitable events.
This month, we recognize our remarkable Men & Women of the Year honorees for 2024, including Ralph Stayer, Matthew Kragh and Anne Fleming. These influential leaders embody the spirit of service, resilience, innovation and philanthropy that makes our region shine. Their stories reflect what can be achieved through dedication and love for your community.
We invite you to celebrate the honorees on November 12 at The Naples Players’ Sugden
Community Theater plaza on Naples’ Fifth Avenue South (tickets available at gulfshorelife.com).
This month, we are also proud to serve as media sponsors for several important community gatherings. Join us in supporting these essential causes—from Youth Haven’s Healing Youth luncheon for children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse to Zoo Gala at Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens, which sustains local wildlife and educational programs, to United Arts Collier’s Seaside Soirée, which showcases the transformative power of the local arts.
We’re also looking forward to the November 18 through 24 CME Group Tour Championship (part of the LPGA Tour), which gives guests a front-row seat to top-billed athletes while supporting local charities. We’ll also be there cheering on our board member Mary Susan Clinton on November 22, when she’s recognized as part of The Women’s Foundation of Collier County’s Women Rock Philanthropy event—a powerhouse showcase of dynamic women.
These occasions not only highlight the incredible work being done in our community but also offer an opportunity to engage, support and celebrate alongside your neighbors.
Thank you for being a part of our Gulfshore Life family. Together, we can continue to uplift and honor those striving to improve our region.
Carin Keane Publisher
Cheryl Richards
239.596.1613 romanza.com
Gulfshore Treasures
Naples Art Institute’s (NAI) metamorphosis continues apace with the upcoming Art in Balance: Matisse and His Illustrated Works , opening January 11. With more than 120 lithographs, engravings and paper cut-outs illuminating the modernist master’s lesserknown works, the show invites us to reconsider Matisse’s oeuvre, while solidifying NAI’s ascent as a cultural cornerstone in Southwest Florida. Discover this and other boundarypushing debuts in our Season Preview feature (p. 126).
Henri Matisse’s Souvenir from Oceania (1953), printed 1958/Courtesy Naples Art Institute
People, places and ideas making waves
Personalities: Naples’ floral maestro
Guest List: People + places
By Lauren Amalia Redding
Glass House
Larry and Rita Sibrack’s glass and ceramic art collection reflects strong bonds formed through fragile media.
Walking into the Naples home of Larry and Rita Sibrack, your eyes hardly know where to land. A busy composition of spindling ceramic shells and sponges juts from one wall. In the living room, the feminine motif of a cornflower blue glass corset juxtaposes a truncated human form cast in glass and covered in inky handprints. Light refracts off an array of objects that delight and beg for contemplation.
The couple lives among their collection, some 150 glass and ceramic pieces curated and commissioned over nearly four decades. Though filled with the fragile and precious, their home feels inviting, not
pretentious. Rita’s knitting baskets nestle under tables displaying chromatic forms and figures; a tall stack of rags on a kitchen countertop turns out to be porcelain. These aren’t your nana’s porcelain vases and crystal candy dishes—playful, dynamic and avant-garde, the Sibracks’ collection is a direct representation of the artistic duo. Rita, a lover of figurative art, is magnetic and converses frankly without being brusque. Larry, a retired dermatologist and clinical faculty member at Yale, speaks in soft, deliberate sentences. His discerning eye developed at a young age, maturing into a fascination for glass
Sargeant
Based on Pablo Picasso’s iconic 1937 painting, 21st Century Guernica reflects Larry and Rita Sibrack’s penchant for thoughtprovoking art.
and ceramics over the years. “They’re three-dimensional sculptures that have a fourth dimension—light,” he says.
The couple moved to Naples from Connecticut part time in 2001, impressed by an exhibition with blown-glass juggernaut Dale Chihuly at the then newly minted Naples Museum of Art (now Artis— Naples, The Baker Museum). Twenty years later, they settled full time into the coastal hamlet and its ever-growing arts scene.
The Sibracks began collecting after they married in 1989, each bringing a honed eye for aesthetics and art born of formal- and self-studies. Larry, a native Michigander, recalls visiting the Detroit Institute of Arts with his pianist mother growing up. Later, while studying medicine at Yale, he had a professor who made a habit of taking classes to the university’s acclaimed art museum. “He’d ask us what time of day it was, what style of clothes, or if a ship was going east or west in a painting,” Larry says. “Dermatology is very visual, and he taught us how to see.”
“I grew up on a chicken farm,” Rita interjects jovially. Before they wed, she had collected Victorian china and Japanese ceramics, making for an organic transition into contemporary forms with Larry. She was drawn to the dynamic coloring represented in the mediums, with pigments appearing more luminous in glass and richer, more intense when suspended in the opaque medium of a ceramic glaze.
Robert Mickelsen’s Shake (2008)
The Sibracks’ values, centered on community, collaboration and inclusion, shine through works like Shake by Robert Mickelsen.
Having been declared legally blind in 2015, Rita connects with her art through touch, identifying works like Setting Free the Bluebird of Happiness (top) by their shapes and detailings.
The New Jerseyan adorns herself with sculptural necklaces, cocktail rings and vibrant outfits—deliberately arranged compositions that have become more difficult to assemble since Rita became legally blind in 2015.
A few years after marrying Larry, her vision started to deteriorate, an early sign of the degenerative eye condition, retinitis pigmentosa, which she was diagnosed with in 1992. The shift was deceptively gradual. Rita continued to drive safely for about a decade after the initial symptoms. Until a few years ago, the couple still traveled and collected art voraciously. Now, they mostly stick to Southwest Florida, and Rita’s experience of art is predominantly tactile. Her fingertips hold memory. Rita vividly recalls most of the collection and identifies works by probing their shapes and detailings, like the ‘stitching’ on a surrealist glass corset. “I broke a Chihuly,” she admits. “But as long as it’s not too delicate, I can figure it out.” Despite challenges, the couple faces their new reality with wry humor and wit. “If she doesn’t like what I buy, she can’t see it anyway,” Larry quips.
When the Sibracks visited glass artist Anne Wolff’s workshop in Sweden, Rita ran her fingers over the artist’s tools and
Susan Taylor Glasgow’s Setting Free the Bluebird of Happiness (2008), Hidenori Tsumori’s Remains of the Day (2015)
Freedom to Enjoy What Matters Most
From
Let
pieces of unworked glass. “She remembered me because I was [touching] everything,” Rita chuckles. The Sibracks brought home Wolff’s Feet House, a sculpture with two feet—unflinchingly truthful, from their tapering ankles to wince-inducing bunions—creating a negative space within a solid, shimmering polygonal cube of glass.
The couple’s physical connection to the works makes up only a fraction of their appreciation—they place more value on the relationships formed through their years of collecting and the robust culture of apprenticeship existing within the medium. “Glass blowing is a collaboration, and it’s all choreographed,” Rita says, likening the process to a dance with several members. As collectors, the Sibracks have contributed their own two-step.
Larry was president of the Art Alliance for Contemporary Glass from 2020-2022. He’s lectured in museums across New England and volunteered as a docent at Artis—Naples, The Baker Museum. His preferences lean toward abstracts.
Beyond the living area, the blue hues of a tall sculpture on the patio echo the pool water beyond. Perception VI, a fluid form recalling icebergs by Peter Bremers, encapsulates the Dutch glass master’s fascination with climate. The elliptically shaped construction—one of Larry’s favorites—resembles the movement of waves or ice caps, like one sinuous body of water washing
Larry estimates the couple’s collection is 70 percent glass and 30 percent ceramic, though some works blend multiple mediums, like
Margit
Tóth’s Nemo Sine Crimine
Vivit
(Man Cannot Live Without Sin)
(2004)
Nemo Sine Crimine Vivit, which combines cast glass and metalwork.
The Sibracks value their relationships with the artists whose work they collect. “What makes the contemporary glass movement unique is its sharing of creativity and knowledge—from artist to artist, artist to apprentice, artist to collector, collector to collector,” Larry says.
over itself infinitely, reflecting the ongoing nature of environmental issues.
Back inside, Rita grows animated talking about Boy and Girl Twins, a piece by Vivian Wang depicting a mother clad in golden robes cradling twin infants, who look out from her arms with lively curiosity. Wang combines painted ceramic clothing with cast glass faces, hands and feet to create sculptures inspired by antique Chinese figures. “We’ve been friends for 15 years now and we chat on the phone,” Rita gushes.
In the entry hallway, Tim Tate’s hypnotic 21st Century Guernica reflects the couple’s penchant for provocative art. While the Sibracks’ entire collection aims to defy preconceived notions of glass and ceramic’s expressive range, Tate’s piece ups the ante with its stark political message. Reflected in its circular, mirrored form, a ring of motifs from Pablo Picasso’s Guernica (an immense 1937 painting hauntingly representing the violence of the Spanish Civil War) encircles another ring of tiny refugee figures in ghoulish vessels that look more like caskets than boats.
Glassblower Robert Mickelsen’s Shake stands sentinel in the center of the home, its two vertical columns projecting colorless, ageless, genderless glass hands that reach toward one another, their fingers outstretched, about to clasp. “The five hands on one side are clear; the five hands on the other are opaque,” Larry says of the appendages’ only distinction. Shake’s message—our differences are miniscule in light of our similarities—visibly moves him. “It has to do with inclusion,” he adds. “We try to live by the artist’s message.”
Rik Allen’s Belladonna Pacificus (2018), K. William LeQuier’s Sentinel (2012)
Imagination requires a kind of empathy—the ability to envision an idea as well as its benefits for the future. Barron Gift Collier funded the completion of the Tamiami Trail—the first highway connecting the south Florida coasts. He also introduced Collier County’s first bus line and telephone service. Following in his footsteps, Barron Collier Companies firsts include innovations in Florida citrus production, ranch management advances in one of the state’s largest cattle operations, building the town of Ave Maria from the ground up, and pioneering Big Cypress National Preserve, the first national preserve in the US. Inherited empathy, along with the advantage of experience and vision, make Barron Collier Companies one to follow for future firsts.
Brian Tietz
Insider — Table Service — By
Ronnie Koenig
Hooked on Old Florida
With daily catches guiding the menus, waterfront vistas and salt-kissed charm, these restaurants reflect the truest expression of coastal dining.
While the allure of the next new restaurant will always have its appeal, there is something to be said for the classics. In Florida, a ‘classic’ must involve seafood—preferably, local seafood. Harvested by Florida anglers—who catch more than 84 percent of the nation’s grouper, pompano, stone crab, pink shrimp and spiny lobsters—our aquatic jewels sparkle, whether plated atop white tablecloths on porcelain or paired with nothing more than an unobstructed view of their native waters.
You’ll find fresh bites and Old Florida charm waving languidly at fish shacks up and down the coast. But, some spots take it up a notch, toting the line between fine and casual dining, with sophisticated digs; inspired, modern flavors; and subtropical flair in spades.
Opened in 1937, Fort Myers Beach’s Dixie Fish Company began as a fish house, where folks gathered each morning for shrimp plucked straight from the Gulf and blue crabs
Old Florida restaurants transform local fare into modern creations, like a farmers’ salad at Naples’ The Bay House.
Right: Open since 1937, Dixie Fish Company on Fort Myers Beach retains the spirit of its early seafood market days.
still slick with the bay’s brine. These days, executive chef Chas Tatigian serves up coastal favorites, like the whole-fried fish—the day’s catch battered in buttermilk then fried to crackling perfection. Each filet is topped the ‘Dixie way,’ with house-made garlic butter sauce. Locals still clamor for ‘pink gold’ here, too. Although now, it’s sourced from one of the oldest shrimping fleets in the area, Erickson & Jensen, and served up in salads or as Southern-style shrimp and grits. Chas also tosses steamed tails in a Yucatán sauce prepared with cilantro, fresh key lime juice and red chiles for tacos. The sauce melds with the shrimp’s natural salt, making for
a handheld marvel bursting with flavor. Savor the dish as the evening’s light show takes hold, illuminating Dixie’s Matanzas Harbor view. The island decides what gets cooked at Pine Island’s Tarpon Lodge & Restaurant. Executive chef Craig Panneton sources seafood straight from Gulf anglers, and fruits and veggies come from FruitScapes farm, two miles down the road. Favorites include pink shrimp and stoneground red grits in a spicy tomato cream sauce; the tripletail prepared Oscar-style in a rich béarnaise sauce with lump crab and asparagus; and the velvety smooth blue crab and roasted corn chowder—a soup that has inspired
long-lasting affection among patrons. Dating back to 1926, Tarpon Lodge defines laid-back elegance, with its crisp tablecloths and walls dotted with black-and-white photographs and fishing trophies.
Traveling south from Pine Island, you’ll notice a shift in scenery as high-rises and gated communities start to skirt the riverbanks around Fort Myers and Naples. Cruise inland through the Cocohatchee, and you’ll find a slice of Old Florida, tucked within the mangroves at The Bay House. The Phelan Family Brands restaurant—perched on wooden stilts— partners with Pine Island’s St. James City’s
Nick Shirghio; Courtesy Dixie Fish Company
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While the allure of the next new restaurant will always have its appeal, there is something to be said for the classics.
Courtesy The Bay House/Nick Shirghio
Island Crab Company for menu staples, like the grandiose seafood tower, called the High Rise. Each level is studded with Gulf shrimp, stone crab, oysters brimming with salinity, and whole lobster, exuding a balance of sweetness and briny tang.
Further south, at the edge of the expansive Ten Thousands Islands, the mangroves and marsh form a thick blanket around Everglades City, home to one of Southwest Florida’s last working waterfronts. Popular Camellia Street Grill offers a substantial, no-frills menu. Spainraised Naiara Freeman Rementeria started the restaurant with her mother, Terri, who prepares the day’s catch in the Basque tradition using herbs from Naiara’s onsite organic garden. Basil, cilantro, chives and hibiscus climb skyward in the courtyard; alfresco tables are outfitted with colorful knick-knacks. Walk down to the dock, and you may see fuchsia vermillion snapper and glassy-eyed grouper being hauled from the cypress and pine-shadowed waters. The restaurant’s seasonal stone crab claws emerge from these waters, too— harvested by Naiara’s husband, commercial fisherman Shane Freeman—along with gator, which is sautéed and served alongside fry bread: a bona fide Everglades-style spread. Coastal seafood caught and prepared by coastal families; now that’s a bit of Gulf magic.
At these establishments, the sizzle of fresh fish hitting the grill, the aroma of herbs plucked from seaside gardens, and the gentle lapping of waves against weathered docks create a distinct Gulf symphony—the composition of a Florida that still exists for those who know where to look.
Anna Nguyen
The island decides what gets cooked at Pine Island’s Tarpon Lodge & Restaurant, with the chef sourcing from Gulf anglers and local farms.
Bloom Service
When brides and society mavens need fresh ideas for destination weddings and talk-of-the-town events, they look to floral designer Tom Trovato.
If you’ve ever dined under a sea of cascading, sweet-scented wisteria; been awed by a massive arrangement of greenery and orchids suspended from the chandeliers at the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point; or arrived at a Gulfside soiree at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort to find the Chicago skyline recreated via an escort wall, you’ve likely experienced the genius of Tom Trovato. The Naples-based florist and event planner’s dramatic displays make him a go-to for society doyennes and destination wedding parties looking to create over-the-top gatherings. “My mantra is: ‘Always exceed expectations,’” Tom says. “Once I’m able to get a visual [for their dream], I know exactly what I have to do to transcend it.”
Flora has long been a part of Tom’s story. Well before he became known for planting indoor gardens and carving out lily ponds in ballrooms around town, the Michigan native was obsessed with beautifying his family’s suburban plot. “I was always asking for more room so I could dig in and create beds for more flowers and vegetables. I was the lawn mower and edger, and I was the one begging my dad, ‘Can we get some irrigation here?’” he says with a laugh.
In high school, Tom briefly studied mechanical drafting and architecture before continuing his studies at Michigan State University, where he hopped from architecture to landscape architecture. Post-graduation, he pivoted to florals, lured by
Schooled in landscape architecture, Tom Trovato brings a strong sense of scale, form, color and texture to his arrangements, which plentifully adorn local philanthropic events and weddings.
the quicker reward. “The payoff from landscape design takes so much time from paper to fruition,” he explains. The ‘more-ismore’ approach to floral design, which has become Tom’s calling card, draws from his architectural schooling and the elements he learned for well-balanced design, including scale, form, color and texture. In his arrangements, suspended floral installations follow the length of family-style tables; lofty floral arches frame ocean views; velvety roses mingle with textured foliage and airy Queen Anne’s lace for depth; hydrangeas billow out of pianos; and a tree installation might canopy an entire 60-seat area, wrapping guests in the moment.
About 15 years ago—chasing warmer winters and busier wedding seasons—Tom sold his Michigan event planning and retail businesses and moved to the Sunshine State. His success in Naples was far from overnight. “I didn’t know anyone,” he recalls. Tom pitched himself to funeral homes and began making floral arrangements for viewings and wakes. His calm demeanor and sensitivity didn’t go unnoticed. “One of the funeral homes convinced me to work there for a year-and-a-half as a family service counselor,” he says. Despite his ability to comfort the bereaved, Tom wanted to get back to the business of creating bouquets and boutonnieres for the living. A five-year stint at a Naples flower shop enabled him to connect with locals, wedding professionals and other vendors and build up a clientele. By 2015, he was ready to launch Tom Trovato
Event Floral & Design from his home.
Now, his operation covers about 700 soirees a year (from intimate receptions to full-scale galas) and spans 13,000 square feet, with nine units in East Naples. The compound is a veritable party paradise, with a 1,500-square-foot cooler chock-full of purple and green hydrangea, purple allium, garden roses in all shades of pink, lavender spray, bold fancy tulips, green hellebores and all manner of flowers shipped in from around the globe. There are storage spaces for props (including a room dedicated to candles and another for risers, stands and chuppahs); a showroom where hosts can preview their arrangements or get inspiration; a multimedia consultation area to brainstorm with clients over
GLAMOUR & GOOD TIMES
With about 700 events a year, Tom prioritizes originality and creating a wow-factor for every occasion. His style leans theatrically romantic, with dramatically scaled, textural arrangements rooted in traditional floral design with a modern edge.
PowerPoints, videos and vision boards; and a workshop, where the on-staff master carpenter, Chris Walker, brings Tom’s drawings of dramatic bars, pergolas and escort walls to life.
Despite the pageantry, Tom knows how to make a statement on a limited budget—especially when contracted for his steady rotation of annual philanthropic events, like the Naples Winter Wine Festival Vintner Dinners and Naples Zoo at Caribbean Garden’s Zoo Gala, where patrons vie to create the showiest tablescapes. Many of the Zoo’s top donors keep Tom on speed dial. At last year’s gala—themed Moonlight in Malaysia, in honor of the Zoo’s dearly departed tiger Eko—you could see the breadth and depth of Tom’s creations clustered under one tent. One table was adorned with three big stuffed tigers and an assortment of African plants. Another arrangement sported hundreds of sunflowers and towering gold reindeer containers, while a third otherworldly tablescape had Tom’s team building a large bamboo base to suspend a canopy of flowers and dangling stuffed monkeys. “It’s about achieving balance—people might be paying $500 to attend a party, so they want to see something special, but they don’t want to walk in and immediately think that every dime was spent on decor,” he says.
Still, weddings remain Tom’s bread and butter. And, he’s always happy to become a couple’s biggest advocate and help them dream bigger. “Every family has a story.” His gift? Turning those stories into extraordinary events.
Tom’s botanical realm now includes 13,000 square feet across nine units, with entire spaces devoted to props (a room for candles, another for risers), onsite carpentry (for building architectural platforms, frames and escort walls), and myriad exotic blooms.
Courtesy Tom Trovato/Brooke Price, Tom Trovato/Ashlee Nicole
Grapes of Gold
Jessica Sabeau of Naples’ Warren American Whiskey Kitchen recommends an ideal wine for Florida’s sunny days—a heat-loving Greek varietal with California zest.
A sunny expression of the Greek Isles, the yellow-gold assyrtiko grape is scant in the United States. Only two American wineries are known to harvest the fruit, including California’s Perlegos Family Wine Co., which produces the estategrown Thera Block Assyrtiko, a billowy white with a honeyed perfume. The bottling is a favorite for certified sommelier Jessica Sabeau, the beverage director at the year-old Warren American Whiskey Kitchen in The Collective design center.
“It’s the perfect choice for Naples’ warm evenings,” she says.
Within a year of helping build and run the beverage program, Jessica stewarded the restaurant toward a 2024 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, partly thanks to her focus on unsung gems from underrepresented producers, grapes and regions worldwide. One such place is Greece, where grapes have evolved
over centuries to thrive in the temperate Mediterranean climate. “I’m fascinated by Greek wine, by its sense of place,” she says. She’s especially drawn to assyrtiko, which is grown primarily in Santorini and yields wines with a pronounced salty minerality and citrus-like acidity. Jessica likes to introduce the Perlegos assyrtiko to white wine enthusiasts who are beholden to a traditional style. The medium-bodied wine’s minerality and crisp acidity make it approachable and familiar, while its distinct salinity, unusual combination of high acidity and high alcohol, and subtle textural grip take imbibers into new territory. “If I pour it, people inevitably fall in love with it,” she says.
Jessica fell equally hard when she stumbled across Perlegos’ assyrtiko by Jeff and John Perlegos, a pair of brothers immersed in the modern winemaking movement in California’s Lodi AVA
(American Viticultural Area). The Central Coast region has long been a powerhouse for grape growing, supplying more than 20 percent of the state’s wine bounty annually and housing some of the oldest vines in the country and around 130 varietals. Traditionally, Lodi grapes have been sold in bulk to mass producers or transformed into overblown Zinfandels. Now, the area’s gaining momentum for its winemaking prowess, with a rising crop of small, experimental producers like Perlegos.
The sons of Greek immigrants, Jeff and John, grew up surrounded by wine. When the family first arrived in California in the 1950s, their father worked in the fields while he overcame the language barrier; within the next decade, he established a grocery store and acquired vineyards in Lodi. “My father spent most of his time in the U.S. before he passed away, growing grapes,” John says. “We’ve been lifelong farmers in California. I’m 50 years old, and I’ve gone through 51 harvests. Neither my brother nor I have ever missed one. We’ve always had a harvest in our lives; we’ve learned to live by it.”
Perlegos Family Wines took root in 2022. “We wanted to plant something in California representing us and our family,” John says, adding that the local climate—when properly managed—is ripe for recreating Santorini vines.
Like much of the state’s top AVAs, Lodi benefits from a Mediterranean-like climate and rich, well-drained soil suited for
Dan Cutrona
Jessica Sabeau (previous spread) helped open the Warren last fall and, within a year, led the restaurant toward a 2024 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.
harvesting Old World grapes. The region’s relative inland location, next to the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta and protected by the Sierra Nevada mountains, yields less fog than coastal AVAs, making for consistently clear skies and hot, dry summer days—ideal conditions for the sun-loving, drought-resistant assyrtiko. Drastic temperature shifts with cool nights protect the grape’s lauded acidity, while the Mokelumne and San Joaquin Rivers provide a reliable source of irrigation for superior grapes, year after year.
Assyrtiko entices connoisseurs for its unique ability to achieve full ripeness
and express fruit flavors while retaining elevated acidity in Greece’s warm climate.
The brothers channel the spirit of the grape’s native Santorini, following the island’s traditions, like using whole-cluster pressing—keeping the stem and grape intact to decrease acidity while providing depth. Jessica says the technique lends ‘green’ or underripe characteristics—a touch of herbaceousness, adding complexity and a refreshing balance to the ripe fruit flavors. “Nothing masks or overtakes what comes naturally,” she says.
Jeff and John first grafted the Cycladic grape onto a small block of previously
established vines in 2021. At harvest, grapes are handpicked and whole-cluster pressed, then fermented with native yeast and minimal-added sulfur for weeks to months. To enhance the complexity and texture of the grapes harvested early from young vines, the vintners start aging in neutral barrels (used casks with diminished oak flavorings) before moving to stainless steel tanks. “The barrel fermentation contributes some richness to the palate,” John says.
The result is a stellar juxtaposition—a Californian interpretation of a Greek classic. Those unfamiliar with the wine
Jessica likes to pour the California-grown, lowintervention Perlegos assyrtiko white wine for its bright acidity, salty minerality and textural complexity. “Nothing masks or overtakes what comes naturally,” she says.
Courtesy Perlegos Family Wine Co.
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are often skeptical—Greece doesn’t rank high in wine conversations, and lovers of whites tend to be staunchly devoted to their preferred style. “They don’t know what to expect. Then the crispness hits— the absolute gift from these grapes—and people are blown away,” John says. “It’s not a chardonnay or a sauv blanc—it’s something entirely different.” He often hears people describe the wine as transportive. “They say, ‘Oh, you brought me back to when I was backpacking as a kid through the Greek Islands,’ the way the wine bursts with citrus and stone fruit aromas,” John adds.
The wine’s bright acidity and lemon notes pair beautifully with Warren’s winter dishes, like the fall farro salad with braised beets and roasted butternut squash or the pan-seared Chilean sea bass with julienne zucchini, squash, carrot and wilted rainbow chard in a saffron beurre blanc. Jessica says the boutique wine (100 cases produced in 2022, followed by 150 for the 2023 vintage) also stands firmly on its own, enjoyed on Warren’s atrium terrace or oceanside on a sultry Southwest Florida day. “It’s an all-around sensory journey,” she says.
Jessica likes to uncover lesser-known producers, regions and grapes. Perlegos—run by a pair of Greek brothers—is one of a couple American wineries growing Santorini’s assyrtiko grape.
Dan Cutrona; Courtesy Perlegos Family Wine Co.
At NCH, we’re advancing premier, comprehensive care for our community.
Schedule an appointment with one of our providers at NCHMD. org
Pictured from left to right:
Dr. David Lindner
Pulmonary Medicine
Dr. Mazen AbuAwad
Wingard Stroke Institute
Dr. Robert Cubeddu
Rooney Heart Institute
Dr. David Backstein
HSS at NCH, Orthopedics
Dr. Doug Harrington
Judith & Marvin Herb Family
Simulation Center
Leading with more firsts, bests, and onlys.
1 John & Carrie Cooney
2 Jerri & David Hoffmann, Valerie Boyd, Jeff Gargiulo, Amy & John Quinn, Susan Stielow
8 Jonathan Foerster, Brad Jamison, Gregory Economos
9 Jelena & Onur Haytac
10 Ingrid Aielli, Diana Richter
Sound Minds / Hosted at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, in support of David Lawrence Centers
David Lawrence Centers welcomed guests to The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, on March 21 for the nonprofit’s annual Sound Minds signature event, which drew more than 400 attendees. A-lister Brooke Shields took the stage to discuss her struggles with mental health and then mingled with attendees during the VIP reception. The event’s live auction raised more than $1.5 million for behavioral healthcare services in Collier County.
Sound Minds / Hosted at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, in support of David Lawrence Centers
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1 Jennifer McCurry, Brooke Shields 2 Dale & Mary Pendleton, Kim Larson Collins & Phil Collins
Douglas & Kristin Londal
Joe Sanda, Julia Van Domelen
Michael Rubenstein, Kimberly McDonnell
Jill Mesner, Chris Lee
Attorneys Jacqueline Johnson and Miranda Weiss represent one of Florida’s largest and respected Estate Planning practices in Naples. From the simple and straightforward, to the comprehensive and complex, they can help you navigate the intricacies of your estate plan in the most tax-efficient manner.
With 20+ years of combined experience, Jacqueline and Miranda remain at the forefront of legal developments, allowing them to support the preservation of each clients’ wealth for generations.
Supporting families through all major life events often requires the expertise of other areas of law. Working collaboratively with Dean Mead’s 50+ attorneys in offices throughout Florida, they offer clients the full-service experience.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
LL. M, Master of Laws in Taxation
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JACQUELINE J
MIRANDA WEISS
Starry Nights / Hosted at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, in support of Youth Haven
2 Jim Pinkin & Susan Van Roden Pinkin
3 David & Alicia Greenwald
4 Marc DiCiccio & Vivian Ball
5 Cassandra Byrnes & Christopher Lafond
6 Dorothea Hunter Sönne, Courtney Hansen, Meghan Houde
On March 23, Youth Haven—Southwest Florida’s only shelter for unhoused children and teens—hosted 500 guests at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, for a starry-themed evening. During the live auction, attendees vied for covetable lots, and patrons Valerie and Arturo Guido committed to underwrite a trip to Walt Disney World Resort for all of the shelter’s residents. The event raised nearly $2 million for therapeutic programming for the children.
1 Dave Gibbons, Catherine Paretti
Starry Nights / Hosted at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, in support of Youth Haven
1 Mauricio Gamba, Ingrid Aielli, Brenda Melton, Richard Cacace
Ryan Shaughnessy, Lenka Valigurska, Luigi & Jaclyn Carvelli
Lisa & Dean Ganzhorn
Come and share in a love of the arts
Nov 3—Mariachi Herencia de Mexico
Nov 14 & 16 Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 3
Nov 17—Yeol Eum Son Plays Dvořák
Nov 19—Dance Theatre of Harlem
Nov 21 Duelers: Dueling Pianos
Nov 26—An Evening of Overtures with the Naples Philharmonic
Nov 27— Free Art After Hours, 6-9pm Visit The Baker Museum
Nov 30 & Dec 1—Naples Ballet presents The Nutcracker with the Naples Philharmonic
Dec 2—Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour
Dec 4—Ben Folds with the Naples Philharmonic
Dec 7 & 8— Handel’s Messiah: Naples Philharmonic and Naples Philharmonic Chorus
Dec 8—Under the Streetlamp: Hip to the Holidays
Dec 19-22—Naples Philharmonic Holiday Pops
Jan 5— Andrea Peña & Artists with Alexander Shelley and the Naples Philharmonic
Jan 8—Margaret Atwood in Conversation
Jan 13—Blind Boys of Alabama
Jan 20 & 21—The Hit Men of Country
Jan 30—Debby Boone: A Song for You
Naples Philharmonic Masterworks Pictures with Alexander
Naples Philharmonic Pops Celebrating Gershwin
Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Klaus Mäkelä, conductor and artistic partner
A Night Honoring Tina Turner with Adrienne Warren and the Naples Philharmonic
Disney’s Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert with a live Latin band
Amy Grant
Starry Nights / Hosted at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, in support of Youth Haven
Starry Nights / Hosted at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón, in support of Youth Haven
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1 Dawn Ella, Allison Pezzuti 2 Todd LePage, Cindy Lieber
Ryan & Olga DeCaprio, Jackie & Mike Dent 4 Jay Spiller, Linda Malone
Carlos Escoto, Jennifer Parisi
Kathy & Wayne Volland
Heart Ball / Hosted at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in support of the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association celebrated its 100th birthday with 500 friends from the community on March 23. In a heartfelt moment, Dr. Robert Pascotto Sr., one of the region’s first cardiovascular surgeons, received the Centennial Golden Heart Award for his dedication to the community. The event raised more than $700,000 to support the association’s Health Equity Impact Goal, which focuses on reducing barriers to healthcare.
1 Todd & Wendy Tooley
2 Joe & Jaime Bonura
3 Walt & Betty McCollum, Helen & Bill Donegan 4 Matthew Morinello, Grace Labbe 5 Roberta Beranek, Skyler Wanberg
Heart Ball / Hosted at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in support of the American Heart Association
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2
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Gabby Boyar, Erin Meador
Dawn & Mike Del Duca
Dr. Iahn & Blair Gonsenhauser
Chris Bodenhamer & ZiLin Zhen
Your Legacy. Their Future.
Use our online planning tool kit and gift illustrator. This free, no-obligation tool will help you explore options and find the charitable gift that’s right for you. Calculate deductions, tax savings and other benefits instantly!
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• Ensure that we can meet the growing demand of young people in Immokalee who depend on our life-changing programs.
• Impact the future workforce of Southwest Florida by preparing students for well-paying, in-demand professional careers.
• Build upon 33 years of creating Pathways to Success for Immokalee Foundation students.
Did you know that your planned gift can also provide you greater tax savings and help preserve wealth for you and your family? Call us to discuss the planned giving option that is right for you. immokaleefoundation.myplannedgift.org
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Contact Lisa Marquette, Director of Planned Giving at 239.430.9122 or lisa.marquette@immokaleefoundation.org
Bags & Bow Ties / Hosted at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, in support of the Shelter for Abused Women & Children
1 PJ White & Linda Meak
2 Linda Oberhaus, Bill Barnett, Kevin & Pat Rambosk
3 Rick & Bonnie Dudley
4 Lee & Tami Wellford
5 Mary Susan Clinton & JD Clinton
6 John & Barbara Jordan
The Shelter took a fresh approach for its April 3 Bags & Bow Ties, transforming the former luncheon event into an evening black-tie gala. Co-chairs Diane McCaw and Linda Meak succeeded in their goal to draw more coed awareness for domestic violence and human trafficking in Collier County, drawing more than 400 attendees. Guests mingled throughout the ritzy night, which included a whiskey tasting from Naples bar District.
Bags & Bow Ties / Hosted at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, in support of the Shelter for Abused Women & Children
Sydney & Lucian Grow
John & Valerie Kuntz
Diane and Dan McCaw
Kim & Greg Shand
Wilfredo Emanuel, Erin Biggers
Bags & Bow Ties / Hosted at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples, in support of the Shelter for Abused Women & Children
Wotts Mercy, Corey Lazar
Michael & Jennifer Harrill
Lyn Paulsin, Lorne Burke
Pamela & Alice Minix
Jerry & Adria Starkey
Katie Kensington & Ed Cawley
FEATURES / A deep dive into the soulful stories of the region
“I pride myself in trying to find common ground. We can work together toward a common goal, so we don’t have to be in these camps.”— James Evans, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation
MEN & WOMEN
These architects of change are shaping our region’s future through philanthropy, conservation and visionary leadership.
of the Year
You probably know someone with a home by John Cooney’s Naples firm, Stofft Cooney Architects. Even with the dozens of residences he’s created across the region over nearly three decades, John’s impact is strongest through his nonprofit contributions. He recalls the humbling moment when his mother toured the new Stofft Cooney-designed, 30,000-squarefoot Baker Senior Center Naples. “My mom, being very similar to a lot of seniors, was saying, ‘Oh, I don’t need this; this is for older people,” he recalls. “When she walked through the building, she was in awe.” Instead of an institutional, hospital-like setting, John’s mother found homey lounge areas, a serene palette, covered patios with planters at various levels for gardening, and lofty spaces with floor-to-ceiling windows. Everything was engineered to support and uplift the center’s nearly 3,000 members. The architect believes in giving what, how and where you can. For him, that often means contributing his talent for architecture and the psychological boons of thoughtful
John COONEY
design. “That kind of goes unnoticed,” he says. “I was thanked 100 times for reducing my fees on the project and being involved, but it’s really about the architecture.” John’s work has proved transformative for nonprofits like Naples Children & Education Foundation, where Stofft Cooney drafted the headquarters building; Our Daily Bread Food Pantry; The Immokalee Foundation; and the Shelter for Abused Women & Children, which John credits as some of his most gratifying work (“There was no publicity or notoriety at all,” he says).
The architect aims for the same enhancing effect with the 5-acre campus for STARability Foundation and its Trailblazer Academy, which he and his wife, Carrie, helped establish to provide vocational training, continuing education, and social and community engagement to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Cooneys were stirred to action 28 years ago after their son, Brett, was diagnosed with autism. Resources were scarce throughout Brett’s childhood and were nearly nonexistent when he reached adulthood. “The need is the overwhelming reason why it’s so popular,” John says
of STARability, which has reached critical mass for support in recent years with the Cooneys’ help.
John is now chairing the campus’ $26 million capital campaign. “It’s a daunting task, but I feel confident,” he says. The project and its specifics are still in progress, but John’s been sketching and dreaming. Thinking about his son and the space he wants Brett to enjoy, John envisions a clubhouse-like setting with the trademark Stofft Cooney transitional contemporary style and tropical elements. “STARability provides a lot of different services, and the building needs to reflect everything they do,” he says. “It’s not just the workplace— it’s a hangout, it’s a social place, it’s an exercise room.” He imagines art and music studios, libraries, a venue for monthly socials, housing and all the amenities members need for enriched daily living. “The disabled adult population has been not a priority,” John says. “It was a forgotten population, and now it’s not—and it’s getting better and better each year.”
Stephanie Granada
Kristen COURY
We’re calling on Gulfshore Playhouse founder and producing artistic director, Kristen Coury, for an encore. When we first honored the multihyphenate director as a Woman of the Year in 2013, Kristen made two predictions for her growing nonprofit theater company: “We’re going to have a new building, all our own. And we’re going to win a Tony.”
One of Kristen’s premonitions is realized this season with the opening of Cole Porter’s toe-tapping musical comedy Anything Goes on the Broadway-sized Moran Mainstage of Gulfshore Playhouse’s new $72 million Baker Theater and Education Center.
While they’re still working toward the lauded award, the theater’s education director, Steven Calakos, earned two consecutive Tony Award Honorable Mentions for Excellence in Theatre Education in 2022 and 2023. And Kristen has more in store.
The New York City transplant is best known around town for her successes in growing Gulfshore Playhouse from a one-woman operation in her condo to a multimillion-dollar earning nonprofit. However, her influence in Southwest Florida runs much deeper than the buzzy regional theater. “I’m looking forward to becoming more of a communitarian, where I can help however I can, wherever I can,” Kristen says. She’s an active board member of the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce, a member of the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the newest addition to the charitable Wynn’s Market family since marrying descendant and Sunshine Ace Hardware president Michael Wynn.
While fundraising for the new building, she also forged a relationship with the City of Naples, resulting in a land donation—an acre converted into a public parking garage near the theater for better downtown access. And, 10 minutes away, the group is almost done building their new 25,000-square-foot production cen-
ter, which comes with an influx of jobs for behind-the-scenes creatives and trade programs for high school thespians. “We’ll be able to weld, paint and build, and construct sets, costumes and props,” she says.
The Playhouse’s opening marks an essential step for the surrounding Naples Design District. The campus— which includes a secondary conservatory stage, a full-service kitchen and bar, classrooms for the ever-growing education program, and lushly decorated gardens that are always open to the public—is designed to attract passersby to explore the neighborhood. “When you buy a ticket to see something at the theater, you’re going to valet park, grab something to eat and potentially buy a pair of shoes or go for a drink—there’s a lot of money spent around the theater,” Kristen says.
The director’s next prediction: the thriving arts scene will only magnify amid Naples’ growth. And, Gulfshore Playhouse intends to be at the heart of the action. —Jaynie Bartley
James EVANS
James Evans can talk science with the best of them. Among his academic cohorts, he expounds on ‘trophic relationships of ichthyoplankton and gelatinous predators’ and ‘freshwater inflows’ in Estero Bay—primary subjects of his graduate research at Florida Gulf Coast University. But, when James talks to a non-scientist, his wealth of knowledge unfurls in a way that is understandable, unintimidating and, perhaps most importantly, empowering.
With 25 years on the island, the CEO of the Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) and former director of resources for the City of Sanibel is one of the region’s most impactful voices in wildlife protection, water quality and coastal resilience. His superpower lies in his ability to translate rigorous science into resonant calls to action for a wider audience.
While he was with the city, James launched a comprehensive
water-sampling program, identifying numerous instances of elevated levels of nutrients that can cause devastating algal blooms like red tide. The findings prompted sweeping changes, including the region’s first ordinance regulating nutrient-rich fertilizers in 2007 and the construction of a $20 million advanced wastewater treatment plant. “We can’t be hypocritical and point our fingers at someone else when we’re not doing everything we can on our island to reduce those nutrient sources,” he says.
James grew up on a farm in Northeast Ohio, where he worked with his dad and roamed the countryside.
“Farmers, hunters and fishermen— they were the first conservationists,” the avid angler says. Without the means to pay for college, the environmental scientist enlisted in the U.S. Army before pursuing higher education. The experience shaped him; James, who rose to sergeant, projects a calm competence and an ability to connect with people regardless of background or beliefs. “I pride myself in trying to find common ground,” he
says. “We can work together toward a common goal, so we don’t have to be in these camps.”
Sanibel and Captiva Islands will need this skill in shaping their futures as they balance post-storm rebuilding, population growth and preservation needs. With issues like the proposed expansion of South Seas (which would nearly triple the resort’s number of units), SCCF provides expertise and data indicating how proposed changes would impact ecosystems, wildlife and residents’ quality of life. Instead of opposing development, James advocates for controlled growth.
The CEO and his organization are laser-focused on the region’s environmental health, eyeing key properties for protection from the islands to the Everglades: “Part of my legacy will be that ‘science to solutions’ approach, ensuring we are developing wonderful science ... to drive future decisions and policies that will make Southwest Florida a better place to live, work and recreate.” —Jennifer Reed
The recently retired general manager of Naples’ Waterside Shops, Anne Fleming, looks out onto her garden as a storm moves in, casting glistening diamonds inside her verdant pocket. It is that rhythm, nature’s cycle, that returns Anne, if only briefly, to her childhood.
Born into a generational farming family in Salinas Valley, California, her memories are marked by waves of viridescent lettuce, plump melons and sweet yellow onions, connecting one chapter of her life to another. “The town I grew up in is not much different from Collier County,” she says. Part of the prosperous Monterey County, the area has tony towns like Pebble Beach and Carmel-by-the-Sea, existing near Salinas’ migrant agricultural communities like Alisal, where about 30 percent of the population lives in poverty. “[It’s] much like Immokalee,” Anne says.
Anne FLEMING
Moving to Naples from Michigan— where she worked for The Forbes Company, which owns Waterside— Anne immersed herself in her new hometown with gusto. Over her 11 years at the eminent shopping center, Waterside magnified its luxury retail cachet. Rolex, Veronica Beard, Zimmermann and the new Hermès all came in under her tenure.
Anne has long believed in the idea of using businesses as agents for good, and her Forbes employers provided her the latitude to partner with nonprofits of her choosing, Early on, she turned to Naples Children & Education Foundation and The Guadalupe Center. The groups’ work to break the cycle of poverty through education rang true for Anne. “My first job was as a teacher’s aide with Project Head Start, helping preschool children from non-English speaking families prepare for kindergarten,” she says.
Partnering with more than 10 charities annually, Anne helped spin Waterside into more than a retail hub; the rarefied center became a cultural and community touchstone.
“We had 1,000 employees who came to work daily knowing which charities Waterside supported and why we believed in them. They learned each nonprofit’s mission and the population they served,” she says. The organizations’ messages coursed through the high-traffic center, from shop to shopper. Off-the-clock, Anne served on the board of the Women’s Foundation of Collier County, and she has supported STARability Foundation since moving to town in 2013. Anne—whose retirement sounds more like a theory than a fact—recently signed on to oversee the expansion of STARability’s resale shop. She also has a new venture consulting for emerging businesses looking to tap into the Naples market. “Because it’s not just business—companies here root themselves in the community,” she says. “They take note of what [is needed] and find a way to help.”
Chanda Jamieson
Kiran GILL
Plastic surgeon and owner of Naples
Aesthetic Institute, Dr. Kiran Gill, is many things to her patients: a healer, an artist, a shoulder to cry on, a friend to laugh with, an advocate. Today, Dr. Gill orchestrates a cadre of nurses, doctors and aestheticians with the poise and precision of a conductor, providing clients across the region with cosmetic and reconstructive surgical care, noninvasive procedures and luxuriant aesthetic services, all in a serene, spa-like environment. Her newly built, state-of-the-art Naples Aesthetic Institute (by lauded architect David Corban) redefines the standard of care in Southwest Florida. Her clients are loyal, and for good reason.
When Dr. Gill arrived in Naples in 2015, the Georgetown University graduate saw a need. Among the myriad plastic surgeons across the region, few specialized in breast reconstruction—a critical point of care for recovering patients. Dr. Gill filled the gap, becoming one of the first physicians many patients saw after their diagnosis. “My job at that
first meeting is to hold their hands and explain what’s happening in a way that helps them realize there’s a light at the end of the tunnel,” she says.
Through the process, Dr. Gill was struck by how many individuals she encountered were uninsured or underinsured. “The other thing is, a lot of women didn’t even know that insurance covers breast reconstruction,” she says. Dr. Gill soon got involved with Physician Led Access Network of Collier County (PLAN), which connects uninsured patients with free care, and the Bosom Buddies support group, where Dr. Gill often served as a keynote speaker, providing resources, guidance and support.
As she established her practice, the surgeon poured back into her community, contributing to philanthropic events like Hats in the Garden (Naples Botanical Garden) and Angel Ball (Community School of Naples), as well as organizations like STARability Foundation, The Shelter for Abused Women & Children, and Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples.
Thanks to Dr. Gill’s efforts to expand access to care and awareness for breast cancer reconstructive pro-
cedures, more local surgeons have taken up the mantle, allowing the physician to invest in other aspects of care, like her ‘mommy makeovers.’
“I’m a surgeon. I cut and sew,” she says. “But it’s not just about looking better.” In many ways, Dr. Gill believes, aesthetic procedures are also reconstructive. The former D1 volleyballer openly talks about her ‘tummy tuck’ with patients, how it initially felt selfish, but that it was one of the best decisions she’s made for herself.
Looking ahead, Dr. Gill hopes to establish a youth volleyball club to share the lessons the sport instilled in her. But, for now, her schedule is booked. On top of her practice, charitable work, growing medical-grade skincare line and new facility, she is a proud wife and self-proclaimed ‘soccer mom,’ making each day count. —Emma Witmer
In the ’70s, architect Matthew Kragh’s family began their annual trek from Indiana to Southwest Florida. The much-anticipated yearly vacations cultivated a love of place that would, in time, prove providential. “I spent many, many nights in a sleeping bag on the floor of my grandparents’ The Glades [Golf & Country Club] condo,” Matthew says. During one Naples spring break, the family drove down Gulf Shore Boulevard in his grandfather’s prized Cadillac. “I saw a $1 million beach house for sale, and it blew my mind,” the architect recalls.
Cut to a few decades later, and the founder of MHK Architecture is at the forefront of shaping the town he fell in love with as a child. His firm’s fingerprint permeates myriad commercial projects (Baker Park, Naples Square, Stella, The Mark on 8th, and the upcoming Huxley and Rosewood Residences Naples, to name a few). Meanwhile, MHK homes have become emblematic of the New-Old Naples, with their oversized brack-
Matthew KRAGH
ets, louvered shutters and white-onwhite facades. Since launching in 2009, the firm has grown to include nine studios across four states.
But, Matthew’s heart remains embedded in the local community. Earlier this year, he was inducted into Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida’s Business Hall of Fame as a as a laureate. Although he’s scaled back on nonprofit board commitments in recent years to spend more time with his family, he continues to channel his altruism through his firm and their pro bono projects. “[We] try to stick with what we do best,” he says. Currently, that includes designing a home for Habitat for Humanity, a large-scale facility for First Tee and Youth Haven’s new campus.
The most impactful build on MHK’s boards is the redesign of the iconic Naples Pier, which was destroyed in 2022 by Hurricane Ian, leaving a gaping hole in the city’s core. Tasked with the seventh rebuild for the pier following a storm, Matthew knew they had to do things
differently and called in coastal resilience experts to help design a new superstructure to withstand hurricanes. While the new iteration will look different, Matthew says the landmark will continue to embody the essence that keeps him and others rooted in the region. “I have the best memories of putting my kids in their baby backpacks or bike seats and riding from Royal Harbor down to the pier,” he says. “It was always a big thing. We would park the bike, walk to the end of the pier, and stop to buy them a SpongeBob Popsicle or ice cream.”
Today, ‘Dad’ is the role Matthew treasures most. “I just try to be the best father I can for these kids while they’re at this age and try to encourage them to grow up to be good human beings,” he adds. Melanie Warner Spencer
Joe NORTH
At Fort Myers’ North Law Firm, work is a family affair for patriarch Joe North. He runs the firm with his wife, Benita, the firm’s promotions manager; their attorney son; and Joe’s father, who serves as a guiding force, offering sage wisdom. Joe’s tween grandsons are set to continue the legacy. While it’s all hands on deck in the office, behind-the-scenes community work fuels the North dynasty. Joe grew up in Dunbar, where the sun-drenched streets echo the vibrancy of collective living. “The community is like a circle,” he says. “Everyone contributes to keep it going; we all benefit from its strength and unity.”
Known affectionately as the ‘Unofficial Mayor of Fort Myers’ and the ‘Senator of Dunbar,’ Joe embodies the neighborhood’s ethos. His contributions range from sponsoring events like the Haitian American Community Coalition scholarship gala and the City of Palms Classic basketball tournament since 2016 to lending his digital billboards for Lee County high schoolers to celebrate accomplishments.
Initially, Joe was taken aback by the honorary titles. But, he soon recognized the monikers as signs of respect from his neighbors. Joe doesn’t take the designations lightly. “I feel a deep sense of responsibility to live up to these titles,” he shares. “They carry weight, and I want to honor them by making a positive impact.”
In 2022, Joe was granted a key to the City of Fort Myers to commemorate his standing. The North name graces Dunbar High School’s football field, and the city recently announced plans to rename his childhood home’s
Barton Street after him. Through all the accolades, the native son doesn’t see himself as a benefactor but as a member of a supportive ecosystem where success is shared and reciprocated. “None of what I’ve done [could have been accomplished] without the support of the community,” he says. Looking ahead, the personal injury attorney is helping develop a new cultural center in Roberto Clemente Park with the Lee County Black History Society. Joe donated $100,000 last year as a catalyst for the long-planned $20 million project to reignite Dunbar’s rich artistic legacy and cement the neighborhood’s place in Fort Myers’ history. “We need to raise awareness and secure support for these institutions,” Joe says. “Their preservation is crucial for maintaining our cultural heritage.”
Nikki Miller-Ka
Elizabeth Star begins every morning with a cup of coffee, her planner and a mantra to be her best self. Whether she’s off to host a Youth Haven luncheon for fellow patrons summering up north or addressing a crowd for her Women Lifting Women (WLW) platform, she’s prepared for anything. Before heading out the door, she gives her polished look a final once-over.
“When I feel together, I am together,” she says.
The Port Royal doyenne has been a philanthropic force since moving to Naples with her husband and their son nearly 30 years ago. She started by participating in Community School of Naples’ Angel Ball. From there, she was frequently called upon to chair events for David Lawrence Centers (where she sat on the foundation board for six years), the American Cancer Society and the American Red Cross, always inspiring radical generosity through emotional touchstones that connect guests with the cause.
Elizabeth STAR
She continues to push issues close to her and her husband’s hearts locally and nationwide, like in North Carolina, where they have supported scholarships and entrepreneurial programs at Duke University.
In all her endeavors, Elizabeth takes a targeted approach to giving, identifying key issues and joining power players to stoke change.
In 2022, when she heard about the nearly 100 unhoused senior women living in Collier County, Elizabeth was aghast. “Being a woman in your 80s is difficult enough, right? Just imagine not having a home,” she says.
She took the helm at Women Lifting Women, an initiative from Women’s Foundation of Collier County (WFCC) that provides financial support and wraparound resources to unhoused senior women (Pillar 1), mentorship and career development opportunities for young women and girls (Pillar 2) and an endowment to fund the programs long-term (Pillar 3). The year before she joined the cause, WFCC raised $55,000; the next year, with Women Lifting Women and
Elizabeth at the helm, the nonprofit brought in $1 million.
It’s no wonder Youth Haven recently courted the dynamo to chair their big capital campaign to replace the campus’ Telford building. The vital-but-outdated, 50-year-old facility serves as the central hub for the organization’s displaced kids.
This month, Collier Community Foundation bestows Elizabeth with the Robert C. Cosgrove Award for philanthropic service, reflecting her dedication to creating a brighter future, one dollar, one meeting, one cause at a time. “If my name is associated with a certain goal, I’m going to make sure we achieve it.”
Addison Pezoldt
Ralph STAYER
Poets often compare recipes to small poems—they keep what kept us. The former CEO of Johnsonville Ralph Stayer spun the craft that sustained him as a child into America’s largest private sausage brand, selling his family recipe brats in nearly 50 countries.
At his core, ‘The Sausage King’ is the son of a butcher. His parent’s heirloom bratwurst, shaped by their Austrian and Slovenian heritage, launched the global brand in 1945, starting as a small-town butcher in Johnsonville, Wisconsin. After college, Ralph joined the family business and encouraged his parents to move from retail to wholesaling while keeping the person-to-person connection at the center of the company.
Ralph takes the same personal approach with his philanthropy. “My job is to make sure every person I’m connected with has the best opportunity and the encouragement needed to develop themselves fully,” he says.
He and his wife, Shelly, have lived in Port Royal for nearly 16 years and have been trustees of Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF) for the last three. Earlier this year, they served as chairs for Naples Winter Wine Festival (NWWF), which raised an unprecedented $33 million—$8 million more than the previous year. No one was more shocked than the Stayers, who had assumed the festival’s 24th would be an off year, with patrons eyeing the 25th anniversary.
“But then, the most wonderful thing happened—we started calling people for help, and every person we contacted said yes,” Ralph says, his voice warbling. “It’s one of the warmest feelings I’ve ever had in my heart.”
Before becoming involved with NCEF, Ralph asked the organization various pointed questions, ensuring that the good work was more than just a good feeling. He started with the nonprofit’s impact on Collier County’s juvenile arrest rates. “We discovered the rate dropped from 2010 to 2023 by 50 percent,” he says.
“If you extrapolate that across the
increase in population, those are hard numbers.”
In the coming years, he envisions working with other communities on roadmaps for verifiable change.
“I don’t have many years left, and I intend to spend them doing as much good as possible,” says Ralph, who also consults for NCH Healthcare System and his wife’s Shelly Stayer Shelter for Victims of Human Trafficking & Domestic Violence.
His empowerment-based business model is outlined in his bestseller, Flight of the Buffalo, as well as in the Harvard Business Review article, “How I Learned to Let My Workers Lead,” which remains one of the journal’s 100 most reprinted essays. “I’ve sold a lot of sausages, sure, but being able to rally others around a singular principle—we don’t use the people to build the business; we use the business to build the people—changed the workplace for millions and gave them a voice,” Ralph says. “That’s something.” —C.J.
As far as most people know, K.C. Stock was long the driving force behind Naples’ leading custom home builder and developer, STOCK Development. In a way, it’s true—the senior Stock’s influence and wisdom remain ever-present. But, in practice, it was his son, Brian, quietly building the company since 2001. “It didn’t matter if I owned 50 percent or 100 percent,” Brian recalls. “It was always about us, not me.”
Reverence for his dad, who passed away in 2022, along with the values of humility, hard work and integrity his parents passed down, continue to anchor STOCK’s CEO. “My parents were always believers that you had to learn and work from the bottom up,” Brian says. “As part of having a family business, you had to work harder and lead by example.”
Starting with four parcels in Lely Resort—where his father began investing after retiring to Naples—Brian carved their path. Where others saw risk in this ‘far out’ area, the Stocks saw potential. The initial plan was to sell the lots,
Brian STOCK
but after 9/11 upended the market, Brian knew they needed to shift and own the process from start to finish: “I said, ‘Dad, it’s the only way we can control our own destiny ... We have to be fully integrated.’” Piece by piece, they developed Lely into a thriving community with resortstyle amenities (plus in-house mortgaging and titling, sales and resales, and rentals).
Now, STOCK spans dozens of master-planned communities, high-rises, luxury apartments and commercial properties in Florida, Montana and Wyoming, and soon, internationally. Every project touts the trifecta of desirable locations, community-centric amenities, and seamless customer support from purchase to residency.
The strategy has proved effective. “Our average price was $317,000 in 2010,” he says. “This year, our average price will be $3.7 million.” The company’s core strength lies in its leadership’s integrity. During the 2008 financial crisis, while others were renegotiating lower paybacks, Brian repaid every borrowed dollar with interest—despite having to wipe seven years of equity. “You
borrow money to pay it back,” Brian says, echoing his father’s words. “No matter how painful, you always do the right thing.” Impressed, the banks later approached STOCK to manage their distressed assets. Brian leaned into the same principles when facing opposition over the team’s first high-rise, now The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Naples, on Vanderbilt Beach. He personally engaged in more than 50 meetings and fielded hundreds of calls. “[We wanted] to make sure they knew we’re from here, we care about the neighbors, we want to do the right thing,” he says. The project broke ground late last year, marking a new era for luxury living in Naples.
Beyond the builds, the company cements its legacy through Florida Gulf Coast University’s Stock Development Department of Construction Management, which stands as a living tribute to the ethics K.C. championed. “All the time, I’ll drive through new communities, and I think to myself, ‘I sure wish my dad was here to witness this,’” Brian says. “He was always so proud of what we were doing.” —S.G.
SEASON PREVIEW
From culinary frontiers and artistic milestones to pro-level sports facilities and eco-conscious expansions—Southwest Florida embraces innovation this season while honoring our roots.
Palm Beach import Blackbird Modern Asian charms with its multi-sensory dining experience and meticulously designed interiors.
Where to Eat Now
Culinary innovators are enriching our palettes with a slate of season debuts. John Colón—previously with Bodega Olé in Naples and El Basque Vin & Pintxo Bar in Bonita Springs—just opened North Naples’ Islas Modern Caribe as a love letter to his heritage, blending Puerto Rican home cooking with haute cuisine influenced by the rest of the Caribbean. Nearby, Mediterranean estiatorio Estia Restaurant, the
Pashalis family’s much-anticipated seventh restaurant, opens this fall. And, Naples Design District welcomes 7J7 Sky Lounge, an aviation-themed wine bar dreamt up by husband-wife duo and American Airlines vets Jason and Leigh James. The space has a 1977 plane suspended from the ceiling; a ‘flight crew’ staff in vintage uniforms; and a pairing menu with wines from the couple’s Oregon winery.
Something uniquely Southwest Florida emerged in Fort Myers’ this summer with Florida Boy Burger Co. Chef Dominick Cioffi, formerly of Rosy Tomorrows Heritage Farm, serves burgers (and frog legs) with a heavy dose of history and heritage. In the intimately sized space, Lee County Historical Society-provided photos hang on the clapboard walls alongside an Everglades mural and reclaimed church pews.
HOT TABLES
IN GOOD TASTE
Nuanced flavors and experiential dining take hold as new restaurants get evermore inventive.
Beyond Fusion
Culinary boundaries are dissolving across Southwest Florida as Asian cuisine—in its purest and most creative iterations—takes centerstage. You can thank the Gulf’s climate (similar to tropical Southeast Asia), the locals implementing transcultural farming practices, and the migrant and first-gen restaurateurs eager to emphasize the continent’s diverse foodways for the shift. We see the influences in everything from the clarified cocktails accented with the nutty ‘pandan’ herb at Bonita Springsbased Chartreuse Craft Cocktail Lounge to the Japanese omakase (a.k.a. ‘chef’s choice’) nights at Naples’ Butcher Private to the wave of new regionalized Asian restaurants. Opening by the end of the year, waterfront The Perry Hotel in North Naples introduces Tigress from the Filipino chef, cookbook author and three-time Top Chef contestant Dale Talde. Memories cooking alongside his mother create a throughline for Dale’s refined menu, with dishes like
Downtown Fort Myers is atwitter about Escondido Lounge, a speakeasy-style mezcal and tequila bar tucked behind a secret door in the 1920s Richards Building on Hendry Street. Meanwhile, Bruno’s of Brooklyn Italian Eatery, which has captivated locals with its true-blue Italian-American cooking, expands with a new location on First Street and the blessed addition of lunch and brunch menus.
Cantonese-style barbecue beef short ribs with smoked red vinegar, and crab rice with jalapeño aioli and trout roe. Back downtown, Blackbird Modern Asian, a Palm Beach County import opening in the spring, features pan-Asian cuisine with flavors spanning the continent—from Mongolian brisket bao buns to classic Chinese dan dan noodles—in a two-story, 5,500-square-foot gilded oasis at Naples Bay Resort & Marina. Nearby, the owners behind Ichi Togarashi and the surprise summer hit Tong Yin are poised to unveil two more locales: Mimoto for sushi and udon and Sendo de Cafe for Japanese confections.
In Asian cultures, where food is love, attention to detail ranges from soft herbs climbing the rim of your cocktail to intricately carved fruits brightening bowls of complex curries and noodle soups. And, our region is all the better for the expansion of this unfolding gastronomic tapestry.
Chanda Jamieson
In Bonita Springs, the owners of Downtown Coffee and Wine Company and The Bohemian are working toward The Canary Club Pizza & Cocktails—a boho hideaway focused on wood-fired pizzas, tapas and cocktails with a Mediterranean and Middle Eastern twist.
In Punta Gorda, Fishermen’s Village restaurant Leroy’s Fish Shack is slated for early 2025, with fresh catches supplied by
commercial fishers and shrimpers. The restaurant dovetails the optimistic, post-Hurricane Ian return for the fishing industry, as new and upgraded fresh-catch go-tos emerge, including Fort Myers Beach’s Big Daddy’s Seafood Market (supplied by their ‘Big Daddy’ shrimping boat) and historic shrimping fleet Erickson and Jensen Seafood Packer’s new onsite retail space. — C.J.
Matisse Revealed
The vibrant world of the French master comes to life at Naples Art Institute.
Some cultural giants stand so tall that the breadths of their artistic journeys are obscured by the shadow of their names. This season at Naples Art Institute (NAI), visionary curator Frank Verpoorten wades past the ubiquitous Fauvist portraits and impressionist landscapes of modernist master Henri Matisse with Art in Balance: Matisse and His Illustrated Works. Done in partnership with Spanish curator collective c2c Cultura, NAI’s season sensation, running from January 11 to April 6, showcases some 120 lithographs, engravings, illustrations, paper cut-outs and photos of the Matisse-designed Chapel of the Rosary in Vence, France. The show traces the multimedium artist’s creative pilgrimage from his origins in art to his death in 1954. Amalgamated from a series of private collections and archival works from Madrid’s Museo Nacional del Prado and other prominent institutions, the exhibit marks the first time the collection is shown in North America. Every piece uplifts the artist’s lesser-known work, celebrating the experimentation, innovative motifs and bold use of color that helped define the art world’s trajectory.
Emma Witmer
ART FIX
A season’s worth of creative pursuits.
Visual and Performing Arts
Kicking off an artful season, we’re checking into Bob Rauschenberg Gallery for Language is a Virus, on display through December 7. Presenting manuscripts and never-before-shown paintings from late author William S. Burroughs alongside hand-written lyrics from artist and singer Laurie Anderson, the exhibit pairs the iconoclastic friends’ work for the first time.
At Marco Island Historical Museum , Paul Arsenault shares a half-century of plein-air paintings, tile mosaics and other works presented in efforts to preserve local history amid rapid expansion with Reflections of South Florida: A 50 Year Art Adventure, through February 15.
Meet Swedish glass virtuoso Peter Hermansson during the opening reception for his exhibition at Method & Concept on January 9. The artist blends the historic Swedish graal technique and his graffiti background for narrative-driven works.
On the other side of the classics, Artis—Naples’ Visiting Orchestras Series shines with two of the world’s top orchestras. On November 20, see Amsterdam’s Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, and go back on February 27 and 28 for London Symphony Orchestra’s first Naples performance.
Meanwhile, Method & Concept epitomizes the height of contemporary art with Swedish glass art trailblazer Peter Hermansson’s Alter Ego from January 9 to February 27. His series of new graal (a glass layering technique) creations expands on the artist’s graffiti background to tell stories in glass-encased vignettes. Emerging international opera stars compete in the Luciano Pavarotti Opera Naples International Voice Competition—a revival of the maestro’s legendary competitions—on January 18 at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. Watch the winners perform at Cambier Park during the opening night of Opera Naples’ two-week Festival Under The Stars on February 27.
Another revival comes to Naples via The Rink, from February 6 to 16, as part of TheatreZone’s 20th anniversary season. After a brief run in 1984, the Broadway musical’s original script—a Kander and Ebb (Cabaret, Chicago) production starring Liza Minelli and Chita Rivera—comes off the ice for U.S. audiences with six male actors reenacting the memories of an estranged mother and daughter at a run-down skating rink. Florida Repertory Theatre favorite actors Viki Boyle, William McNulty and Carine Montbertrand take the stage from February 11 to March 2 for the regional debut of Boca , a The Wall Street Journal-celebrated series of comedic shorts surrounding life in a Florida retirement community.
Alexandra Igoe
HOT
Ciao, Bella
Design powerhouse B&B Italia debuts a flagship at Bayfront of Naples.
The retail scene is catching up with Naples’ discerning sense of style, and Italian design is at the forefront. Over the summer, luxury furniture juggernaut B&B Italia quietly debuted at Bayfront of Naples, as one of the brand’s few flagship stores in the country (and the first in a small city).
Owner John Marquette, a veteran of the Miami Design District, saw the under-indulged Bayfront location as an ideal venue to bring world-class design to the Gulf. John and Bayfront’s owner, Kevin Stoneburner, envision replicating Milan’s Via Durini shopping district, bringing in other premium retailers, restaurants and B&B Italia-outfitted condos.
In the meantime, design aficionados can stop by the showroom to see the zeitgeist-defining collections firsthand and place custom orders for icons like the Up Series armchair, from design maverick Gaetano Pesce, and the plump Camaleonda modular sofa. The space also flaunts the brand’s kitchen partner, Arclinea, showcasing two chef-grade kitchens with innovative storage and seamless functionality. Part of the design group that owns Flos, Louis Poulsen, Maxalto and Fendi Casa, B&B and its arrival in Naples might just herald more design boons for the region.
— Stephanie Granada
Find iconic B&B Italia furnishings, like the recently reissued Camaleonda sofa, at the brand’s new Naples store. Far right: Ultra-sustainable surfaces brand Nature Squared makes its American debut through a partnership with Naples’ Thomas Riley Artisans’ Guild.
RETAIL THERAPY
Global luxury descends on the Gulf.
Gold Rush
Luxury, speed and local flair define Southwest Florida’s new retail frontier.
All eyes are in Naples going into 2025, with many newcomers crowning our region with superlatives and firsts. We’re already well-versed on elite brands Rosewood and Four Seasons breaking ground along our shores. And, the haute influx continues.
This month, Thomas Riley Artisans’ Guild debuts a new showroom and exclusive partnership with innovative European surfaces brand Nature Squared The eco producer’s exacting team wasn’t prepared to leap into the American market until they found a simpatico partner obsessed with craftsmanship in Thomas Riley. At the guild’s new showroom, you can browse samples of iridescent, woven and graphic surfaces, made of upcycled peacock feathers, fish bones, eggshells and tobacco leaves.
Dutch hypercar producer Zenvo also introduces its new Aurora model, with a jaw-dropping 1,850 horsepower, at Naples Motorsports—one of three autho-
rized dealerships for the automaker in the United States. Further north, we hear Waterside Shops is close to announcing the launch of long-buzzed-about RH (formerly Restoration Hardware), which takes over the former Nordstrom space with the brand’s trademark gallery-like aesthetics and a rooftop restaurant.
Meanwhile, we’re celebrating an array of homegrown marvels—from Fort Myers designer Dwayne Bergmann’s debut collection of candles and homewares to the news anchor-turned-artist Rachel Pierce’s Home by Rachel Pierce on Sanibel. At the forefront of merging shopping and lifestyle, we look to Kaleidoscope Floral’s new East Naples botanical haven. In addition to the owners’ whimsically assorted stock of organic-leaning decor, gifts and flowers; artisanal picnic goods; and a gorgeous garden to sip and socialize, the space also hosts a pop-up locale for Bonita Springs’ go-to Wolfmoon Bakery. — S.G.
Courtesy
B&B
Italia, Thomas Riley Artisans’ Guild
PLAYTIME
New ways to get in on the action.
Match Point, Naples
A living tennis legend opens a teaching center at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón.
Anyone who followed the last 10 years of Serena Williams’ tennis career would likely recognize her coach, Patrick Mouratoglou. An athletic Adonis with silver-streaked hair and Hollywood good looks, Patrick was the cameras’ favorite during her Grand Slam matches. Always the picture of composure, his calm look belies the fierce determination of the coach who helped Serena reach unfathomable heights and cement her G.O.A.T. status. By then, Patrick had already taken a tennis academy he founded in France in the ’90s and grown it into a sprawling IMG Academy-style hub on the Riviera to train future all-stars, including American phenom Coco Gauff and current top men’s players like Stefanos Tsitsipas and Holger Rune. Now, after establishing an empire of seven satellite coaching centers stretching from Dubai to Beijing to New York, Patrick brings his winning ways to Florida with a compact complex of four Har-Tru (green clay) courts.
The first clinics for adults and juniors at the Mouratoglou Tennis Center Naples, Tiburón, started in September. With a maximum of four students per court, the academy is intimate with a palpable intensity (juniors must commit to playing at least twice a week through May). The trainers undergo rigorous training in France to learn Mouratoglou’s methodology, which is rooted in positivity and developing individuals’ unique strengths. The Ritz center is open to players of any age and level, with a mix of private lessons, adult drop-in clinics, and junior and summer camps. And, you don’t have to stay or be a member at The Ritz to up your game; anyone can play—a win-win all around. — Dorothea Hunter Sönne
Game On
Welcome to the Golden Age of recreation in paradise.
For sports lovers, there’s never been a better time to live here.
Last year, The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón hosted the debut of one of golf’s most electrifying events, The Grant Thorton Invitational. The only professional, mixed-team tournament returns on December 9, with legend Lexi Thompson (in one of her last games before retiring), 2024 Olympic gold medalist Lydia Ko, and former world No. 1 Jason Day.
Local soccer fever kicks into high gear with FC Naples—the region’s first pro team, headed by Marco Island-based Matt Poland as coach. We can already see the sea of blue, white and gold team colors overtaking Paradise Coast Sports Complex for the first game in March.
Pickleball fans aren’t left behind in the sport’s de facto capital, thanks to several new serveand-smash sanctuaries. At the tail-end of summer, the opening of the Lake Kennedy Racquet Club brought 32 tournament-level courts to Cape Coral. Next, the quickly growing The Picklr franchise brings much-needed options for indoor play when it opens in Golden Gate in April (another Picklr is promised for Fort Myers by summer).
With 15 courts, the year-round center keeps matches safe from unpredictable weather and pesky insects. Keep an eye out for other perpetual play zones on the horizon, marking a new era for the sport in a region where outdoor play has long reigned supreme.
—Visvajit Sriramrajan
Courtesy
The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón
Redefining Roots
Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary celebrates 70 years and ushers the future with a state-of-the-art campus redesign.
Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary is a beacon for conservation wins. As the sanctuary celebrates its 70th this year, the team is championing a multimillion-dollar campus revamp to expand wetland research, restoration and education.
The refreshed visitors’ center and 2.25-mile boardwalk, flaunting 30 new interpretive signs, recently kicked things
off with personal flair. Photographs taken by staff and volunteers bring the signs and 13,000-acre preserve to life. With every image, sensory-driven experience and strategically placed marker (like Keith’s favorite: a colored bunting sitting near a window where the birds tend to feed), the team aims to inspire a new legion of guardians for the swamp. “Any kind of
exhibit, display, signage or imagery you do can have an impact,” Corkscrew director Keith Laakkonen says. “And, maybe that has [people] think about the environment or the sanctuary differently.”
Next up, they’re replacing makeshift research spaces with a full complex, designed by sustainable architecture leader David Corban. The estimated 10-building
IN THE COMMUNITY
Champions of change making an impact in Southwest Florida.
On the Rise
Local nonprofits evolve, branch out and grow.
Other new and ongoing expansions abound as major players grow their efforts to serve our community. This season, Youth Haven launches a $20 million campaign for a campus expansion, providing new classrooms and therapy and recreation spaces in the region’s only shelter for unhoused children. STARability Foundation merged with the Southwest Florida Music Education Center and purchased a 5-acre Naples property to create a campus for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The center plans for learning labs, art rooms and
vocational training centers, tailored to members’ needs. David Lawrence Centers and NCH Healthcare System continue to invest in mental health and healthcare resources with new, multimillion-dollar treatment centers. And, in child enrichment services, Immokalee’s RCMA works on a campus with childhood development centers and a charter school by mid2025, and Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples recently announced its plans for a $3 million, 6,000-square-foot early learning center, expected to break ground by summer. Meanwhile, our ecological
Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary improves the visitor experience while creating state-of-the-art facilities for Western Everglades research.
future finds a vanguard in Preserving Paradise, the first leadership program devoted to the Everglades and water quality. The 12-week lineup (helmed by Captains for Clean Water, Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation, SanCap Chamber and The Everglades Foundation) propels business leaders into the frontlines, with outings to cast lines with red tide-affected fishing guides and eco-tours of ’Glades restoration sites. The goal: grow the cadre of influential advocates for our waterways.
— Jasmine Heckerman
expansion reinforces Corkscrew’s position at the heart of Western Everglades conservation, with features like a volunteer headquarters; updated dormitories; and research facilities, including a lab and outdoor area to recreate Corkscrew’s ecosystems and test for controlled variables. The complex will only increase interest for the hordes of local and international scientists
who clamor to study the largest remaining old-growth cypress forest in the world. Repurposed lots; solar-paneled structures; rainwater gardens and stormwater treatment systems; and native plantings all work toward the goal of securing LEED certification for the new buildings. Every decision is made with intention: Nature comes first. — Artis Henderson
Joseph “Joe” North, Esq. Attorney
5220 Summerlin Commons Blvd
Ste. 300 | Fort Myers, FL 33907
Direct: (239) 337-1191
Toll Free: (866) 416-6784
What Being a Thought Leader Means to Me…
Being a thought leader in your community as an attorney means embodying a set of core values, cultivating essential qualities, and actively contributing to the growth and betterment of the legal profession and society at large. My core values and decision-making process are guided by a deep sense of responsibility towards our clients. One can recognize that their actions, both professional and personal, can significantly impact clients’ cases in
Southwest Florida THOUGHT LEADER OF THE MONTH
“LEADERSHIP BEGINS WITH YOU.”
the courtroom. This awareness drives me to carefully consider the potential consequences of every decision, ensuring that our reputation in the community remains a positive asset for those we represent. I am a strong believer that an essential quality for leadership is a passion for your chosen area of law. This is a fundamental quality for attorneys aspiring to become industry leaders. By practicing in a field that brings you genuine enjoyment, you naturally cultivate expertise through continuous learning and engagement. This enthusiasm translates into a deeper understanding of your specialty, setting you apart as an expert, and a thought leader, in your niche. It is also important to mentor the next generation. My commitment to develop future leaders in the legal field, is characterized by intentional accessibility. By making yourself available to answer questions, offer advice, and share insights, you actively contribute to smoothing the path for emerging professionals. This willingness to share your experience and knowledge helps create a supportive environment for growth within the legal community.
My wife, Benita, consistently comments on how amazed she is at my level of patience and my innate ability to see individual’s strengths and weaknesses quickly in order to mentor them accordingly. This has been significant in retaining long term employees for our firm, and ultimately contributes to our success. Yet no matter the profession or industry, we all face challenges. One of the most significant for me has been the
learning experience of recognizing the importance of proper work-life balance. There was a long period of time where I wouldn’t take off more than 3-4 days because I always felt the need to be in the office. By overcoming the initial reluctance to take extended vacations, one discovers the value of refreshing breaks that enhance professional vigor and energy. This lesson underscores the importance of self-care and balance in maintaining long-term effectiveness as a legal professional and leader. Hence: you cannot pour from an empty cup.
All of this leads me to immense gratitude for the community impact and recognition The North Law Firm, as well as my family, has received. Numerous awards and distinctions for our contributions to the community serve as a powerful motivator to further our efforts. Our humble and blessed perspective on these accolades reflects a deep-seated belief in the principle of giving back. I believe that any success we have achieved belongs to the community.
By consistently demonstrating these qualities and values, one not only elevates their own practice, but also inspires and guides others in the legal community. This approach to leadership fosters a spirit of generosity and service while emphasizing the interconnectedness of personal growth, professional excellence, and community engagement; setting a standard for what it means to me to be a true thought leader.
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140 Stylish Living: Artist Mally Khorasantchi’s artful abode
Talking Shop: Interiors emporium Republic of Decor
Favorite Things: Joyce Owens’ modernist picks
Nature’s Muse
In her deeply personal Bonita Springs home, painter Mally Khorasantchi writes her next chapter, intertwined with nature.
“Art is everywhere—in writing, eating, drinking, enjoying life and decorating. I believe in creating a feast for the eyes,” says lauded, locally based artist Mally Khorasantchi. The creator spends months reading and researching before embarking on one of her towering, colorful abstracts. Mally’s Bonita Springs home reflects the same thoughtful planning and confluence of ideas: Florida by way of Europe, an artist’s soul with innate German discipline. Here, Persian rugs imported by her late husband, Ali, play off her paintings. New furnishings bought simply because they evoke a smile sit comfortably beside beloved antiques.
The space—designed to her exacting specifications and built to exist within its wild, natural setting on the Imperial River—came about by accident. In 2019, Mally received poor medical care after a fall and used a small settlement to invest
ARCHITECT: Oliver Weirich
BUILDER: Cotter Construction
INTERIOR DESIGN: Sandra Drechsler
PHOTOGRAPHY: Amber Frederiksen
Mally seamlessly blends Old and New World aesthetics with vintage and transitional pieces. Elements like the checkered tile entryway (previous spread) nod to her European heritage, while the shiplap siding and navy paint keep the exterior anchored in Florida.
in real estate. Over the past 30 years, she’s lived all over Naples, from a charming house in historic Old Naples to five sleek abodes in Pelican Bay. Zillow led her to Bonita Springs. “I’ve always been a bit of a bumblebee, but I’d never been to this area or this kind of property,” she says. “This type of nature is disappearing all over. It feels good to have it around me.”
The star of her Imperial River-anchored neighborhood is the untamed flora and
fauna, with manatees, dolphins, otters, alligators, turtles and giant iguanas in abundance. “Here, nature isn’t cut into forms or shapes. It’s beautiful and overwhelming. It’s like a little zoo,” she says.
When Mally found the half-acre property, the site housed a little fishing shed in poor repair. Her longtime builder, Mark Cotter of Cotter Construction in Naples, assessed the land and its underwhelming lean-to. “It was hanging over the water, had
gone through termites and flooding, and everybody wanted it to be condemned,” project manager Brittany Nolan says, with a laugh. “But Mally thought it was charming, so we shored it up.” The Cotter team renovated the small shack, converting it into a studio, where Mally worked as she designed her home with architect and dear friend Oliver Weirich of Cologne, Germany. When Oliver died in December 2022, just a few weeks after Mally’s husband
A 200-year-old antique oak table and an heirloom chandelier—originally designed for a French castle—is paired with a creamy banquette in a nook off the kitchen.
passed away, she pressed on with completing her refuge and enlisted Mark and his team to spearhead the design. “She knew just what she wanted,” Brittany says.
The layout is designed to be simple, user-friendly and low-maintenance. “Turn left, turn right, you know where you are. I like things clean and straight and easy,” Mally adds. The single-story, two-bedroom space has an open-plan living and dining area, plus a pantry, a study and an art studio. Mally’s connection to nature was paramount from the project’s onset. To preserve the scenery, the team added a big window in her studio to allow for streams of sunlight and French doors
Whimsical wallpapers, Mally’s art and peppy prints reflect the artist’s creative spirit. Mally’s interior designer daughter, Sandra Drechsler, found the Cole & Son Macchine Volanti wallpaper in the powder room.
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along the back of the house, which open onto an expansive pool deck with tiling from Naples’ Hadinger Flooring, lofty screening and an uninhibited view of the surrounding vegetation. “Mally loves having those doors open,” Brittany says. “Even on 90-degree days, she’s on the lanai with the warm air flowing through the house.”
Classic Florida exterior elements like white stucco-covered shiplap, navy doors
and shutters, and a charcoal roof help the home blend into the neighborhood. “We kept the landscaping to a minimum,” Brittany says. “Mally wanted to keep the pine trees in the front, so we oriented the house around them.” The front door punches out for curb appeal.
Inside, the design reflects Mally’s penchant for history and art. “I want my space to feel a little elegant but not so styled that
Mally’s home studio has a refrigerator and bathroom. “It’s a filthy job. I can’t go into that wonderful white kitchen,” she says.
Christina Bankson, Amber Frederiksen
you don’t feel comfortable or as if you can’t sit down and get something dirty,” Mally says. “There’s this little bit of [free spirit] inside of me.” The decor is simple with European influences, infused with Persian antiques and an artist’s touch. In the study, an antique Middle Eastern trunk serves as a coffee table, with one of Ali’s Persian rugs beneath. “You can use these rugs for 100 years and never see any sign of wear,” she says. A collection of black and white photographs includes two by Clyde Butcher: one of Mally; another of the old Naples Pier.
The dining room has an antique cabinet holding a collection of German dishes, a banquette paired with a 200-year-old oak table, vintage chairs, and a family heirloom chandelier, originally designed for a castle in France. Through the kitchen, navy-blue French doors (Charcoal Blue by Sherwin-Williams) lead to the pantry/laundry room, which is wrapped in a moody, deep blue storm cloud wallpaper from Cole & Son (Nuvolette in Slate Blue). The doors stay open most days, displaying entertaining pieces collected over
the years. “At my age, I’ve been given a lot of pieces and love to put beautiful things out,” she says.
Black-and-white Crossville Retro
Active 2.0 porcelain tiles set the tone in the entryway (They’re “very European,” Mally says.) beside a lumbering RH mirror, an antique Persian rug and a sheep bench that gives the artist a laugh every time she walks through the door.
“Everything has a meaning or a purpose— nothing was just bought to fill a space,” Brittany adds.
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The intentionally wild Imperial River-backed property—which retains the half-acre lot’s preexisting old fishing shed— inspires Mally’s artwork. “This type of nature is disappearing all over,” she says. “It feels good to have it around me.”
Christina Bankson
MY JOURNEY IN LIFE AND REAL ESTATE
As a seasoned real estate professional, I have developed my career by bringing people, places, and properties together and have handled numerous sales in this luxury neighborhood which landed me a spot on the front page of the Naples Daily News when I closed on Naples' highest-priced home of 2017.
Prior to my real estate career, I owned LRM Design Group and co-founded a luxury developer and homebuilder. I have long cultivated a deep connection to my community, combining my design, building and real estate expertise to guide my buyers in their search for the perfect home.
Collier County's artistic and charitable communities remain close to my heart. I am part of the small group of trustees that founded the Naples Winter Wine Festival. My passion for helping others live their best lives keeps me going. Congratulations to the 2024 Men and Women of the Year Honorees
GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISOR
239.595.9595
Linda.Malone@PremierSIR.com
LindaMalone.PremierSothebysRealty.com SCAN TO SEE LINDA’S
Throughout the home, 8-foottall doors are painted Caviar black (Sherwin-Williams), starkly contrasting the Ceiling White walls (Sherwin-Williams). Essence Coffee wood-like porcelain tiles provide additional drama. “It feels like a quaint hotel in the middle of the Alps,” Mark says.
Mally worked with her daughter, interior designer Sandra Drechsler, to supplement her antique furnishings with transitional upholstered pieces, like the living room’s matching duo of white
custom sofas, designed by Sandra and paired with two navy chairs for a comfortable conversation spot. “I’m always having people over for drinks, so this is a welcoming area,” Mally, who loves to entertain, says.
Sandra also helped select whimsical wallpapers—like Cole & Son’s Macchine Volanti (in slate blue) in the powder room—which complement Mally’s artwork, a.k.a. her ‘girlfriends.’ The guest bedroom displays Mally’s Oasis X painting, which has been sold twice and
returned for various reasons (“Sometimes my girlfriends just want to stay home,” Mally says). One of her favorites, And the Figs Started the Conversation , which recently returned from The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art in Lakeland, graces the living room.
Mally sees things differently since moving to her Bonita Springs oasis and her work to reflects the new space. “I’m surrounded by the colors, the spirit and rhythm of nature,” she says. “This home has been such a gift.”
Inside Man
With a new 1,500-square-foot emporium in the Naples Art District, Republic of Decor owner David Fruscione helps clients find those special somethings that make homes shine.
In David Fruscione’s opinion, the little things make a home. “Design is about way more than furniture,” he says. Still, when he arrived in Southwest Florida 14 years ago, he couldn’t help but notice the abundance of furniture stores lining U.S. 41 (“More than anywhere else I’ve ever been,” he says.) and the dearth of independent home accessory boutiques. He decided to do something about it and launched Republic of Decor, a full-service design firm, home accessories wonderland and gift shop, which recently relocated to a 1,500-square-foot emporium in the Naples Art District, a warehouse neighborhood filled with working artists and makers.
Over the last decade, David has garnered a strong following among designers and savvy homeowners with his curated stock, which ranges from cashmere Italian throws and hand-woven baskets from subSaharan Africa to Mexican blown-glass bowls and ceramics from makers in San Francisco and Boston.
Home — Talking Shop — By Laura Kostelny — Photography by Christina Bankson
David's new shop serves as a base camp for his interior design firm and showcase for his everreplenishing curation of artisanmade decor. “There’s a soul to pieces that are not made on an assembly line," he says.
The Buffalo, New York native has had plenty of time to develop his discerning eye. After obtaining degrees in interior architecture, marketing, and buying and merchandising, the high-achieving virtuoso cut his teeth as Banana Republic’s in-house interior designer for more than a decade before being wooed from California to become the creative director of store design for Chico’s in Fort Myers. “I was the new guy brought in to help bring Chico’s, White House Black Market and Soma into the future,” he says.
When he was laid off four years later, David was ready to leave the corporate world but not Southwest Florida. Even after navigating through three locations— including his most recent Naples Design District locale that flooded during
Hurricane Ian—David’s enthusiasm for finding distinctive, artisan-made goods remains steadfast. “I still find so much joy in finding stuff that not everyone has,” he says. “There’s a soul to pieces that are not made on an assembly line.”
David spends his days scouring the internet (“It’s the devil, but it allows me to be so resourceful,” he says) for standout objects on Instagram, design blogs, websites and forums. He also travels to seasonal trade shows to meet new makers and vendors.
The designer’s efforts have not gone unappreciated. Republic of Decor has won several awards, including two Retail Star distinctions from the trade publication Home Accents Today, which also named the shop as one of the top 50 home furnishings
His background studying interior architecture and working for brands like Banana Republic and Chico's uniquely positions David to blend corporate polish with artisanal depth for inspired home objects.
Kingdom Chandelier
Kelli is a big fan of lighting designer Lindsey Adelman. “Her material usage range and combinations, scale choices, and the organic multi-directional shapes impress a freedom that we could all use a good dose of,” Kelli says. She was delighted to come across this collaboration between Lindsey and Brooklyn-based designer Karl Zahn. Their 61-bulb Kingdom Chandelier is modeled after the burro’s tail succulent, with plump bulbs draped in a perfect arc—a reflection of our modern-day yearning for sleek elegance and the imperfect beauty of nature.
lindseyadelman.com
David describes his work as 'design therapy,' helping enhance the beauty and harmony in homes: “When you go to the doctor, she helps heal you and makes you feel better. I want customers to think of me as another person on their team who will make them feel good."
stores in the United States. He also feels the love of his repeat clients, whom he likes to push to think beyond their customary coastal expectations. “I get a little burned out on aqua and turquoise,” he says. “Don’t get me wrong, I love blue and white—they’re wonderful colors. But I’ll ask, ‘Can we try to think a little broader?’” He may point them toward a lacquered, tangerine-hued decorative box or a violet, amethyst-encrusted centerpiece.
The way David figures, intentional design can be another form of self-care. “When you go to the doctor, she helps heal you and makes you feel better. I want customers to think of me as another person on their team who will make them feel good,” he says. The designer believes every object in a room sparks a thought or feeling and aims to help clients optimize the restorative energy in their personal spaces. “I’m like a design therapist,” he says.
The boutique is filled with classic and whimsical curiosities, like acrylic robot bookends, smoky quartz bowls and handstitched, leather-wrapped hurricanes.
Ahead of the Curve
In each issue, we tap local design pros to share their favorite global finds. This month, Fort Myers-based Architecture Joyce Owens’ namesake founder draws from her prowess in studying and drafting modernist homes to select design objects with loads of sense of place and depth.
Omar Cruz; Courtesy Salvatori
Natural stone master Salvatori takes full advantage of its Tuscan location, near the eminent Carrara quarries, to stretch the limits of marble. “I love everything they do,” Joyce says of the brand, which partners with architects and designers on a range of products. “Stone everything: wall tiles, vanity basins, mirrors accessories—even round stone hooks.” The expressive surfaces set a distinctive tone in any room, with artful finishes, colors and textures. Above, we see Salvatori’s honed Silk Georgette and the striated CNC on the walls and Stone Parquet floors, with a well-worn finish reminiscent of wooden flooring in European aristocratic homes.
salvatoriofficial.com
Salvatori Stone Surfaces
“Can you get any cuter than these?” Joyce asks of the Mastea side table by Italian furniture producer Miniforms. Launched in the 1970s, the brand is known for its energetic, experimental furnishings with exuberant color. In Mastea, the blown glass center (with a wood base and topper) tempers the hues (available in amber, blue and gray), enhancing the versatility of these tables, which can be displayed solo or clustered into charming vignettes. “They are just the right color for any decor,” she adds.
miniforms.com
Courtesy Miniforms
Brittany Skotak Executive Director of Luxury Sales
Linie Design Immersed Myth Runner
A lover of all things handmade, Joyce gravitates toward Danish artisan rug maker Linie. Their Immersed Myth runner plays with pile height and density and dye variations to create a textured, fluid design, evoking the movement of water. Linie’s head of design, Royal Danish Academytrained Urd Moll Gundermann, started her career in fashion. Her understanding of textiles shines through in this dynamic piece that would look right at home in a Gulfside hallway or hung on a sundappled wall as a tapestry.
liniedesign.com
Courtesy Linie Design
Piegatto Soave Chair
Piegatto’s founders, Alejandro Estrada and Sandra Ovalle, combine their training in architecture, sculpture and art restoration, along with the talents of their designer son, into striking, ecofriendly furnishings. The Guatemalan label relies on lightweight materials (aluminum, plywood) with sturdy applications to create kinetic designs in sync with nature. The Soave chair—available in a style made for outdoor use—recalls the ocean’s waves. Match it with Piegatto’s equally sinuous line of other alfresco designs, including sofas, tables and planters. “It’s a nice twist on outdoor furniture,” Joyce says.
piegatto.com
BEST OF THE GULFSHORE
VOTING STARTS DECEMBER 1
HEALTHY
LIFE / Rituals, resources and goods for a balanced life
178 Fitness: A stronger way to HIIT
186 Editors’ Pick: 42 Birds’ yoga mats
By Emily Flournoy
Hard HIIT-ing
Naples’ House of HIIT balances high-intensity group workouts with camaraderie and stylish digs.
Across from Naples’ High Point Country Club, House of HIIT’s (HOH) neon-lit sign and blacked-out walls make for a clubby atmosphere. An invigorating, citrusy scent diffuses throughout the room, and upbeat Latin tunes inject gym-goers with infectious energy. Chummy regulars welcome newcomers over by the protein shake- and energy drink-stocked mini fridge, readying themselves for their near-daily, one-hour session of high-intensity interval training (HIIT)—a Cleveland Clinic-backed workout alternating short bursts of intense exercise with periods of lower-intensity recovery or rest.
Co-owners Daniel and Cynthia Rodriguez take a refined and adapted approach to the muscle- and joint health-focused practice. The gym’s name, House of HIIT, may take after the popular interval-training style, but the husband-wife duo interprets the acronym differently. “I call it more, ‘Highly innovative interval training,’” Daniel says.
Photography by Jenn Goodell
The gym evolved from the now-shuttered, cult-favorite Six4Three Hiit Room, where House of HIIT’s founders Daniel and Cynthia Rodriguez used to train. The couple’s focus is on interval-training workouts with added emphasis on strength training and community building.
Cynthia’s advanced degree in curriculum development and experience in education guides the gym’s programming.
The Rodriguezes launched HOH in late 2023, when the owners of their long-time gym, the cult-favorite Six4Three Hiit Room, retired. Over five months—and with the help of Six4Three’s loyal clientele—the fitness-minded couple reinvented the gym’s concept with a new name and location and a modified take on HIIT. Their version combines Cynthia’s expertise in curriculum design with former footballer Daniel’s focus on powerlifting techniques, low-impact movements, and incorporating plenty of rest and recovery to optimize strength-building.
While many HIIT programs focus primarily on the anaerobic workout’s fat-burning benefits, HOH supplements
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the heart-pumping effects with muscular training using heavier free weights (up to 90 pounds), along with time under tension (TUT) exercises (slowing down movements to increase the time a muscle is activated). Classes build on each other, so clients grow stronger over time while improving cardiac health.
HOH trainers rigorously track clients’ progress to craft group workouts (limited to about 18 people) with the individual in mind—whether they be 65 with a double-knee replacement or 11 attending classes with their parents. “I want to grow old with my clients. I want to feel good, look good, and feel like things are working how they’re supposed to be, not
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Daniel, a former footballer, incorporates lessons from his athletic training into House of HIIT sessions.
like I’m beating myself up,” says Cynthia, who attributes her 40-pound postpartum weight loss to HIIT.
HOH—which also employs Daniel’s younger brother, David, a former soccer goalie, and ultramarathoner Jamie DePaola as trainers—centers around group classes designed for daily workouts, with muscle and cardio emphases varying daily to avoid burnout. The train-
ers also offer private sessions for those looking to supplement group workouts, learn proper form and build on the basics to prevent injury. Rounding out HOH’s 360-degree approach to fitness, Daniel and Cynthia, both certified nutritionists and nutritional coaches, offer guidance on fueling the body.
The Rodriguezes admit their classes are tough—designed to find, explore and
safely expand your physical limits. But, members remain motivated to push past the challenges thanks to the gym’s culture of camaraderie and celebration, with community-building initiatives, like social media shout-outs and group outings to spots like Celebration Park Naples. “[You] know the people around you will hold you up,” Cynthia says. “They will hype you up, and you’ll get better at whatever you do.”
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WHO’S WHO IN HEALTH
PATRICK
J. CARRIGAN D.M.D.; JOSE M. HORAK D.M.D.; EDWARD A. SCHERDER D.M.D., JD; ROBERT C. HEDGEPATH D.M.D.; KATIE N. RODRIGUEZ, DMD, MS ; KURTIS P. HUSSEY, D.M.D.
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Dr. Edward Scherder, founder of BayView Dental Arts, has personally designed every aspect of the practice with very specific goals in mind. One example of those goals was in
creating an atmosphere of low fear and high trust. In addition, he wanted to produce an environment that truly reflected the quality of dentistry that is delivered at his exceptional practice.
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A proud Naples native and graduate of the FSU College of Medicine, Dr. Fedelem is board certified in both Family Medicine and Obesity Medicine. Her dedication to improving patients’ health and longevity is at the core of her practice.
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With extensive experience in cardiovascular disease prevention, osteoporosis management, cancer risk assessment, stroke and diabetes education, and more, Dr. Fedelem takes a comprehensive approach that emphasizes lifestyle management and prevention. Patients can also take advantage of personalized consultations with a certified nutritionist to develop tailored diet and exercise plans.
Dr. Fedelem founded Lorna Fedelem, MD and Associates to offer a holistic practice that not only enhances physical appearance but also supports overall well-being. Her aesthetic services include body contouring, facial rejuvenation, and specialized treatment packages focused on pelvic floor strength and female intimacy. The aesthetic services don’t require a membership.
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DR. RALPH GARRAMONE
GARRAMONE PLASTIC SURGERY
Dr. Ralph R. Garramone opened his Plastic Surgery practice in Fort Myers in 2000. Since then, he has earned a reputation for excellence. "It is an awesome responsibility to create and alter the appearance of another human. There is more to performing cosmetic surgery than having a great eye and great hands. I strive for impeccable results with every patient, and I find it a true privilege that I humbly respect."
Dr. Garramone is a board certified member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He specializes in breast, body, and facial procedures and is proud of his award-winning results. After graduating cum laude from Bucknell University in 1983 with dual Bachelor's degrees in English and Biology, Dr. Garramone earned his medical degree from New York Medical College in 1987. Over the next decade, he completed a six-year residency in general surgery at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine/Hartford Hospital, fulfilled his plastic surgery residency at Brown University at Rhode Island Hospital, and served on the surgical faculty at Brown University. Dr. Garramone moved to Salt Lake City, Utah while serving as the co-director of the Craniofacial Fellowship Program at Primary Children's Medical Center.
SPECIALTIES
Prostate Cancer
Breast Cancer
WHO'S WHO IN HEALTH
MICHAEL C. HANUS, M.D.
INSPIRE ONCOLOGY
Gastrointestinal Cancer
Skin Cancer
Michael C Hanus is a board-certified radiation oncologist and biomedical engineer. This pairing provides him with a rare understanding of how radiation technology works.
Head & Neck Cancer
EDUCATION
University of New Mexico
Bachelor of Science
Biomedical Engineer/Electrical Engineering, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Dr. Hanus received his Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from the University of New Mexico, where he was also a member of the school’s Division I varsity soccer team. He completed his medical studies at the University of Kansas and radiation oncology residency at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. He is a respected specialist in the treatment of prostate cancer, head and neck cancer, breast cancer, and skin cancer.
University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, Kansas
RESIDENCY
University of Texas – MD
Anderson Cancer Center
As a lifelong athlete, he is proud to have joined the innovative team of cancer specialists at Inspire Oncology in 2020. Its physicians pioneered the integration of exercise and nutrition into cancer therapy, which is associated with better tolerance of treatment, improved quality of life, and the possibility of a cure. “My philosophy of care is to provide state-of-the-art professional treatment while making each patient feel warmth and compassion as though they were family. Although this relationship may start with a consultation, it doesn’t end with final treatment. Ours is a partnership for life.”
Radiation Oncology
Dr. Hanus has been named A Top Doctor by Dr. John Connolly himself, the former president and CEO of Castle Connolly Medical Ltd., publishers of America’s Top Doctors.
Houston, Texas AWARDS
Castle Connolly
Top Doc 2012-2024
LOCATIONS
8625 Collier Blvd., #102
Naples, FL 34114
239.429.0100
15465 Tamiami Trail N.
Naples, FL 34110
239.429.0400
inspireoncology.com
Michael C. Hanus, M.D.
INSPIRE ONCOLOGY
Michael C Hanus is a board-certified radiation oncologist and biomedical engineer. pairing provides him with a rare understanding of how radiation technology works. Hanus received his Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from the University New Mexico, where he was also a member of the school’s Division I varsity soccer
He completed his medical studies at the University of Kansas and radiation oncology residency at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. He is a respected specialist in the treatment of prostate cancer, head and neck cancer, breast cancer, skin cancer. As a lifelong athlete, he is proud to have joined the innovative team of specialists at Inspire Oncology in 2020. Its physicians pioneered the integration exercise and nutrition into cancer therapy, which is associated with better tolerance treatment, improved quality of life, and the possibility of a cure. “My philosophy of
15465 Tamiami Trail N. Naples, FL 34110 (239) 429-0400
WHO'S WHO IN HEALTH
TIMOTHY L. KERWIN, M.D., FACRO
INSPIRE ONCOLOGY
Timothy L Kerwin, MD, FACRO, is a board-certified radiation oncologist and fellow of the American College of Radiation Oncologists. Active in clinical oncology research, Dr. Kerwin has presented at national meetings and has several publications to his credit. As a trusted and respected leader in the field of cancer care, he serves as radiation oncology chief of both Physicians Regional Medical Center and Naples Community Hospital. Dr. Kerwin is a strong patient advocate and believes in the integration of compassionate care with the latest technology.
In his two decades of practice, he has come to stress a multidisciplinary approach to ensure treatment recommendations are made with careful consideration to achieve superior outcomes. “As a radiation oncologist, I approach each patient as a whole person rather than just their diagnosis. There is so much to be learned from each patient as an individual – their goals, motivations, emotions, family, and support systems – that, in addition to the technical side of medicine, lead us to the greatest likelihood of success.”
Dr. Kerwin joined the innovative practice of Inspire Oncology in 2021. Its physicians pioneered the integration of exercise and nutrition into cancer therapy, which is associated with a better chance of cure, better tolerance of treatment, and better quality of life for patients. He has been named a Castle-Connolly Top Doctor since 2015.
Timothy L. Kerwin, M.D., FACRO
INSPIRE ONCOLOGY
InspireOncology.com
8625 Collier Blvd., #102 Naples, FL 34114
(239) 429-0100
Timothy L Kerwin, MD, FACRO, is a board-certified radiation oncologist and the American College of Radiation Oncologists. Active in clinical oncology research, Kerwin has presented at national meetings and has several publications to his credit. trusted and respected leader in the field of cancer care, he serves as radiation oncology of both Physicians Regional Medical Center and Naples Community Hospital. Dr. is a strong patient advocate and believes in the integration of compassionate care latest technology. In his two decades of practice, he has come to stress a multidisciplinary approach to ensure treatment recommendations are made with careful consideration achieve superior outcomes. “As a radiation oncologist, I approach each patient as
15465 Tamiami Trail N. Naples, FL 34110
(239) 429-0400
IGOR LEVY-REIS,
M.D.
Dr. Levy-Reis is board-certified in neurology and in the subspecialties of geriatric neurology, neurophysiology, headache medicine and neuroimaging. His neurology training was at Northwestern University in Chicago, followed by a fellowship at the National Institute of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, and another fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. Additionally, Dr. Levy-Reis is a member of the American Academy of Neurology, Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, and American Headache Society.
He has been practicing in Naples over the past 15 years and sees patients with a broad range of neurological diseases. Dr. Levy-Reis has a special interest in patients with memory loss, such as that from Alzheimer’s disease, and chronic headaches, particularly migraine. Recently, he was elected Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology for his valuable contributions to the Academy and to the neurology community at large.
He is currently involved in the nationwide study in imaging Amyloid in patients with memory impairment and has presented his research in Alzheimer’s disease during the last Alzheimer’s association international conference AAIC in Philadelphia. Dr. Levy-Reis has been invited to be part of the Alzheimer’s Network for treatment and diagnosis to drive innovation in care and therapy for Alzheimer’s disease
BRUCE M. NAKFOOR, M.D.
INSPIRE ONCOLOGY
Bruce M Nakfoor, MD, is a board-certified radiation oncologist who has made it his personal mission to elevate the level of cancer care available to the community of Southwest Florida. Highly respected by both his peers and patients alike, his 30-year practice has been shaped by his boundless compassion, selfless contributions, and relentless pursuit of excellence. He founded Inspire Oncology to provide world-class, comprehensive, and compassionate cancer care close to home. His research into exercise and nutrition as viable medical treatments is extensive. Inspired by the potential of longer, better lives for his patients, Dr. Nakfoor has pioneered a new approach to cancer care with the subsequent founding of Inspire Exercise Medicine. As Inspire’s clinical provider of medically prescribed and medically supervised exercise and nutrition programs, the practice is making a difference in the lives of patients. Dr. Nakfoor’s medical training is unparalleled. He completed his residency at Massachusetts General Hospital, the largest teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School, where he served as chief resident. He has spoken at multiple national and international cancer conferences and has published over a dozen peer-reviewed cancer research papers. Dr. Nakfoor values the personal relationship he builds with each and every one of his patients. He makes himself available for their oncologic needs during every step of their treatment and beyond.
Bruce M. Nakfoor, M.D.
INSPIRE ONCOLOGY
InspireOncology.com
8625 Collier Blvd., #102 Naples, FL 34114
(239) 429-0100
Bruce M Nakfoor, MD, is a board-certified radiation oncologist who his personal mission to elevate the level of cancer care available to the Southwest Florida. Highly respected by both his peers and patients alike, practice has been shaped by his boundless compassion, selfless contributions, relentless pursuit of excellence. He founded Inspire Oncology to provide comprehensive, and compassionate cancer care close to home. His research and nutrition as viable medical treatments is extensive. Inspired by the potential better lives for his patients, Dr. Nakfoor has pioneered a new approach with the subsequent founding of Inspire Exercise Medicine. As Inspire’s clinical of medically prescribed and medically supervised exercise and nutrition
15465 Tamiami Trail N. Naples, FL 34110 (239) 429-0400
STEPHEN PRENDIVILLE, MD
PRENDIVILLE FACIAL PLASTIC SURGERY
Southwest Florida's Facial Expert Dr. Stephen Prendiville is a fellowship-trained and double boardcertified facial plastic surgeon based in Fort Myers, Florida. Specializing exclusively in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, he is recognized as a top doctor for facelifts and rhinoplasty in Southwest Florida. Dr. Prendiville completed his medical education and residency at Georgetown University, followed by a Fellowship in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at St. Louis University. He is certified by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery.
His practice offers a wide range of surgical procedures, including facelifts, rhinoplasty, eye lifts, and reconstructive surgery. Dr. Prendiville also provides non-surgical rejuvenation treatments such as Botox® and dermal fillers. Dr. Prendiville's state-ofthe-art surgical center is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (AAAASF).
He has received multiple RealSelf Top Doctor and Vitals Patient Choice awards, published extensively in his field, and served as an instructor for advanced surgical techniques. With his expertise and commitment to natural-looking results, Dr. Prendiville offers patients the latest advances in facial plastic surgery with personalized care.
Follow him on instagram at: stephenprendivillemd.
9407 Cypress Lake Drive, Unit A Fort Myers, FL 33919 | (239) 437-3900 DrPrendiville.com
DR. FARRELL TYSON, M.D., F.A.C.S. & J. DAVID STEPHENS, M.D.
Tyson Eye Center
Dr. Farrell Tyson and Dr. David Stephens combine modern technology with old-fashioned concern to provide exceptional treatment for their patients. At Tyson Eye, they’re committed to providing you with the best possible care to enhance and preserve your vision - alongside their experienced team of renowned eye surgeons, doctors and staff. As specialists in cataracts and glaucoma, Dr. Tyson and Dr. Stephens utilize cutting-edge advancements to ensure your vision is cared for in the best way possible. With their expert guidance, patients receive not only state-of the-art surgical treatments, but also the compassion and support that sets Tyson Eye apart from the rest. With offices from North Fort Myers to Naples, a convenient location is only a short drive away. Tyson Eye, skilled to address a wide range of eye issues, from cataracts and glaucoma to dry eye and macular degeneration, is recognized as a two-time winner of Florida Trend’s Best companies to work for in Florida award. They offer regular eye exams, laser vision correction, optical services and more. Tyson Eye has helped thousands of Floridians enjoy better vision, and they’d love to help you too.
ROBERT J. ZEHR, M.D.
Zehr Center for Orthopaedics
When you’re ready for relief from the hip and knee pain that prevents you from enjoying your life, you want the best orthopedist in the business. That’s why, following his stellar career with the storied Cleveland Clinic, Robert J. Zehr, M.D. founded Southwest Florida’s premier orthopaedic practice — the Zehr Center for Orthopaedics. Boardcertified and fellowship-trained, with over 35 years of experience, Dr. Zehr specializes in hip and knee replacement surgery.
As Southwest Florida’s most experienced surgeon in the direct anterior approach to total hip replacement, he has performed over 2,800 surgeries using this technique, including Southwest Florida's first sameday outpatient total hip replacement. A consistent award winner, Dr. Zehr has appeared on Castle Connolly’s Regional Top Doctors list every year since 2002; been included in the Best Doctors, Inc. database of “Best Orthopedic Doctors in America” annually since 1998; and has been selected by patients for Vitals’ “Patient’s Choice Award” every year since 2009.
In 2021, Dr. Zehr was chosen as Naples’ “Best Orthopedist” in its inaugural Community's Choice Awards, repeating the honor in 2022 and 2023! The Zehr Center for Orthopaedics was established to provide the world-class medical care you deserve... because living with pain isn’t really living®!
ZEHR CENTER FOR ORTHOPAEDICS
2659 Professional Circle, Suite 1110
Naples, Florida 34119 | (239) 596-0100
ZehrCenter.com
DIANE BRZEZINSKI, D.O., FACOI
Dr. Diane Brzezinski is a physician specializing in internal medicine who earned praise for her “patient-first” focus, which helps patients take ownership of their health through education and a healthy lifestyle. With over 20 years of experience, Dr. B treats many chronic disease states, like high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.
Additionally, Dr. Brzezinski offers treatments for increasing energy, muscle strength, mental clarity, and libido, as well as reducing intimate challenges such as vaginal laxity, weak muscle tone, lack of lubrication, painful intercourse, and bladder leakage. Peptide Therapy treatments offered by the practice benefit the immune system, digestion, sexual health, and weight loss. Dr. Brzezinski is a member of the Florida Osteopathic Medical Association and serves on the medical advisory committee of Bosom Buddies, a nonprofit for breast cancer treatment.
RICHARD J. CAPIOLA, M.D., FAPA
Psychiatric Consultation Services
Having triple board certification in general psychiatry, addiction psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry, Dr. Capiola has been in practice for 28 years. During training at Tulane Medical School and UCLA, Dr. Capiola developed a keen interest in the treatment of depression and anxiety overlapping with drug and alcohol abuse.
This focus eventually led to a 14-year role as Chief Medical Officer for Oglethorpe Inc., a hospital company specializing in the treatment of mental health and addiction. Dr. Capiola is the Chief of Psychiatry for Physicians Regional Medical Center and previously served as the Medical Director for the Willough at Naples. He consistently receives high praise for his private practice that focuses on using each person’s own inherent strengths to achieve the goal of living a happy, healthy and well balanced life.
Dr. Capiola was the featured neuropsychiatrist in the book Don’t Give Up On Me with Darryl Strawberry, discussing the impact of addiction on the brain.
720 Goodlette-Frank Road N, Suite 203 Naples, FL 34102 (239) 649-7494 | Fax: 877-894-4908 drcapiolanaples@gmail.com
JAMES J. GUERRA, M.D.
Collier Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center
Dr. Guerra is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist. He completed his orthopaedic residency at the University of Pennsylvania, as well as an additional year of fellowship training in sports medicine and arthroscopic surgery with internationally known sports medicine expert James R. Andrews, M.D. Dr. Guerra is a specialist in complex shoulder and knee problems, and is a leading innovator in minimally invasive surgery, serving as the Medical Director for Arthrex, the world’s preeminent arthroscopy company. Dr. Guerra currently serves as Head Team Physician for Florida Gulf Coast University, Community School and First Baptist Academy. Previously, Dr. Guerra served as Team Physician for the Baltimore Orioles (MLB) and the Florida Panthers (NHL).
He teaches surgeons from around the world in advanced techniques, has authored more than 30 publications, and has lectured at national and international meetings. This unique experience allows Dr. Guerra to remain at the forefront of his field and bring cutting-edge medical developments to his patients.
CHIP
SHEMANSKY, DC
Gulfshore Chiropractic Clinics
Dr. Chip Shemansky has been serving SW Florida for 24 years and has earned a reputation for excellence among the most discerning patients. Year after year, his reputation has garnered numerous accolades, including being named Gulfshore Life’s Top Doctor and Best Chiropractic Clinics in both Lee and Collier Counties.
Dr. Shemansky stands out as a beacon of distinction in the chiropractic field. In an era where technology often takes center stage, he distinguishes himself by prioritizing genuine connections and resolutely avoiding reliance on high-tech gadgets like lasers or cryotherapy. Instead, he utilizes a hands-on approach that focuses on improving strength, balance, range of motion, and cardiopulmonary fitness. Combined, these results have shown a dramatic improvement in the patients' overall functionality. This holistic approach may be why so many physicians of all specialties utilize Dr. Shemansky for their personal care.
FL 34134 | (239) 948-5727
LINDITA ROBOCI HOBDARI,
MD., FMCHC
Hobdari Family Health
Dr. Hobdari, a well-respected Board-Certified Family Medicine specialist, has been a trusted figure in Naples' healthcare for over 19 years, consistently recognized on the Castle Connolly Top Doctors list since 2008 to present. A native Albanian, she commenced her medical journey at the esteemed University of Tirana, Albania subsequently completing her residency at Bon Secours Hospital in MI. An esteemed member of the AAFP and multiple professional organizations, she is affiliated with NCH and PRMC hospitals. In 2012, she established Hobdari Family Health clinic, emphasizing compassionate care with emphasis on prevention and alternative medicine. Inspired by holistic principles, Dr. Hobdari further honed her skills as a certified Functional Medicine Health Coach. Her dedication to holistic healing prompted the establishment of Naples Functional Medicine Healing in 2023. Dr. Hobdari and her dedicated team extend a warm welcome to new patients and offer same-day appointments, ensuring everyone receives exceptional care.
EDWARD HUMBERT, D.O.,
Joint Implant Surgeons of Florida
Dr. Edward Humbert is one of the country’s leading and most experienced joint-replacement surgeons. He specializes in knee and hip replacement, and is board certified through the AOBOS. He has been ranked as the No. 1 volume surgeon in Florida for hip and knee replacement, according to the Florida Agency for Healthcare Administration (AHCA). Dr. Humbert specializes in all the latest minimally invasive techniques, custom joint replacement, partial knee replacement and procedures.
Dr. Humbert obtained a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Florida and a master’s in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Akron. After medical school and orthopedic residency at Ohio University, he completed a fellowship in total joint replacement. When it comes to hip and knee replacement, Dr. Humbert is “The Best Surgeon in the Joint.”
DR. ALEXANDRA KONOWAL
Konowal Vision Center
Dr. Konowal is the medical director and founder of Konowal Vision Center and she is board certified in ophthalmology with fellowship training in cornea, cataract and refractive surgery. She has received national recognition for laser vision correction. The Konowal Vision Center provides state of the art eye care with emphasis on patient care and service.
We offer routine eye examinations, contact lens fittings, a full optical and specialized treatment of eye disorders including glaucoma, corneal disease, retinal problems, as well as premium lens cataract surgery with Femtosecond laser technology and custom Laser vision correction for treatment of myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism. We also offer cosmetic Botox® and Juvederm® fillers for patients interested in improving their fine lines and wrinkles. We offer Upneeq® for droopy eyelids and Latisse® for longer, darker eyelashes.
MOHAMMAD
JAHANZEB,
M.D.
Naples Cancer Advisors
Dr. Jahanzeb joins Naples Cancer Advisors (NCA) to provide no-cost second opinions to the SWFL community. Dr. Jahanzeb is the Co-Founder and President of OncAdvisor and co-founded PrecisCa. His most recent practice sites were Florida Cancer Specialists and Florida Precision Oncology. He was formerly a Clinical Medicine, Hematology/Oncology Professor at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine. He received his oncology training at Washington University/Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO, where he subsequently served on Faculty. He has practiced and led clinical research in lung and breast cancer medical oncology for about 30 years.
ANDREW BONETT, M.D., PAUL GARDNER, M.D., FACS, LEOPOLDO BACCARO, M.D., MARK WALSH, M.D., FACS
Naples Plastic Surgery
Dr. Paul Gardner, Dr. Leopoldo Baccaro, Dr. Mark Walsh, Dr. Andrew Bonett and staff realize that there are many choices when it comes to selecting a plastic surgery practice. Because of this, they go out of their way to provide the highest quality and most comfortable experience possible. Board Certified, Drs. Gardner, Baccaro, Walsh and Bonett strive to make each patient feel like they are the only patient in the practice throughout the entire process – from their first consult to their final postoperative appointment. Their surgeons' expertise isn't limited to cosmetic enhancements; it also encompasses a commitment to reconstructive procedures addressing skin cancer, breast cancer, and trauma-related incidents. Achieve your aesthetic goals and book a consultation at Naples Plastic Surgery today. Elevate your look with our complete range of hair replacement services featuring Dr. Mike Wisiorek, a board-certified hair transplant surgeon.
JEFFREY L. ZIMM M.D.
All Saints Eye Center
1250 Pine Ridge Road, Suite 101C Naples, FL 34108 | (239) 566-2611 NaplesPS.com
Jeffrey L. Zimm M.D. is a board certified ophthalmologist with over 30 years of experience practicing in Southwest Florida. He is a cataract surgeon and a cornea specialist. He attended Loyola University's Stritch School of Medicine in Chicago, Illinois and completed his specialty fellowship training at the Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital in New York City.
In addition to Dr. Zimm, All Saints Eye Center has an oculoplastics and facial surgeon, vitreo retinal specialist, other ophthalmologists, and optometric physicians. Trust your eyes to Dr. Zimm and his professional eye care team for your cataract surgery, LASIK, cornea issue, or routine eye exam. All Saints Eye Center has four convenient locations in North Naples, South Naples, Bonita Springs, and North Fort Myers.
BLANE MILTON CRANDALL, M.D.
Are you in menopause? Suffering from insomnia, hot flashes, decreased sex drive, irritability, or memory loss?Did you know prolonged lack of estrogen leads to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease, premature disability, and death in women? Naples OB-GYN, Blane Crandall M.D. has a passion for restoring health and vitality to women of all ages. A Castle Connolly Top Doctor for 16 years, Dr. Crandall specializes in advanced laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgery, hormone replacement therapy, and anti-aging treatments.
DR. SARAH SESSLAR, AUD & DR. BRITTANY COLBURN, AUD
Decibels Audiology & Hearing Aid Center
Decibels Audiology is proud to be celebrating 15 years of helping Naples hear better! At Decibels Audiology hearing tests and evaluations are always complimentary. They work with and service all brands of hearing devices, are audiology-based, and staffed with Doctors of Audiology. They work closely with over 200 local physicians educating patients on the importance of hearing healthcare. Decibels Audiology recommends anyone over the age of 55 to have a baseline hearing test at either of their convenient Naples hearing clinics.
1660 Medical Blvd., Suite 101 Naples, FL 34110 | (239) 596-2300
DrBlaneCrandall.com
JOSEPH GAUTA M.D. FPMRS
Florida Bladder Institute
Dr. Joseph Gauta is one of the first physicians in the country to achieve board certification in Urogynecology, which manages female pelvic floor disorders that affect the bladder, reproductive organs, and bowels.
As a center of excellence in women’s pelvic health, the Florida Bladder Institute treats women throughout the world who seek specialized comprehensive care for disorders such as pelvic organ prolapse, urinary and fecal incontinence, recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder and bowel dysfunction, endometriosis, fibroids, heavy bleeding, cosmetic gynecology.
Dr. Denise Gay is a boardcertified periodontist specializing in all phases of periodontal (gum) treatment and the placement of dental implants. Dr. Gay has been placing dental implants and practicing periodontics since 2004, and is trained in periodontics, the placement of dental implants, and treatment of dental implant complications.
Dr. Gay has done extensive published research on oral inflammation and its connection to overall systemic health. She has numerous publications in the fields of dental anxiety, dental implants, and periodontology.
1132 Goodlette Frank Road North Naples, FL 34102 | (239) 261-1401
OldeNaplesPerio.com
MARK GOROVOY, M.D.
Gorovoy M.D. Eye Specialists
MARK GOROVOY, M.D.
As a fellowship-trained, board certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Mark Gorovoy M.D. performs more than 2,000 surgeries annually, half of which are referred to him by other ophthalmologists both locally and nationally. He has been a nationally-recognized Castle Connolly Top Doctor for 16 years and his DSAEK procedure is recognized as one of the 10 greatest innovations in ophthalmology. Dr. Gorovoy has been joined by board certified & cornea fellowship trained doctors, Stacey Gorovoy, and comprehensive doctor Sarah Eccles-Brown.
As a fellowship-trained, board certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Mark Gorovoy performs more than 2,000 surgeries annually, half of which are referred to him by other ophthalmologists both locally and nationally. He has been a nationally recognized Castle Connolly Top Doctor for 20 years and his DSAEK procedure is recognized as one of the 10 greatest innovations in ophthalmology. Dr. Mark Gorovoy has been joined by board certified & cornea fellowship trained doctor, Stacey Gorovoy and comprehensive doctor Sarah Eccles-Brown.
CHERYL L. MALICK, DMD
Dental Excellence
MARK GOROVOY,
JONATHAN JAY,
Dr. Cheryl L. Malick, Naples resident since 1985, celebrates 21 years of serving the community at Dental Excellence, her privatelyowned, state-of-the-art dental office. Dr. Malick is an honors graduate of the University of Florida Department of Biomedical Engineering, and a research honors graduate from the University of Florida College of Dentistry.
Dr. Jay is Board Certified in both Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS) and Urology, a Diplomat of the American Board of Urology and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Jay received his Bachelor of Science in Physiology from Michigan State University, completed his medical education at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and his residency training at Henry Ford Hospital. He then finalized fellowship training at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School in Boston.
She offers general and cosmetic dentistry services, including veneers, crowns, dentures, partials, implant restorations, fillings, whitening, dental cleanings, digital impressions, and digital radiographs. Call to schedule a complimentary consultation.
12381 S. Cleveland Ave., Suite 300 Fort Myers, FL 33907
239.939.1444 | gorovoyeye.com
As a fellowship-trained, board certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Mark Gorovoy M.D. performs more than 2,000 surgeries annually, half of which are referred to him by other ophthalmologists both locally and nationally. He has been a nationally-recognized Castle Connolly Top Doctor for 16 years and his DSAEK procedure is recognized as one of the 10 greatest innovations in ophthalmology. Dr. Gorovoy has been joined by board certified & cornea fellowship trained doctors, Stacey Gorovoy, and comprehensive doctor Sarah Eccles-Brown.
12381 S. Cleveland Ave., Suite 300 Fort Myers, FL 33907 (239) 939-1444 GorovoyEye.com.
JAMES MITCHELL, D.D.S.;
JOSEPH MITCHELL, D.D.S.;
ERIK SKATES, D.M.D
Mitchell Dentistry
PEGGY MOURACADE,
Dr. Peggy Mouracade has provided comprehensive medical care for the SWFL community since 1997. A graduate of Bowman Gray School of Medicine, she completed her internal medicine residency training and nephrology fellowship at the University of Florida. Since then, Dr. Mouracade achieved board certifications for Integrative Medicine and Addiction Medicine and serves as the Medical Director for The Kimberly Center, a behavioral center founded by her husband, Thomas Mouracade. Restoring an individual back to hope and well-being is most rewarding.
Building trust and treating each patient as a special individual has always been the foundation of Mitchell Dentistry’s practice.
For more than 30 years, they have provided the latest state-of-the-art technology to provide patients with the smile they have always dreamed of. Along with their dedicated, caring team, they offer general, cosmetic and restorative dentistry in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Call Mitchell Dentistry today to learn more about how they make your smile their top priority.
32 Barkley Circle | Fort Myers, FL 33907 (239) 939-5556 MitchellDentist.com
7981 Gladiolus Drive Fort Myers, FL 33908 | 239.425.6632 associatesnephrology.com
Locations in Fort Myers and Naples 239.465.4157 advancedurologyinstitute.com
Dr. Jay is Board Certified in Reconstructive Surgery (FPMRS) and Board of Urology and a Fellow of the Jay received his Bachelor of Science University, completed his medical education Ann Arbor, and his residency training finalized fellowship training at Beth Harvard Medical School in Boston.
JOHN W. WATFORD M.D.
John W. Watford M.D. L.L.C.
KENNETH W. PLUNKITT, M.D.
Kenneth W. Plunkitt, M.D., FACC, FHRS, is board-certified in cardiac electrophysiology and cardiovascular diseases. He completed his internal medicine residency at the University of South Florida and his cardiology and electrophysiology fellowships at Lankenau Hospital in Pennsylvania. Recognized for his contributions in electrophysiology and awarded the prestigious designation as a fellow of the Heart Rhythm Society, Dr. Plunkitt has been extensive clinical experience in cardiac electrophysiology—including arrhythmia management, ablations, pacemakers, defibrillators and biventricular devices, and lead extractions.
Celebrating twenty one years of medical practice, Dr. Watford provides Concierge Internal Medicine to the Naples area. Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, Dr. Watford graduated from the Whiddon College of Medicine in Mobile, Alabama. He focuses on evidence-based disease prevention, management of chronic conditions, and exploration and diagnosis of new problems. His practice has grown by referral from current patients and professional colleagues who trust the excellent care he and his team provide. New patient space is limited. Call to schedule your introduction today.
Locations in Fort Myers and 239.465.4157 advancedurologyinstitute.com
4085 Tamiami Trail North Suite B103 Naples, FL 34103 (239) 544-7440
DrWatfordNaples.com
6376 Pine Ridge Road Suite 180 Naples, FL 34119 | 239.263.0849 naplesheartrhythm.com
Dr. Peggy Mouracade has provided comprehensive medical care for the SWFL community since 1997. A graduate of Bowman Gray School
Join Us at the
MORAN MAINSTAGE STRUTHERS STUDIO
368 SEATS | BROADWAY-SIZED STAGE
Anything Goes
November 1 - November 24, 2024
Previews: October 27, 29, 30, & 31
Music & Lyrics by Cole Porter
Original Book by P.G. Wodehouse & Guy Bolton and Howard Lindsay & Russel Crouse
New Book by Timothy Crouse & John Weidman
Directed by Kristen Coury
A splashy, classic American musical comedy.
Dial M for Murder
January 16 - February 2, 2025
Previews: January 12, 14, & 15
Adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher
From the original by Frederick Knott
Directed by Jackson Gay
A fresh take on the edge-of-your-seat mystery.
Noises Off
February 27 - March 16, 2025
Previews: February 23, 25, & 26
By Michael Frayn
Directed by Peter Amster
An evening of rib-aching laughter and feel-good entertainment from start to finish.
Sweet Charity
April 10 - May 4, 2025
Previews: April 6, 8, & 9
Book by Neil Simon
Music by Cy Coleman
Lyrics by Dorothy Fields
Directed and Choreographed by Dann Dunn
A sparkling Tony®-winning musical comedy about finding love in the Big Apple.
125 SEATS | INTIMATE AND FLEXIBLE THEATRE
Every Brilliant Thing
November 14 - December 15, 2024
Previews: November 10, 12, & 13
By Duncan MacMillan
Directed by Risa Brainin
Starring Jeffrey Binder
A poignant and unforgettable, immersive theatrical experience
The Lehman Trilogy
January 30 - March 2, 2025
Previews: January 26, 28, & 29
By Stefano Massini
Adapted by Ben Power
Directed by Jeffrey Binder
A Tony Award®-winning epic play about a moment that changed the world.
Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill
March 20 - April 19, 2025
Previews: March 16, 18, & 19
By Lanie Robertson
Directed by Marshall Jones III
An unforgettable play about jazz singer Billie Holiday’s ability to mine humor from hardship. DON’T MISS OUT! SCAN HERE TO BUY TICKETS! GULFSHOREPLAYHOUSE.ORG
LUCIANO PAVAROTTI FOUNDATION
OPERA NAPLES INTERNATIONAL VOICE COMPETITION
FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY
BOWER SCHOOL OF MUSIC & THE ARTS
PAVAROTTI VOICES CONCERT
LUCIANO PAVAROTTI FOUNDATION CAMBIER PARK SOFTBALL FIELD
SOUTHWEST FLORIDA GUIDE TO THE 2024-2025
Arts Map of Lee & Collier County
Lee & Collier County Listings
Calendar
Gulfshore Ballet artistic directors
Iliana Lopez and Franklin Lamero spearhead the dance company’s performances of The Nutcracker this holiday season.
German artist Mally Khorasantchi draws on the nature of her Southwest Florida home, as depicted by her The Sun Also Rises painting.
Glass Nautilus Mary Pat Everist
Natures Blend Robert Stokesbury Shattered JoAnne Crowson
The Whale & the Hare
Mixed Media/Collage Tracy Pospeck
Anole Plate Renata Vigoda
Swim Free Maggie Henry
Proud Moma Karen Harris
Grounded in Gold
Sveta Osborne
Bouquet in Pink & Orange
Leigh Greco
Blue Hour in the Swamp Dr. Jane Ruprecht
Beach Affair Martin Sherman Tropical Seaside Rebecca Christopher
Advertising Services Manager/Reprint Sales & Distribution Kathleen Hill
A Fine Art Experience
Visit our vibrant Art District for a one-of-a-kind experience, where you can meet over 100 of our artists in person while strolling through their galleries and watching them work in their studios, each of them creating original fine art that is as unique as the District itself.
OPEN STUDIOS
Every Thursday and Saturday 1-5 PM
THEMED 2ND SATURDAYS
November 9: “Art and Film” December 14: “Holiday Shopping” Scan
Clockwise: Principal Pops Conductor Jack Everly conducts the Naples Philharmonic; Community Day; The Baker Museum; Naples International Film Festival. Opposite: Sharon and Timothy Ubben Artistic and Music Director Alexander Shelley.
Enriching SWFL Lives with the Magic of Vocal Music
From World Stages to Our Shores Events in Collier County
A charming evening of operetta excerpts that capture Vienna’s Golden Age.
January 29 | 2025
Experience Dvorak’s melodic masterpiece, a romantic story of unrequited love. in English with the Florida Philharmonic RusalkA Touring
March 25-29
A trio of exciting opera artists performs scenes of passion and seduction featuring International Tenor Matthew White. A Concert Full of Passion
February 23 | 2025
Lucia Lammermoor di
Lucia Lammermoor di with the Naples Philharmonic Touring
A gripping tale of love, betrayal, and madness featuring the iconic "mad scene."
April 29-May 2
CULTURAL CALENDAR
Standout exhibits, festivals and shows from November through May.
From December 4 through 22, Christmas with the Crawfords at Fort Myers’ The Laboratory Theater of Florida presents a comedic holiday spectacle set in Old Hollywood.
Your comprehensive guide to the region’s arts and culture scene, from juried art exhibitions to regional theater productions to top-billed comedians. Check the organizations’ websites for the latest information.
Courtesy The Laboratory Theater of Florida
COLLIER COUNTY
November
Through Nov. 6
Día de Muertos art exhibition
A celebration of Hispanic heritage and culture at the Naples gallery. methodandconcept.com
Through Nov. 7
Opening Group Exhibition
The gallery showcases an exhibit of sculptures and paintings from represented artists. harmonmeekgallery.com
Through Nov. 10
Almost, Maine
A charming and whimsical play about love and human connection. naplesplayers.org
Through Nov. 24
Anything Goes
A madcap mix of tap-dancing sailors, showgirls and singing gangsters. gulfshoreplayhouse.org
Through Nov. 25
Timeless
An exhibition of works from the National Association of Women Artists. marcoislandart.org
Through Nov. 30
Portraits of Dementia
An exhibit of stories and photographs from Joe
Wallace at Collier Museum at Government Center with a Memory Care Resource Fair on November 9 and insights from Alzheimer’s Support Network on November 12. colliermuseums.com
Through Dec. 7
Language is a Virus
An exhibit of works by William S. Burroughs and Laurie Anderson. rauschenberggallery.com
Through Jan. 5
Becky Suss:
The Dutch House
A solo exhibition of new paintings inspired by Ann Patchett’s 2019 novel, The Dutch House. artisnaples.org
Through Jan. 11
Python Hunters
An exhibit at Museum of the Everglades highlighting the efforts to protect the Everglades ecosystem. colliermuseums.com
Through Feb. 2
Alex Katz: Theater and Dance
A multi-medium exhibition celebrating the artist’s collaborations with choreographers, dancers and theater troupes. Lectures on November 8 and January 17 expand on the exhibit. artisnaples.org
Through Feb. 15
Reflections of South Florida: A 50 Year Art Adventure
A 50-year retrospective for Paul Arsenault at Marco Island Historical Museum. Book signing and lecture with the artist on January 15. themihs.info
Through Mar. 14
Visions of the Stage Artists interpret ballet, opera and musical performances for the exhibit at Moran Wealth Management in Naples. The opening reception is on January 16. unitedartscollier.org
Through June 29
Florida Contemporary
Three artists from across the state present their works. artisnaples.org
Through Fall 2025
In the Making: Sketches, Studies, and Maquettes
More than 30 works from Artis—Naples, The Baker Museum’s permanent collection on display. artisnaples.org
Through April 2026
The Key Marco Cat
An ancient artifact on display at Marco Island Historical Society. themihs.info
Nov. 1
Día de Muertos Experience
The Naples gallery transforms into a colorful Mexican market. methodandconcept.com
Nov. 1 and 2
Pictures with Alexander Alexander Shelley’s first concert as music director of Artis—Naples kicks off the Naples Philharmonic Masterworks series. artisnaples.org
Nov. 2
SAVE the Bank of Everglades Music Festival
A benefit concert at the Rod & Gun Club. eshp.org
Nov. 2 and 3
Día de los Muertos Celebration
A weekend-long event, themed around the Mexican holiday, for the whole family. naplesgarden.org
Nov. 3
Mariachi Herencia de Mexico
A Mexican folk band performs. artisnaples.org
Nov. 4-18
Paint the Town with Joy!
Joy Stanley’s whimsical portrayal of Naples’ architectural highlights. eastwestfineart.com
Nov. 4 — Dec. 3
Lynn Nathanson
An exhibit of works at La Petite Galerie on Marco Island. marcoislandart.org
Nov. 5
La Vero Gómez
The comedian presents a show in Spanish. offthehookcomedy.com
Nov. 5-9
Naples Philharmonic Pops: Celebrating Gershwin Tony Bennett’s former music director and pianist performs George Gershwin’s masterpieces. artisnaples.org
Nov. 6
Movies That Matter Film
Zoom Discussion
A virtual panel discussion on the documentary Pay or Die, about insulin affordability issues, hosted by Naples’ Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center. hmcec.org
Nov. 6
Polina Osetinskaya
The renowned Russian pianist performs at Artis—Naples. grandpianoseries.org
Nov. 6-17
Where There’s a Will Shakespeare helps a struggling playwright in this show. marcoislandart.org
Nov. 7 — Jan. 31
Rookery Bay
Painting Annual
A collaborative exhibit between Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and United Arts Collier with an opening reception on November 7. unitedartscollier.org
Nov. 9 — Jan. 2
An Adventure in the Arts: The Guild Hall Collection
An exhibition of works from Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Chuck Close and more. naplesart.org
Nov. 9 and 10
The Making of Scrooge
A new spin on Charles Dickens’ tale at The Naples Players’ Readers Theatre. naplesplayers.org
Nov. 9 and 10
Russell Peters
One of Rolling Stone’s 50 Best Comics of All Time performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Nov. 9 — June 22
Nature Journaling Invitational
Sixteen budding artists exhibit works made in Naples Botanical Garden’s creative aging program. naplesgarden.org
Nov. 10
Contemporary: Jewish Voices
An exploration of culture and connection through
the voices of today’s Jewish composers at Moorings Presbyterian Church. seraphicfire.org
Nov. 10
The Tenors
A feel-good quartet at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. casino.hardrock.com
Nov. 10
Veterans Day
Complimentary Museum Admission
The Nordhausen Flag, made by Polish concentration camp survivors, is on display at Naples’ Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center. hmcec.org
Nov. 11 and 12
Joe Avati
The ‘king of Italian comedy’ performs a family-friendly show in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Nov. 12 — Dec. 14
Reynier Llanes
The Cuban-American artist hosts an exhibit at the Naples gallery. harmonmeekgallery.com
Nov. 13
All That Jazz: Romero Lubambo
The Brazilian guitarist joins Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra for an evening of music. artisnaples.org
Nov. 13
Jim Breuer
The comedian performs in this Comedy For a Cause charity show in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Nov. 14
Leslie Cartaya
An exhibition at La Petite Galerie on Marco Island. marcoislandart.org
Nov. 14
Thank Goodness for Art
A collection of works from Naples artist Emily James. emilyjamesart.com
Nov. 14-16
JR De Guzman
The comedian performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Nov. 14 and 16
Naples Philharmonic Masterworks: Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 3
South Korean classical pianist Yeol Eum Son joins the orchestra. artisnaples.org
Nov. 14 — Dec. 15
Every Brilliant Thing
The professional theater company presents a oneman show about the special things in life. gulfshoreplayhouse.org
Nov. 14 — Dec. 20
An Unconventional Lens
A photography exhibit at the Naples gallery. methodandconcept.com
Nov. 16
Paula Poundstone
The stand-up comedian performs at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. casino.hardrock.com
Nov. 17
Voices of Naples: From Opera to Broadway
Audiences are transported through a musical journey in concert. voicesofnaples.org
Nov. 17
Wang Chamber Music: Yeol Eum Son Plays Dvořák
The pianist makes her Naples chamber music debut with Naples Philharmonic. artisnaples.org
Nov. 17
Wheel of Fortune
The hit TV game show makes its way to the stage at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. casino.hardrock.com
Nov. 18
98 Degrees
An award-winning pop and R&B boy band performs at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. casino.hardrock.com
Nov. 18-21
Greg Morton
The comedian performs live in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Nov. 19
Dance Series: Dance
Theatre of Harlem
The dance company showcases its versatility with a mix of classical and contemporary works. artisnaples.org
Nov. 20
Season Opener
A showcase of new art and artists in Naples. gardnercolbygallery.com
Nov. 20
Visiting Orchestras: Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra Finnish conductor Klaus Mäkelä leads the esteemed orchestra. artisnaples.org
Nov. 20 — Dec. 22
A Christmas Story: The Musical
The musical, based on the beloved holiday movie, hits the stage at Kizzie Theater. naplesplayers.org
Nov. 20 — Dec. 22
Trees and Teas Festival
Festive trees designed by local artists fill the Jay R. Paul Community Atrium & Price Studio Theater. naplesplayers.org
Nov. 21
Duelers: Dueling Pianos
The cast of the 2023 Naples International Film Festival award-winning film Duelers perform. artisnaples.org
Nov. 21
Lecture: Florida’s First People
A lesson on the Calusa people and their history at Museum of the Everglades. colliermuseums.com
Nov. 21
Wind Orchestra
A concert at Lely High School in Naples. fgcu.edu
Nov. 22
Amy Grant
The Christian music vocalist performs. artisnaples.org
Nov. 22
RC Smith & Angela Nacca
A comedy show at Arts Center Theatre. marcoislandart.org
Nov. 22-24
Harvest Nights
Music Festival
Multiple country and rock artists take the stage at Immokalee’s John Jimmie Rodeo Grounds. casino.hardrock.com
Nov. 22-24
Michael Blackson
The actor, podcaster and comedian performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Nov. 23
The Day Players Band
The band presents an afternoon acoustic act filled with entertainment in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Nov. 24
Black Friday All Month
An exhibit at the gallery’s Naples location. cocoartgallery.com
Nov. 24
Family Ties
Five one-act plays about family at The Naples Players’ Readers Theatre. naplesplayers.org
Nov. 24
A Night Honoring
Tina Turner
Actress, dancer and singer Adrienne Warren pays tribute to the Queen of Rock. artisnaples.org
Nov. 24 and 26
Sypert Salon: Death and the Maiden Schubert’s composition performed by Naples Philharmonic. artisnaples.org
Nov. 26
An Evening of Overtures Naples Philharmonic performs a selection of audience-favorite opening pieces. artisnaples.org
Nov. 27
Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert
Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Grammy Award-winning soundtrack. artisnaples.org
Nov. 29 — Dec. 1
Craig Shoemaker
The Broadway performer and comedian performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Nov. 29 — Dec. 8
A Nice Family Christmas
The Studio Players bring the heartwarming holiday comedy to the stage. thestudioplayers.org
Nov. 29 — Dec. 23, 26-30, Jan. 1 — Jan. 5
Johnsonville Night Lights in the Garden
Naples Botanical Garden is illuminated with colorful displays for the holidays. naplesgarden.org
Nov. 30 — Dec. 1
The Nutcracker
The Naples Ballet and Naples Philharmonic return with their iconic performance at Hayes Hall. artisnaples.org
Nov. 30 — Dec. 1
The Uptown Naples Fine Art Festival
A free, two-day event showcasing fine arts from juried artists. artfestival.com
Also in November
Forma Rosa Studio
An interior design exhibit with the experimental ceramics label. pdagallery.com
December
Dec. 2
Dave Koz and Friends
Christmas Tour
The long-running holiday jazz tour comes to Hayes Hall. artisnaples.org
Dec. 2-5
Bret Ernst
The actor and comedian performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Dec. 3
Student Ensemble Series: Choirs and Symphony Orchestra Concert - Joyful and Triumphant
A collaborative concert at Moorings Presbyterian Church in Naples. fgcu.edu
Dec. 3-5
Festival of Trees
A display of artfully decorated Christmas trees at Marco Island Center for the Arts. marcoislandart.org
Dec. 3-12
Mini Masters
An exhibition of small artworks in Marco Island Center for the Arts’ lobby. marcoislandart.org
Dec. 3-17
Cloud Tree
A solo art exhibit of surrealist paintings. eastwestfineart.com
Dec. 3-31
Christmas at Palm Cottage
The historic home celebrates the holiday season during its annual showcase. napleshistoricalsociety.org
Dec. 4
Ben Folds
The singer-songwriter and pianist performs with Naples Philharmonic. artisnaples.org
Dec. 4
Holiday Stroll 2024
The Naples Design District event has live performances, shopping and refreshments. naplesdesigndistrict.com
Dec. 4
An Unconventional Lens Reception
A photography exhibit reception during Naples Design District’s Holiday Stroll. methodandconcept.com
Dec. 4
Sterling Elliott & Janice Carissa
A cellist and pianist duo perform at Artis—Naples. grandpianoseries.org
Dec. 4-22
Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)
A holiday play from Marco Island Center for the Arts. marcoislandart.org
Dec. 5
Holiday Taste of Opera Festive operatic performances accompanied by dinner at the Club at the Strand. gulfshoreopera.org
Dec. 6
Zarna Garg
The comedian, producer and screenwriter performs her stand-up routine. casino.hardrock.com
Dec. 6-8
Preacher Lawson
The America’s Got Talent contestant performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Dec. 7
Handel’s Messiah
Naples Philharmonic
Chorus reprises the symphonic classic. artisnaples.org
Dec. 7
Life is a Cabaret
Singer Martina Long performs a Broadway musical review. unitedartscollier.org
Dec. 7
The Nutcracker Gulfshore Ballet performs at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Naples. gsballet.org
Dec. 7
The Outlaws Present:
The 10th Annual Green Grass and Yuletide Jam
The southern rock band headlines the beloved Christmas festival at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. casino.hardrock.com
Dec. 7 — June 15
Rafael Lozano-Hemmer: Obra Sonora
An immersive multimedia exhibition at Artis—Naples, The Baker Museum. artisnaples.org
Dec. 8
Annual Winter Show
The Spirit of the Gulf Chorus performs a barbershop-style holiday show at South Fort Myers High School. spiritofthegulf.com
Dec. 8
Hip to the Holidays
A retro concert from vocal quartet Under the Streetlamp. artisnaples.org
Dec. 8
Jeff Allen
The comedian makes humorous observations of family life in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Dec. 8 and 10
Sypert Salon: Beethoven’s Serenade
A playful program with lighthearted music from
Naples Philharmonic. artisnaples.org
Dec. 9
A Seraphic Fire
Christmas 2024
A candlelit setting filled with melodic voices at Moorings Presbyterian Church. seraphicfire.org
Dec. 9
Voices of Naples
Christmas Concert
A choral concert at Emmanuel Lutheran Church. voicesofnaples.org
Dec. 9
Winter Wonderland
Art Mixer
A networking event for creatives with light bites, drinks and live music at the Norris Center in Naples. unitedartscollier.org
Dec. 9-12
Kevin Farley
The comedian brings his signature upbeat comedy to Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Dec. 9 — Jan. 7
Robert Kenedi
An exhibition at La Petite Galerie on Marco Island. marcoislandart.org
Dec. 9 — Jan. 7
Tropical Holiday Creations
An exhibition of works from Marco Island Center for the Arts Clay Guild. marcoislandart.org
Dec. 10
Merry & Modern: How the Mid-Century Shaped Christmas
A talk about the evolution of holiday traditions from curator of education Elaina Gyure at Collier Museum at Government Center. colliermuseums.com
Dec. 11 and 12
Ahren Belisle
The former software engineer-turned-comedian performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Dec. 11-31
Climbing The Art Ladder, The Use of Color in Pop Art
A Pop Art show featuring Colombian, mixed-media artist Ancizar Marin. aldocastillogallery.com
Dec. 12
Deck the Walls
A gallery Christmas party with friends. emilyjamesart.com
Dec. 13
Rich Guzzi
The performer enchants audiences with his comedy hypnosis show in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Dec. 13
Voices of Naples Christmas Concert
A choral concert at Grace Lutheran Church of Naples. voicesofnaples.org
Dec. 13 and 14
Naples Philharmonic Masterworks: A Midsummer Night’s Dream
The orchestra presents new work by rising star composer Meilina Tsui. artisnaples.org
Dec. 14
Cowboy Christmas
A family-friendly holiday celebration at Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch. colliermuseums.com
Dec. 14
Precious Pix
Holiday photos in the Norris Gardens. napleshistoricalsociety.org
Dec. 14 and 15
Kat Timpf
The comedian brings her “I Used To Like You” tour to Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Dec. 15
Ben Brainard
The comedian shares dating stories and jokes about general life mishaps to a Naples audience. offthehookcomedy.com
Dec. 15
Wang Chamber Music: Ehnes Plays Tchaikovsky
Chamber music with modern and classical compositions in Naples. artisnaples.org
Dec. 16
Stone Cold & The Jackal
Comedic duo Steve Burton and Bradford Anderson perform in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Dec. 16-19
Dale Jones
The comedian entertains audiences in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Dec. 17 — Jan. 30
Hunt Slonem
The neo-expressionist showcases his works at the Naples gallery. harmonmeekgallery.com
Dec. 18
All That Jazz: Ken Peplowski
The clarinet player performs with Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra. artisnaples.org
Dec. 19
Lecture Series: The Dauntless Dr. Snyder— Physician, Hotelier, and Politician in the Swamp
A presentation at Museum of the Everglades in Everglades City. colliermuseums.com
Dec. 19-22
Holiday Pops
A holiday concert with Naples Philharmonic. artisnaples.org
Dec. 20-22
Bryan Callen
The comedian brings
his stand-up routine to Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Dec. 20-22
Home for the Holidays
The festive Southwest Florida musical
celebrates its eighth year in Naples. theatre.zone
Dec. 24
Southwest Florida Pastel Society Members Show
An exhibit at the gallery’s Naples location. cocoartgallery.com
Dec. 24, 26-29
Broadway Series: Some Like it Hot
The iconic farce brings hot jazz and mobsters to town. artisnaples.org
Dec. 26-29
Anthony Rodia
The comedian performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Dec. 27
Dan Christopher: Magician & Ventriloquist Feature Act: William “Rock The House” Lewis
A comedic magic show at Arts Center Theatre. marcoislandart.org
Dec. 30 — Jan. 1
David Koechner
A New Year’s dinner-and-comedy show in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
January
Jan. 1-15
Naples Favorite Jersey Girl
An exhibit of mixed-media, abstract artwork by artist Joanne Rafferty in Naples. eastwestfineart.com
Jan. 4
Prosecco Preview with Local Sculptor, Brett Harvey
The artist shows a new public sculpture and offers a live demonstration; plus, previews of new works in the gallery. methodandconcept.com
Jan. 4 and 5
New Year’s Art Fair
An annual art fair at Naples’ Cambier Park featuring works from more than 250 professional artists. naplesart.org
Jan. 5
Andrea Peña & Artists
A combination of dance, music and visual arts from the Colombian-Canadian choreographer. artisnaples.org
Jan. 6
Los Lobos
An influential Mexican-American rock band performs. artisnaples.org
Jan. 6-8
Adam Hunter
The comedian performs his brash and hilarious stand-up act in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Jan. 7 and 12
Sypert Salon:
Schumann’s Piano Quintet
Spanish pianist Javier Perianes performs with Naples Philharmonic. artisnaples.org
Jan. 8
A Conversation with Margaret Atwood
The prize-winning author speaks. artisnaples.org
Jan. 8
Toast to Opera: Don Pasquale
The company dives into the story’s history and relevance ahead of the production at Wang Opera Center. operanaples.org
Jan. 8 and 9
Bacharach and Friends
A tribute concert in Daniels Pavilion. artisnaples.org
Jan. 8-26
The Last of the Red Hot Lovers
A comedy at Marco Island Center for the Arts. marcoislandart.org
Jan. 8 — Feb. 12
Water Reflections with Silicone & Resin
A water-themed exhibit featuring Enrique Machado’s work in the Naples gallery. aldocastillogallery.com
Jan. 9
Clyde & Niki
Butcher Lecture
The photographer/artist couple speaks and signs
books at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island. clydebutcher.com
Jan. 9
Seniors Concert: Broadway and Beyond with Jodi Keogan
The Broadway vocalist sings her favorite tunes at Marco Island Historical Museum. colliermuseums.com
Jan. 9
Water, Water Everywhere Emily James’ collection of wave and sunset paintings in Naples. emilyjamesart.com
Jan. 9 — Feb. 27
Alter Ego
A best-in-class glass art exhibition in Naples, unveiling Swedish artist Peter Hermansson’s new series. Guests meet the artist at the opening reception on January 9. methodandconcept.com
Jan. 9 and 11
Naples Philharmonic Masterworks: Carmen and La mer
A musical program focused on fairy tales. artisnaples.org
Jan. 9-19
Once
The Tony Award-winning musical romance is performed in Naples. theatre.zone
Jan. 10-12
DeRay Davis
The actor and comedian brings his tour to Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Jan. 11 — Apr. 6
Art in Balance: Matisse and His Illustrated Works
A Matisse exhibit at Naples Art Institute. naplesart.org
Jan. 12
Artistic Vision of Luciano Pavarotti Foundation Foundation president Nicoletta Mantovani shares insights on finding success in opera. operanaples.org
Jan. 12
Gulf Coast Big Band
An outdoor performance at Marco Island’s Veterans Community Park. gulfcoastbigband.com
Jan. 12
Voice of Nature –
The Anthropocene
U.S. National Medal of Arts winner Renée Fleming performs. artisnaples.org
Jan. 13
Society Scotch & Chocolate
An exploration of Scotch whisky at Naples’ Historic Palm Cottage. napleshistoricalsociety.org
Jan. 13-28
Art David
An exhibition at La Petite Galerie on Marco Island. marcoislandart.org
Jan. 13-15
Bobby Collins
The comedian performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Jan. 13 — Feb. 25
Transparency
A Marco Island Center for the Arts exhibition with art from Carol Wareing, Nan LaRosa and Giampaolo Curreri. marcoislandart.org
Jan. 14 and 15
Visiting Orchestras: Chicago Symphony Orchestra
The world-renowned symphony performs. artisnaples.org
Jan. 15 — Feb. 16
The Play That Goes Wrong
A meta comedy performed at Naples’ Kizzie Theater. naplesplayers.org
Jan. 16-18
Artful Arrangements
A Naples exhibition of original artwork reimagined in floral design. naplesartdistrict.com
Jan. 16
ColorPlay
A visual arts experience at Amy Art Gallery + Studio in Naples. amyart.net
Jan. 16 — Feb. 2
Dial “M” For Murder
A thrilling mystery in Naples. gulfshoreplayhouse.org
Jan. 17
Dance Series: Paul Taylor Dance Company
The 70-year-old modern
dance company performs. artisnaples.org
Jan. 17 and 19
Don Pasquale
A comedic opera performed by the Luciano Pavarotti Foundation in Naples. operanaples.org
Jan. 18
Rockabillaque Florida
A killer festival with vendors, live music, and a classic car and vintage bike show at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. casino.hardrock.com
Jan. 19
Renaissance: The Capilla Flamenca
A Spain-inspired concert at Moorings Presbyterian Church in Naples. seraphicfire.org
Jan. 19
Wang Chamber Music: Russian Masterpieces
Performances of the works of composers Sergey Taneyev and Dmitri Shostakovich. artisnaples.org
Jan. 20
The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parade Day and Cambier Park Celebration
A Downtown Naples event honoring the Civil Rights leader. naacpcolliercounty.org
Jan. 20-22
Cindy Kaza
The evidential medium brings her talents to Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Exhale, 60 x 60 inches, acrylic on canvas
AMY MOGLIA HEUERMAN
Jan. 22
All That Jazz: Sean Jones, trumpet
The Miles Davis-influenced musician performs with Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra. artisnaples.org
Jan. 22
Lee Greenwood
An American country music artist performs at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. casino.hardrock.com
Jan. 23
Terra Guitarra
An exhibition at La Petite Galerie on Marco Island. marcoislandart.org
Jan. 23 and 24
Trio Bohémo
An award-winning Czech chamber ensemble performs at Artis—Naples. grandpianoseries.org
Jan. 24-27
Celebrating Joyce Norwood
An exhibit of works by the contemporary painter in Naples. sheldonfineartnaples.com
Jan. 25
En Plein Air Painting
Member artists paint alfresco throughout the Naples Art District. naplesartdistrict.com
Jan. 25
Fate & Liberty
An orchestral concert with selections from masters
like Verdi and Beethoven at Moorings Presbyterian Church in Naples. naplescommunityorchestra.org
Jan. 25
Kansas
The classic rock band takes the stage at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. casino.hardrock.com
Jan. 25
Naples Art District
An exhibit at the gallery’s Naples location. cocoartgallery.com
Jan. 25
Plein Air Fest
Nearly 20 local artists paint alfresco. naplesgarden.org
Jan. 25 — May 26
Frame & Flora
A living exhibit from Naples Botanical Garden’s team of plant professionals. naplesgarden.org
Jan. 26
Naples Jazzmasters
An outdoor concert at Marco Island’s Veterans Community Park. thenaplesjazzsociety.com
Jan. 26
New Play Festival
Readings of five winning plays at The Naples Players’ Readers Theatre. naplesplayers.org
Jan. 26
Voices of Naples Concert
A choral concert at Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church in Naples. voicesofnaples.org
Jan. 27
International Holocaust
Remembrance Day Museum admission is complimentary at Naples’ Holocaust Museum and Cohen Education Center. hmcec.org
Jan. 27-30
Bob Marley
The comedian performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Jan. 28
Taste of Opera
Operatic performances accompanied by dinner at Hideaway Beach Club. gulfshoreopera.org
Jan. 29
Toast to Opera: The Magic Flute
The company dives into the story’s history and relevance ahead of the production’s showing at Wang Opera Center. operanaples.org
Jan. 29
Viennese Serenade
The event at Artis—Naples pays homage to Vienna’s Golden Age. gulfshoreopera.org
Jan. 30 — Mar. 2
The Lehman Trilogy
A Tony Award-winning play
about one family’s financial empire hits the stage in Naples. gulfshoreplayhouse.org
A performance of compositions about profound emotions. artisnaples.org
Jan. 31
Nacho Redondo
The comedian performs a show in Spanish in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Jan. 31
White Collar Comedy Show
A comedy show at Arts Center Theatre. marcoislandart.org
Jan. 31 — Feb. 1
Adam Carolla
The entertainer brings his improv comedy style to Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Jan. 31 — Feb. 16
Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean
A comedy-drama performance in Naples. thestudioplayers.org
Also in January
Shigeru Uchida
An interior design exhibit in Naples from the Japanese master. pdagallery.com
“Paradise Found,” 6,000 years of Marco Island’s unique and intriguing evolution and its ancient peoples.
the dynamic 1960s period when Marco Island was brought to the attention of the world.
February
Feb. 1
House & Garden Tour
Tours of homes in Port Royal, Aqualane Shores and Olde Naples. naplesgardenclub.org
Feb. 1
Meet Clyde & Niki Butcher
The photographer and artist share tales from their Everglades adventures. clydebutcher.com
Feb. 1 and 2
Naples Fine Art Festival
Artisanal creations from local and national artists. artfestival.com
Feb. 3 and 4
Henry Cho
The comedian performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Feb. 3-25
Tara O’Neill
An exhibition at La Petite Galerie on Marco Island. marcoislandart.org
Feb. 4
Style and Song Luncheon
The men of Gulfshore Opera perform over lunch at Grey Oaks Country Club. gulfshoreopera.org
Feb. 4-9
Broadway Series: MAMMA MIA!
Themes of love, family and friendship shine in this Broadway hit. artisnaples.org
Feb. 4-18
Frozen Moments
An exhibit of multimedia sculptures from Italian artist Annalu in Naples. eastwestfineart.com
Feb. 4-28
Gabriela Dellosso
A collection of works from the narrative realism master in Naples. harmonmeekgallery.com
Feb. 5-23
The Odd Couple
A Neil Simon comedy on Marco Island. marcoislandart.org
Feb. 5 — Mar. 2
Death of a Salesman
The classic, award-winning play reflects on the struggle for success and unmet expectations. naplesplayers.org
Feb. 6
Old-Fashioned
Cocktail Hour
Sips and bites from The French Brasserie Rustique at the Historic Palm Cottage. napleshistoricalsociety.org
Feb. 6-16
The Rink
A performance of Kander & Ebb’s Broadway production in Naples. theatre.zone
Feb. 8
Man in Black: A Tribute to Johnny Cash
A musical impersonator of
the late singer-songwriter performs at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. casino.hardrock.com
Feb. 11-15
Naples Philharmonic
Pops: Other Worlds: The Best of Sci-Fi and Fantasy
Star Trek: The Next Generation’s Jonathan Frakes performs with Naples Philharmonic. artisnaples.org
Feb. 12
Full Moon Tour
A tour of the Historic Palm Cottage under the starry night sky.
napleshistoricalsociety.org
Feb. 12
The Magic of Jen Kramer
The sleight-of-hand magician takes the stage at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. casino.hardrock.com
Feb. 12
Toast to Opera: Giacomo Puccini’s La bohème
The company dives into the story’s history and relevance ahead of the production’s showing at Wang Opera Center.
operanaples.org
Feb. 13
Anna Geniushene
A rising star in the classical music world performs at
Artis—Naples. grandpianoseries.org
Feb. 13
Book Signing
A meet-and-greet for author Jeff James’ Brainbows: A First Reference Book for Very Strong Minds. emilyjamesart.com
Feb. 14-16
Ikebana International Exhibit: For the Love of Flowers
The local chapter showcases the Japanese artform at Naples Botanical Garden. Sneak-peek event on February 13. ikebananaples.com
Feb. 15
En Plein Air Painting
An alfresco painting event at Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens. naplesartdistrict.com
Feb. 15
Oh What a Night Dinner and a show at Island Country Club on Marco Island. marcoislandart.org
Feb. 16
Naples Jazzmasters
The band performs at Marco Island’s Veterans Community Park. thenaplesjazzsociety.com
Feb. 16
Student Ensemble Series: Chamber Choir Concert
A free concert at Trinity-bythe-Cove Episcopal Church in Naples. fgcu.edu
Feb. 18
Dance Series: Miami City Ballet
The ballet company performs new choreography. artisnaples.org
Feb. 18
Peter and Will Anderson
The jazz woodwind phenoms and identical twins perform on Marco Island. marcoislandart.org
Feb. 18 and 19
The Mersey Beatles: Return to Shea Stadium
A celebration of The Beatles’ Shea Stadium concert from 60 years ago. theatre.zone
Feb. 19 — Mar 22
Sand Cast Glass
Marlene Rose’s exhibit of sculptures made through heat, light and sand at the Naples gallery. aldocastillogallery.com
Feb. 20
Memories of Elvis Three artists pay tribute to The King. theatre.zone
Feb. 20 and 21
Josh Blue
The comedian brings his off-the-cuff humor to the stage in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Feb. 21 and 22
Naples Philharmonic Masterworks:
Sublime Sibelius German guest conductor
Kevin John Edusei leads violinist Yamen Saadi and Naples Philharmonic. artisnaples.org
Feb. 21-23
Naples International Dance Festival
An inaugural dance experience with classes and performances at the Norris Center in Naples. unitedartscollier.org
Feb. 21-23
Naples Orchid Society Annual Show & Sale
An orchid market, live demonstrations and floral displays at Naples Botanical Garden. naplesgarden.org
Feb. 21-23
National Art Fair
A fine art show in Naples’ Cambier Park. naplesart.org
Feb. 21-24
Ethereal Expressions
An exhibit reflecting the unpredictable and dynamic nature of abstract art. sheldonfineartnaples.com
Feb. 22 and 23
Andrew Dice Clay
The actor and comedian performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Feb. 22
Conflict & Peace
The orchestra performs selections from Tchaikovsky, Beethoven and Shostakovich at Moorings Presbyterian
Church in Naples. naples communityorchestra.org
Feb. 23
Dangerous Liaisons concert
International Tenor Matthew White and Metropolitan Opera Soprano Susanne Burgess perform. gulfshoreopera.org
Feb. 25
Ben Rosenblum
The award-winning pianist and accordionist performs. marcoislandart.org
Feb. 25
Southwest Florida Watercolor Society
An exhibit at the gallery’s Naples location. cocoartgallery.com
Feb. 25
Sypert Salon: Mozart’s Dissonance Quartet
A performance of technically intricate harmonies. artisnaples.org
Feb. 25 — June 8
The Florida House Exhibit
An exhibit highlighting local 1960s homes at Marco Island Historical Museum. themihs.info
Feb. 26
All That Jazz: Steve Wilson, saxophone
The renowned alto and soprano saxophonist performs with Naples
Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra. artisnaples.org
Feb. 27 and 28
Visiting Orchestras: London Symphony Orchestra
The top international symphony closes the Visiting Orchestras season. artisnaples.org
Feb. 27 — Mar. 16
Festival Under the Stars
An annual outdoor opera and performing arts festival in Naples. The event kicks off with the winners of the Luciano Pavarotti Opera Naples International Voice Competition performing on February 27, involves a Family and Community Day on March 1, and features impressive productions throughout the month, like Mozart’s The Magic Flute on February 28 and March 2, La bohème by Puccini on March 6 and 8, The Mikado by Gilbert and Sullivan on March 7 and 9 and Sleeping Beauty on March 15 and 16. operanaples.org
Feb. 27 — Mar. 16
Noises Off
A British farce about a troupe of actors. gulfshoreplayhouse.org
Feb. 28
Bull Ohse with Sheena Reagan
A comedy show at Arts Center Theatre. marcoislandart.org
March
Mar. 2, 9, 16 and 23
Naples Jewish Film Festival
Screenings of Jewish and Israeli cinema at Nina Iser Jewish Cultural Center. naplesjewishfilmfestival.org
Mar. 3-31
Latin Surrealism:
An Arte Viva Exhibition
An exhibit at the Norris Center in Naples. unitedartscollier.org
Mar. 3 — Apr. 1
JoAnn Sanborn
An exhibition at La Petite Galerie on Marco Island. marcoislandart.org
Mar. 3 — Apr. 1
Member Show
An exhibition at Marco Island Center for the Arts. marcoislandart.org
Mar. 4-9
Broadway Series: The Cher Show
A Tony Award-winning musical tribute. artisnaples.org
Mar. 4-28
Herman Maril
An art exhibit at the Naples gallery. harmonmeekgallery.com
Mar. 5-23
Boeing-Boeing
A French farce at Arts Center Theatre. marcoislandart.org
Mar. 6
Croquet & Chardonnay
A wine-filled croquet evening at the Historic Palm Cottage. napleshistoricalsociety.org
Mar. 6
Enlightenment Festival
V: Celebrated Icons and Hidden Figures
An 18th-century composer brought to the modern day at Moorings Presbyterian Church in Naples. seraphicfire.org
Mar. 6
Pavel Haas Quartet & Milana Strezeva
The chamber ensemble and the Grand Piano Series co-founder perform at Artis—Naples. grandpianoseries.org
Mar. 6-9
Steven Ho
The healthcare worker-turned-comedian performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Mar. 6–16
Jersey Boys
A dramatized telling of the story behind ’60s band The Four Seasons in Naples. theatre.zone
Mar. 7
Naples Big Band
A ticketed concert at the Norris Center in Naples. naplesbigband.com
Mar. 7
The Temptations and The Four Tops
The legendary Motown groups unite in concert at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee. casino.hardrock.com
Mar. 7 and 8
Waves of Inspiration
An aquatic-inspired exhibit in Naples. sheldonfineartnaples.com
Mar. 8 and 9
Marco Island National Fine Art Show
The nationwide juried art exhibition returns to Veterans Community Park on Marco Island. minfas.org
Mar. 8 — Sept. 21
Entangled in the Mangroves
A climate change-focused exhibition of 10 Florida artists at Artis—Naples, The Baker Museum. artisnaples.org
Mar. 9
Chance Encounters
Five one-act plays about unexpected meetings at The Naples Players’ Readers Theatre. naplesplayers.org
Mar. 12 — Apr. 13
Man of La Mancha
An epic play about the legendary Don Quixote. naplesplayers.org
Mar. 13
Sun, Sand and Water
The Naples artist presents
her favorite works. emilyjamesart.com
Mar. 13
Taste of Opera
Operatic performances accompanied by dinner at Naples Sailing & Yacht Club. gulfshoreopera.org
Mar. 13-15
Naples Philharmonic Masterworks: Ode to Joy Naples Philharmonic and Naples Philharmonic Chorus perform Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9. artisnaples.org
Mar. 14 and 15
Naples Flower Show & Garden Market
An array of plants for sale. naplesgarden.org
Mar. 18-22
Naples Philharmonic Pops: Hollywood Rocks
Naples Philharmonic performs songs from the silver screen. artisnaples.org
Mar. 18 and 23
Sypert Salon: Beethoven’s Ghost Trio
Naples Philharmonic performs selections from Beethoven and Louis Spohr. artisnaples.org
Mar. 20
Jodi Keogan
The Broadway singer performs on Marco Island. marcoislandart.org
Mar. 20
Literary Luncheon
NAACP Collier County hosts this event at Vineyards Country Club in Naples. naacpcolliercounty.org
Mar. 20 — Apr. 19
Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill
A play about iconic songstress Billie Holiday. gulfshoreplayhouse.org
Mar. 22
Broadway Baby!
The orchestra performs selections from classic musicals and movies at Moorings Presbyterian Church. naplescommuni tyorchestra.org
Mar. 22 and 23
Downtown Art Fair
A fine art show in Naples’ Cambier Park. naplesart.org
Mar. 25
Arts Bonita (Curated Show)
An exhibit at the gallery’s Naples location. cocoartgallery.com
Mar. 25-30
Broadway Series: MJ
A Tony Award-winning musical about pop icon Michael Jackson. artisnaples.org
Mar. 26
Annual Ikebana Luncheon
Hosted at Quail West Golf and Country Club in Naples. ikebananaples.org
Mar. 26 and 27
Andrew von Oeyen
The acclaimed concert pianist performs at Artis—Naples. grandpianoseries.org
Mar. 27
Rusalka (English Translation)
An opera that loosely mirrors Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid at the Norris Center in Naples. gulfshoreopera.org
Mar. 27
Student Ensemble Series: Wind Orchestra
A concert at Gulf Coast High School in Naples. fgcu.edu
Mar. 28
Bob Lauver’s Comedy Hypnosis Show
A comedy show at Arts Center Theatre. marcoislandart.org
Mar. 28 and 29
Lend Me A Tenor
A screwball comedy by Ken Ludwig in Naples. thestudioplayers.org
April
Apr. 1-15
Apples to Oranges from NY to FL
A tale of two different yet
colorful states showcased through paintings in Naples. eastwestfineart.com
Apr. 1-30
Paintings by Miguel Saludes
A collection of works from the Cuban painter in Naples. harmonmeekgallery.com
Apr. 2
All That Jazz: Lucy Yeghiazaryan, vocalist
The jazz up-and-comer performs with Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra. artisnaples.org
Apr. 2-13
Four Old Broads
A whimsical comedy directed by Christi Lueck-Sadiq at the Arts Center Theatre. marcoislandart.org
Apr. 2-27
The Half-Life of Marie Curie
A play about the famed scientist. naplesplayers.org
Apr. 3 and 4
Naples Philharmonic Masterworks: Strauss and Storytelling
Improvisational pianist
Gabriela Montero performs with Naples Philharmonic. artisnaples.org
Apr. 4-6
Kevin Nealon
The actor, author and
comedian performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Apr. 5
Gulf Breeze
An exhibit of works from local artists Jan Ellen Atkielski, Larissa Flynn and Natalie Guess in Naples. philfisherfineart.com, natalieguess.com
Apr. 7-29
Adult Student Exhibit Novices display their works on Marco Island. marcoislandart.org
Apr. 7-29
MIA
An exhibit of works from Marco Island Academy at La Petite Galerie. marcoislandart.org
Apr. 9-13
Broadway Series: Pretty Woman: The Musical
The on-screen classic takes the stage. artisnaples.org
Apr. 10
April Showers=Flowers
Emily James shares new floral paintings in Naples. emilyjamesart.com
Apr. 10 — May 4
Sweet Charity
A musical comedy about unstoppable optimism. gulfshoreplayhouse.org
Apr. 11 and 12
Eric D’Alessandro
The comedian showcases his dynamic and humorous stage presence in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Apr. 12
Mystic Masterpieces
The orchestra performs selections from Fauré, Bruch and Sibelius at Moorings Presbyterian Church in Naples. naplescommunityorchestra.org
Apr. 12
World Art Day Festival
A family-friendly celebration of art in Naples. naplesartdistrict.com
Apr. 13
Baroque: Angels Behind the Walls
A chorus and orchestra perform at Moorings Presbyterian Church in Naples. seraphicfire.org
Apr. 15-19
Naples Philharmonic Pops: Revolution: The Music of The Beatles – A Symphonic Experience
A musical tribute to the game-changing Liverpool band. artisnaples.org
Apr. 17
Student Ensemble Series: Symphonic Band
A concert at Aubrey Rogers High School in Naples. fgcu.edu
Apr. 18-20
April in Bloom
A springtime exhibit in Naples. sheldonfineartnaples.com
Apr. 19
Blooms & Brews
A beer tasting with live music at Naples Botanical Garden. naplesgarden.org
Apr. 21 and 22
Peter Antoniou
The America’s Got Talent contestant stuns audiences with his mind-reading abilities in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Apr. 23
All That Jazz: Houston Person, saxophone
The soulful tenor saxophonist performs with Naples Philharmonic. artisnaples.org
Apr. 24
Student Ensemble Series: Chamber Choir
A choral concert at Bower Chapel in Naples. fgcu.edu
Apr. 24 and 26
Naples Philharmonic Masterworks: Schubert The Great Pianist Inon Barnatan and clarinetist Andreas
Ottensamer perform with Naples Philharmonic. artisnaples.org
Apr. 25
Marco Island Center
An exhibit at the gallery’s Naples location. cocoartgallery.com
Apr. 25
Myke Herlihy & Jen Hellman
A comedy show at Arts Center Theatre. marcoislandart.org
Apr. 25-27
William Lee Martin
The Texas-born comic performs in Naples. offthehookcomedy.com
Apr. 26 — June 29
Eternally Curious: A Journey of Creation and Growth by Tanya Trinkaus Glass
An exhibition inspired by Naples Botanical Garden. naplesgarden.org
Apr. 27
Out on a Limb
Five one-act plays about taking chances at The Naples Players’ Readers Theatre. naplesplayers.org
Apr. 27
Wang Chamber Music: Barnatan and Ottensamer Israeli American pianist Inon Barnatan and Austrian clarinetist and conductor Andreas Ottensamer close
out the Wang Chamber Music series with Naples Philharmonic musicians. artisnaples.org
May May 1
Eric Lu
The next-gen American classical pianist performs at Artis—Naples. grandpianoseries.org
May 2
Lucia di Lammermoor with the Naples Philharmonic Donizetti’s bel canto sensation makes its way to Artis—Naples for an evening. gulfshoreopera.org
May 4
Dance Series: Complexions Contemporary Ballet
The innovative ballet company performs with Naples Philharmonic. artisnaples.org
May 5
Naples Ballet Spring Performance with the Naples Philharmonic
Two Naples powerhouses join forces for this production. naplesballet.net
May 5 — July 1
Miami to Marco
An exhibition of Latinx artists in collaboration with Miami’s Museum of Contemporary Art of the Americas. marcoislandart.org
A charming evening of operetta excerpts that capture Vienna’s Golden Age.
January 29 | 2025
Experience Dvorak’s melodic masterpiece, a romantic story of unrequited love. in English with the Florida Philharmonic RusalkA
Touring
March 25-29
An Evening of Timeless Classics
A quartet of nationally recognized vocal artists performs beloved selections from opera, operetta, and musical theater, accompanied by piano.
February 06 | 2025
Lucia Lammermoor di Lucia Lammermoor di with the Naples Philharmonic
A gripping tale of love, betrayal, and madness featuring the iconic "mad scene."
Touring
April 29-May 2
May 5-27
Thomas C. Keller
A collection of art at Marco Island’s La Petite Gallery. marcoislandart.org
May 6-30
Closing Group Exhibition
The gallery’s 25 artists display works on paper, oil on canvas, sculpture and more to close the season in Naples. harmonmeekgallery.com
May 7-25
The Hallelujah Girls
A play about friendship, endurance and chasing dreams. naplesplayers.org
May 8 and 9
Naples Philharmonic Masterworks: Zachary Plays Barber
Concertmaster and violinist Zachary DePue closes out the Naples Philharmonic Masterworks series with guest conductor Hans Graf. artisnaples.org
May 14
All That Jazz: The Music of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn
An energetic and refined performance with Naples Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra. artisnaples.org
May 16 — June 1
Prodigal Son
A one-act drama in Naples by John Patrick Shanley. thestudioplayers.org
May 17
Journey through the Americas
Gulfshore Opera’s GO Divas and Latin Infusion perform in Cambier Park. gulfshoreopera.org
May 22 and 23
Patriotic Pops
A musical performance honoring America. artisnaples.org
May 24 and 25
Family Wonder Days Games and activities at Naples Botanical Garden. naplesgarden.org
LEE COUNTY
November
Through Nov. 10
Ben Butler
A Civil War tale with unexpected humor and silliness in Fort Myers. floridarep.org
Through Nov. 14
Unbound: Exploring Surrealism in Art
A group show of fantastical art. artsbonita.org
Through Nov. 17
Bedroom Farce
A comedy about marriage performed in Fort Myers. playerscircletheater.com
Through Nov. 21
Note to Self
Three Florida Gulf Coast University alumni exhibit at the university’s Wasmer Art Gallery. fgcu.edu
Through Dec. 7
Autumn Shades of Art
A seasonal exhibition in Estero. aldocastillogallery.com
Through Dec. 14
Ann Wolff and Selections from the Permanent Collection
An exhibit of works from one of the Studio Glass movement founders. fgcu.edu
Through Dec. 28
Faces of the Water:
The Artistry of Chris Gug and Mike Sorge Award-winning underwater photography and graceful works in wood. tribbyartscenter.com
Through Dec. 28
In Fabric & Wood: MarieMichelle McCarthy and Tom Young
An exhibition of local artists in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Through Dec. 31
The Search for Something Different: Photographs of Beach and Marine Life by Amy Tripp
An exhibition of Southwest Florida images spanning
20 years from a photographer and conchologist at Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum & Aquarium. shellmuseum.org
Through Jan. 31
Lacy McClary
Sanibel artist Lacy McClary creates a 3D mural for The West Gallery. bigarts.org
Through October 2025
Heart and Soul: Paul Firm in Public Art Project
A mural project in the Arts Complex Courtyard. fgcu.edu
Nov. 1
ABBA Mania Canada
A tribute concert backed by a live band and full symphony. artsbonita.org
Nov. 1
Candlelight: A Tribute to Adele
Musicians perform symphonic renditions of the pop artist’s hits among thousands of flameless candles at Fort Myers’ Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Nov. 1
Candlelight: A Tribute to Queen Musicians perform symphonic renditions of the rock band’s hits among thousands of flameless candles at Fort Myers’ Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Naples Botanical Garden’s annual Johnsonville Night Lights in the Garden illuminates the greenscape for the holidays, opening November 29.
Nov. 1
Day of the Dead Market
A holiday market event in Fort Myers. daascoop.com
Nov. 1
Lesley Morrow
An exhibit of works by the portraitist opens in Fort Myers. artsforactgallery.com
Nov. 1 and 2
Rumours ATL: Fleetwood Mac Tribute
A celebration of the band’s legendary hits. tribbyartscenter.com
Nov. 1-3, 7-9
Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors
A side-splittingly hilarious take on the classic horror tale in Fort Myers. laboratorytheaterflorida.com
Nov. 1-10
Letters to Sala
A play based on the book Sala’s Gift by Ann Kirschner at the university’s TheatreLab. fgcu.edu
Nov. 1-21
Bigger Than The Dish
A juried, open-call show celebrating the intersection of the culinary and creative arts at Cape Coral Art Center. capecoral.gov
Nov. 1-26
La Luz
Artist Wilson McCray’s solo exhibition at Cape Coral Art Center explores light as a guiding force. capecoral.gov
Nov. 1-29
Enigma
An art exhibition with figurative works by Daniel Jude Venditti in Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center’s Grand Atrium. sbdac.com
Nov. 1-29
Nostalgia
Dreamy interpretations of Southwest Florida landscapes on display at the Capital Gallery. sbdac.com
Nov. 1 — Dec. 15
Ghost Horizons: Poetry and Printmaking
An event celebrating Southwest Florida’s waterways through the works of poet Chanda Jamieson and visual artist Andy Owen at Dunham Family Gallery. bigarts.org
Nov. 1 — Dec. 28
The Serendipity Holiday Shop
Serendipity gift shop offers artist-made holiday gifts in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Nov. 2
Sean Chambers
A blues concert with an
acclaimed Florida guitarist. artsbonita.org
Nov. 3
Christian Nodal: Pa’l Cora Tour
The Mexican musician performs his hits in Estero. hertzarena.com
Nov. 3
Student Ensemble Series: Jazz Ensemble
A concert at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Nov. 3
Trinity: Classically Irish
The world premiere of a trio celebrating Irish musical heritage at Barbara B. Mann
Performing Arts Hall. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Nov. 4
The Business of Performance
A lecture at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Nov. 5 — Dec. 13
“Flight”
Conservation-inspired works by Sanibel-Captiva Art League and Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation members on display at Bailey Homestead Preserve. sancapart.org
An instrumental chamber concert at U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Nov. 7
Sudamerica Latin Groove— From Bolivia to USA Arts Bonita resident artists perform Bolivian music. artsbonita.org
Nov. 8 — Jan. 19
Springs: Assemblage in Four Mediums
Artist Peter Page creates a visual experience using an array of mediums in the Sanibel exhibit. bigarts.org
Nov. 9
Marlow Rosado—Mambo!
The two-time Grammy Award-winning songwriter, producer and instrumentalist performs. artsbonita.org
Nov. 9
Patchouli & Terra Guitarra
Perform the Landscape of Guitar: Animated Painting Concert Experience
An Alliance for the Arts concert blending Spanish and world guitar, emotional lyrics, harmonies and folk rock. artinlee.org
Nov. 10
An American Salute
A Veteran’s Day performance at Barbara B. Mann
Performing Arts Hall. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Nov. 10
Gabriel Iglesias: Don’t Worry Be Fluffy Tour
The comedian and actor performs in Estero. hertzarena.com
Nov. 11
Rooftop Concert
A performance from Yacht Lobsters in the Fort Myers art center’s rooftop sculpture garden and reception area. sbdac.com
Nov. 12
Tell Your Story: Kindness and Compassion
The power of spoken stories shines at Wasmer Art Gallery. fgcu.edu
Nov. 13
Capturing the Faces
A presentation by underwater photographer and filmmaker Chris Gug. tribbyartscenter.com
Nov. 13
Joel Ying: Let’s Get Personal
Spoken stories live at the university’s Wasmer Art Gallery. fgcu.edu
Nov. 14
Funny Old Broads
A three-woman musical comedy mixing stand-up and parody. artsbonita.org
Nov. 14
Jazz at the MACC: Music of Charles Mingus, Christian McBride, & Brandon Robertson
A contemporary jazz performance at Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Nov. 14
Student Ensemble Series: Symphonic Band (Blue Band) Concert
A concert at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Nov. 15
Martin
Arts Bonita’s country music artist in residence performs. Other performance dates: January 8, February 19, March 28, April 23 and May 23. artsbonita.org
Nov. 15 and 16
Fall Film Festival
Documentary filmmaker
Andrew Rossi screens three of his films. bigarts.org
Nov. 16
Family Movie: The Brave Little Toaster
A screening of the family-favorite movie at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Nov. 16
Life Surge
A Christian seminar in Estero. hertzarena.com
GALLERY
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Gallery One offers a curated selection to cater to every individual's taste and style. Step into our gallery and let your imagination soar as you explore the beauty and creativity that our artists have to offer. Your journey to finding the perfect piece of art starts here at Gallery One.
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Nov. 16
Vanessa Collier
A musical performance from an eight-time Blues Music Award nominee. artsbonita.org
Nov. 16
The 24-Hour Playwriting Project
A contest where four playwrights’ works are performed and judged. laboratorytheaterflorida.com
Nov. 16 and 17
Gulf Coast Symphony at the MACC: Beethoven Symphony No. 8
A classical music performance at Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Nov. 17
Nisita Concert Series: Jossecarlo Romo and Michael Baron
A flute and piano concert series at U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Nov. 19
Student Ensemble Series: Symphonic Band Green Band) Concert
A concert at Gateway High School in Fort Myers. fgcu.edu
Nov. 20 — Dec. 7
Forbidden Broadway’s Greatest Hits
An endearing and comedic tribute to the stage at Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Nov. 21
Zach Bartholomew & David Fernandez Present “The Lost City” A unity-focused jazz concert at Arts Bonita. artsbonita.org
Nov. 21-24
American Sand Sculpting Championship Showcases world-class sand sculptors on Fort Myers Beach. fmbsandsculpting.com
Nov. 21 — Jan. 2
Dreams to Wings: Fort Myers Beach Art Association Exhibition
A juried exhibition of local art. artsbonita.org
Nov. 22
Chamber Music Concert Series – Violin Legends: Ysaÿe’s Legacy Solo violin, string quartet and piano performances at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Nov. 22
Mark Sanders: Celebrating Broadway Broadway National Tour alum Mark Sanders honors Broadway composers. Other performance dates: December 22, January 3, February 20 and March 13. artsbonita.org
Nov. 22 and 23
Emerging Playwrights Festival
Staged readings from two individuals with Florida
Gulf Coast University ties at TheatreLab. fgcu.edu
Nov. 23
Gary Hoey’s Ho Ho Hoey Tour
A Christmas concert from the lauded American rock and blues guitarist. artsbonita.org
Nov. 23 and 24
Fall Garden Festival
The annual Fort Myers festival features statewide vendors. edisonfordwinterestates.org
Nov. 24
Bluegrass Concert Series: HWY 41 South
An indoor concert with Florida bluegrass festival mainstays at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Nov. 25 — Dec. 22
Greetings
An endearing comedy about family and interfaith relationships in Fort Myers. playerscircletheater.com
Nov. 26 — Dec. 15
Agatha Christie’s The Murder of Roger Ackroyd
The novelist’s popular mystery adapted for the stage in Fort Myers. floridarep.org
Nov. 26 — Dec. 19
Merry & Bright Art Market
An annual holiday arts and crafts sale at Cape Coral Art Center. capecoral.gov
Nov. 29 — Dec. 1
Celebrate Small Business Artists
Creations from local artists at Flamingo Island Flea Market in Bonita Springs. cherelleart.com
Nov. 29 — Dec. 23, Dec. 26 — Jan. 5
Holiday Nights
A revamped Holiday Nights includes new displays at the historical Fort Myers site. edisonfordwinterestates.org
Nov. 30
Larry Venturino’s One Man Show
The comedian takes the stage with other acts for a laugh-out-loud show. ftmyerstheatre.com
December
Dec. 4
North Putnam—
A Film Screening
An independent film about the struggles of a rural school at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Dec. 4
Sebastian Maniscalco: It Ain’t Right Tour
The actor and comedian performs his stand-up act in Estero. hertzarena.com
Dec. 4-26
Merry Movie Magic
An open-call group art exhibition in the art center’s conservatory. sbdac.com
EXHIBITIONS
An Adventure in the Arts:
The Guild Hall Collection
Nov 9, 2024 - Jan 2, 2025
Art in Balance: Matisse & His
Illustrated Works
Jan 11 - r 6, 2025
E ENTS
Naples New Year's Art Fair
Jan 4 - 5, 2025
Scene To Be Seen
Feb 8, 2025
Naples National Art Fair
Feb 21 - 2 , 2025
Naples Downtown Art Fair
Mar 22 - 2 , 2025
E TION
Classes & Workshops
Oct 2024 - May 2025
ARTScool Summer Camp
Summer 2025
Dec. 5
Matt Mathews
The comedian’s Boujee on A Budget tour comes to Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Dec. 5
Student Ensemble Series: Piano Ensemble
A concert at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Dec. 5-8
Festival of Trees 2024 Holiday celebrations including a wine and paint, and outdoor concert at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. fortmyersfestivaloftrees.com
Dec. 5-8, 12-15, 19-22
Christmas with the Crawfords
A Fort Myers holiday show based on a Christmas Eve live radio broadcast from the late 1940s. laboratorytheaterflorida.com
Dec. 5 — Nov. 29, 2025 Environmental Art & Language
An installation at Cohen Student Union Building and Sugden Hall Thoroughfare. Reception on December 9. fgcu.edu
Dec. 6
Student Ensemble Series: All is Bright
A chamber strings concert at Sanibel Congregational United
Church of Christ. fgcu.edu
Dec. 6
Annual Pottery Sale
Clay works from Ceramic Studio alumni at the university’s Arts Complex. fgcu.edu
Dec. 6
The Po’ Ramblin Boys
A bluegrass concert with East Tennessee flare. artsbonita.org
Dec. 6
Tabby Budde
An artist meet-and-greet with a glass of wine in Fort Myers. artsforactgallery.com
Dec. 6
Tommy Emmanuel
A guitar performance with special guests The String Revolution in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Dec. 6 — Jan. 30
Immersive Projection Show, Curated by SBDAC & Israel Alpizar
An exhibition at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Dec. 6-8
Marian, or the True Tale of Robin Hood by Adam Szymkowicz
A play that reimagines Robin Hood as Maid Marian in disguise at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Dec. 6-8
Toadfrog
An original play at Koreshan State Park in Estero. ghostbirdtheatrecompany.org
Dec. 6-13
Senior Projects Fall 2024
Unique installations from the school’s graduating art majors on display in Wasmer Art Gallery. Opening reception on December 5. fgcu.edu
Dec. 6-26
My Journey
A solo exhibition from glass artist Deborah Powell Kramer at Cape Coral Art Center. capecoral.gov
Dec. 7
Bob Lauver’s Comedy Hypnosis Show
The entertainer takes the stage in Fort Myers. ftmyerstheatre.com
Dec. 7
Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade
A holiday boat parade with decorated boats and waterfront views. myriverdistrict.com
Dec. 7
Holiday in the Park
A festive outdoor event in Fort Myers. leecountyblackhistory society.org
Dec. 7
Lee Roy Parnell, A Texas “Flavored” Christmas
A country concert with
influences ranging from soul to swing. artsbonita.org
Dec. 7
One Vision of Queen Marc Martel performs a tribute to the iconic rock band in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Dec. 7 and 8
Annual Bromeliad Sale Growers sell hundreds of bromeliad varieties. edisonfordwinterestates.org
Dec. 8
Chayanne: Bailemos Otra Vez Tour
The Latin pop singer takes the stage in Estero. hertzarena.com
Dec. 8
Deck the Halls
Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall celebrates the season with classical renditions of holiday favorites. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Dec. 8
Nisita Concert Series: Maxim Lando
The pianist performs at U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Dec. 9-11
Southwest Florida Symphony Holiday Pops
A yuletide concert in Fort Myers. swflso.org
Dec. 10
Matthew West
A Christian concert from the singer-songwriter in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Dec. 10 — Jan. 12
Fully Committed
One actor plays forty roles in this comedy at Fort Myers’ Artstage Studio Theatre. floridarep.org
Dec. 11
NFMAA Nutcracker North Fort Myers Academy Arts Foundation performs. bbmannpah.com
Dec. 11
Sudamerica Latin Groove— Sudamerica Classic Groove
A concert fusing classical and world music styles. artsbonita.org
Dec. 11-26
Lee County Schools Holiday
Greeting Card Competition
Local students present their cards in Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center’s Grand Atrium. sbdac.com
Dec. 12
Art: The Gift For All Seasons
A holiday shopping experience at the Sanibel gallery. towergallery.net
Dec. 12
BIG ARTS Community Chorus & BIG ARTS Concert Band
A holiday performance featuring festive melodies in the Sanibel organization’s Christensen Performance Hall. bigarts.org
Dec. 12
Jazz at the MACC: Charlie Brown & the Nutcracker Suite
A selection of holiday classics at Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Dec. 12
Lindsay Garritson
The musician performs selections from The Nutcracker in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Dec. 12
The Fab Four
A Beatles tribute show in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Dec. 12-14 and 19-22
Clown Bar 2 by Adam Szymkowicz, Directed by Bill Taylor
A 21+ mystery play about underground clown crime at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Dec. 12-29
Annie the Musical
Follow along as the loveable redhead finds her forever family in this Broadway classic. ftmyerstheatre.com
Dec. 13
Bret Michaels
The Poison frontman rocks the stage in Estero. hertzarena.com
Dec. 13
Winter Serenade: Magic Holiday Memories
A Christmas concert featuring local violinist Anton Sikuta. artsbonita.org
Dec. 13-15
Ain’t Too Proud
A tribute to The Temptations in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Dec. 13-15, 27-29
Gifts of Art
Sales and free giveaways for the holiday season at Flamingo Island Flea Market in Bonita Springs. cherelleart.com
Dec. 14
Mike Zito
A concert with a Blues Music Awards Song of the Year winner. artsbonita.org
Dec. 14
The Nutcracker Gulfshore Ballet performs the holiday show on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Dec. 14 — Feb. 27
Daydreaming: Niki
Butcher’s Hand-Painted Photography
More than 60 images from more than five decades, on display at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island. clydebutcher.com
Dec. 15
Bluegrass Concert Series: Bill Metts and Frank Corso Palmgrass Music Society of Southwest Florida presents two multi-talented musicians at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Dec. 15
Gulf Coast Symphony at the MACC: Brahms Piano Concerto No. 1
A classical music performance featuring guest pianist Catherine Lam at Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Dec. 17
Zach Bartholomew Trio: A Charlie Brown Christmas
An award-winning pianist and his trio entertains with classic holiday tunes. tribbyartscenter.com
Dec. 19
Matt Fraser
A top psychic medium hits the stage in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Dec. 19
Zach Bartholomew: The Music of Vince Guaraldi: “A Charlie Brown Christmas”
A holiday concert from award-winning pianist Zach Bartholomew and his musical trio. artsbonita.org
Dec. 19 — Jan. 15
Kindred Spirits – Arts Bonita Staff and Faculty Group Show
A group exhibition showcasing in-house talent. artsbonita.org
Dec. 19 — Jan 15
Miniature Masterpieces
A holiday art show with small-scale works. artsbonita.org
Dec. 20
Holiday Open House
A free holiday open house on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Dec. 20 — Jan. 26
The Color of Air
An exhibit from SanibelCaptiva Art League’s 49th Southwest Florida Arts Council. bigarts.org
Dec. 21
Family Movie: The Muppets Christmas Carol
A screening at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Dec. 21
The Nutcracker Gulf Coast Symphony and Gulfshore Ballet unite for the yuletide show at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. gsballet.org
Dec. 21 and 22
Compton & Bennett: The Home… For the Holidays
A Christmas comedy takes place in a nursing home. artsbonita.org
Dec. 23
The Polar Express
A family-friendly film viewing on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Dec. 28 and 29
Cirque Dreams Holidaze
A whimsical, Broadway-style acrobatic production in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Dec. 28 and 29
Coconut Point New Year’s Weekend Art Festival
An outdoor event featuring art of all types. artfestival.com
Dec. 28-30
Piccadilly
A romantic play about two American GIs at the end of World War II, performed in Fort Myers. laboratorytheaterflorida.com
Dec. 30
Straight No Chaser
The professional a cappella group performs in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Dec. 31
Jim Gaffigan
The beloved stand-up comedian performs on New Year’s Eve in Estero. hertzarena.com
Dec. 31
New Year’s Eve
Rooftop Bash
A party in the Fort Myers art center’s rooftop sculpture garden and reception area. sbdac.com
Also in December
Southwest Florida Fine Arts Guild
An exhibit at the gallery’s
Estero location. cocoartgallery.com
January
Jan. 3
Lesley Morrow
An exhibit of works by the local artist opens in Fort Myers. artsforactgallery.com
Jan. 3-30
Brewing Expression: Coffee, Paintings & Poetry
A group art exhibition organized by Reynier Llanes in Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center’s Grand Atrium. sbdac.com
Jan. 4
Donna the Buffalo
A rock and country concert at Arts Bonita. artsbonita.org
Jan. 4 and 5
Detroit Doors
The Doors tribute band puts on a high-energy rock concert. ftmyerstheatre.com
Jan. 6 — May 3
Sergei Isupov and Selections from the Permanent Collection
An exhibition on the duality of selfhood. fgcu.edu
Jan. 7-12
Fifth Third Band Broadway Series: Jersey Boys
The hit musical about Frank Valli & The Four Seasons lands in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Jan. 7-26
Admissions
A dramatic comedy, performed in Fort Myers, about parents trying to get their kids into Ivy League schools. playerscircletheater.com
Locations:
634 5th Ave S. Naples, FL 34102
Miromar Design Center, 10800 Corkscrew Rd, Suite 195, Estero, FL 33928
Tel. 312-375-8887
www.aldocastillogallery.com
Lluis Barba, Marilyn Azul, Self Portrait Series, Diasec, 60 x 60 In.
Jan. 7-26
Lucky Stiff
A comedic murder mystery musical at the Historic Arcade Theatre. floridarep.org
Jan. 7-30
Naples Decorative Show
An exhibit at the gallery’s Estero location. cocoartgallery.com
Jan. 8
Lecture Series: The Words That Made Us — Should the Constitution Be Amended for the 21st Century?
A presentation from legal scholar Akhil Reed Amar on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Jan. 9
Harlem Globetrotters
The exhibition basketball team showcases mind-spinning tricks in Estero. hertzarena.com
Jan. 9
Zach Bartholomew: Rodolfo Zuniga’s “Surfaces” Featuring Saxophonist Jeff Ellwood
A concert at the cross section of Costa Rican music and modern jazz. artsbonita.org
Jan. 10
Jazzy Nights Concert Series: Jumaane Smith
A concert at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Jan. 10
Styx
The classic American rock band performs in Estero. hertzarena.com
Jan. 10 and 11
Dancing Dream: A Tribute to ABBA
ABBA’s greatest hits showcased in an nostalgic performance. tribbyartscenter.com
Jan. 11
Chris Mann Sings the Tony Bennett Songbook: From Gershwin to Gaga
The artist tackles the American jazz legend’s repertoire. bigarts.org
Jan. 11
Jeff Dunham
The ventriloquist, actor and stand-up comedian performs. hertzarena.com
Jan. 11 and 12
Bonita Springs National Art Festival
The first of three annual fine arts and crafts festivals held at Riverside Park. artsbonita.org
Jan. 11 and 12
Cape Coral Art Festival & Market Place
The 40th annual art festival celebrates the works of over 300 artists. capecoralartfestival.com
Jan. 11 and 12
Gulf Coast Symphony at the MACC: A Soldier’s Tale & Dead Elvis
An eclectic performance with works from Stravinsky and Daugherty at Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Jan. 11 — Feb. 22
At The Table
A juried exhibition of works by Shell Point artists with glass works by Petra Kaiser tribbyartscenter.com
Jan. 12
Bluegrass Concert Series: The Flatlanders Palmgrass Music Society of Southwest Florida presents a bluegrass and gospel band at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Jan. 12
Nisita Concert Series: James Giles, piano
A performance at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Jan. 13
Famous Author Lecture: Annabelle Tometich
The local author and food critic speaks in Fort Myers. sbdac.com
Jan. 14
Czech National Philharmonic Orchestra
The orchestra makes its debut at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. fortmyerscommunity concerts.org
Jan. 14
Solomon Eichner
An internationally acclaimed concert pianist performs in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Jan. 14 — Feb. 23
Caught in the Net
A dinner theater show in Fort Myers. broadwaypalm.com
Jan. 15
Lecture Series: What’s The Future for American Colleges?
Dr. Michael Roth visits Sanibel Island to speak about the purpose of higher education. bigarts.org
Jan. 15
Sudamerica Latin Groove—SLG’s Girl Power
A Latin music concert honoring women artists across time and genre. artsbonita.org
Jan. 16
Rick Howard—Mudbone
Jam Comes to Arts Bonita
A blues concert with a longstanding Southwest Florida legacy. artsbonita.org
Jan. 16
Jazz at the MACC: Zach Bartholomew Balancing Act
Featuring Benny Bennack
An album release party at Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Jan. 16-18
Luciano Pavarotti
Opera Naples International Voice Competition
The inaugural contest features emerging opera stars at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. operanaples.org
Jan. 17
Marlow Rosado –Salsa Meets Disco
A salsa-meets-disco concert with Miami vocalist Lucy Grau. artsbonita.org
Jan. 17 — Feb. 20
Finding Form: Sue Havens exhibition
An immersive installation of two- and three-dimensional works at Wasmer Art Gallery. Opening reception on January 16. fgcu.edu
Jan. 18
Allan Harris
A concert with the New York City jazz personality. artsbonita.org
Jan. 18
Always Loretta
The ultimate Loretta Lynn tribute on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
ARTS FOR ALL!
Jan. 18
Ode to Joy
A performance by the Fort Myers Mastersingers and Southwest Florida Symphony. bbmannpah.com
Jan. 19
Chicago Transit
A Chicago tribute concert at Arts Bonita. artsbonita.org
Jan. 19
Lecture Series: The Rule of Law Today Former U.S. Attorney General Bill Barr speaks on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Jan. 19
Symphonic Rewind: a Tribute to ’90s Music
A celebration of pre-Y2K music at Barbara B. Mann
Performing Arts Hall. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Jan 19. — Feb. 20
Revelation in Rhythm: Art Inspired by Music
A juried exhibition of harmonious works. artsbonita.org
Jan. 21
Young Concert Artists on Tour
An ensemble made up of gifted musicians performs on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Jan. 21-26
Fifth Third Bank Broadway Series: Funny Girl
The musical story about the loveable Fanny Brice and her journey to center stage. bbmannpah.com
Jan. 22
Lecture Series:
Law and the Media
Legal analyst for CBS News Rikki Klieman speaks on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Jan. 23
Judy Carmichael Trio
A performance by the Grammy-nominated pianist in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Jan. 23
Monroe Crossing
A bluegrass concert with a Minnesota-favorite band. artsbonita.org
Jan. 23 — Mar. 6
Anything but Ordinary: The Annual Arts Bonita
Members Exhibition
A members-only exhibition showcasing local talent. artsbonita.org
Jan. 24
Davina and the Vagabonds
A high-energy blues and jazz show on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Jan. 24
Empire Trio: From Hollywood to Broadway
A cabaret concert with hits from the stage and silver screen. artsbonita.org
Jan. 24
Jazzy Nights Concert Series: Ekep Nkwelle
A concert at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Jan. 24-26, Jan. 30 — Feb. 2, Feb. 6-8
Good Bad People
A poignant play and social commentary performed in Fort Myers. laboratorytheaterflorida.com
Jan. 24 — Apr. 18
Life is Alchemy
An exhibit of embroidery works by artist Maria Paula Suarez on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Jan. 25
Ronnie Baker Brooks
A concert with the Chicago blues mainstay. artsbonita.org
Jan. 26
The American Community Music Association Concert Series: House of Hamill The band behind “Pound a Week Rise” performs at
Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Jan 26 and 27
Britain’s Finest: The Complete Beatles Experience
A tribute to the English group in Fort Myers. broadwaypalm.com
Jan. 26
Nisita Concert Series: Kirsten Chambers, soprano & Michael Baron
A performance at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Jan. 27
Holocaust Remembrance
An evening of reflection in Fort Myers. laboratorytheaterflorida.com
Jan. 27
John Pizzarelli Trio
A performance from the Great American Songbook. tribbyartscenter.com
Jan. 28 — Mar. 2
Bloomsday
A time-travel romance performed in Fort Myers. floridarep.org
Jan. 28
Frisson Ensemble
Up-and-coming talent and seasoned pros in the world of classical music perform at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. fortmyerscommunity concerts.org
Jan. 28
Storytelling Series: Fire and Ice: A Pittsburgh Inheritance
Carol Birch shares her story at Wasmer Art Gallery. fgcustorytelling.com
Jan. 29
Storytelling Series: Only Connect: Stories
Old and New
Carol Birch shares her story at Wasmer Art Gallery. fgcustorytelling.com
Jan. 29 — Feb. 8
Lerner & Loewe’s Camelot
A fantastical Broadway hit comes to Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Jan. 30
Dueling Pianos
A concert at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Jan. 30
The Weight Band
An Americana concert in Bonita Springs. artsbonita.org
Jan. 30 — Feb. 2
The Boy from Block 66
A play about a 14-year-old boy’s resistance during the Holocaust. artsbonita.org
Jan. 31
The Barricade Boys
A British theatrical vocal group performs on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Jan. 31
Bluegrass Music Series: Twisted Pine
The Americana funk band performs at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Jan. 31
Gulf Coast Symphony at Big Arts
The symphony comes to Sanibel Island. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Jan. 31 — Mar. 9
Coming Home…
An exhibit of works by German artist Mally Khorasantchi on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Jan. 31 — Feb. 2
ArtFest Fort Myers
More than 200 artists set up shop in the River District. artfestfortmyers.com
February
Feb. 1
Community Prayer Breakfast
A day of unity in Fort Myers. leecountyblackhistorysociety.org
Feb. 1
John Williams the Great Southwest Florida Symphony Orchestra performs selections from classic movie scores at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. swflso.org
Feb. 1
TobyMac’s Hits Deep Tour 2025
Feb. 1 and 2
Youth Theatre Presents: Disney Pixar’s Finding Nemo Kids
A musical adaptation of the beloved movie at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Feb. 1-28
Weavers of Char-Lee
An exhibit at the gallery’s Estero location. cocoartgallery.com
Feb. 2
The Doo Wop Project
A symphonic tribute to malt shops and rock ‘n’ roll. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Feb. 2
Nisita Concert Series: Baron & Navarro Piano Duo
A performance at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Feb. 2
Sing Out! Festival
Concert - Vienna, My City of Dreams
A performance of contemporary music about Vienna. choralartistry.org
Feb. 4 — Mar. 2
The Fantasticks
A timeless musical comedy about fathers who try to get their kids to fall in love. playerscircletheater.com
The Christian singer-songwriter and rapper lands in Estero. hertzarena.com
Feb. 4
Women of Rock
A celebration of powerful female voices at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Feb. 5
Lecture Series: Can There Ever Be a Real Day After?
Dr. Natan Sachs visits Sanibel Island to speak on Middle Eastern policy and aid opportunities. bigarts.org
Feb. 5
Kenny Wayne
Shepherd Band
The band celebrates their 25-year-old album, Trouble Is… 25, in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Feb. 5
Lunch & Lecture, The Ways of Watercolor: Watercolor Masters—Kirah Van Sickle
An artist and instructor explores the storytelling work of watercolor artists. artsbonita.org
Feb. 6
C.S. Lewis
A performance in Fort Myers capturing the memory of the beloved author. bbmannpah.com
Feb. 6
David Shifrin & The Miró Quartet
A concert at BIG ARTS on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Feb. 6
Opera to Broadway Concert
A quartet performs in Bonita Springs. gulfshoreopera.org
Feb. 6
Rendezvous with Benny
A chamber concert with clarinetist David Shifrin and Miró Quartet on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Feb. 6
Timeless
A Sanibel Island exhibition exploring the late Charlie McCullough’s historical photography. towergallery.net
Feb. 6
Student Ensemble Series: Wind Orchestra Concert
A concert at U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Feb. 7
Amanda Zirzow
An exhibit of works by the Fort Myers artist. artsforactgallery.com
Feb. 7
Dover Quartet
A chamber concert in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Feb. 7-27
Expressions
An exhibit with Southwest Florida Fine Craft Guild at Cape Coral Art Center. capecoral.gov
Feb. 7-27
Hypnopompia
An immersive, multimedia art exhibition by local artist Danielle Branchaud in Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center’s Grand Atrium. sbdac.com
Feb. 7-27
Read Between the Lines
An exhibit at Cape Coral Art Center. capecoral.gov
Feb. 7-27
XO
An art exhibition by DAASCOOP co-founder Xavier Brignoni in Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center’s Capital Gallery. sbdac.com
Feb. 8
Authentic Unlimited
A bluegrass performance from an award-winning quintet on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Feb. 8
Nisita Concert Series: Raymond Jaramillo McLeod, bass-baritone
A performance at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Feb. 8
Windborne Classic Rock Symphony
A cutting-edge musical production in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Feb. 8 and 9
Bonita Springs National Art Festival
The second of three annual fine arts and fine crafts festivals held at Riverside Park. artsbonita.org
Feb. 8 and 9
Winter Garden Festival
More than 60 plant vendors gather alongside live music. edisonfordwinterestates.org
Feb. 9
Bluegrass Concert Series: Low Ground
Palmgrass Music Society of Southwest Florida presents a South Florida band at Alliance For The Arts. artinlee.org
Feb. 10
Famous Author Lecture: Lisa Black
The Cape Coral author and forensic scientist speaks. sbdac.com
Feb. 11
Storytelling Series: Tell Your Story – Theme: Love The community shares stories at Wasmer Art Gallery. fgcustorytelling.com
Feb. 11
Sudamerica Latin Groove Presents: Humans
The Bolivian band explores music, poetry and imagery on stage. artsbonita.org
Feb. 11
Tonight’s the Night
A Rod Stewart tribute concert featuring his former saxophone player, Katja Rieckermann, in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Feb. 11 — Mar. 2
BOCA
A new comedy about Florida living. floridarep.org
Feb. 12
Imani Winds and Boston Brass
A concert from the Grammy Award-nominated artist and accompanying music group at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. fortmyerscommunityconcerts. org
Feb. 12
Lecture Series: What Your Gen Z Grand Kids Think About American Politics and The World They Want to Create Dr. John Della Volpe, Director of Polling at the Harvard Kennedy School of Politics, speaks about young voters’ political engagement. bigarts.org
Feb. 12
Rick Howard—Swing and Sing with Danny Sinoff
A concert of selections from the Great American Songbook. artsbonita.org
Feb. 13
Chris Botti
A concert from the Grammy Award-winning trumpeter in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Feb. 13
Jupiter and Jasper Quartets
A concert featuring two distinguished quartets on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Feb. 13
National Geographic Live: Cave of Bones
A paleoanthropologist talks about the origins of humanity in South Africa. tribbyartscenter.com
Feb. 13
Student Ensemble Series: Symphonic Band Concert
A concert at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Feb. 13
Zach Bartholomew: “How My Heart Sings” the Music of Bill Evans
A concert honoring the legendary jazz pianist. artsbonita.org
Feb. 13-15 and 20-23
Jitney by August Wilson, Directed by Sonya McCarter
A play about family, addiction, war and prejudice at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Feb. 14
Jazzy Nights Concert Series: Nicole Zuraitis “Love is In The Air”
A concert at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Feb. 14
Love Letters
A drama following 50 years of letters between childhood friends. artsbonita.org
Feb. 14
Phat Cat Swinger
A concert with a blend of jazz, swing and rock on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Feb. 14
Ranky Tanky
A quartet brings South Carolina’s Gullah culture to Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Feb. 14
Where Do I Begin: Love Songs & Music of Tony Bennett
A tribute concert with
Philadelphia vocalist Eddie Bruce. artsbonita.org
Feb. 14
You’ve Got Mail!: Musical Love Letters
A romantic concert at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall for Valentine’s Day weekend. swflso.org
Feb. 14-23
Radium Girls
A play based on the tragic realworld story at TheatreLab. fgcu.edu
Feb. 15
Hotel California
A tribute concert with songs from The Eagles. artsbonita.org
Feb. 15
Kathleen Madigan
A stand-up routine from the comedian and television personality hits Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Feb. 15
Marca MP: Simplemente Marca Tour
The Latin music group takes the stage in Estero. hertzarena.com
Feb. 15 and 16
Coconut Point Art Festival
An annual art festival at the Estero shopping center. artfestival.com
Feb. 16
The American Community Music Association Concert Series: Grant Peeples ft.
J.D. Lashley
A concert filled with humor and cultural insights from the contemporary folk artist at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Feb. 16
The Music of Elton John
The pop-rock icon’s songs performed by actor and musician Michael Cavanaugh at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Feb. 18
Ann Hampton Callaway with Branden & James
A night of jazz, pop and cabaret talent. tribbyartscenter.com
Feb. 18-23
Fifth Third Bank Broadway Series: A Beautiful Noise
A musical of Neil Diamond’s life hits the stage in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Feb. 18 — Mar. 19
“Water”
Sanibel-Captiva Art League and Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation present new artworks at Bailey Homestead Preserve. sancapart.org
Feb. 19
Lecture Series: Are Charter Schools the Way to Improve American Education? Professor of Political Science and Education at Columbia University Teacher’s College
Dr. Jeffrey R. Henig speaks on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Feb. 19
Santos-Skin to Skin— A Film Screening
An independent film about activist and seven-time Grammy Award nominee John Santos at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Feb. 20
Backtrack Blues Band
The Florida band, whose lead singer founded the Tampa Bay Blues Festival, performs. artsbonita.org
Feb. 20
The Brothers Doobie
A tribute to the American rock band in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Feb. 20
Ilya Yakushev
A lauded Russian pianist performs on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Feb. 20
Jazz at the MACC: The Jazz Trio
A performance of music from Thelonious Monk, Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock and others at Music & Arts
Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Feb. 20
Student Ensemble Series: Jazz Ensemble Concert
A concert at U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Feb. 21
Bluegrass Music Series: Michael Cleveland and Jason Carter
The duo performs at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Feb. 21
Student Ensemble Series: Bel Canto, Cantabile and University Choir
A concert at U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Feb. 21 — Apr. 5
Crazy for You
A Tony Award-winning musical comedy. broadwaypalm.com
Feb. 22
Cyrille Aimée
A jazz concert influenced by Caribbean rhythms. artsbonita.org
Feb. 22 and 23
Bruckner’s Mass in F Minor with the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra
Maestro Andrew Kurtz leads the Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers alongside the symphony orchestra. mastersingersfm.com
Feb. 23
Student Ensemble Series: Symphony Orchestra
A concert at U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Feb. 24 and 25
Buffett’s Margaritaville
A tribute to the late Jimmy Buffett in Fort Myers. broadwaypalm.com
Feb. 25 — Mar. 2
Fifth Third Bank Broadway Series: Come From Away
A Tony Award-winning musical in Fort Myers about the strength in communities following a tragedy. bbmannpah.com
Feb. 26
Ailey II
The dance company performs at BIG ARTS on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Feb. 26
Chamber Music
Concert Series: American Virtuosi Concert
A performance at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Feb. 26 — Mar. 15
Murder for Two
A comedic murder mystery at Music & Arts
Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Feb. 26
Soul Cruisers: Destination Soultown
A concert of classic soul and Motown music. artsbonita.org
Feb. 26
Student Ensemble Series: Student
Compositions Concert
A concert at U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Feb. 27
Fandango!
The multi-award-winning musical group combines classical, Sephardic, Latin, Spanish and Balkan sounds at their Sanibel Island show. bigarts.org
Feb. 27
Lecture Series: Author/ Photographer Budd Titlow, Bird Brains: Inside the Minds of our Feathered Friends
A presentation at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. dingdarlingsociety.org
Feb. 27 and 28
The Jersey Tenors
A dynamic fusion of opera and rock in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Feb. 27 — Apr. 10
ACSWF: A Collective Art Experience
A group exhibition of artists from Arts Council of Southwest Florida. artsbonita.org
Feb. 28, Mar. 1 and 2, 6-10, 13-15, 20-23
Jesus Christ Superstar
A production of the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical in Fort Myers. laboratorytheaterflorida.com
PAINTINGS,
Feb. 28 — Mar. 1
The Biennial Art Show & Sale
Original ceramics, fused glass, watercolors and other works for sale in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Feb. 28 — Apr. 13
Savannah Sipping Society
A comedic performance full of friendship and enthusiasm in Fort Myers. broadwaypalm.com
March
Mar. 1 and 2
Bonita Springs National Art Festival
A fine arts and crafts festival held at Riverside Park. artsbonita.org
Mar. 1
Late Nite Catechism: The Holy Ghost and Other Terrifying Tales
A religious theater performance full of Halloween fun on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Mar. 3-29
Southwest Florida Watercolor Society
An exhibit at the gallery’s Estero location. cocoartgallery.com
Mar. 5
The Incorrigibles do Classic Soul & Motown
The Fort Myers band performs everything from Curtis Mayfield to King Floyd. artsbonita.org
Mar. 5
Lecture Series: Artificial Intelligence: Reality Catching Up to Science Fiction
A forum on Sanibel Island about the positive and negative consequences of AI use. bigarts.org
Mar. 5
Lunch & Lecture
Post-Impressionism: The Genesis of Expressionism— Kirah Van Sickle
Artist and instructor Kirah Van Sickle explores the impact of
impressionist art. artsbonita.org
Mar. 6
Zach Bartholomew: “A Night in New York” Featuring NYC Vocalist Kate Kortum
A concert of songs from rising jazz star Kate Kortum. artsbonita.org
Mar. 6 and 7
One Night in Memphis
An unforgettable evening of rock ’n’ roll royalty in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Mar. 6-8
Sanibel Shell Show
Sanibel-Captiva Shell Club’s impressive display of conchs and other sea trinkets. sanibelshellclub.com
Mar. 7
Dervish
Celtic music in Bonita Springs. artsbonita.org
Mar. 7
Gulf Coast Symphony at Art Fest
The symphony takes over Fort Myers’ Caloosa Sound Amphitheater. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Mar. 7-27
Art Focus
An exhibition of fine art students at Cape Coral
Art Center. capecoral.gov
Mar. 7-27
Possibilitas
An art exhibition in Fort Myers from the Young Emerging Artists Group Exhibition. sbdac.com
Mar. 7 — May 10
Bill & Bart: Artworks in Wood by Bill Schmigle and Bart Sharp
A tour de force of woodworking skills in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Mar. 7 — May 10
The Winners’ Circle: Award-Winning Works by The Arts Council of Southwest Florida
One of two biennial exhibitions presented by ACSF. tribbyartscenter.com
Mar. 8
George Michael Reborn
A concert in Fort Myers in homage to the singer and the music of WHAM! bigarts.org
Mar. 8
John Jorgenson Quintet
A concert from the group well known for their hot club-syle jazz artsbonita.org
Mar. 8
March in the Park Plant Sale and Art Expo
The expo at Jaycee Park has more than 1,000 plants for sale. gardenclubofcapecoral.com
Mar. 8 and 9
24 Hour Film Festival
A competition for creatives at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. ghostbirdtheatrecompany.org
Mar. 9
Bluegrass Concert Series: Swinging Bridge
Palmgrass Music Society of Southwest Florida mainstays perform at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Mar. 9
Luminara Concert –“The Sky’s the Limit!”
The recently formed women’s choir performs at Saint Hilary’s Episcopal Church. mastersingersfm.com
Mar. 9
A Night with Nelsons
A rock concert from twin multi-platinum recording artists Matthew and Gunnar Nelson. artsbonita.org
Mar. 9
Bluegrass Concert Series: Swinging Bridge
A bluegrass concert at Alliance or the Arts. palmgrass.org
Mar. 9 and 10
Dwight Icenhower’s Tribute to the King
A renowned Elvis impersonator entertains a Fort Myers audience. broadwaypalm.com
Mar. 10
Famous Author Lecture: James Swain
The American mystery author speaks. sbdac.com
Mar. 10 and 11
Frontiers: A Tribute to Journey
A concert honoring the
beloved rock band in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Mar. 11 — Apr. 6
Flatlanders
A comedy full of secrets and discoveries in Fort Myers. playerscircletheater.com
Mar. 11
Nisita Concert Series: Enrico Elisi, piano
A performance at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Mar. 12
Kim’s Video—A Film Screening
An independent film about a strange collection of 55,000 rental titles. artinlee.org
Mar. 12
Lecture Series: The Longevity Quest in Fact and Fiction
A panel discussion on Sanibel Island addressing the pursuit of longevity and its frequently overlooked impacts. bigarts.org
Mar. 12
Sudamerica Latin
Groove—World Music Celebration Vol.2
A concert honoring the band’s
varied influences, from classical to tango to rock. artsbonita.org
Mar. 13
Lecture Series: Actor Joe Wiegand: “President Teddy Roosevelt Reprised”
A presentation at “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. dingdarlingsociety.org
Mar. 13
Student Ensemble Series: Wind Chamber Choirs
A concert at Fort Myers’ U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Mar. 13 — Apr. 24
Arts Bonita Atelier and Sculpture Studio Exhibition
A student exhibition focusing on figurative work. artsbonita.org
Mar. 13 — Apr. 24
Florals and Figures: The Art of Sue Anderson
An exhibition from a Fort Myers plein air painter. artsbonita.org
Mar. 14
Edge of Couture: The Art of Fashion
An avant-garde fashion show at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center featuring looks from local artists and designers. sbdac.com
Mar. 14
Jazz at Lincoln Center
Presents: New Orleans Songbook
A Sanibel Island show honoring the songwriters of Crescent City. bigarts.org
Mar. 14 — Apr. 27
Impediments and Byways to Love on the Road to Eternity
A collaborative exhibit of sculpture and painting on Sanibel Island between Swedish artists Monika Larsen Dennis and Frida Oliv. bigarts.org
Mar. 15
2025: A Space Odyssey
A remarkable orchestral journey in Fort Myers with Southwest Florida Symphony, led by Maestro Stilian Kirov. bbmannpah.com
Mar. 15
Ramon Ayala: El Principio de Un Final Tour 2024
The Mexican singer and composer performs in Estero. hertzarena.com
Mar. 16
Chamber Music Concert
Series: Curtis on Tour Guitar Quartet
A concert at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Mar. 16
Jazzy Nights Concert Series: Danny Sinoff Trio
A concert at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Mar. 18
Riders in the Sky
A Western music concert with a modern twist. tribbyartscenter.com
Mar. 18 — Apr. 13
SHOUT! The Mod Musical
A play in Fort Myers about English women in the ’60s. floridarep.org
Mar. 19
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts National Symphony Orchestra
A national orchestra performs in Fort Myers. fortmyerscommunityconcerts. org
Mar. 19
Life & Legacy of John Lewis
An exploration of the late civil rights activist and American politician by Professor Raymond Arsenault in Fort Myers. bigarts.org
March 20
Lecture Series: Author Charles Sobczak: “The Great Florida Invasion –From Pepper to Pythons”
A presentation at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge. dingdarlingsociety.org
Mar. 20
Peking Acrobats
Renowned jugglers, cyclists and tumblers perform on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Mar. 21 — Apr. 3
Juried Student
Art Exhibition
Up to 70 works in various mediums on display at Wasmer Art Gallery in Fort Myers. Opening reception on March 20. fgcu.edu
Mar. 22
Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen
A bluegrass concert from veterans of The Grand Ole Opry. artsbonita.org
Mar. 22
Spill: A Staged Reading
A theatrical performance at Arts Bonita. artsbonita.org
Mar. 23
The American Community Music Association (ACMA) Concert Series: The Honey Badgers ft. Fred Bel
An award-winning folk band performs outdoors in Fort Myers. artinlee.org
Mar. 23
West Side Story
A play on the classic Romeo and Juliet story at Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Mar. 23 and 24
ABBAFAB
An ABBA tribute concert over dinner in Fort Myers. broadwaypalm.com
Mar. 25
National Geographic Live: Untangling the Mind
An exploration of the origins of thoughts, emotions and memories from neuroscientist Steve Ramirez. tribbyartscenter.com
Mar. 25
Piano Battle
World-renowned pianists
Paul Cibis and Andreas Kern go head-to-head at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. fortmyerscommunity concerts.org
Mar. 25
Rusalka (English Translation)
An opera that loosely mirrors Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid at Arts Bonita gulfshoreopera.org
Mar. 25
Storytelling Series: Tell Your Story –Theme: Luck
The community shares stories at Wasmer Art Gallery. fgcustorytelling.com
Mar. 26
The Mango Tree - A Story of Fruit, Florida and Felony A local author and food writer discusses her breakout memoir to a Sanibel Island audience. bigarts.org
Mar. 26
Storytelling Series: Legacy of Love
Joel Ying shares his story. fgcustorytelling.com
Mar. 26
Storytelling Series: Tamiami Tale Tellers
A showcase at Wasmer Art Gallery. fgcustorytelling.com
Mar. 27
Jazz at the MACC: Modern Creations: Uplifting Songs
A performance featuring brand new music from The Jazz Collective at Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Mar. 27, Apr. 1, 8, 15
Tomatoes Tried to Kill Me, But Banjos Saved My Life Alliance for the Arts presents a play about leaving the corporate world to pursue your dreams—based on a true story. artinlee.org
Mar. 28
Bluegrass Music Series: The Jacob Jolliff Band
A concert at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Mar. 29
The Players: Formerly of Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire
A trip through the decades with tunes from some of the most well-known rock ‘n’ roll bands, on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Mar. 29
SWFL Symphony: The 4 Seasons — Vivaldi and Valli
An unlikely combination
of classical compositions and tunes from the Jersey Boy at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Mar. 29 and 30
Compton & Bennett Assisted Living: The Musical Two actors cover 18 roles in this comedy. artsbonita.org
Special guests and friends of the symphony perform. gulfcoastsymphony.org
April
Apr. 1
Storytelling Series: Mining Story Gems Diane Macklin tells her story. fgcustorytelling.com
Apr. 1
Student Ensemble Series: Chamber Strings at Music at SCUCC Concert Series
An orchestra ensemble at Sanibel’s Congregational United Church of Christ. fgcu.edu
Apr. 1-6
Fifth Third Bank Broadway Series: MJ The Musical
A high-energy tribute to the late King of Pop in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Apr. 2
Dailey & Vincent
A veteran bluegrass duo performs. artsbonita.org
Apr. 2
Lift— A Film Screening
An independent film about a ballet dancer returning home. artinlee.org
Apr. 2
Storytelling Series: Bringing Hearts Together
Diane Macklin speaks for the second time in the series. fgcustorytelling.com
Apr. 3
Rick Howard—Jazz
Meets the Blues
A blues concert with Arts Bonita resident artists. artsbonita.org
Apr. 3
Student Ensemble Series: Wind Chamber Ensembles An instrumental chamber concert at U. Tobe Recital Hall in Fort Myers. fgcu.edu
Apr. 4
Uri Gurvich
A jazz concert from a New York saxophonist and composer. artsbonita.org
Apr. 4-24
International Baccalaureate
Visual Arts Exhibition
An art exhibition in the Fort Myers art center’s Grand Atrium. sbdac.com
Apr. 4-24
Ring of Fire
A group of works using fire, flames or heat at Cape Coral Art Center. capecoral.gov
Apr. 4-25
Art For The Senses: See, Smell, Touch & Sound
An art exhibition by local abstract artist Marvin Rouse in the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center’s Grand Atrium. sbdac.com
Apr. 4-25
Daughters of the Revolution250th Anniversary of American Revolution Art Show
An art exhibition exploring the sacrifices made for independence in the art center’s Capital Gallery in Fort Myers. sbdac.com
Apr. 5
Chamber Music Concert Series: Wit & Whimsy: Trios of Mozart & Francaix
A concert at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Apr. 5 and 6
Gulf Coast Symphony at the MACC: Mostly Mozart
A celebration of string concertos at Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Apr. 6
Mastersingers Spring Concert – “Choral Greatest Hits”
The choral group’s season closing performance at New Hope Presbyterian Church in Fort Myers. mastersingersfm.com
Apr. 6
Nisita Concert Series: Piano Quintet
A concert at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Apr. 9
EagleMania
A tribute to the music of The Eagles in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Apr. 9
Jane Wooldridge: Art Basel & the Art Scene
An award-winning Miami native explores different elemental themes of art on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Apr. 9
Sudamerica Latin Groove— Brazil Latin Groove
The Arts Bonita resident band performs samba and more. artsbonita.org
Apr. 9-26
Jerry’s Girls
A musical revue celebrating Jerry Herman at Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Apr. 10
Beginnings
A tribute to the music of the band Chicago in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Apr. 10
Student Ensemble Series: Percussion Ensemble
A concert at U. Tobe Recital Hall in Fort Myers. fgcu.edu
Apr. 10
Timothy Chooi
A violin concert embodying mesmerizing virtuosity and emotional depth in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
Apr. 11
Dueling Pianos
A competitive concert at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Apr. 11
Student Ensemble Series: Bel Canto & Cantabile
A choral concert at U. Tobe Recital Hall in Fort Myers. fgcu.edu
Apr. 11-27
The Wolves
A play surrounding a girls’ soccer team at TheatreLab. fgcu.edu
Apr. 11
BIG ARTS Community Chorus & BIG ARTS Concert
Band Spring Performance
Local community members gather for a combined musical performance in Fort Myers. bigarts.org
Apr. 11
Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons
A ‘Last Encores Tour’ for devoted fans in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Apr. 11, 12, 18 and 19
Jesus Christ Superstar
The smash hit musical comes to Arts Bonita. artsbonita.org
Apr. 11-27
The Minutes
Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Tracy Letts’ new Broadway show adapted for the Fort Myers stage. laboratorytheaterflorida.com
Apr. 11 — May 24
Waitress
A musical adaptation of the beloved film, with a moving score by Sara Bareilles, lands in Fort Myers. broadwaypalm.com
Apr. 12
Family & Friends Day featuring Wild World of Animals
An annual event that dives into the world of wildlife, with live entertainment and crafts on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Apr. 12
Jimmy Failla
A stand-up performance in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Apr. 13
Student Ensemble Series: Brahms Ein deutsches Requiem Chamber & University Choirs and Symphony Orchestra with Choral Artistry perform at First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs. fgcu.edu
Apr. 13
Andrew Lloyd Webber & Friends
A tribute to the musical composer at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Apr. 14
Famous Author Lecture: Scott Eyman
The American biographer speaks at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Apr. 15
Symphonic Band (Green Band) Concert
A free concert at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Apr. 15 — May 11
The Business of Murder Plot twists abound in this psychological thriller
in Fort Myers. playerscircletheater.com
Apr. 15-20
Fifth Third Bank Broadway Series: Les Misérables
The Broadway touring company brings the eight-time Tony Award-winning musical to Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Apr. 15 — May 18
Venus In Fur
A play for adult audiences in Fort Myers. floridarep.org
Apr. 16
Mickela Mallozzi: Inspirational Travel in Bare Feet
The Emmy Award-winning host presents her lecture series in Fort Myers about the diversity of dance and travel. bigarts.org
Apr. 16
Taste of Opera Operatic performances accompanied by dinner at
Bay Club at The Colony. gulfshoreopera.org
Apr. 17
Bonita Springs Short Film Festival
This 10th-anniversary festival showcases movies of all genres. bonitaspringsfilmfestival.org
Apr. 17 — June 5
Culture Shock!
A pop culture-inspired exhibit. artsbonita.org
Apr. 18
Jazzy Nights Concert Series: New Jazz Underground
A concert at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Apr. 18 — May 2
Senior Projects Spring 2025 Unique installations from the school’s graduating art majors on display in Wasmer Art Gallery. Opening reception on April 17. fgcu.edu
Apr. 18 — May 24
Half Baked
A comedy in Fort Myers filled with antics and hijinx between two brothers attempting to open a business. broadwaypalm.com
Apr. 22
Student Ensemble Series: Jazz Ensemble
A performance at U. Tobe Recital Hall in Fort Myers. fgcu.edu
Apr. 22
Tell Your Story: Kindness and Compassion
The power of spoken stories shines at Wasmer Art Gallery. fgcu.edu
Apr. 24
Foreigner’s Journey
A night of unforgettable classic rock in Fort Myers presented by MRC Productions. bbmannpah.com
Apr. 24
Student Ensemble Series: Wind Orchestra
A concert at U. Tobe Recital Hall in Fort Myers. fgcu.edu
Apr. 24
Zach Bartholomew: Caliente! Evolutions and Revolutions in Latin Jazz
A concert featuring musicians like celebrated percussionist Michael Bakan. artsbonita.org
Apr. 25
Bluegrass Music Series: Remedy Tree
An indie folk performance in Fort Myers. sbdac.com
Apr. 25 — Jun. 6
Annual Artists Collective
Featuring the arts organization’s instructors and a wide array of eclectic works at the Mezzanine Gallery on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
Apr. 25
John Crist
The Christian Comedian performs in Fort Myers. bbmannpah.com
Apr. 25-27
6 Guitars starring Chase Padgett
The actor, singer and guitarist performs blues, jazz rock, classical, folk and country at Alliance for the Arts. artinlee.org
Apr. 26
American Beauty
The Southwest Florida Symphony performs pieces inspired by U.S. composers at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. swflso.org
Apr. 26
Cape Coral Culture Fest
The City of Cape Coral Parks & Recreation puts on its annual festival in Cultural Park. capeculturefest.com
Apr. 26
Marlow Rosado: Encore Fiesta Latin Season
Highlights
The Grammy Award-winner pulls favorites from his performances throughout the season. artsbonita.org
Apr. 27
Piano Ensembles Concert
A free concert at Florida Gulf Coast University’s U. Tobe Recital Hall. fgcu.edu
Apr. 29
Lucia di Lammermoor
Donizetti’s bel canto sensation makes its way to Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall for an evening. gulfshoreopera.org
Also in April
Estero Art League
An exhibit at the gallery’s Estero location. cocoartgallery.com
May
May 1-8
High School Scholarship Showcase
A student exhibition from all Lee County and select Collier County schools. artsbonita.org
May 1
Jazz at the MACC: John Coltrane’s A Love Supreme
The Jazz Collective performs the American saxiphonist’s complete album in Fort Myers. gulfcoastsymphony.org
May 1-3
New Play Winner Readings
The New Play Contest winners present their works in Fort Myers. laboratorytheaterflorida.com
May 2-29
A Drop of Poison
A female group show in Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center’s Grand Atrium in Fort Myers. sbdac.com
May 2-29
Kids These Days
A children’s showcase side gallery exhibit at Cape Coral Art Center. capecoral.gov
May 2 — June 26
Whispers at Screams: Surreal Abstraction
A juried, open-call abstract surrealism main gallery exhibit at Cape Coral Art Center. capecoral.gov
May 9 — June 6
Art as Therapy: Hope and Healing Through Art
A powerful exhibit showcasing a wide array of grief and pain through artistic expression on Sanibel Island. bigarts.org
May 10
Victor Wainwright and the Train
An award-winning blues band performs at Arts Bonita. artsbonita.org
May 10 and 11
Gulf Coast Symphony at the MACC: Donizetti’s Don Pasquale
A comedic opera at Music & Arts Community Center. gulfcoastsymphony.org
May 14-18
Fort Myers Film Festival
An experimental cinematic showcase across Lee County. fortmyersfilmfestival.com
May 15
Journey through the Americas
Gulfshore Opera’s GO Divas and Latin Infusion perform in Bonita Springs. gulfshoreopera.org
May 15
Sudamerica Latin Groove— SLG & Friends
The Arts Bonita resident band performs their debut album. artsbonita.org
May 15-22
Reclaiming the Future:
A Student Showcase of Recycled Art
Young artists showcase work made from salvaged materials. artsbonita.org
May 16
Journeyman: A tribute to Eric Clapton Blues guitar prodigy
Shaun Hague performs at Arts Bonita. artsbonita.org
May 17
Emancipation Day Event
Fort Myers celebrates the abolishment of slavery in Florida’s history. leecountyblackhistory society.org
May 17 — July 19
Ripples
Painters from the Fort Myers Beach Art Association interpret the titular theme through two- and threedimensional artworks in Fort Myers. tribbyartscenter.com
May 29 — June 1
Fringe Fort Myers
An inclusive, unjuried and uncensored theater festival at Alliance for the Arts and Broadway Palm Dinner Theater. artinlee.org
May 30 — June 28
Legally Blonde
A musical based on the legendary Hollywood film hits the stage in Fort Myers. broadwaypalm.com
Recurring Events
COLLIER COUNTY
Daily
Shell Mound Tour
A hands-on tour of environmental and cultural history at Mound House. moundhouse.org
First Fridays from Nov. — Apr.
Newman Art Gallery
Gallery nights from 6 to 9 p.m. with refreshments in Naples. newmanartgallery.com
First Fridays from Nov. — May
Meet the Artist
An artist reception at the Naples gallery. November’s event is on the first Tuesday; no event in April. bayshoreartgallery.com
First Mondays from Nov. — Mar.
Artist Reception
Wine, snacks and networking at the Marco Island gallery. bettynewmanart.com
Jazz musician
Brandon Sanderson
showcases his skills on the bass alongside resident Florida artists at Fort Myers’ Music & Arts Community Center on November 14.
First Fridays
First Friday at Mound House
Free admission, crafts, activities and storytelling. moundhouse.org
Fridays
Friday After 5
The garden and Fogg Café stay open late February through April. naplesgarden.org
Last Fridays from Jan. — Mar.
Garden Side Chickee Chat
Discussions on Naples’ history and future. napleshistoricalsociety.org
Monthly from Nov. — Apr.
Critic’s Choice Series
Elaine Newton explores modern literature on second
or third Thursdays and Saturdays. artisnaples.org
Monthly from Nov. — Apr.
Naples Dixieland Jazz Band
An outdoor concert on first, second or third Sundays. No show in January. thenaplesjazzsociety.com
Monthly from Nov. — Apr.
Naples Jazzmasters
The jazz band performs at River Park Community Center on first or second Saturdays. thenaplesjazzsociety.com
Monthly from Dec. — Apr. Piano Talks
Pianist Jodie DeSalvo performs with guests on second or third Thursdays. artisnaples.org
Monthly from Jan. — Mar. Hooray for Hollywood
An examination of classic films on select Fridays and Mondays. artisnaples.org
Monthly from Jan. — Mar.
Naples Big Band
An outdoor concert at Marco Island’s Veterans Community Park on first, second or fourth Sundays. naplesbigband.com
Monthly from Jan. — Apr.
Naples Big Band
An outdoor concert at Naples’ Cambier Park on first Sundays or Mondays. naplesbigband.com
Monthly from Jan. — Apr. Outdoor Art Shows
An alfresco show at Marco Island Center for the Arts on select Saturdays and Sundays. No show in February. marcoislandart.org
Monthly from Jan. — May Lecture Series
Talks about theater and art. gulfshoreplayhouse.org
Second Saturdays from Nov. — Mar. Open Studios
Artist meet-and-greets and live demonstrations in Naples. naplesartdistrict.com
Second Saturdays from Nov. — Apr.
Naples Artcrafters Fine Art & Crafts Show
Monthly shows in Cambier Park are free to the public. January’s show is at Fleischmann Park. February’s show is on the first Saturday of the month. naplesartcrafters.com
Second Wednesdays from Nov. — Apr.
Block Party
Naples Design District hosts monthly events. No block party in December. naplesdesigndistrict.com
Select Mondays from Jan. — Apr.
Morning Mile
A guided walk through Naples Botanical Garden. naplesgarden.org
Select Saturdays through June
Music in the Garden
Local musicians perform at Naples Botanical Garden. naplesgarden.org
Select Saturdays from Nov. — Apr. Gulf Coast Big Band
An outdoor concert in Naples’ Cambier Park. gulfcoastbigband.com
Select Saturdays from Jan. — May
Sensory-Friendly Saturdays: RSVP Required Special days for people with autism spectrum disorder and other sensory processing needs. naplesgarden.org
Tuesdays
Lecture Series: Asian Art and History Talks exploring the art of the East. artisnaples.org
Wednesdays from Feb. — May
Sunset Wednesdays
Naples Botanical Garden stays open late. naplesgarden.org
LEE COUNTY
First Fridays
Art Walk
Artists gather in Downtown Fort Myers to display and sell their works. myriverdistrict.com
First Fridays
Exhibit Opening Receptions DAAS CO-OP celebrates a new artist each month. daascoop.com
Mondays
Monday Night Film Series
Movie screenings at Christensen Performance Hall. bigarts.org
Monthly from Nov. — May Gallery Show Reception Artist meetups on first or second Thursdays. capecoralartleague.org
Second Wednesdays
Wednesday Night Market
A pop-up market with local vendors, art, live music, food trucks and drinks. artinlee.org
Select Fridays from Dec. — Apr.
The Comedy Zone
Comedy shows at the Historic Arcade Theatre. No shows in November or March. floridarep.org
Third Fridays
Music Walk
Live and local musicians perform in Downtown Fort Myers. myriverdistrict.com
ARTS + CULTURE SOURCEBOOK
Your guide to Gulfshore Life partner art galleries, theaters and cultural centers. The Sourcebook is crafted based on businesses that advertise. Please contact the organizations for the latest information.
Aldo Castillo Gallery 634 5th Avenue S Naples, FL 34102
Miromar Design Center 10800 Corkscrew Road Estero, FL 33928
Amy Art 950 1st Avenue North Naples, Florida 34102
Art Galleries of Florida
Gulf Coast University / Bower School of Music & Arts 10501 FGCU Boulevard South Fort Myers, FL 33965
Artis, Naples 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd. Naples, FL 34108
Guess Fisher Gallery, 985 Central Avenue Naples, FL 34102
Gulfshore Playhouse 755 8th Ave S Naples, FL 34102
High Tide Studio & Gallery 995 Central Avenue Naples, FL 34102
Hindman Auctions 850 6th Avenue South Naples, FL 34102
Holocaust Museum & Education Center 975 Imperial Golf Course Blvd. Suite 108 Naples, FL 34110
Lines Ocean Art 2354 J and C Blvd. Naples, FL 34109
Marco Island Center for the Arts 1010 Winterberry Drive Marco Island, FL 34145
Marco Island Historical Society 180 S Heathwood Drive Marco Island, FL 34145
Naples Art District 2180 J&C Blvd. Naples, FL 34109
Naples Art Institute 585 Park Street Naples, FL 34102
Naples, Marco Island & The Everglades CVB 2660 Horseshoe Dr N Suite 105 Naples, FL 34104
Naples Players, Inc.
700 Fifth Avenue South 2nd Floor Naples, FL 34102
Opera Naples
2408 Linwood Ave Naples, FL 34112
Tribby Arts Center at Shell Point 17281 On Par Blvd. Fort Myers, FL 33908
TheatreZone 13275 Livingston Rd Naples, FL 34109
United Arts Collier 340 Tamiami Trail N Naples, FL 34102
We’re gearing up for a slate of immersive exhibitions, outdoor festivals, toe-tapping concerts in Collier and Lee counties. Consider this your definitive guide to the region’s bustling cultural scene. Please check the organizations’ websites for the latest information.
Aldo Castillo Gallery (312) 375-8887. This is the visionary for the modern and contemporary art gallery, founded by a former member of the Chicago Art Dealers Association (CADA). aldocastillogallery.com
Amy Art Gallery & Studio (239) 234-6051. This studio and gallery in the Naples Design District showcases the textured abstracts and figurative work of longtime Naples painter Amy Moglia Heuerman. amyart.net
Arsenault Gallery (239) 263-1214. The plein-air painter operates a private, appointment-only space. arsenaultgallery.com
Artis—Naples (239) 597-1900. Home to The Baker Museum, Artis—Naples’ campus hosts Naples Philharmonic and traveling theater and musical productions ranging from Broadway classics to rock ’n’ roll greats. artisnaples.org
Arts Bonita 10150 Bonita Beach Road Bonita Springs, FL 34135 26100 Old 41 Rd Bonita Springs, FL 34135 (239) 495-8989. Catering to kids and adults, Arts Bonita offers various performing and visual arts programs, including multiple galleries, theaters, art festivals, classes and events. artsbonita.org
Brian Tietz
Contemporary: Jewish Voices
November 10, 2024
Music from today’s Jewish composers ring out in an exploration of culture and connection.
A Seraphic Fire
Christmas
December 8-9, 2024
Celebrate the season with angelic voices in a candlelit setting.
Renaissance: The Capilla Flamenca
January 19, 2025
Guest conductor Amanda Quist leads a tribute to a golden age of choral music.
Classical: Martines, Mozart & Haydn
March 6, 2025
Baroque: Angels Behind the Walls
April 13, 2025
Concerts at Moorings Presbyterian Church in Naples
3 concert subscriptions starting at $132
Single tickets start at $45
Get $5 off your order with code GULFSHORE5
3 concert subscriptions starting at $132
Single tickets start at $45
Hear a modern premiere from Marianna Martines, an overlooked star of the Classical era, and Mozart’s ravishing “Laudate Dominum.”
Journey back to 18th-century Italy, where captivating music blossomed in convents.
Get $5 off your order with code HERALD5
SCAN FOR TICKETS
BIG ARTS
(239) 395-0900. Big ArtsTheir venue was created for and by the community. It offers various quality performing and fine arts, films, workshops and educational workshops. bigarts.org
Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre (239) 278-4422. The theater presents classics and new hit sensations. Expect national performers, dazzling sets and costumes, plus a live orchestra. broadwaypalm.com
Choral Artistry contact@choralartistry.org. Under the artistic direction of conductor Dr. Trent R. Brown, the independent arts organization and professional core community chorus seek to instill an appreciation and passion for choral music. choralartistry.org
COCO Art Gallery (239) 949-3073- Estero, 239436-3530- Naples. COCO stocks paintings, photography, sculpture, fused glass, jewelry and woodwork in both their Collier and Lee location—all created by Arts Council of Southwest Florida members. cocoartgallery.com
Duncan McClellan Gallery (855) 436-4527. This St. Petersburg, FL gallery showcases globally recognized glass artists and provides opportunities to watch them work on creations in the hot shop. dmglass.com
Emily James Art (239) 529-6001. Emily James owns this working studio and gallery showcasing her cheerful paintings, which focus primarily on water and landscapes. emilyjamesart.com
Florida Gulf Coast University Bower School of Music & the Arts 10501 FGCU Blvd. S., (239) 745-4268. The university’s music and arts arm hosts exhibitions, concerts and performances. Fgcu.edu/bsma
Florida Repertory Theatre (239) 332-4488. Professional live theater performances occur in Downtown Fort Myers’ Historic Arcade Theatre. Wall Street Journal called Florida Rep “one of America’s top repertory companies.” floridarep.org
Guess-Fisher Gallery (239) 659-2787. Here, you’ll find Phil Fisher’s watercolors and oils, custom picture framing, fine art and gifts. It also serves as the working studio space for his wife, fine art batik artist Natalie Guess. philfisherfineart.com
Gulfshore Opera (239) 529-3925. Southwest Florida’s regional opera company serves three counties and presents accessible, professional opera theater and diverse classical vocal music concerts. It also runs the Harmony Choir after-school program for at-risk youths. gulfshoreopera.org
Gulfshore Playhouse (239) 261-7529. Naples’ premiere professional theater produces shows to the highest artistic standards and provides unique educational opportunities to diverse groups. gulfshoreplayhouse.org
High Tide Studio & Gallery (239) 228-6934. Opened by Margie White, this studio and gallery in the Naples Design District features impressionistic artwork and offers workshops. hightidestudioandgallery.com
Hindman Auctions (239) 643 4448. Among the leading auction houses in the world for art, jewelry and decorative objects, the firm is a globally recognized brand with national salerooms and experts in more than 50 collecting categories. hindmanauctions.com
Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center 239) 263-9200. This center teaches lessons about the Holocaust to inspire action against bigotry, hatred and violence. The collection contains
more than 1,000 unique pieces and the boxcar exhibit. hmcec.org
Lines Ocean Art (239) 671-6000. This art studio and gallery holds self-taught painter Danell Lytell’s pieces, influenced by Southwest Florida’s colorful landscapes and vibrant oceans. artbydanell.com
Marco Island Center for the Arts (239) 394-4221. The center promotes education and appreciation of the arts and features two galleries for exhibitions throughout the season. marcoislandart.org
Marco Island Historical Society (239) 252-1440. With a mission to preserve and share the history and heritage of Marco Island, this is the nonprofit behind Marco Island Historical Museum, which has exhibits that trace the island’s history from its original Calusa inhabitants to its pioneer roots through its explosive modern growth. themihs.info
Naples Art District (239) 249-1977. The nonprofit alliance of 100 artists supports arts education by offering free, open-studio events and art classes, and it has the largest concentration of working artist studios in the region. naplesartdistrict.com
80th Anniversary Season
Chanticleer Holiday Concert
Dec 3, 2024, 7:30 pm
Sarasota Opera House
An all new program of Renaissance classics and holiday favorites.
Pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet
Jan 15, 2025, 7:30 pm | Riverview Performing Arts Center
Debussy’s Preludes Books I and II.
The Cleveland Orchestra
Kahchun Wong, conductor | Sayaka Shoji, violin
Jan 26, 2025, 7:30 pm | Van Wezel
Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition.
Czech National Symphony Orchestra
Steven Mercurio, Music Director | Maxim Lando, piano
Feb 13, 2025, 7:30 pm | Van Wezel
Dvořák’s New World Symphony.
An Evening with Yo-Yo Ma
Reflections in Words and Music
Feb 27, 2025, 7:30 pm | Van Wezel
Vivaldi Four Seasons
Les Arts Florissants | Théotime Langlois de Swarte
March 14, 2025, 7:30 pm
Riverview Performing Arts Center
National Symphony Orchestra
Gianandrea Noseda, Music Director | Hilary Hahn, violin
March 24, 2025, 7:30 pm | Van Wezel
Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5.
Single tickets now on sale! Save when you subscribe SCAsarasota.org | 941-966-6161
Naples Art Institute (239) 262-6517. After more than 65 years, the association continues to inspire creativity and provide opportunities for all to experience art in Southwest Florida. naplesart.org
Opera Naples (239) 963-9050. The organization presents high-caliber productions with renowned opera stars, an artist-in-residence program, apprenticeships and an annual outdoor festival. operanaples.org
Sarasota Concert Association (941) 966-6161. This nonprofit works to foster a deeper appreciation for renowned classical works, offering free public concerts with chamber ensembles, orchestras, pianists and singers throughout the region. scasarasota.org
Seraphic Fire (305) 285-9060. This Grammy-nominated vocal ensemble presents dynamic performances of both secular and sacred songs in multiple Southwest Florida locations. seraphicfire.org
BIG ARTS 2024/2025
The Naples Players (239) 434-7340. One of the nation’s top community theaters, the troupe produces Broadway musicals, plays, comedy shows and community events in Downtown Naples. naplesplayers.org
TheatreZone (888) 966-3352. This professional theater, which has a contract with the Actors’ Equity Association, presents Broadway musicals, focusing on rarely performed productions—at the G&L Theater at the Community School of Naples. theatre.zone
Tribby Arts Center at Shell Point (239) 415-5667. This visual and performing arts complex opened in 2021 in the Fort Myers retirement community, with a 400-seat performance hall, three art galleries and an outdoor sculpture garden. tribbyartscenter.com
United Arts Collier (239) 254-8242. The state-designated local arts agency for Collier County fosters beneficial cultural relationships between artists and local businesses and venues and provides arts services to underserved communities. unitedartscollier.org
Zebrawood Spirit Bird with Captured Glass Sphere, Mike Sorge
December 20-22, 2024
ONCE
January 9-19, 2025
THE
February 6-16, 2025 JERSEY
March 6-16, 2025 GHOST:
June 5-15, 2025
Grounded in Nature
Cape Coral’s 42 Birds makes cork mats that are a dream for yogis for their sustainably designed form and high function.
When I ventured to try the locally designed 42 Birds yoga mats, I knew I’d be inherently biased against the natural-looking beauties. As a certified yoga instructor and avid practitioner, I spend much time on my trusty, orange sticky mat daily. With so many transformative and energetic moments expended on our mats, it’s easy to get attached to them; trying a new one can feel like a betrayal. But, this sister-brother-owned brand took me by surprise.
The Cape Coral brand’s mats are made of cork on one side and toxin-free, fully recyclable foam or natural rubber on the other. The woodsy material—a biodegradable alternative to the synthetic materials in most commercial mats—is not only sustainably sourced (hand-harvested from oak trees without felling them) but also highly functional.
I expected the surface to be slightly bumpy, like a grainy wine cork. Instead, it’s smooth and extra grippy, especially during more active (read: sweaty) sessions (hot yoga fans, rejoice). Unlike traditional mats that get slippery when wet, 42 Birds’ gear gets grippier as the moisture activates the natural resins in the cork, making the surface slightly tacky. Meanwhile, the material’s porous nature
helps it dry quickly, preventing the build-up of mold and mildew and ensuing funky smells.
I start with 42 Birds’ The Robin mat, which has a rubber underside, providing excellent padding. Often, when practicing the fluid Vinyasa yoga, I have to stop and reach for support during kneeling positions, like cat-cow or modified low lunge variations. The pauses always feel like an interruption to my flow. But, The Robin is soft and provides cushion throughout my practice—even at a lightweight 5 millimeters thick (there’s also the firmer Woodpecker version made only of cork and the plusher Imperial Eagle). Plus, each mat comes with a strap that works double-duty as a carrier and extender—great for positions where you need extra support.
In a world where many of us are trying to be more ecofriendly, 42 Birds hits the mark with a mat that makes you feel good about your choices and performs well. Each practice on this mat has turned out to be a pleasant surprise, enhancing my flow and, as a seasoned yogi, freshening up my routine in a way I didn’t think possible.
Oyears of Impact R EAL R
ESILIENCE
E MPOWERMENT A CHIEVEMENT
L EADERSHIP
ver the past four decades, we’ve grown from a humble community soup kitchen into a beacon of hope and opportunity for the children of Immokalee. Our mission – to break the cycle of poverty through education – has remained our guiding star, and together, we have transformed countless lives. From our beginnings in 1984, providing nutritious meals and a safe space for families, we’ve expanded our reach, offering high-quality educational programs that cultivate independent thinkers and lifelong learners. These programs, combined with a nurturing environment, have empowered nearly 2,000 students annually, guiding them toward personal and academic success, and ultimately, economic independence.
As we mark the 40th anniversary of Guadalupe Center, we reflect on our ongoing journey of resilience. For four decades, we’ve supported students in Immokalee, helping them overcome challenges and build brighter futures. This milestone represents not just our past efforts, but a hopeful reminder of what we can achieve together. Our programs have consistently provided opportunities for growth, demonstrating the impact of perseverance and the importance of community in creating a better tomorrow.
REAL EMPOWERMENT
Collaborative partnerships allow Guadalupe Center to provide students and families with access to critical resources that help break down barriers to accessing education.
Partners in Progress
Collier Community Foundation
Naples Children & Education Foundation
Since 2002, Guadalupe Center has been greatly enriched by generous support from the Naples Children & Education Foundation (NCEF), driving significant improvements in education, healthcare, and resources for thousands of students. As a Blue Print Partner in NCEF’s Early Learning and Out-of-School Time initiatives, Guadalupe Center is able to significantly enhance its provision of high-quality education to hundreds of students.
Another example is the new Guadalupe Center Resource Hub funded by the Collier Community Foundation, which has enabled the organization to better address additional needs of families. The Hub stores in-kind donations, including food, clothing, household goods, hygiene items, cleaning supplies, and more, much of which is provided through World Vision with the support of NCEF. A partnership with Collier County Emergency Management ensures a more effective disaster response by storing fans, radios, water, and other essentials in the community for faster access.
Immokalee is fortunate to have a range of social service agencies offering resources, but until now, the lack of temporary storage options presented a significant challenge in getting donations to the families that need them.
Guadalupe Soup Kitchen opens at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church
Your Support Empowers Futures
Volunteers are essential to Guadalupe Center’s mission, connecting with students, staff, and parents to help create endless possibilities. Whether mentoring Tutor Corps students, participating in career day, or assisting at the Guadalupe Resale Shop with pricing and displays, your involvement turns dreams into reality.
The Guadalupe Resale Shop is a vibrant hub in Naples where donated items like clothing, furniture, and artwork become vital resources for the community.
Cultivating Change
Our success is deeply rooted in the dedication of our volunteers, but the exceptional impact of corporate partners who integrate giving into their culture cannot be overstated.
Elyse Lipman, CEO and Golden Circle Member, leads the charge with The Golden Circle Giving Society, which is founded on the principle that a shared vision—especially among women—can amplify the intention and effect of giving. Maria Trejo, a Tutor Corps alumna and Community Programs Manager
Today Shop, Serve, & Lead
Each sale generates revenue that directly supports educational programs, classroom supplies, and other assistance for families in Immokalee.
Join our mission by shopping, donating, or volunteering. Every action helps empower local students to access high-quality education. Corporate partners can also contribute by gift matching, hosting school supply drives, or volunteering at events. Together, we can support the future leaders of Immokalee.
at Lipman, exemplifies the strong bond between our organizations by actively participating in community events. Lipman’s support, including Jaime Weisinger’s involvement in student reading programs, illustrates how corporate contributions can drive meaningful change.
We encourage businesses to join us by participating in matching donations, organizing team-building volunteer days, or providing in-kind contributions. By cultivating a culture of generosity, we can achieve significant impact together.
AtLipman Family Farms,
our commitment to the Immokalee community is rooted in collaboration and active involvement. Partnering with Guadalupe Center aligns with our values and helps us support education and a culture of giving back. We encourage other organizations to join us in creating transformative change through meaningful engagement.
– JAIME WEISINGER, DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY & GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
Collaboration with CCPS brings early learning program to the Immokalee High School teenage parent program
Guadalupe Center Resource Hub opens as distribution center for social service agencies
Early Childhood Education
Guadalupe Center’s Early Childhood Education Program serves more than 550 children from six weeks to five years old, nurturing their cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Through a rich, engaging curriculum, we help young minds
develop the essential skills needed for lifelong success. Our full-day programs are available year-round at three campuses, two affiliate locations, and through our community outreach initiative, Smart Start, ensuring every child has a bright beginning.
STUDENTS RECEIVE
High-Quality Instruction l Nutritious Meals Safe Recreation l Music & Art Class Dental, Vision, Hearing, & Behavioral Screenings
Thriving Twins, George and Samuel
George and Samuel, identical twins born prematurely, faced significant challenges from the start. The journey began with George, who struggled with speech, motor skills, and mobility, relying on his knees to move. Dedicated one-on-one support provided by behavioral specialists Ms. Bertha, Ms. Betty and, through NCEF partner Able Academy, Ms. Jen, helped him achieve the remarkable milestone of walking independently. They then addressed his speech and motor skills challenges, guiding him to
hold objects, use a spoon properly, and eventually grasp small items, like Cheerios. His speech improved significantly; he began forming clear sentences and expressing his emotions. George also developed a nurturing side, often leading his brothers (his little brother Adriel also attends Guadalupe Center), asking them if they were okay, and offering hugs. His interactions with his siblings and mother became more engaging as he learned to share and teach them basic phrases, like “hello” and “thank you.”
s RE AL ACHIEVEMENT
s
Guadalupe Center’s comprehensive After-school Tutoring Program begins at Pinecrest Elementary School (K-2)
Grand opening of the new Jim Near Wing at the Morgridge Campus
Behavioral Health Program
Samuel, too, faced obstacles in speech and motor skills. Initially silent, but always smiling, Samuel quickly learned to grasp objects and soon surprised his mother by counting to fifteen and singing, “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.” His cheerful disposition and eagerness to learn were evident in his interactions with Jen, Bertha, and Betty. Samuel’s enthusiasm for
Thank you, Ms. Bertha, for your unwavering commitment and for making a meaningful difference in the lives of our students!
learning new words and expressing emotions grew, leading to delightful conversations with his mother, where he proudly stated his name and engaged in daily discussions about their experiences and feelings.
Both twins are thriving at Guadalupe Center, showing impressive progress and joy in their developmental milestones.
Mindful Start: Early Support, Lasting Impact
At Guadalupe Center, our Behavioral Health program is dedicated to understanding and supporting the mental and emotional needs of young children as they grow. We know that children experience and express their feelings differently, so our team works closely with both parents and educators to provide the right tools and guidance.
In communities facing poverty, access to mental and behavioral health resources becomes even more crucial. Early stress and genetic factors can impact a child’s future, making it vital to teach self-regulation and emotional adaptability early on. Our approach blends conscious discipline with support from our partners, including NCEF and the Able Academy.
This collaborative effort ensures we address mental health within the classroom, the home, and the community, helping every child build a strong foundation for success. For children identified with socialemotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges, Bertha Mendez, our dedicated Behavioral Health Manager, plays a crucial role. She conducts individual screenings and observations to develop tailored tactics and intervention plans that foster each student’s healthy development. We’re also excited to announce the addition of a new position – Behavioral Health Specialist – to further support our students’ needs. Welcome to the team, Ms. Betty!
After-school Tutoring Program expands to Village Oaks Elementary (K-2)
Smart Start begins – a once weekly program for parents and children to encourage parents as their child’s first teacher
LEARN
RE AL ACHIEVEMENT
SAfter-school Tutoring & Summer Enrichment
tudents in kindergarten, first, and second grade get intensive help for their academic, social, and emotional abilities through After-school Tutoring and Summer Enrichment. Tutoring, homework assistance, and character-development exercises can help close the achievement gap and lay the framework for future schooling.
Soaring Confidence for Jaylani
Jaylani Soto, a kindergartner at Guadalupe Center’s after-school program, experienced a challenging start when she joined. Jaylani was initially overwhelmed, often in tears and hesitant to participate in group activities.
Her teacher and high school tutors were determined to turn things
around. Through patient reassurance and daily rituals, such as sharing positive highlights before each lesson, they created a welcoming environment. An introduction exercise on the carpet helped Jaylani find common ground with her peers, easing her anxieties and fostering a sense of community.
As a result of this supportive approach, Jaylani’s confidence soared. She not only began to eagerly attend the program, but also showed remarkable academic progress. Her reading and mathskills, once lagging, are now on par with her peers. Jaylani’s transformation from a shy, uncertain student to an enthusiastic learner who actively participates and excels in her studies is a powerful testament to the impact of personalized support and a nurturing educational environment.
Tutor Corps RISE Program
New this year, Guadalupe Center will be offering programming to middle school students through the Tutor Corps RISE program. RISE stands for Resilience, Inspiration, Support, and Empowerment. The program aims to address the critical transitional period of middle school by building character, confidence, and self-esteem. Career exploration and peer mentoring will help students see the important role academics can play in their futures. The opportunity to engage students before they get to high school will increase participation in the high school Tutor Corps program and further deepen student empowerment in Immokalee.
LEARN MORE ABOUT AFTER-SCHOOL TUTORING AND SUMMER ENRICHMENT
2010 s
Guadalupe Center kicks off Campaign
Tutor Corps
Success isn’t just about persistence and determination; it’s about having a support system that amplifies the power of education. The Tutor Corps Program turns students’ dreams into reality. Whether it’s becoming the first in their family to attend college, earning a degree without debt, or pursuing a distinguished career, students in our program experience REAL impact.
Tutor Corps supports 121 high school students with college readiness workshops, work-study
TUTOR CORPS
“It is because of this program that I am where I am today.”
opportunities, and personalized mentorship, along with financial literacy and career exploration opportunities. The support continues through college, with coordinators guiding 275 college students nationwide, including 31 recent graduates. This year, two graduates enrolled at Ivy League schools, continuing a legacy of achievement at top institutions of learning, including Stanford, Columbia, Cornell, and others. Tutor Corps empowers Immokalee’s students to become tomorrow’s leaders.
“Anytime I had a question I was always able to find help.”
Best decision I've made in regards to my future.
“It's hard to believe where I am today, since I never thought I'd be here when I was younger.”
ACHIEVE SUPPORT
“As a first gen, it was scary for me and my mom, but the program supported us all the way and made it very easy. ”
“I felt CONFIDENT in meeting any goals I set.”
“I was able to move out of state and work in my dream job as a teacher!”
Program Impact Study
OCCUPATIONS
Controller Paralegal
Photographer
Teacher
Family Medicine Physician Therapist
Senior Operations Manager
Museum Manager
Biomedical Coordinator
Propulsion Test Engineer
Family Case Manager
Health Insurance Agent
Healthcare Worker
Design Engineer
Phlebotomist
Lawyer
Social Worker
Financial Analyst
Investment Banker
News Associate
EMPLOYERS
NBC Today Show
Gartner, Inc.
Healthcare Network
Bonifant & Wald, LLC
Children’s Advocacy Center
Collier County Public Schools
Guadalupe Center
University of Pennsylvania
Lipman Family Farms
Partners in Health
Neogenomics Laboratories
Habitat for Humanity
Molina Healthcare of Florida
Atwell, LLC
GTE Financial
Amazon.com
Credit Suisse Securities
Migrant Student Services
A 2023 study by Florida Gulf Coast University highlights just how impactful Guadalupe Center’s programs are in transforming lives and breaking the cycle of poverty for the children of Immokalee.
Tutor Corps graduates are Tutor Corps graduates are 55% more likely to earn a college
degree than their IHS Peers
25% more likely to earn
$70,000 or more
23% of Tutor Corps
graduates earned a graduate degree
Nearly all Tutor Corps graduates earn more than their parents did at their age
Nearly two-thirds of Tutor Corps graduates volunteer
More than 80% of Tutor Corps graduates contribute to a retirement plan
As a first gen, it was scary for me and my mom, but the program supported us all the way and made it very easy.
– TUTOR CORPS ALUMNUS
Just a kid from a Immokalee who happened to find his way into the
Industry. – TUTOR CORPS ALUMNUS
are covered by health insurance
More than 8 in 10 agreed that the Tutor Corps Program empowered them to overcome barriers in life.
of Tutor Corps graduates are satisfied or very satisfied with their personal lives of Tutor Corps graduates are satisfied or very satisfied with their professional lives
LEADERSHIP
Martin’s Journey of Giving Back
Meet Martin Lopez, a proud Tutor Corps alumnus from Immokalee High School’s class of 2009. Determined to impact his community, Martin overcame his shyness by joining programs like Tutor Corps, which set him on a path to success. With hard work and support from mentors and family, he earned a business degree from the University of Miami and later graduated from St. Thomas University School of Law. Today, Martin is a successful attorney and international business consultant. Despite his busy career, he remains committed to his Immokalee roots, serving on Guadalupe Center’s Tutor Corps Alumni Council and mentoring a current high school student. This October, he was the keynote speaker at Guadalupe Center’s Leadership Day, inspiring the next generation of leaders. Martin Lopez exemplifies the spirit of giving back,empowering future Immokalee leaders.
REA L Tutor Corps Alumni 2020
The resources provided by organizations like Guadalupe
Center helped me build a community that gave me vision,drive, and support.
– MARTIN LOPEZ
Yeneisi’s Path to Success & Services
Yeneisi’s journey through the Tutor Corps Program has been transformative. As a top-ranked senior at Immokalee High School with a 3.98 GPA, she balances dual enrollment courses, afterschool tutoring, and sports, all while being the first in her family to graduate high school. Yeneisi is determined to pursue a career in pre-med or psychology, already taking steps by shadowing dentists and exploring top dental schools. Despite her rigorous schedule, she remains committed to her dream of becoming a dentist and finds joy in tutoring younger students. Yeneisi’s experience with Tutor Corps has not only shaped her future, but also made her a role model for her family and peers.
Your Support Empowers Futures
Volunteers are essential to Guadalupe Center’s mission, connecting with students, staff, and parents to help create endless possibilities. Whether mentoring Tutor Corps students, participating in career day, or assisting at the Guadalupe Resale Shop with pricing and displays, your involvement turns dreams into reality.
The Guadalupe Resale Shop is a vibrant hub in Naples where donated items like clothing, furniture, and artwork become vital resources for the community.
Cultivating Change
Our success is deeply rooted in the dedication of our volunteers, but the exceptional impact of corporate partners who integrate giving into their culture cannot be overstated.
Elyse Lipman, CEO and Golden Circle Member, leads the charge with The Golden Circle Giving Society, which is founded on the principle that a shared vision—especially among women—can amplify the intention and effect of giving. Maria Trejo, a Tutor Corps alumna and Community Programs Manager
Today Shop, Serve, & Lead
Each sale generates revenue that directly supports educational programs, classroom supplies, and other assistance for families in Immokalee.
Join our mission by shopping, donating, or volunteering. Every action helps empower local students to access high-quality education. Corporate partners can also contribute by gift matching, hosting school supply drives, or volunteering at events. Together, we can support the future leaders of Immokalee.
at Lipman, exemplifies the strong bond between our organizations by actively participating in community events. Lipman’s support, including Jaime Weisinger’s involvement in student reading programs, illustrates how corporate contributions can drive meaningful change.
We encourage businesses to join us by participating in matching donations, organizing team-building volunteer days, or providing in-kind contributions. By cultivating a culture of generosity, we can achieve significant impact together.
AtLipman Family Farms,
our commitment to the Immokalee community is rooted in collaboration and active involvement. Partnering with Guadalupe Center aligns with our values and helps us support education and a culture of giving back. We encourage other organizations to join us in creating transformative change through meaningful engagement.
– JAIME WEISINGER, DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY & GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
Collaboration with CCPS brings early learning program to the Immokalee High School teenage parent program
Guadalupe Center Resource Hub opens as distribution center for social service agencies
There are many wonderful ways to get involved in making a REAL impact with Guadalupe Center. Consider partnering with us through sponsorships, volunteering, mentorship, in-kind donations, and more. Your support helps us create opportunities for learning and growth. We can’t wait to celebrate with you and make a difference together!
NOV 8
Attend an evening renowned for its fun atmosphere and great entertainment, offering a gourmet dinner, a live auction, and the opportunity to make on-the-spot donations in support of education for students in Immokalee. You’re Invited!
NOV 14
Holiday Gift Shop – Toy Collection
November 8 – December 6, you can share the magic of Christmas by donating unwrapped gifts at one of our many drop off locations. Check our website for collection sites!
Seeing the Bigger Picture
Hob Nob, 5th Ave. South Naples
With a focus on FUN, enjoy a night out with friends while supporting students in Guadalupe Center’s programs. We will have light apps, signature drinks, a DJ that will keep you moving, and a silent auction with exclusive items you won’t want to miss! Wear RED to show your support!
Gift of Giving : Shop for Education
EXPLORE OUR UPCOMING EVENTS
DEC 6 JAN 10 MAR 14 APRIL 25
Visit Kendra Scott, Lilly Pulitzer, and Veronica Beard, for your holiday shopping and a portion of the proceeds will benefit Guadalupe Center.
Thank you
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Elevate the Dream
The Ritz-Carlton Naples Tiburon 2600 Tiburon Drive, Naples
Golden Circle Luncheon
The Club at the Dunes, 310 Dunes Boulevard, Naples
Join us for a private luncheon and guided conversation with Golden Circle members. The Golden Circle members are changemakers motivated and intentional in their desire to solve problems and effect change. Each year, they designate a specific initiative to champion.
Celebration Dinner
One of the most heartwarming events of our year. We celebrate Tutor Corps students graduating high school alongside their families and their mentors.
Rich Monaghan, Board Chair | Joseph Baughman, Past Chair | William Dempsey, Vice Chair | Gloria Beissinger, Treasurer
Tom White, Secretary | Alice Arena | Dan Capes | Bev Cherry | Liz Curtin | Kelly Dee | Darlene DeMichele | Susan Duke
Phyllis Ettinger | Beverly Koren | Juan Lopez | Lisa McNichol | Mark Nagan | John Paro | Deborah Toler | Maria Trejo
Eric Wallach | Linda Yost | Dawn Montecalvo, President & CEO
TRUSTEES EMERITI
Phil Beuth | Tom Brand | Bob Coletti | Carl Ehmann | Fred Hagemann | Ed Marchetti | Bunny Salisbury | Roger Vasey
LIFE ON THE GULF
/ A definitive guide to the best spots to eat, shows to see and places to go
DINING GUIDE
The Dining Guide is crafted each month based on editorial discretion and may include restaurants that advertise regularly (denoted by an asterisk). Please email diningout@gulfshorelife.com to report changes in a restaurant’s location, prices or menu.
Dining Guide Key : b Brunch o Outside Dining p Pet-Friendly v Valet w Water Views
Scott McIntyre
Fresh ahi tuna and jalapeño salsa top the Green Devil roll at MAKS Asian Kitchen & Sushi in Fort Myers. Their expansive menu features more than 25 options of sashimi, nigiri and maki sushi rolls.
COLLIER COUNTY
NAPLES
SOUTH NAPLES
Osteri Capri
387 Capri Blvd., (239) 970-5721; 918 N. Collier Blvd., (239) 3884081, osteriacapri.com. Chef AJ Black creates Italian pizza, pasta and seafood specialties from waterfront fish houses on Isles of Capri and on Marco Island.
$$$ ITALIAN o p w
THIRD STREET SOUTH
Barbatella
1290 Third St. S., (239) 263-1955. barbatellanaples.com. A stunning bar and relaxed patio with casual Italian cuisine from the team behind Sea Salt.
$$$ ITALIAN o p
The Bevy
360 12th Ave. S., (239) 228-4220. naplesbevy.com. Enjoy craft cocktails and New American cuisine at this indoor-outdoor favorite off Third Street South.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN b o p
Campiello/The Club Room
1177 Third St. S., (239) 435-1166. campiellonaples.com. A favorite for its contemporary Italian cuisine and courtyard. During season, The Club Room, a restaurant within, has its own menu and live music most nights.
$$$ ITALIAN o p v
D’Amico’s The Continental American Provisions and Craft Bar
1205 Third St. S., (239) 6590007. damicoscontinental. com. Savor top-quality cuts of steaks and the stylish indoor and outdoor decor.
$$$$ STEAK o p v
Jane’s Cafe on 3rd 1209 Third St. S., (239) 2612253. janesgardencafe.com
Come for the lobster Benedict and stuffed French toast, stay to sit around the koi fountain on the sunny patio.
$$ CAFE b o p
Ridgway Bar & Grill
1300 Third St. S., (239) 2625500. ridgwaybarandgrill.com.
A quintessential Old Naples restaurant. For light bites and coffee, head to neighboring Tony’s Off Third.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN b o p
Sea Salt
1186 Third St. S., (239) 4347258. seasaltnaples.com.
Loved for sophisticated seafood, monthly wine dinners and events
$$$ MEDITERRANEAN o p v
Mediterrano 336 13th Ave. S., (239) 2617498. mediterrano-naples. com. Bright decor and a lush patio complement robust dishes and decadent desserts. $$$ MEDITERRANEAN o
FIFTH AVENUE SOUTH
Bha! Bha! Persian Bistro
865 Fifth Ave. S., (239) 594-5557. bhabhabistro. com. Iranian chef Michael Mir serves indulgent flavors in a jewel box of a dining room.
$$$ MIDDLE EASTERN o
Bontà Bakery
824 Fifth Ave. S., (239) 2346631. bontabakery.com. Italian pastry chefs use traditional ingredients to prepare pastries, pizza, sandwiches and gelato.
$ ITALIAN o p
Bistro 821
821 Fifth Ave. S., (239) 2615821. bistro821.com. An open kitchen serves a menu filled with creativity, including its original Neapolitan pasta and seafood dish.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o p
Chops City Grill
837 Fifth Ave. S., (239) 2624677. chopscitygrill.com. An elegant, Baroque-inspired steakhouse with in-house dryaged cuts.
$$$$ STEAK o p
Del Mar
494 Fifth Ave. S., (239) 3500134. delmarnaplesrestaurant. com. Cameron Mitchell’s two-story, fine-dining locale draws from various Mediterranean cuisines.
moltonaples.com. The Neris' Italian standbys offer fresh seafood (La Pescheria) and classic comfort recipes (Molto) within steps of each other; plus there's a newer, darling wine bar, Casa Neri, next to Molto.
$$$$ ITALIAN o p v
Le Colonial
457 Fifth Ave. S., (239) 3729700. naples.lecolonial.com. Jaw-dropping interiors set the stage for exciting takes on the culinary category.
$$$ FRENCH VIETNAMESE o
Ocean Prime
699 Fifth Ave. S., (239) 4300404. ocean-prime.com. Cameron Mitchell presents surf and turf, an elegant dining room and highly attentive service.
$$$$ MODERN AMERICAN v
Osteria Tulia/Bar Tulia 466 Fifth Ave. S., (239) 2132073. osteriatulia.com. Go for Sicilian-inspired fare in a rustic-chic setting or craft cocktails at Bar Tulia gastropub next door.
$$$ ITALIAN o p
Pazzo! Cucina Italiana 853 Fifth Ave. S., (239) 4348494. pazzoitaliancafe.com. Beautiful presentations and twists on Italian favorites.
$$$ ITALIAN o p
Sails Restaurant
301 Fifth Ave. S., (239) 360-2000. sailsrestaurants. com. This uncompromising establishment offers finedining to the max—and a stellar Champagne brunch.
$$$$ SEAFOOD b o p v
Sushi Thai Downtown
898 Fifth Ave. S, (239) 4307575. sushithaidowntown.com. Find a mix of sushi and Thai dishes with locations throughout Collier and Lee counties.
$$ ASIAN o p
Truluck’s
698 Fourth Ave. S., (239) 530-3131. trulucks.com. A fine-dining locale touting seafood from the Gulf and beyond.
$$$ SEAFOOD v
Veranda E
290 Fifth Ave. S., (239) 6593466. hotelescalante.com. A courtyard setting serving Asian and French influences in The Escalante Hotel.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o p
The Vine Room
465 Fifth Ave. S., (239) 3161202. vineroom.com. Behind an ivy-shrouded door, this cocktail lounge crafts drinks with flair, plus small plates. $$ COCKTAIL LOUNGE
DOWNTOWN NAPLES
The Claw Bar/The London Club
221 Ninth St. S., (239) 231-3912. theclawbar.com. Southern charm, the best oysters and elegant seafood are found at The Claw Bar inside the Bellasera Resort. Upstairs, The London Club serves the same menu with a sultrier vibe and live jazz.
$$$$ SEAFOOD b o v
District/Staff Only/
The Kitchen & The Mini Bar
1200 Central Ave., Suite 105, (239) 428-3101. districtnaples. com. A mini culinary complex in Naples Design District, with the sexy bar District, speakeasy Staff Only and alfresco The Kitchen & Mini Bar.
$$$ SEAFOOD/ MODERN AMERICAN b o
LoLa 41
560 Ninth St. S., (239) 399-3300. lola41.com/location/lola-41-naples. Influenced by the cultures along the 41st parallel north, Lola 41 excels at sushi and bistro-style plates. $$$ ASIAN o
PJK Neighborhood Chinese 835 4th Ave. S., (239) 367-0300. pjkchinese.com. From restaurateur Paul Fleming, with elevated takes on Americanized Chinese fare.
$$ CHINESE
Grappino
90 Ninth St. N., (239) 331-4325. grappinonaples.com. This Aielli Group spot offers a fine selection of charcuterie and build-your-own pasta dishes.
$$$ ITALIAN o
The Lake Park Diner 944 Seventh Ave. N., (239) 228-6351; 8856 Founders St., (239) 529-1559. thelakepark diner.com. Now with a second location at Founders Square, the casual locale serves organic fare with vegan options, plus diner classics.
$$ MODERN AMERICAN b o p
Limón Rooftop Bar
455 12th St. S., (239) 944-3755. limonrooftop.com. Contemporary chic inside with a pool outside and modern Med fare on the plate.
$$ MEDITERRANEAN o
Nosh on Naples Bay
1490 Fifth Ave. S., Suite 101, (239) 384-9208. noshon naplesbay.com. Chef Todd Johnson crafts a menu of haute small plates.
$$$ ECLECTIC o v w
The Rooster Food + Drink
600 Goodlette-Frank Road N., Suite 101, (239) 228-5973. theroosternaples.com. Comforting breakfast and lunch.
$$ AMERICAN b o p
Croatian estival F
A CHARITY EVENT IN SUPPORT OF LITTLE ANGELS WORLDWIDE, NPO
Indulge in an evening of Croatian cuisine and culture at our dinner soirée in support of orphanages in Croatia and Nigeria.
November 16th, 2024
Saturday, 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Quail Creek Country Club 13300 Valewood Dr , Naples FL, 34119
Sponsors welcome! Reach out to skorunda@yahoo.com 239 200 5224
Purchase tickets online at littleangelsworldwide org/tickets html
Seventeen-year-old Sophia Korunda has taken on a leading role in organizing charity events for the non-profit organization, Little Angels Worldwide (LAW).The Korunda family founded the organization to support orphaned and neglected children in Croatia and Nigeria, and Sophia has fully embraced her responsibilities as Acting President. The board of Little Angels Worldwide is planning for the upcoming biannual Croatian Festival on November 16th, 2024, at Quail Woods Country Club. This event is not just a cultural celebration but also a critical fundraiser for the St. Teresa of the Child Jesus House for Children in Zagreb, Croatia for St. Joseph’s Home for Children in Hrvatski Lestovac, and the carmelite sisters’ children’s home in Nigeria.
What sets Sophia apart is her hands-on involvement with the orphanage. Every summer, she volunteers in Zagreb, building relationships with the children and the Carmelite Sisters who care for them. Her visits have shaped her understanding of the needs and challenges the children face, making her work with her nonprofit deeply personal. Each summer, she dedicates her time to assisting the Sisters in caring for the children, helping with everything from meal preparation to organizing activities that bring joy and comfort to the orphans. These firsthand experiences have fueled her determination to make a lasting difference through her charity work.
As acting President, Sophia aims to surpass all previous fundraising efforts and raise a record-breaking amount for the children in Croatia and Nigeria Sophia’s plans include expanding sponsorships, boosting ticket sales, and organizing high-profile auctions, with all proceeds benefiting the orphanages The funds raised will improve the living conditions for the children in Croatia and provide much-needed support for the Carmelite Sisters in Nigeria, who work tirelessly to feed and educate children living in extreme poverty
At the Fourth biennial Croatian Festival, Sophia and the LAW board invite guests from all backgrounds to enjoy Croatian music, dance, and cuisine, immersing themselves in the country’s rich heritage while contributing to a worthy cause
Seventh South Craft Food + Drink
849 Seventh Ave. S., Suite 101, (239) 231-4553. seventhsouth.com. Among Naples’ top restaurants, where food and drinks earn equal acclaim.
$$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o p
Unidos
1 Ninth St. S., (239) 3313668. unidosrestaurant.
com. The likes of Peruvian ceviche, Cuban ropa vieja and Argentinian-style grilled meats come together in perfect harmony.
$$$ LATIN AMERICAN o
Warren Naples
111 Tenth St. S., (239) 3302611. warrennaples.com.
An expansive whiskey and wine collection headline alongside a contemporary menu. $$$
MODERN AMERICAN
CRAYTON COVE
Bleu Provence
1234 Eighth St. S., (239) 2618239. bleuprovencenaples. com. Channel Southern France with the cuisine and Naples’ only Grand Award-winning wine list.
$$$ FRENCH o p v
The Boathouse on Naples Bay
990 Broad Ave. S., (239) 6432235. boathouseonnaplesbay. com. This waterfront restaurant dishes up fresh seafood.
$$ SEAFOOD o w
Chez Boët
755 12th Ave. S., (239) 643-6177. chezboetnaples.com. French staples paired with an impressive Scotch list.
$$$ FRENCH o p
The Dock at Crayton Cove* 845 12th Ave. S., (239) 2639940. dockcraytoncove.com. This laid-back spot serves Florida seafood on Naples Bay.
$$$ SEAFOOD b o p w
M&M's Cafe at Tin City
1200 5th Ave. S., Suite 122, (239) 261-5317. cafemn.com. Enjoy more than 30 flavors of housemade ice cream, among other treats.
$ DESSERT
The Syren Oyster & Cocktail Bar
909 10th St S., (239) 610-1559. syrenoysterbar.com. Located just northeast of Crayton Cove, within the Naples Boat Club, this seafood-centric hotspot is the latest creation from lauded restaurateur Peter Tierney (The Claw Bar, The London Club).
$$$$ SEAFOOD o w
EAST NAPLES
21 Spices by Chef Asif
4270 Tamiami Trail E., Suite 21, (239) 919-8830. 21spicesdining.com. Authentic cuisine from an award-winning chef.
$$$ INDIAN o p
Carole’s Place Café & French Bakery
8793 Tamiami Trail E., (239) 331-8003. carolesplacecafe. com. French pastries with fresh-brewed coffee, robust breakfast and lunch menus.
com. This waterfront food truck park has a lively bar scene and boat-up slips.
$$ ECLECTIC o p w
Kareem’s Lebanese Kitchen
4270 Tamiami Trail E., (239) 315-4167. kareemskitchen. com Try shawarma wraps, salads and chicken with za’atar potatoes.
$$ MIDDLE EASTERN o p
Espíritu Peruvian Cuisine
3861 Tamiami Trail E., (239) 285-3924. espirituperuviancuisine.com. Don’t miss the ceviche here.
$$ PERUVIAN o
Lima Restaurant
5047 Tamiami Trail E., (239) 280-0167. lima-restaurant.com. Traditional Peruvian cuisine and a wide selection of pisco are the calling cards.
$$$ PERUVIAN o
LowBrow Pizza & Beer
3148 Tamiami Trail E., (239) 529-6919. lowbrow pizzaandbeer.com. Creative wood-fired pies are served with craft brews in a fun, artfilled space.
$$ ITALIAN o p
Rebecca’s Cocktail & Wine Bar
2955 Bayshore Drive, (239) 799-1801. rebeccas naples.com. Gorgeous decor and stellar charcuterie headline the latest from the namesake Bayshore visionary.
$$ WINE BAR
Rumba Cuban Café
1265 Airport-Pulling Road S., (239) 659-2996. rumbacuban cafe.com. Classic Cuban cuisine with fun twists and attentive service.
$$ LATIN AMERICAN o p
Old Vines Supper Club
2795 Davis Blvd., Suite 1, (239) 417-4466. oldvinesnaples. com. Find seasonal tasting menus and a weekly wine dinner on Wednesdays at this refined yet unpretentious East
Naples hideaway from chef Brooke Kravetz.
$$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Tacos & Tequila Cantina 4834 Davis Blvd., (239) 7328226. tacosandtequilanaples. com. Tacos with lots of clever spins, plus margaritas aplenty.
4077 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 262-4999. alexandersna ples.com. Menus filled with seafood and global flavors presented in a modern cafe and lush garden atmosphere. Open October to May.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o p
Andre’s Steakhouse
2800 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 263-5851. andressteak house.com. If you’re a fan of New York’s iconic Peter Luger chophouse, opt for this tiny
joint founded by one of its former chefs.
$$$$ STEAK o
Cibao Grille 814 Neapolitan Way, (239) 434-6653. cibaogrille. com. Dishes from the owners’ native Dominican Republic mix with American classics.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o p
DiGusto 4180 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 228-9414. digustoitaly.com. Authentic Italian pasta and other specialties presented with simple elegance.
$$$ ITALIAN
Dorona 2110 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 529-2819. dorona naples.com. The Aiellis’ chic steakhouse has a menu with Mediterranean-style seafood, pasta and prime cuts. $$$$ STEAK o p
Escargot 41
4351 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 793-5000. escargot41. com. This traditional spot features a page of escargot specials alone.
$$$ FRENCH o p
Raise a glass to unforgettable moments at The Dock. Our handcrafted cocktails and coastal-inspired menu are set against a stunning backdrop, making every visit perfection.
845 12th Ave S, Naples, FL 34102
(239) 263-9940 dockcraytoncove.com
Fernández the Bull
Multiple locations in Collier and Lee counties. fernandez thebull.com. Authentic Cuban dishes, such as picadillo a la criolla and ropa vieja.
$$ LATIN AMERICAN o p
Fujiyama
2555 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 261-4332. naples fujiyama.com. Japanese master chefs prepare dinners with flair at your hibachi table. $$ ASIAN
FUSE Global Cuisine/ FUSE BBQ
2500 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 114, (239) 455-4585. fuseglobalcuisine.com.
Cosmopolitan cuisine, stellar barbecue and cocktails with a creative punch.
$$$ ECLECTIC o p
Harold’s Place
2555 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 263-7254 naplesharoldsplace.com. This chickee bar serves a top-shelf charbroiled burger and poolside ambience.
$ AMERICAN o
Hogfish Harry’s
600 Neapolitan Way, (239) 776-7623. hogfishharrys. com. The menu sources most of its seafood from local fishers.
A casual butcher-steakhouse specializing in Wagyu beef.
$$$$ STEAK o p
Komoon Thai Sushi & Ceviche
Multiple locations in Collier and Lee counties. komoonthai.com. Thai, Japanese and Peruvian fare come together.
$$ ASIAN
Lamoraga Restaurant
3936 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 331-3669. lamoraga restaurant.com. Find upscale twists on Spanish dishes, plus inventive vegan fare.
$$$ SPANISH p v
The Local 5323 Airport-Pulling Road, (239) 596-3276. thelocalnaples.com. A farmto-table restaurant with locally sourced, healthy cuisine.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN b o p
Martin Fierro 13040 Livingston Road, (239) 300-4777. martinfierrorestaurant.com
At this Argentinian and Uruguayan parrillada, you’ll find grass-fed beef and other South American specialties.
$$$ LATIN AMERICAN o p
Moura Bistro
3369 Pine Ridge Road, (239) 738-8883. mourabistro.com. Flavorful Lebanese fare, such as falafel, tabbouleh salad and shawarma.
$$ MIDDLE EASTERN o p
Nat Nat
3080 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 1, (239) 919-8732. natnat naples.com. A coffee shop by day, evening menus showcase scratch-made shareable plates and natural wines in a buzzy space.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o p
Shula’s Steak House
5111 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 430-4999. shulasnaples. com. Late NFL Hall of Fame coach Don Shula’s brainchild.
4270 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., (239) 649-5552. baysidesea foodgrillandbar.com. Dine with more than 200 feet of waterfront views.
$$$ SEAFOOD b o p v w
MiraMare Ristorante
4236 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., (239) 430-6273 miramarenaples. com. Enjoy classic Italian fare on the waterfront patio overlooking Venetian Bay.
$$$ ITALIAN o v w
Fish Restaurant
4360 Gulf Shore Blvd., (239) 263-3474. fishrestaurant naples.com. Find seafood and a waterside breeze overlooking the bay.
$$$ SEAFOOD o w
M Waterfront Grille
4300 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., (239) 263-4421.mwaterfrontgrille. com. Organic meals served with bay views.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN b o p v w
T-Michaels Steak & Lobster House
4050 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., (239) 261-0622. t-michaels. com. Steakhouse dining on the water, featuring USDA Prime meats, Maine lobster and an early dining menu.
$$$$ STEAK v w
WATERSIDE SHOPS
BrickTop's
5555 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 596-9112. bricktops. com/naples. This locale draws crowds for a wellchoreographed menu of seafood and steaks that appeal to a variety of appetites. $$$ AMERICAN b
True Food Kitchen
5375 Tamiami Trail N., Suite 15, (239) 431-4580 truefoodkitchen.com. The health-driven menu caters to flexitarians but has plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans. $$ CAFE b o p
NORTH NAPLES
BALEEN
9891 Gulf Shore Drive, (239) 598-5707. laplayaresort. com. A stunning dining room and tables on the beach for dining on creative cuisine, overlooking the Gulf.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN b o v w
The Bay House
799 Walkerbilt Road, (239) 5913837. bayhousenaples.com. Southern-inspired menus, a raw bar and mangrove-lined views. $$$ SEAFOOD o v w
Bicyclette Cookshop
819 Vanderbilt Beach Road, (239) 514-3333. bicyclette cookshop.com. Helmed by a Food Network Choppedwinning chef, with inspired menus—don't miss it.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o
Black Forest Restaurant 2366 Immokalee Road, (239) 592-4784. blackforestnaples. com. Find classic German and Austrian fare like traditional sauerbraten and schnitzel. $$ EUROPEAN
Bone Hook Brewing Co. 1514 Immokalee Road, (239) 631-8522. bonehook brewing.com. A microbrewery with a taproom and full kitchen. $$ BAR BITES o p
Côte d’Azur
11224 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 597-8867. cotedazur restaurant.com. Old World French cuisine in a cozy, Provençal setting.
$$$ FRENCH
The Crust 8004 Trail Blvd., (239) 2448488. thecrustpizza.net. A sports bar with stellar pizza. $ ITALIAN
Deep Lagoon Seafood & Fish Market
Multiple locations in Lee and Collier counties. deep lagoon.com. The family behind Pinchers owns this popular eatery.
$$$ SEAFOOD o p
Dusk/The Grill/Gumbo Limbo/Nolita/Sofra at The Ritz-Carlton, Naples* 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, (239) 598-3300. ritzcarlton. com. The beach resort hosts several favorites: private club-like The Grill, sultry sushi joint Dusk and Italian gem Nolita on the finer end; poolside, Mediterranean, Sofra and beachfront Gumbo Limbo for more casual eats.
$$$$ ASIAN, STEAKHOUSE, ITALIAN, MEDITERRANEAN, AMERICAN b o v w
Food & Thought 2 7941 Airport-Pulling Road, (239) 791-3663. foodandthought2.com. The longtime Naples organic grocery debuted a cool, second location in 2022, with a sit-down restaurant and menus that draw from the owner’s nearby farm.
$$ AMERICAN b o p
Grain de Café 8803 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 594-8081. frenchcafe naples.com. The pain au chocolat, quiches and crepes are worth a visit. $$ FRENCH b o
Jimmy P’s Burgers & More 1201 Piper Blvd., Suite 11, (239) 514-1800. jimmyps burgers.com. Superior meats are a local tradition here.
$$ AMERICAN o p
Namba
8847 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 592-4992. nambanaples.com. Enjoy a remarkable selection of ramen, sushi and small plates. $$ ASIAN
New York Pizza & Pasta 11140 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 594-3500; 8855 Immokalee Road, (239) 597-3800. nypp. com. Go for hand-tossed pies.
$$ ITALIAN o p
Parmesan Pete’s 7935 Airport-Pulling Road, (239) 992-3663. parmesan petes.com. Order large portions of eggplant, veal and chicken Parms, meatballs and lasagna. $ ITALIAN o p
Ria at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón*
2600 Tiburon Drive, (239) 593-2000. rianaples.com. Find food and cocktails inspired by Latin American street markets, served up alfresco.
$$$$ LATIN AMERICAN o v
Simit Fresh Mediterranean 1230 Airport-Pulling Road, (239) 331-4477. simitfresh. com. Lunch is a good bet, but seafood shines on the menu.
$$$ MEDITERRANEAN
The Turtle Club 9222 Gulfshore Drive N., (239) 592-6557. turtleclubnaples.com. A longtime favorite for toesin-the-sand lunch and divine seafood dinners.
$$$ NEW AMERICAN o p w
Two Fillets
10395 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 788-0222. twofillets.com. Surfand-turf restaurant and market from the folks behind Pinchers.
$$$ AMERICAN o p
Zen Asian BBQ 10823 Tamiami Trail N., (239) 260-7037. eatatzen.com. A pan-Asian joint with fresh sushi, ramen, bar bites and Korean barbecue. $$ ASIAN o
MERCATO
Bar Tulia
9118 Strada Place, Suite 8150, (239) 438-1031. bartulia. com. This location of the Italian-inspired gastropub features expertly crafted cocktails, pasta and wood-fired pizza.
$$ ITALIAN b o p
The Hampton Social 9114 Strada Place, (239) 2022038. thehamptonsocial.com. A chic, rosé-all-day bar scene complemented by great seafood and noshes.
$$ NEW AMERICAN b o p
Old Vines Mercato
9105 Strada Place, Suite 3125, (239) 591-5351. oldvines.
net. The parent restaurant to Naples’ top supper club also has stellar happy hours (two daily).
Esteemed chef Daniel Swofford leads the kitchen team, making for forward-thinking menus that do justice to the sophisticated wine and cocktail lists.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o
Rocco’s Tacos
9123 Strada Place, (239) 5008226. roccostacos.com. Go for the roughly 500 selections of tequila and mezcal.
$$ MEXICAN b o p
The 239 Naples 9108 Strada Place, (239) 6311902. the239naples.com. The restaurant keeps the focus on local growers and producers.
$$ MODERN AMERICAN b o
GALLERIA SHOPPES AT VANDERBILT
Alpine Restaurant
2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 158, (239) 325-9499. alpineofnaples.com. The best of German, Slovak, Czech, Polish and Hungarian fare.
$$ EASTERN EUROPEAN b o p
Real Seafood Co. Naples
8960 Fontana Del Sol Way, (239) 591-3523. realseafoodcorestaurant.com.
Fish from New England, the
Great Lakes and the Gulf pair with local produce.
$$$$ SEAFOOD
The Cave Bistro & Wine Bar
2343 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 604, (239) 513-0095. thecavenaples.com. A magnificent selection of wines and small plates.
$$$ WINE BAR o p
Mister O1 Extraordinary Pizza
2355 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Suite 176, (239) 631-6844. mistero1.com. Extraordinary isn’t hyperbole; try the star-shaped pizza with ricotta-stuffed crust
for proof. Visit the second location coming soon to Downtown Naples.
$$ ITALIAN o p
MARCO ISLAND
844 Gulf and Prime
844 Bald Eagle Drive, (239) 544-9844. 844gulfand prime.com. Stunning spaces make an apt backdrop for shareable small plates and robust entrees.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN w
Ario
400 S. Collier Blvd., (239) 642-2695. arioatjw marco.com. At the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, Ario has a sophisticated aesthetic, elevated culinary offerings and an impressive bar program.
$$$$ STEAK o v
Island Gypsy Café
& Marina Bar
292 Capri Blvd., (239) 394-1111. theislandgypsy.com. A go-to on Isles of Capri—just north of Marco Island proper—the restaurant's alfresco, marina setting is as salty as its sea-
food specialties and casual ship-shaped bar (once a fishing yacht).
$$ SEAFOOD o w
LeeBee Fish Restaurant
350 Royal Palm Drive, (239) 389-0580. leebefish.com. A fisherman-owned seafood market and restaurant, it sells products right off the boat.
$$ SEAFOOD o
The Oyster Society
599 S. Collier Blvd., (239) 394-3474. theoystersoci ety.com. This chic locale's raw bar has more than 80 oyster
Sanibel • Ft. Myers Beach • St. Pete Pier • Jungle Terrace St. Pete
The Original Yucatan Shrimp
selections, as well as sushi and fresh catches.
$$$ SEAFOOD o p
Sale e Pepe
480 S. Collier Blvd., (239) 393-1600. sale-e-pepe. com. A seasonally open gem with inspired Italian dishes, a formidable wine cellar and a waterfront patio overlooking the beach.
$$$ ITALIAN o p v w
Tesoro
400 S. Collier Blvd., (239) 393-3208. tesoroat jwmarco.com. Beach views and coastal fare make for a dreamy dinner.
$$$ MEDITERRANEAN o v w
Verdi's American Bistro
241 N. Collier Blvd., (230) 394-5533. verdisbistro.com. Specialties include crispy duck, rack of lamb, apple strudel and a distinguished wine list.
$$$ AMERICAN
LEE COUNTY
BONITA SPRINGS
Angelina’s Ristorante*
24041 S. Tamiami Trail, (239) 390-3187. angelinasof bonitasprings.com. Plush banquettes, live piano and award-winning wine lists define the fine dining here.
$$$ ITALIAN o v
The Bohemian
27975 Old 41 Road, Suite 104, (239) 451-9619. thebohemian bonita.com. The team behind Downtown Coffee and Wine Company presents a globally inspired menu.
$$$ ECLECTIC o
Chartreuse Craft
Cocktail Lounge
27313 Old 41 Road, (239) 9492776. chartreuselounge.com.
Swanky and hip, with personable bartenders shaking up cocktails you’ve never had before; plus, there’s a dessert menu. $ COCKTAIL LOUNGE
Chops City Grill
8200 Health Center Blvd., (239) 992-4677. chopsbonita. com. The sister restaurant to Naples’ elegant steakhouse.
$$$$ STEAK o p
C Level Bistro & Wine Bar
4450 Bonita Beach Road, (239) 221-7046. c-levelbar. com. An intimate locale great for steak, lamb and seafood.
$$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o
Coconut Jack’s
Waterfront Grille
5370 Bonita Beach Road, (239) 676-7777. coconutjacks. com. A perfect stop for quick bites and water views.
$$ SEAFOOD o p v w
DeRomo’s Gourmet Market & Restaurant
26811 S. Bay Drive, Suites 140 and 148, (239) 325-3583. deromos.com. The big-city vibe here is part of an Italian market.
$$$ ITALIAN o p
Downtown Coffee and Wine Company
27546 Old 41 Road, (239) 272-6068. downtowncoffeeand winecompany.com. Light bites accompany specialty coffee and more than a dozen wines by the glass.
$ CAFE b o p
El Basque Vin & Pintxo Bar
25245 Chamber of Commerce Drive, (239) 301-4973. elbasque. com. Spanish and French influences merge at this tapas-style wine bar.
$$$ BASQUE p o
Jimmy P’s Charred
25301 S. Tamiami Trail, (239) 390-0301. jimmypssteaks.com. Enjoy superior meats and shareable side dishes.
$$$$ STEAK
Lapa’s Costa Rican Bistro
26251 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 9, (239) 221-7016. lapascr. com. Our editors' favorite lunch spot serves up authentic Latin fare, like arroz con pollo, gallos and tostadas.
$$ LATIN AMERICAN
The Other Side Bistro
24630 S. Tamiami Trail, (239) 992-7433. othersidebistro. com. Chef Brian McCarley serves comfort dishes with modern flair.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o p
Malinche Mexican Cuisine
3250 Bonita Beach Road SW, Suite 202, (239) 301-2902. malinchebon itasprings.com. The Salazar brothers dish up Central and Southern Mexican flavors. $$ MEXICAN
Petar’s Restaurant
3300 Bonita Beach Road, Suite 120, (239) 249-4064. petarsrestau rant.com. Chef Petar Al Kurdi has developed a strong following for his deftly prepared cuisine.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o
Rooftop at Riverside
27333 Old 41 Road, (239) 2680080. eatdrinkparadise.com. The rooftop craft bar overlooks a half-dozen food trucks and Old 41.
$$ ECLECTIC o p
Roy’s Restaurant
26831 S. Bay Drive, Suite 100, (239) 498-7697. roysrestaurant.com. Enjoy celebrity chef Roy Yamaguchi’s Pacific and Hawaiian fusion fine dining.
$$$ ASIAN o
A Table Apart
4295 Bonita Beach Road, (239) 221-8540. atableapart. com. Fusion influences from the Pacific Rim and beyond.
$$$ ECLECTIC
Wolfmoon
27975 Old 41 Road, Suite 107, (601) 557-3238. wolfmoon.co. Go for some of the best croissants and coffee in town—hands down. $ CAFÉ o
Wylds Café
4271 Bonita Beach Road, (239) 947-0408. wyldscafe.com. Three
chefs join forces for this fine-dining experience.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
ESTERO
Divieto Ristorante
23161 Village Shops Way, Suite 101, (239) 390-2977.
divietoristorante.com. The famous fettuccine Alfredo is prepared in a hollowed-out Parmesan wheel. $$$ ITALIAN o p
El Gaucho Deli Café
22905 Lyden Drive, (239) 3172994. elgauchoinca.com. This locale intertwines South and North American flavors.
$ ECLECTIC b
El Nido
23161 Village Shops Way, Suite 113, (239) 319-1900. elnidoeats.com. A contemporary joint using local ingredients for house-made sauces and a modern spin on Latin dishes. $$ MEXICAN o p
Real Seafood Co.
8001 Plaza Del Lago Drive. realseafoodcorestaurant. com. Fish from New England, the Great Lakes and the Gulf paired with local produce.
$$$$ SEAFOOD
Tacos & Tequila Cantina
10952 Eagle Village Drive, (239) 330-8226. tacosandte quilanaples.com. Tacos with clever tweaks, plus margaritas.
$ MEXICAN o p SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS FROM 11AM - 3PM
THE PENTHOUSE BRUNCH
FORT MYERS
SOUTH FORT MYERS
Artisan Eatery
8951 Daniels Parkway, (239) 887-4844. artisan eatery.com. Look for outstanding specials at this stamp-sized favorite.
$ MODERN AMERICAN b
Backyard Social
16371 Corporate Commercial Way, (239) 703-7077. backyardsocial.com. One of the region’s food truckoutdoor bar concept with eight vendor take-out options.
$$ ECLECTIC o
Bellini's 13451 McGregor Blvd, (239) 270-5005. bellinisfortmyers. com. Elevated Italian favorites in a casual atmosphere with live music nightly.
$$ ITALIAN o
Coldwater Oyster Market 5611 Six Mile Commercial Court, (239) 220-5918. coldwateroystermarket.com. Oysters and seafood from the North Atlantic and Pacific Northwest from Chef Adam Nardis. $$$ SEAFOOD o p
Courtney's Continental Cuisine
20351 Summerlin Road, Unit 111, (239) 466-4646. court neyscontinentalcuisine.com. A
hidden gem serving an eclectic from-scratch menu and wine.
$$$ EUROPEAN
Cubans Be Like
13300 S. Cleveland Ave., Suite 21, (239) 789-1869. cubansbelike.com. Cuban favorites define the menu— don’t miss the vaca frita.
$$$ CUBAN o
Ember
7091 College Parkway, Suite 9, (239) 771-8818. emberfortmyers.com.
A gem with tabletop barbecue, fusion dishes and sushi.
$$$ ASIAN
Fancy’s Southern Café 8890 Salrose Lane, Suite 101, (239) 561-2988. fancyssoutherncafe.com. Elevated Southern favorites in a casual atmosphere.
$$ AMERICAN b o p
Flock Wine Bistro
9405 Cypress Lake Drive, Suite 1, (239) 245-7105. flockwinebistro.com. Inspired by Rome’s hipster Monti neighborhood, this wine bar offers curated vinos, obsessionworthy small plates and pizzaflatbread hybrids.
$$ WINE BAR
Harold’s 15250 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite 107, (239) 849-0622. haroldscui sine.com. Chef Harold Balink’s cozy, farm-to-table bistro and bourbon bar.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
Liberty
12995 S. Cleveland Ave., Suite 112, (239) 689-5528. eatliberty.us. Chef Bob Boye’s gem features artfully presented, progressive menus of complex small plates.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN
MAKS Asian Kitchen & Sushi
13650 Fiddlesticks Blvd. Suite 206, (239) 985-9632. maksfl.com Masters at sushi, the Mak brothers also prepare Japanese noodle and rice dishes.
$$ ASIAN
Mastello Ristorante & Steakhouse
7890 Summerlin Lakes Drive, Suite 101, (239) 936-3660.mastello.com. Upscale creations dished in a gorgeous dining room.
$$$ ITALIAN
Osteria Celli
15880 Summerlin Road, Suite 308, (239) 267-1310. osteriacelli.com. Fresh pasta is a highlight.
$$$$ ITALIAN
Two Meatballs in the Kitchen
8880 Salrose Lane, (239) 489-1111. twomeatballsmenu.com. With a second location in Cape Coral, it brings classic and house-tweaked dishes to the table, including gluten-free pasta.
$$ ITALIAN
BELL TOWER SHOPS
DaRuMa Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Lounge 13499 S. Cleveland Ave., (239) 344-0037. darumarestau rant. com. Enjoy Teppan-style tableside
cooking, tempura and sushi.
$$$ ASIAN o p
McGregor's Public House
13499 S. Cleveland Ave., (239) 990-3336. mcgregors publichouse.com. Delightful interpretations of Irish cuisine made with from-scratch goodness. $ IRISH o
A mix of Argentinian and Peruvian dishes with a clone in Estero.
$$$ LATIN AMERICAN o p
Farmers Market Restaurant
2736 Edison Ave., (239) 3341687. farmersmarketrestaurant. com. Southern classics and comforts at this regional mainstay. $ AMERICAN b
Ginger Bistro
4650 Cleveland Ave., Suite 8, (239) 689-3113. gingerbistrou sa.com. Traditional dim sum and Cantonese barbecue are highlights. $$ ASIAN
KJ’s Steakhouse
10950 S. Cleveland Ave., (239) 275-4745. kjsfreshgrill. com. They pride themselves on aging and searing.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o p
MCGREGOR CORRIDOR
Azure
15301 McGregor Blvd., Suite 1, (239) 288-4296. azurefortmyers.com. Enjoy modernized French classics with a Southern flair. $$$ FRENCH o Blanc
13451 McGregor Blvd., Suite 10, (239) 887-3139. blancentertainment.com.
France meets Asia at Chef Jean Claude Rogé’s intimate restaurant. $$$ ECLECTIC
Cibo
12901 McGregor Blvd., Suite 16, (239) 454-3700. cibofortmyers.com.
ular Italian spot serves stellar food and wines. $$$
Jordan’s Wine Bar and Cellar
12901 McGregor Blvd., Suite 14, (239) 313-7056. The latest venture from chef Gloria Jordan-Cabral, with novelties and next-level sandwiches. $$ WINE BAR
Lan Xang
1400 Colonial Boulevard, Suite 57, (239) 689-8603. lanxangftmyers.com for takeout and dine-in, its pan-Asian—Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, Indian—flavors are spot-on. $$ ASIAN
LEARN MORE AT FLORIDANATIONALPARKS.ORG
An evening fundraiser benefiting Big Cypress National Preserve and Biscayne, Dry Tortugas, and Everglades National Parks hosted by Chris Lombardo
Roadhouse Café
15660 San Carlos Blvd., Suite 280, (239) 415-4375. road housecafefl.com. Try a wide range of dishes, including steak. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN
DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS
10 Twenty Five 33 Patio De Leon, (239) 208-6903. 10twentyfive.
net. A from-scratch kitchen adds culinary legitimacy to its rooftop and downstairs scene of craft cocktails, live music and clever pub fare. $ AMERICAN b o p
Bay Street Yard
2136 Bay St., (239) 2705941. baystreetyard.com
Downtown’s new beer garden offers fresh food truck bites and thoughtfully curated cocktails in an alfresco setting.
$$ ECLECTIC o
Bruno's of Brooklyn
2149 First St., (239) 2780211. brunosofbrooklyn. com. Acclaimed Sicilian cuisine by way of New York City, with a new address and new lunch and weekend brunch menus.
$$ ITALIAN
The Silver King Ocean Brasserie/Oxbow Bar & Grill/Beacon Social Drinkery*
2200 Edwards Drive, (239) 314-3855. luminary
hotel.com. Inside Luminary Hotel & Co., find fine-dining at The Silver King, riverfront eats at Oxbow Bar & Grill, Ella Mae's Diner and the rooftop Beacon Social Drinkery.
$$$ SEAFOOD o v w
The Standard Restaurant 1520 Broadway, (239) 219-6463. thestandardftmyers.com. Fromscratch eats and craft cocktails.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN b p
The Veranda
2122 Second St., (239) 332-2065. verandarestaurant.com. Fort Myers’ grande dame provides top-notch service and Southerninspired specialties.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o p v
Wisteria Tea Room & Cafe
2512 Second St., (239) 689-4436. wisteriatearoom.com. A charming historic home with several prixfixe options for afternoon tea and nibbles. $$ TEA ROOM b o
NORTH FORT MYERS
Blossom & Brie
8250 Nalle Grade Road, (239) 385-0415. blossomandbrie.com. The new locale offers farmside meals with wide selections of fresh greens, meats and desserts.
$$$ AMERICAN b o
FORT MYERS BEACH
Fresh Catch Bistro
4761 Estero Blvd., (239) 488-2400. freshcatchbistro. com. Hidden behind Publix amongst a marina and backwater mangroves, its sophisticated menu and second-story patio views win favor.
$$$ SEAFOOD o w
JWB Grille
451 Crescent Street, (239) 899-4094. margaritaville resorts.com. The new Margaritaville Resort’s eatery offers international flavors with local flair in an elevated setting overlooking the beach.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN w
SANIBEL ISLAND
Bleu Rendezvous
751 Tarpon Bay Road, (239) 565-1608. bleurendez vous.com. This restaurant is lauded for authentic French fare, such as coq au vin and cassoulet. $$$ FRENCH o p
Cielo
1244 Periwinkle Way, (239) 472-5555. cielo-sanibel. com. Elevated island fare and craft cocktails.
975 Rabbit Road, (239) 9557673. rosalitascantina.com/ sanibel. Modern Mex cuisine in a contemporary setting.
$$ MEXICAN b
The Timbers Restaurant & Fish Market
703 Tarpon Bay Road, (239) 472-3128. timbersofsanibel. com. Fresh fish off the docks and fine steaks make up the old-school menu in this longtime institution.
$$$ SEAFOOD
Traders
1551 Periwinkle Way, (239) 472-7242. traderssanibel.com. A locals’ pick for lunch, dinner and happy hour, its consistent menu adds signature twists to fish and beef dishes.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o p v
Tutti Pazzi
1200 Periwinkle Way, (239) 966-7654. tuttipazzisanibel. com. Pizza and classic Italian mastered with authenticity and simplicity.
$$ ITALIAN
Wickies Lighthouse Restaurant
362 Periwinkle Way, (239) 4721100. wickieslighthouserestau rant.com. Two high-powered restaurants combined after Hurricane Ian for this hybrid of casual and gourmet in a clean, modern space.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN b o p
CAPTIVA ISLAND
Keylime Bistro at Captiva Island Inn*
11509 Andy Rosse Lane, (239) 395-4000. keylimebistrocaptiva.com.
A colorful island spot on Boca Grande and expected to reopen on Captiva spring 2025. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN b o p
The Mucky Duck
11546 Andy Rosse Lane, (239) 472-3434. muckyduck.com.
A British pub with seafood platters, beer and live music.
$$ AMERICAN o p w
RC Otter’s Island Eats*
11506 Andy Rosse Lane, (239) 395-1142. captivaislandinn.com. Breakfast, lunch and dinner with live music.
$$ AMERICAN b o p
Sunshine Seafood Cafe and Wine Bar*
11508 Andy Rosse Lane, (239) 472-6200. captivaislandinn.com. A sophisticated, beachy cafe
At Naples' Bicyclette Cookshop , off Vanderbilt Beach Road and U.S. 41, the cocktail menu is considered as inventive as the food.
Life on the Gulf — Dining Guide with beloved chef Ryan Kida at the helm.
$$$ SEAFOOD
Crow's Nest Steakhouse, Old Captiva House and The Shipyard 15951 Captiva Drive, (239) 4725161. tween-waters.com. ’Tween Waters Island Resort presents refined fare in its casual and elevated locales.
$$$ SEAFOOD
CAPE CORAL & PINE ISLAND
Café YOU 1423. SE 10th St., (239) 6000966. cafeyou2.wordpress.com Global and gluten-free dishes populate the breakfast and lunch menus.
$ CAFÉ
Cork Soakers Deck & Wine Bar 837 SE 47th Terrace, (239) 542-6622. corksoakers.net. An irreverent tone shows in the decor and on the menu.
$$ MODERN AMERICAN b o p
Fathoms Restaurant & Bar 5785 Cape Harbour Drive, Suite 106, (239) 542-0123. fathomsres taurant.com. Upscale cuisine with international influences.
$$$ MODERN AMERICAN o p w
Fish Tale Grill By Merrick Seafood 1229 SE 47th Terrace, (239) 257-3167. fishtalegrill.com.
With an adjacent fish market, many items earn nods.
$$$ SEAFOOD b o
Front Porch Social 4721 Vincennes Blvd., (239) 3478914. frontporchsocialcc.com.
A breezy, shaded patio, small plates and fab cocktails make for a perfect date spot.
$$ MODERN AMERICAN b o
Gather
5971 Silver King Blvd., Suite 116, (239) 673-9939. gathercape.
com. Celebrated chefs blend Mediterranean flavors with classics. $$$ MODERN AMERICAN b o w
Next Door
5971 Silver King Blvd., Suite 114, (239) 984-2453. nextdoorcape.
com. From the team at Gather, Next Door elevates small dishes with focused flair.
$$$$ ITALIAN o
Ginger Bistro
2366 Surfside Blvd., Suite C-101, (239) 558-8865. gingerbistrousa.com.
Authentic Chinese fare and traditional Cantonese barbecue. $$ ASIAN
Jungle Bird Authentic Tiki
1520 Lafayette St., (239) 4714111. junglebirdtiki.com. Clever Pacific Rim dishes and signature rum drinks.
J.THOMAS CONROY, III*
BRADLEY D. FRIEDMAN*
KRISTIN M. CONROY* GREGORY W. WETZEL
MICHAEL A. DURANT*
ARRANGE A CONSULTATION
$$ ECLECTIC b o p 2210 Vanderbilt Beach Rd. #1201 Naples, Florida 34109 (239) 649-5200
PATRICK C. CONROY, CPA
February 18, 2025 ~ The Ritz-Carlton Tiburón
Denise Brown is the sister of Nicole Brown Simpson, ex-wife of O.J. Simpson who was acquitted of her murder in 1994.
Denise and her sisters were recently featured in a Lifetime docuseries, The Life & Murder of Nicole Brown Simpson. In the three decades since her sister’s murder, Denise has advocated for victims of domestic violence and helped pass the Violence Against Women Act.
PROCEEDS BENEFIT
The Shelter for Abused Women & Children For more information, contact Susan Utz at sutz@naplesshelter.org 239.775.3862 • naplesshelter.org
MISCHIEF &MIR SELCA
JOIN SWFL CHILDREN’S CHARITIES, INC.
MISCHIEF & MIRACLES: A SPEAKEASY SOIRÈE FOR CHILDREN'S HEALTH
JANUARY 17 & 18, 2025
For the 16th annual Southwest Florida Wine & Food Fest to enhance pediatric healthcare in our region.
CHEF VINTNER DINNERS
FRIDAY | JANUARY 17, 2025
The secret’s out. We’re hosting a luxurious party, pairing the finest wines with the region’s most celebrated chefs, together in the most exclusive spots. It’s gonna be the cat’s meow.
THE GRAND TASTING & LIVE AUCTION
SATURDAY | JANUARY 18, 2025
Get up to more mischief as you savor signature creations from culinary masters, complimented by the finest wines from our favorite vintners. Raise your paddles in our auction of historic proportions and take home once-in-a-lifetime experiences like travel to exotic lands, and manifest miracles for pediatric healthcare.
RESERVE YOUR TICKETS AT SWFLWINEFEST.ORG
TOP EVENTS FOR NOVEMBER
Fill your calendar with fall festivities, momentous exhibits and delights from the stage and screen in Southwest Florida. As events may change, we recommend you check with the organizations for the latest information.
Through Nov. 24
Anything Goes at Gulfshore Playhouse, Naples
The theater company’s first full production in the new Baker Theatre and Education Center is the playhouse’s largest-ever production. Watch the antics and escapades unfold aboard the ocean liner S.S. American, as the cast of characters go to hilarious lengths for love. gulfshoreplayhouse.org
Through Nov. 31
Forma Rosa Studio at PDA Gallery, Naples
The postmodern interior design collector’s haven converts its gallery space in celebration of Brooklyn, New York’s experimental, ceramic-focused design label, Forma Rosa. Bubbling, organic shapes denote the collection of furnishings, light fixtures and vases that fill the exhibit. pdagallery.com
Naples Philharmonic welcomes the ethereal stylings of the acclaimed Dance Theatre of Harlem on November 19.
Prose and perspective align in Ghost Horizons: Poetry and Printmaking, an ode to our waterways, on display at BIG ARTS, opening November 1.
Nov. 1
Día de Muertos Experience at Method & Concept, Naples
The haute gallery transforms into a colorful Mexican market amid an ongoing exhibit of Día de Muertosinspired artworks from makers like Nicario Jiménez. Guests don themed attire,e,
sip aguas frescas, dance along with a live mariachi band and find authentic bites from Immokalee’s Taco Tummy food truck. methodandconcept.com
Nov. 1 and 2
Naples Philharmonic Masterworks: Pictures with Alexander at Artis—Naples Alexander Shelley makes his debut as Artis—Naples’ artistic and musical director
with this season-opening Masterworks performance with Pablo Sáinz-Villegas, dubbed the global ambassador of Spanish guitar by Billboard magazine. This is Pablo’s only East Coast performance this year. artisnaples.org
Nov. 1-10
Letters to Sala at Florida Gulf Coast University’s TheatreLab, Fort Myers Sala Garncarz Kirschner’s inspiring true story of surviving seven concentration camps during World War II comes to life with the stage adaptation of Sala’s Gift, the 2006 book written by her daughter, Anna Kirschner. fgcu.edu/theatrelab
Andrew Owen’s Papery Sky (2022)/Courtesy Chanda Jamieson
PDA Gallery’s postmodern-leaning interior design shop brings an exhibit of hand-crafted, avant-garde furniture, vases and lights from Forma Rosa Studio in Brooklyn, New York, to Naples this month.
Gaetano Pesce for Zerodisegno’s Nobody’s Queen (2003), shot by Dan Cutrona
Nov. 1-29
Enigma at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, Fort Myers
Southwest Florida artist and New York Academy of Art alum Daniel Venditti channels his emotions surrounding the loss of his father last year into figure paintings exploring the inner self, from the calm and serene to the bold or courageous. sbdac.com
Nov. 1 — Dec. 15
Ghost Horizons: Poetry and Printmaking at BIG ARTS’
Dunham Family Gallery, Sanibel Island
Two worlds collide when poet and fourth-generation commercial fisher Chanda Jamieson and painter and Florida Gulf Coast University professor Andy Owen team up to illustrate their love and respect for Southwest Florida
waterways while shining a light on the fragility of aquatic ecosystems. bigarts.org
Nov. 2
SAVE Bank of Everglades
Building Music Festival in Everglades City
The historic Rod & Gun Club’s Barron River views sing with performances from Seminole songwriter Rita Youngman,
bluesy Everglades local Charlie Pace, and outlaw folk and country musicians Raiford Starke and Florida Boys, among others. This year, the annual music festival supports Everglades Society for Historic Preservation’s efforts to restore the 1927 Bank of Everglades Building. eshp.org
HARVEST NIGHTS
MUSIC FESTIVAL
NOVEMBER 22 - 24, 2024
JOHN JIMMIE RODEO GROUNDS IMMOKALEE, FL
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24
Nov. 2 and 3
Día de los Muertos Celebration at Naples Botanical Gardens
Día de los Muertos comes alive in the garden with giant skeleton sculptures, live music, ofrendas (altars honoring lost loved ones), kids’ activities and a special menu at Fogg Café. Jam
along with Los Rumberos and a DJ and see folkloric ballet performances on both days. naplesgarden.org
Nov. 4-18
Paint the Town with Joy! at East West Fine Art, Naples
Experience Naples through the colorful lens of Joy Stanley, who started capturing the essence of our sun-
soaked paradise en plein air after a visit to see her son’s Naples home years ago. Her trademark ‘whimstorical’ style blends the city’s heritage and trademark cheerful spirit. eastwestfineart.com
Nov. 8 — Jan. 19
from bones and gears to photo snippets and digital designs—to form a visual narrative that blends abstract and figurative styles in a variety of mediums, including photography, graphic design, sculpture and assemblage. bigarts.org
Springs: Assemblage in Four Mediums at BIG ARTS’ Mezzanine Gallery, Sanibel Island
New Mexico artist Peter Page merges disparate elements—
Join us for a magical evening, celebrating the of our founders, the of our volunteers and sponsors, the of our students, and that Grace Place becomes for so ma courage heart brains home
S A T U R D A Y
Southwest Florida
29th annual storybook ball
Pirates of the Caribbean
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2025
6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
MARRIOTT SANIBEL HARBOUR RESORT HONORING CALIFORNIA CLOSETS
Ahoy, Mateys! Let’s set sail for a swashbuckling good night! In black tie optional or themed attire, you will enjoy a cocktail hour, raffles, dinner, live auction, dancing, & more! Grab yer eyepatch & parrot – it's time to party like a pirate at the Storybook Ball!
Proceeds help Ronald McDonald House Charities® SWFL provide essential services that remove barriers, strengthen families, & promote healing when children need healthcare.
GRAND PATRON SPONSOR
EMCEES
ANCHOR AMANDA HALL
METEOROLOGIST MATT DEVITT
MEDIA SPONSOR
On November 17, motorheads ride in style to Downtown Naples for the monthly Cars and Coffee.
Nov. 9 — Jan. 2
An Adventure In The Arts:
The Guild Hall Collection at Naples Art Institute
More than 80 works from internationally renowned artists like Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, Chuck Close, and Willem and Elaine de Kooning offer an insightful review of American art movements, from Impressionism to Abstract Expressionism to Pop Art and contemporary experimentation. naplesart.org
Nov. 10
The Tenors at Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee
Known for their powerful harmonies, the multiplatinum-winning quartet (formerly, The Canadian Tenors) has performed for Queen Elizabeth II, at Radio City Music Hall, and on The Oprah Winfrey Show with Celine Dion. Now, they come
to Collier County, bringing their crossover blend of classical and pop music, with original works and recreated hits. casino.hardrock.com
Nov. 12 and 13
FGCU Storytelling series at Florida Gulf Coast University’s Wasmer Art Gallery, Fort Myers
FGCU storytelling professor and co-producer of the university’s Storytelling Series Joel Ying offers the mic to anyone with a story about kindness and compassion during Tell Your Story on November 12. The next night, the host takes the stage with his own tale in Let’s Get Personal. fgcu.edu
Nov. 14
Jazz at the MACC: Music of Charles Mingus, Christian McBride and Brandon Robertson in Marco Island Soulfully inventive jazz fills the Music & Arts Community Center, with compositions from nine-time GrammyAward winner Christian
Día de los Muertos finds new life in Naples with immersive experiences at Naples Botanical Garden and Method & Concept gallery (right).
JDream ELEVATE THE
GUADALUPE CENTER GALA
THE RITZ-CARLTON | NAPLES, TIBURÓN Friday
JANUARY 10, 2025 | 5:30 PM
oin us for a night filled with vibrant ambiance, exquisite dining, and captivating performances that will leave you spellbound. Enjoy heartwarming talks from inspiring student speakers and participate in an exciting live auction with incredible items up for bid.
But that’s not all. Your presence means more than just a night out—it’s a chance to make a real difference. With on-the-spot donation opportunities, you’ll directly support the education of talented students from Immokalee, fueling their dreams and creating endless opportunities for their futures.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this standout event of the season. Elevate the Dream—where every moment is magic and every gesture is impactful.
Be a part of something
Naples Botanical Garden and the Sustaining Leadership Council announce
The 21st Annual
LA DOLCE VITA
Friday, March 28, 2025
Hats in the Garden Chair | Joan E. Clifford
FEATURING
An afternoon with co-host of “TODAY with Hoda & Jenna” and #1 New York Times Bestselling Author, Jenna Bush Hager
Runway show powered by Saks Fifth Avenue
For sponsorship opportunities or to donate, please contact Rhea Merrill at rmerrill@naplesgarden.org
Table and Patron ticket sales begin mid-November 2024. Limited quantities of individual tickets may be available in January 2025. For more information, please visit naplesgarden.org/hats
Platinum
Cortney L. Beebe†
Mary Ann E. Bindley
Joanne D. Brown
Eleanor B. Chabraja
Joan E. Clifford
Parker J. Collier
Grace Evenstad
Donna S. Hall
Cordia Harrington
Julia S. Heidt
Amy M. Heuerman
Barbara J. Hills
Jerrilyn M. Hoffmann
Manisha D. Kapani
Kathleen Kapnick
Ann Khan
Linda Koehn
Jody B. Lippes
Joan T. Loos
Simone Lutgert
Karen Melk
Gloria P. Messey
Barbara Morrison
Beverly Neal
Donna D. Nelson
Patrice Schoonmaker
F. Annette Scott
Karen M. Scott
Lynne Shotwell
Mary S. Smith
Vicky C. Smith
Shelly Stayer
Susan Stielow
Carol A. Walter
Shirley Z. Welsh
Nancy G. White
Kathy E. Woods Gold
Colleen Bassett
Leslie K. S. Fogg
Nancy H. Hamill
Melissa Keiswetter
Paula J. Malone
Linda Orlans
Katherine R. Pallas
Jenny W. Sutton
Connie Vandenberg
Linda G. White
Sustaining Leadership Council 2024 – 2025 †In memoriam
McBride, the late Arizona jazz icon Charles Mingus and local Jazz Collective Bassist Brandon Robertson. Brandon performs with pianist Zach Bartholomew, Collective leader Paul Gavin and a powerful two-horn section. gulfcoastsymphony.org
Nov. 14-17
Fort Myers Boat Show at Centennial Park
Boat lovers flock to Downtown Fort Myers, where more than 500 boats of various sizes and styles line the waterfront alongside seafaring accessory vendors—think: engines, electronics, fishing gear and clothing. Plus, find expert advice and fishing seminars hosted by Coastal Angler Magazine galatiyachts.com
Save the Date
Join us for Starry Nights, an elegant evening of dinner, cocktails, entertainment, dancing, and a silent auction, all to benefit Youth Haven. Help support the programs and services for the abused, neglected, and homeless children and teens who call Youth Haven home.
CHAIRS
Ingrid Aielli, Rufino Hernandez & Deborah Houk, M.D.
HONORARY CHAIRS
Elizabeth & Stanley Star
ENTERTAINMENT: Powerhouse: Next Generation
Secure your Sponsorship. 239-774-2904 Events@YouthHavenSWFL.org Visit StarryNights.YouthHavenSWFL.org
Nov. 16
Rookery Bay Classic Car Show at Florida SouthWestern State College, Naples
Check out—or show off—classic, muscle, exotic, high-performance and 90-plus-year-old antique cars. With more than 100 cars on display, vendors to shop and entertainment to enjoy, this family- and dog-friendly car
show helps support Friends of Rookery Bay. rookerybay.org
Nov. 18-24
CME Group Tour
Championship at Tiburón Golf Club at The RitzCarlton Naples, Tiburón
Catch the final swings of the 2024 LPGA tour in Naples, where the top 60 players fight for the championship title, an $11 million purse and the $4 million winner’s
A gala fundraiser benefiting: BETTER TOGETHER’S 4TH ANNUAL
Once upon a time a dream flourished ...
a dream where homelessness, drug addiction, child abuse, and neglect were mere fairytales of the past.
This dream, however, is not fantasy, but a tangible reality waiting to be written for Southwest Florida families.
Help us write a better future for families.
Tickets and Sponsorships:
The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón
2023 CHAMPS Lydia Ko - Jason Day
Tiburón Golf Club at the Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón
check—the largest single prize in women’s golf history. cmegrouptour championship.com
Nov. 24
Black Violin at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall Hip hop violin trailblazer duo Black Violin—Kev Marcus and Wil Baptiste—trace their 20-year musical journey from their time in a Fort Lauderdale high school
orchestra to headlining major shows around the country. Backed by drummer Nat Stokes, DJ SPS and pianist Liston Gregory, this momentous anniversary show is a can’t-miss. bbmannpah.com
Nov. 19
Dance Theatre of Harlem at Artis—Naples
The globally acclaimed New York dance company joins Naples Philharmonic for a performance that pays hom-
age to classic and contemporary stylings. The company’s recently appointed artistic director, Robert Garland, lends his Juilliard-pedigreed choreography skills to the evening. artisnaples.org
Nov. 20 — Dec. 22
A Christmas Story: The Musical at The Naples Players
Based on the classic 1980s movie of the same name,
this production is packed with laugh-out-loud comedy, ensemble dance numbers, power ballads and all the iconic moments that made the movie a holiday classic. naplesplayers.org
Nov. 22 and 23
Emerging Playwrights Festival at Florida Gulf Coast University’s TheatreLab, Fort Myers Florida Gulf Coast University’s TheatreLab
FIFTEEN YEARS, ONE FIGHT
PRESENTED BY
Dr. Richard Lublin & Christine Stahl Lublin
presents full read-throughs of new works from FGCU senior Robin O’Connell and National Student Playwriting Award winner and FGCU graduate Dane Futrell fgcu.edu
The top 60 players of the CME Group Tour Championship tee off at Naples’ Tiburón Golf Club November 18 through 24 for the LPGA’s largestever single prize winnings.
Nov. 23 and 24
Fall Garden Festival at Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers
The annual festival brings more than 60 vendors from around the state together with a host of native and tropical plants and gardening supplies for sale. Soak in live music and dig into food truck bites amid the historic grounds. edisonford winterestates.org
WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF LOCAL WOMEN AND GIRLS?
ANGELA MEISTER left
“Watching my mom—how much she has sacrificed and worked selflessly to help others around the clock. She is very selfless, constantly giving time to others. She’ll drop anything for anyone.”
ANNE FLEMING right
“The women who came before me— the mentors who helped me with my career, demonstrated volunteerism, and who set an example of balance between family and work and community.”
CAROLYN “CAT” TIEGER left
“Women in our community face the same challenges I experienced during my career, especially moving up the ladder. Yet, in Southwest Florida, we also have other serious issues: domestic violence, human trafficking, shelter, hunger…if we don’t address those first, then issues like opportunity and compensation don’t matter.”
BARBIE HILLS right
“The best way to do philanthropy: by having a Fun experience, like the song title, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun! I was honored to chair the 20th Anniversary Hats in the Garden fundraiser this year. It was so satisfying to share creativity and leadership and to experience the Fun with my daughter, daughters-in-law, granddaughters, and friends who are each amazing women. Let’s hear it for the Girls!”
MARY SUSAN GALLIEN CLINTON
“Raised with a strong work ethic and unwavering self-belief, I mentor women to embrace the power of their collective life experiences and share with others for an even stronger collaboration. With this mindset, they can embrace their uniqueness and be involved in their community and career path with passion and purpose.”
Nov. 29 — Dec. 23, Dec. 26 — Jan. 5
Johnsonville Night Lights in the Garden at Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers
Thousands of bulbs light up the former winter estates of luminaries Thomas Edison and Henry Ford during this nearly 50-year-old holiday tradition. Embrace the holiday spirit with caroling concerts, guided tours and appearances from Santa and Mrs. Claus. edisonford winterestates.com
Nov. 30 and Dec. 1
The Nutcracker at Artis—Naples
The Nutcracker, performed by Naples Ballet, fills Artis—Naples’ Hayes Hall with whimsy and Christmas cheer as Naples Philharmonic tackles Tchaikovsky’s melodies with joy and precision. artisnaples.org
Nick Shirghio
Soak in tunes from soulful songstresses and outlaw country devotees with SAVE Bank of Everglades Building Music Festival at Everglades City’s historic Rod & Gun Club.
Recurring Events We Love
With live music on the streets, nibbles at local galleries, shops and other fun diversions, these monthly events keep us coming back.
Nov. 1
Fort Myers Art Walk in the River District
Downtown Fort Myers’ growing arts scene is fully displayed on the first Friday of each month. Don’t miss the accompanying rooftop party at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. sbdac.com
Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Third Street South Farmer’s Market, Downtown Naples This family-friendly market offers fresh fruit, flowers, baked products, prepared dishes, jams, relishes, freshly roasted coffee and more. thirdstreetsouth.com
Illuminating Abilities
Presented by
To secure your seat, please contact 239.594.9007 or visit starability.org/gala. The Ritz-Carlton Naples,Tiburón Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025
Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation, PS Form 3526-R. 1. Publication Title: Gulfshore Life. 2. Publication Number: 0745-0079. 3. Filing Date: September 18, 2024. 4. Issue Frequency: Monthly. 5. Number of Issues Published Annually: Twelve (12). 6. Annual Subscription Price: $20.00. 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 26101 South Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134. Contact Person: Kerri Nolan; Telephone: (239) 498-8500. 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: 26101 South Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134. 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor and Managing Editor: Carin Keane, Publisher, 26101 South Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134; Stephanie Granada, Editor in Chief, 26101 South Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134; Addison Pezoldt, Managing Editor, 26101 South Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134. 10. Owner: Gulfshore Life Media LLC is a 100% subsidiary of Sun Broadcasting, Inc. Sun Broadcasting, Inc. ownership: Joseph C. Schwartzel Irrevocable Family Trust of 2011 (Beneficiaries: James William Schwartzel / Miriam Diaz Schwartzel), 2824 Palm Beach Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33916. Kelly Lynn McBride Trust, Brian Patrick McBride Trust, Colleen Louise McBride Trust, Kaitlyn Marie Lawrence Trust, Daniel James Plum Trust, Kelsey Christine Plum Trust, Daniel David Eucker Trust, Lauren Nicole Plum Trust, and Christina Marie Eucker Trust, all located at 876 Bradley Road, Westlake, OH 44145. 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: None. 12. (Does not apply.) 13. Publication Title: Gulfshore Life. 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data: October 2024. 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Average Number of Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months; Number of Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date: A. Total Number of Copies: Average: 16,520; Actual: 16,000. B. Legitimate Paid and/or Requested Distribution: 1: Outside County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541: Average: 8,497; Actual 8,013. 2. In-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541: Average: 0; Actual: 0. 3. Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid or Requested Distribution Outside USPS: Average: 633; Actual: 645. 4. Requested Copies Distributed by Other Mail Classes Through the USPS: Average: 0; Actual: 0. C. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation: Average: 9,130; Actual: 8,658. D. Nonrequested Distribution: 1. Outside County Nonrequested Copies Stated on PS Form 3541: Average: 3,824; Actual: 3,899. 2. In-County Nonrequested Copies Stated on PS Form 3541: Average: 0; Actual: 0. 3. Nonrequested Copies Distributed Through the USPS by Other Classes of Mail: Average: 0; Actual: 0. 4) Nonrequested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail: Average: 2,909; Actual: 3,100. E. Total Nonrequested Distribution: Average: 6,733; Actual: 6,999. F. Total Distribution: Average: 15,863; Actual: 15,657. G. Copies not Distributed: Average: 657; Actual: 343. H. Total: Average: 16,520; Actual: 16,000. I. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation: Average: 58%; Actual: 55%. 16. Electronic Copy Circulation: n/a 17. Publication of Statement of Ownership for a Requester Publication is required and will be printed in the November 2024 issue of this publication. 18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager or Owner: Carin Keane, Publisher. Date: September 18, 2024.
Nov. 9
Naples Artcrafters Fine Arts & Craft Show at Cambier Park, Naples
Find works ranging from oil paintings to hand-woven baskets at this artisan-centric show that’s been a local staple for more than five decades. The show runs monthly on second Saturdays (first Saturday in February) through April. naplesartcrafters.com
Nov. 14
Evening on Fifth in Old Naples
The shops stay open late, restaurants offer dining specials, and live music fills historic Fifth Avenue South on second Thursdays. fifthavenuesouth.com
Nov. 15
Fort Myers Music Walk in the River District
Enjoy Live Music by local and regional musicians in the streets of Downtown Fort Myers on the third Friday of each month. myriverdistrict.com
Nov. 17
Cars and Coffee
Join local car enthusiasts every third Sunday to get a first-hand look at some of the neighborhood’s most luxurious cars. carsandcoffee239.com
SHOPPING DESTINATIONS
WITH THE FACTS IN EVERY STORY
FIRST FAIR EVERYWHERE
IN SOUTHWES T FLORIDA
Matt Devitt, Chief Meteorologist
Lois Thome
Chris Cifatte
Keeper of the Glades
With November upon us, we take a moment to reflect on the many reasons to be thankful to live in Southwest Florida. In large part, we owe gratitude to stewards like Patricia ‘Pat’ Bowen, who fosters the legacy of Everglades City’s Rod & Gun Club—the 1800s adventure base camp her parents, Martin and Marcella, bought in 1972. In Gulfshore Life ’s 1996 May/June edition, we talked to the Bowens about the changes they saw coming to the historic town, back when they anticipated an impending tourism boom. Like a portal to the past, the hotel and restaurant transport visitors to the club’s heyday, evoking an age when presidents and celebrities frequented the rustic retreat for swamp fishing trips and exploratory sojourns. Pat and her family upkeep the riverfront property—filled with pecky cypress walls, taxidermy mounts, newspaper clippings and vintage furnishings—persevering through hurricanes, economic fluctuations and the passage of time. Thanks to their work, the Rod & Gun Club serves as a symbol of the enduring allure of the ‘River of Grass’ and the importance of preserving our pieces of Old Florida.
Patrick J. carrigan, DMD Jose M. Horak, DMD eDwarD a. scHerDer, DMD, JD robert c. HeDgePatH, DMD katie n. roDriguez, DMD, Ms kurtis P. Hussey, DMD