Soundings
DECEMBER 2024
Production Directors
Stephen Miller
Elizabeth Miller
Sales Department
Margo Williams
Becky Pruitt
Miranda Ledbeter
Alyssa Debban
Accounting and Sales Support
Selina Koehler
Production Manager
Lee Nostrant
Production Department
Elaine Donholt
Ruth Nekoranec
Katie Heystek
Dianne Strout
Karen Kalisz
Michelle Feeney
Andie Reynolds
Gulf Harbour Book Club Reviews
JOAN KAPLAN
THE PARIS BOOKSELLER
The Gulf Harbour Book Club met on October 21 due to Hurricane Milton. There were 22 of us with most of us in person and others on Zoom. We had the privilege of having the author of The Paris Bookseller on Zoom. Kerri Maher, author, was absolutely delightful. Her vibrant personality jumped right through the screen.
Her first novel, The Kennedy Debutante, came out in 2018, and her second in 2020: The Girl In White Gloves: A Novel of Grace Kelly. Her third, The Paris Bookseller, about trailblazing entrepreneur Sylvia Beach and the original Shakespeare and Company bookstore in Paris, a fact that makes her feel incredibly lucky and grateful after spending so many years (and years!) writing and working on the craft. She is also the founder of an award-winning journal of Young Adult literature, YARN.
She has lived on both coasts, and currently calls Massachusetts home. She lives near Boston, and loves all the museums and long, leafy walks this part of the world provides, but if you ask me where she’s from, I’ll always say California. Here’s a bit more information about her, but really—if you want to know more, the best place to look is her book, This is Not a Writing Manual, since it’s a memoir of her writing life, starting in middle school. There are loads of stories in there about her and writing, like how much she learned from eavesdropping and watching soap operas, how she was inspired by SARK and Dead Poets Society, and how she used to hate her writer friends who were more successful than she was (don’t worry, she learned to get over that—and herself).
She got her MFA at Columbia, and first teaching gig as a grad student instructor in the undergraduate writing program there. She taught writing for eight years, starting as a grad student, then as a
lecturer at Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey, before moving to Massachusetts and having a baby and changing her life yet again.
These days, she writes full time and hangs with her daughter Elena. Together, they love taking advantage of everything the Boston area has to offer – trips to the Museum of Fine Arts, apple picking, traipsing around the Boston Common, and soaking up the history in Concord and Sturbridge Village.
The Paris Bookseller is her first gangbuster breakthrough as a
writer. The book brings Paris alive in the 1920s.
From The AU this is their review. “Kerri Maher’s latest novel, The Paris Bookseller, features at its core the little-known history behind the setting up of the iconic Shakespeare and Co. bookshop.
The Paris Bookseller is the story of Sylvia Beach, a young woman who loves books. She writes, true, but her real passion is for reading and for connecting books with readers. Inspired by the woman she loves, who runs a French language bookstore, American ex-pat Beach decides
to set up an English language bookstore nearby; something she accomplishes with a little help from her mother’s savings account.
Soon, Shakespeare and Co. becomes the center of the literary community consisting of writers such as Hemingway, Stein and (much to Sylvia’s delight) James Joyce. Sylvia idolizes Joyce and when she hears that the great man is in Paris, lives in hope that he will come to her shop. She gets more than she bargained for, however, when Joyce becomes something of a friend – if
indeed, James Joyce could be said to have had any of those.
Joyce appears to be afflicted with a problematic ego, one which means that all his relationships are about how others can serve him and not the other way around. People seem to forgive him because he is “a genius.” He lives off the charity of others, and when his work in progress, Ulysses, is banned in the United States for being obscene, Sylvia comes to his rescue. She will publish the book, under the umbrella of Shakespeare and Co. The novel tells the story of exactly why this is the only book the store ever published.
The writing in this book is exquisite, taking the reader not only to Paris but back in time. Bibliophiles and history buffs alike will rejoice in the detail and atmosphere that Kerri Maher creates on the page. I found myself thinking not only of a comparison to Natasha Lester, but also to Paula McLain’s enduring breakout novel, The Paris Wife, and last year’s sensational The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles.
Maher’s approach to using real people in her novel shows a deep respect for the people she is portraying. Even the mercurial
figure of Joyce, portrayed here warts and all with his bad behavior and constant taking of advantage, is treated with sympathy. Maher’s approach seems to acknowledge that relationships are often far more complex than historical research can ever seek to show. She explores Beach’s life and her friendships with a sense of care. Likewise, the inclusion of LGBTQIA+ characters, and the related discussions of the attitudes of the time are included in a sensitive fashion, rather than to sensationalize the book or make it feel more cosmopolitan. Sylvia’s preference for women is laid out on the page from the very beginning and isn’t revealed as something shocking or traumatic to be overcome – she just is.
If you’re looking to travel to Paris in the 1920s; if you loved Midnight in Paris; or if you’re interested in literature and the history of publishing, then this is the book for you. You don’t even have to have read Ulysses.”
We highly recommend this book!
MARIA’S SCARF
The Gulf Harbour Book Club met on November 4 to discuss Maria’s Scarf by Zoro. We had
30+ in person and a few on Zoom. This may have been the best presentation by an author we have ever had. We had Zoro for an hour and 20 minutes. His ability to communicate is brilliant. One of his messages to us was we have to have goals … personal, professional and spiritual.
Here’s a little about Zoro. Known by musicians around the world as the “Minister of Groove,” Zoro is an internationally renowned rock star, one of the world’s most respected and award-winning drummers. Throughout more than 30 years of his career, Zoro has been consistently voted the No. 1 R&B drummer and clinician by the premier music industry publications Modern Drummer, Drum!, and Rhythm
Magazine. Zoro has toured and recorded with some of the most famous legends in the music industry including Lenny Kravitz, Bobby Brown, Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, New Edition, Jody Watley, Philip Bailey of Earth, Wind & Fire, Angie Stone, Vanessa Paradis, Sean Lennon, Lisa Marie Presley, and Brian King Joseph.
But Zoro breaks the “rock star” stereotype. More than a drummer, he’s a dreamer. With his deep passion for teaching, inspiring, and guiding others to follow their own dreams, his star-studded musical career has catapulted him to a different stage ... as a motivational speaker, dynamic storyteller, and inspirational author, sharing his practical wisdom that empowers people to cultivate the greatness that lies within and live out their dreams. A kinetic bundle of human energy and enthusiasm, the Minister of Groove captures audiences and readers with his contagious spirit, sense of humor, and signature hip style.
We Recommend This Book To Every Child, Woman And Man. “One of the best books I’ve read in years. Uplifting, hilarious, heartbreaking and heartwarming, Maria’s Scarf is a
revelation. A love letter to those who love us unconditionally, a story of faith and passion and the power of a praying mother. Every kid with a dream needs to read this book. Every adult with a dream should read it. Every person who thought their dream passed them by needs to read it and get out there and see what faith and belief can do.”
- Tosca Lee, New York Times Bestselling Author
“Zoro and our lifelong customer, Elvis Presley, were cut from the same cloth. Both grew up dirt poor, passionate about R&B music and fashion. What makes them stand apart besides their talent, though, is their big hearts and adoring love for their mothers. We live in a culture that worships fame and celebrity, placing little value on the gatekeepers of our wellbeing. Zoro’s book pays tribute to the heroes who shaped his life in such a beautiful and honoring way that you can feel the love seeping off the pages. Elvis would have loved Zoro and this book!”
- Hal Lansky, Third Generation Owner Of Lansky Bros. Known As The Clothier To The King
“Serving as a uniting force for an increasingly divided culture, this inspiring story will open hearts, fuel hopes, and restore faith for readers across multiple
generations, backgrounds, and beliefs. Exploring everything from identity and relationships, to mental health, poverty, and the power of music, Maria’s Scarf is the kind of uplifting story you’ll want to read and discuss with everyone you know. The absolute must-read of the year.”
- Julie Cantrell New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Perennials
The Gulf Harbour Book Club meets on the first Monday of each month in the club’s boardroom. If you want to join the book club email joankaplan@mac.com. Zoom is available for members during the off season. We have seven authors lined up for the 2024/25 season. We have the following authors on Zoom.
December – The House on Biscayne Bay
January 2025 – Family, Family, February –Becoming Madam Secretary
March – The sequel to Ravenscraig
April – The Stolen Queen, and The End of Your Life Book Club
The famous authors are Zoro, Chanel Cleeton, Laurie Frankel, Stephanie Dray, Sandi Altner, Fiona Davis, and Will Schwalbe.
Palmas Del Sol Art Show and Sale
Sunday March 23, 2025
Palmas Del Sol Clubhouse
10 am to 3pm
Artists
Mina Bobel
Lora D’Souza Jill Staples
All Gulf Harbour and other friends are invited to the Palmas Del Sol Art Show and Sale. Please come enjoy a glass of wine or Prosecco while you walk among our works of art. Questions? Please contact Jill Staples (904)206 -9666 or email staplesjill@gmail.com
18 Hole Ladies’ Golf League
The Gulf Harbour Ladies’ 18 Hole Golf League (LGA) kicked off their 27th season with an Opening Day event on November 7. 123 ladies participated in last year’s league including 78 who also played in the Ladies’ Nine Hole League.
The LGA welcomes full equity golf members who are looking to play 18 holes of organized, competitive golf along with a strong social atmosphere. The LGA is a very active group who takes pride in their association
and events. Planning and participating in special events also taps our creativity and fosters long-lasting friendships between our ladies and members of other area clubs.
Handicaps last year ranged as follows:
• 0-10: 2 golfers
• 11-20: 27 golfers
• 21-30: 59 golfers
• 31 and above: 35 golfers
Here is some information on our season. Our season officially begins with Opening Day in November and ends with our Closing Event in April. We play on Thursday with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. The annual dues are $75 after Opening Day ($60 before Opening Day) and the weekly fee is $6 charged to your Gulf Harbour account.
We track birdies and ringers with prizes awarded at the end of the season. We play a variety of individual and team games
throughout the season with four signature special events. In addition to Opening Day on November 7 we have Pink Pal on January 23, 2025, Member Guest on March 4 and Closing Day on April 3. Pink Pal is our breast cancer fundraiser which is done in conjunction with the Gulf Harbour Tennis League.
Please join us this season! If you have any questions or would like more information please reach out to Andrea Hayward, (508) 942-7060 or andreahayward23@gmail.com; or any of our league officers.
President Elaine Fritz (303) 588-7891 efritz1246@gmail.com
1st Vice President Lisa Levine (703) 517-2688 llevineny86@gmail.com
2nd Vice President Marjorie Wendt (262) 510-1120 mawendt29@gmail.com
Treasurer Joyce Timberlake (239) 464-9772
jjtwm@comcast.net
Correspondence Secretary Annette Delaney (317) 652-1047 adelaney200@gmail.com
Recording Secretary Annette Delaney (317) 652-1047 adelaney200@gmail.com
Membership Chairman Andrea Hayward (508) 942-7060 andreahayward23@gmail.com
Member at Large Holly Petrosky (615) 400-2297
HRPetrosky@bellsouth.net
CELEBRATION OF LEGACY
Honoring 25 Years of Artistic Excellence: Southwest Florida's Premier Art Festival Join the Tradition This Year. Enjoyment For All Ages.
FEBRUARY 1 & 2, 2025
OPENING NIGHT JANUARY 31
Downtown Fort Myers Riverfront
FREE ADMISSION & EASY PARKING!
Enjoy and purchase some of the best artwork exhibited anywhere in Florida!
200 nationally-known artists
Kid’s activities
Food & entertainment
Artist: Christine Adele
Holiday Events
HOLIDAY CAR SHOW, PARADE AND MORE AT COCONUT POINT
December 7
11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Car and Truck Show
3 p.m. Community Performances
5 p.m. Polynesian Dance
6 p.m. Parade, Santa Claus and Annual Tree Lighting
Enjoy a day of tropical fun and festive cheer! The excitement starts with a Car and Truck Show from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. where you can check out amazing vehicles and meet other car fans. Enjoy browsing vendors for tasty tropical food and unique crafts. Then at 3 p.m. enjoy lively community performances. At 5 p.m., Fashion Drive comes alive with Polynesian and tropical dance performances, live steel drum music and hula dancers. Don’t miss the colorful parade at 6 p.m. featuring local high school bands, bright floats and lots of holiday spirit. Then join
Santa Claus for the annual tree lighting ceremony! Come and enjoy the celebration! Free Location: Coconut Point Mall, 23106 Fashion Drive, Estero, FL 33928
HOLIDAY LIGHTS
December 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 29 and 30, 6 to 9 p.m.
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in nature’s wonderland, brimming with holiday cheer! Our 1/3-mile trail will be illuminated with twinkling lights. After walking the trail, cozy up to the fire and enjoy roasting a marshmallow with hot chocolate!
Location: Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33905
Members: Free Adults: $10 Kids ages 3 to 12: $5
HOLIDAY HOUSE CHRISTMAS STROLL
November 29 through December 31
The ladies of the Fort Myers Woman’s Community Club invite you to join us in 2024 for our second iteration of the Holiday House Christmas Stroll – a fun new take on a treasured Southwest Florida tradition. Christmas Stories Through the Eyes of a Child will feature a unique Christmas story, both traditional and modern, in every display. Free
Location: Beautiful Downtown Fort Myers
CAPE CORAL HOLIDAY FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
December 7, 4 to 10 p.m.
For more than 30 years, this holiday celebration has been a shining example of community support, holiday spirit and fun for the whole family! All attractions are free to the public, including pictures with Santa, Snow Drift Slide, Tiny Tots Train around Snowcap Square and more!
Location: Cape Coral Parkway
CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE
December 7
For 36 years, locals have celebrated the holidays Southwest Florida style — by boat! Watch the Christmas Boat Parade, full of brightly festooned vessels sailing from Salty Sam’s Marina under the Matanzas Pass Bridge to Bowditch Point Park. Vote for your favorite and enjoy food and drinks while watching the parade from several restaurants along the route, including Parrot Key Caribbean Grill, Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, and Bonita Bill’s Waterfront Café. Free.
Location: Fort Myers Beach
LIGHTING OF THE LIGHTHOUSE
December 14
Join the countdown and let out a cheer as Port Boca Grande Lighthouse is decked out for the holidays. Not only will its
beacon of light shine across the water, but thousands of lights come to life during this special event on Gasparilla Island. Free.
Location: Boca Grande
HOLIDAY BOAT-A-LONG
December 21, 4 to 9 p.m.
Grab a seat by the water and wait for sunset to fall as boats take over Bimini Basin in a festive floating parade. Once the Holiday Boat-A-Long procession is over, sit back for a free viewing of Polar Express in the park. Live entertainment, food trucks, crafts, and a visit from Santa complete this celebratory night on the water. Free.
Location: Four Freedoms Park, Cape Coral
Alliance For The Arts
SPECIAL EVENTS
NORTH PUTNAM -A FILM SCREENING
Date and Time: Dec. 4, 6 to 9 p.m.
Cost: Member’s price, $10; Nonmembers price, $12
This is a film screening from the Southern Circuit tour of Independent Filmmakers.
North Putnam depicts a year in the life of a rural Indiana school district and the community it serves. Crafted with empathy, a hyper-real reporting lens and skillfully lush cinematography, the film aims to reach across divides and to spark actionoriented conversations about the interdependence between public schools and community development.
View the trailer here.
MARIAN, OR THE TRUE TALE OF ROBIN HOOD
BY ADAM SZYMKOWICZ
Date and Time: Dec. 6 and 7, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Dec. 8, 2 p.m.
A gender-bending, patriarchy-smashing, hilarious new take on the classic tale. Robin Hood is (and has always been) Maid Marian in disguise and leads a motley group of Merry Men (few of whom are actually men) against the greedy Prince John. As the poor get poorer and the rich get richer, who will stand for the vulnerable if not Robin? What is the cost of revealing your true self in a time of trouble?
CLOWN BAR 2 BY ADAM SZYMKOWICZ, DIRECTED BY BILL TAYLOR
Date and Time: Dec. 12, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Dec. 22, 2 p.m.
Cost: Member’s price, $27; Nonmembers price, $32
A murder has once again rocked the Clown Bar, a notorious lair where underground clown crime dominates.
Date and Time: Dec. 15, 3 to 5 p.m.
Cost: Member’s price, $18, Nonmembers price, $20
Join fellow bluegrass lovers in our Foulds Theatre as the Bluegrass series continues with two amazing performers!
Lee Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33919, (239) 939-2787
BILL METTS AND FRANK CORSO INDOOR BLUEGRASS
Publix Run To The ArtsAn Artsy 5K
5K. Walk or run, race or fun. At the one and only ArtFest Fort Myers. Join the fun February 2 at 8 a.m. in Downtown Fort Myers – it is only $38 for an activity-filled morning. It is easy to register – RunToTheArts.com.
Lace up your shoes and register for Publix Run To The Arts to reserve your collectable Run T-shirt featuring the original artwork of artist Alex Deriy. Early morning warm-up with Coach Che of Increase the Peach, a yummy post-race breakfast, medals including special awards for top finishers complete the Run To The Arts experience.
“Publix Run To The Arts is a perfect way to begin your Sunday on February 2,” explains Sharon McAllister, Founder of
ArtFest Fort Myers. “Health and fitness, arts and culture, friends and family, and the scenic beauty of the Fort Myers waterfront –what more could you ask for? In our view it is all about quality of life in our community.”
Publix Run to the Arts is a fun 5K with an artsy twist – this full morning kicks off Sunday at ArtFest Fort Myers with exceptional art, entertainment,
and interactive art activities. Runners and their guests will be the first to sneak a peek at the artist booths on Sunday morning, even before the festival opens to the public. In keeping with the spirit of the fine art festival, runners will also be invited to take part in creating a public art piece!
Not a runner or walker? Join the fun as race day volunteer
and receive an artsy Volunteer Shirt and preferred parking. To volunteer visit RunToTheArts. com and click on Volunteer.
Run to the Arts is made possible by the generous support of Publix, a 23-year sponsor of ArtFest Fort Myers, who is carrying on its tradition of being the kind of company a community can count on. Publix invites you to start your day with an invigorating run or walk and a healthy breakfast … then
feed your mind and spirit at ArtFest Fort Myers.
ArtFest Fort Myers, the annual juried fine art festival, takes place February 1 and 2, 2025 in the Fort Myers River District. Join the experience with 200 professional artists from across the county; dynamic stage; tasty food; the largest high school art exhibit and competition in south Florida and free interactive art experiences for children of all ages.
For more information visit RunToTheArts.com or contact us at (239) 768-3602 or info@ ArtFestFortMyers.com – Like us on Facebook – Follow us on Instagram – Tag us #artfestfm.
QUICK FACTS
WHAT
Run To The Arts – the artsy 5K created by ArtFest Fort Myers, Southwest Florida’s premier art festival
WHEN February 2, 2025
WHERE
Downtown Fort Myers River District on Edwards Drive
COST
$38
REGISTER
RunToTheArts.com
PARKING
Parking lots adjacent to festival, street parking and city garages
Catch The Action
CAPT. BILL RUSSELL
DECEMBER ON THE WATER
December brings cooler days around Southwest Florida and a change in the way many of us fish. As temperatures drop it will push small baitfish offshore and south to warmer waters. As this occurs, shrimp will become the primary diet for most fish through the winter months. There are not many fish in our coastal waters that won’t eat a shrimp; in fact, shrimp is the mainstay for most inshore species diet, especially through the cold months.
We are getting to that time for targeting sheepsheads as big pre-spawn fish move inshore and nearshore as water temperatures drop. Unlike the northern species with the same name, our saltwater sheepshead are excellent on the table. Look for fish, with many scaling over 5 pounds hanging around structure, including dock and bridge pilings, rock jetties along the beach, and on oyster bars. If you don’t mind fishing in the cold, then this is your fish, the colder the better for sheepsheads.
Pompano are similar to sheepsheads in the fact that they will not eat any type of baitfish, but feed primarily on small crustaceans including shrimp, crabs, sand fleas, etc. Quarter- or eighth-ounce nylon jigs tipped with a small piece of shrimp can be deadly on pompano when properly bounced across the bottom. Popular colors are white, pink, and yellow. Silly Willy or Crazy style jigs have gained a lot of popularity since introduced and are a good option if you like casting. Live shrimp suspended near the bottom under a bobbing cork is also a great offering. Both sheepsheads and pompano have relatively small mouths, so it is important not to use a large hook; if you are unsure of the size, stop in at your local tackle shop and let them hook you up. I prefer a 1/0 or smaller circle hook.
Sea trout season is open and provides good catching opportunities as we close out the year. Look for fish moving off the shallow grass flats to deeper protected areas as temperatures drop. Deep areas around oyster bars, creeks, canals, channel edges and sand holes are good areas to target. Live shrimp and soft plastic baits mimicking shrimp are top baits.
Snook are catch and release only. Snook will transition to deeper protected waters over the month where they spend the winter. In season or not, snook are always a blast to catch, just make sure and release them quickly.
Redfish season remains open for those interested in a fish dinner. Extreme low tides over the winter months offer good sight fishing opportunities for redfish throughout the inshore grass flats. Smaller reds are numerous in creeks with hard shell or oyster bottoms and hanging around
oyster bars. Anglers hunting sheepsheads will score with redfish plus black drum fishing around structure such as docks, piers, and bridges.
Many anglers look to take advantage of nearshore reefs on good weather days. Many of the snapper that frequented the inshore waters through the warmer months relocated offshore and have grown larger. Bottom fishing with a shrimp/jig combination or shrimp on a knocker rig will get attention from many tasty fish including mangrove and lane snapper, sheepsheads, grunts, and possible hogfish, permit, tripletail, and more. Larger fish including cobia, king mackerel, barracuda, sharks, and others could show up at any time offshore. Bottom fish with light tackle but keep a heavier rod at the ready.
As the holiday season gets near, there is no place like a day on the water to get away from the crowds. There will be good fishing opportunities as we end the year, plus if you enjoy wildlife and nature, this is as good as it gets. Even if the fish aren’t biting, I can’t think of a better place to spend the day than on the water with nature and tranquility, and away from the crowds.
Stay up to date with fishing regulations by visiting Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission at www.myfwc.com. Also, upload the Fish Rules app on your phone. It has current regulations with pictures to help identify fish.
Thanks for taking the time to read our column. Everyone have a safe and Happy Holiday season as we look forward to the New Year.
For charter information, please contact us at Gulf Coast Guide Service and “Catch the Action” with Capt. Bill Russell, call or text (239) 410-8576, website: www.fishpineisland.com, email: gcl2fish@live.com.
Capt. Bill Russell is a native and lifelong resident of Pine Island who has spent his entire life fishing the waters surrounding Pine Island and Southwest Florida. For the past 28 years, Bill has been a professional fishing guide who takes pride in customizing each trip to ensure everyone on board has a great time and will return again. Come join us and “Catch the Action.”
Lee County Parks & Recreation To Host 2025 Lee County Senior Games
Event registration is open now.
Lee County Parks & Recreation welcomes all senior athletes to participate in the 2025 Lee County Senior Games, which feature social, recreational and competitive activities.
Registration is open. Register at www.leeparks.org/register or call (239) 533-7275. Registration is $15 per event. Participants must be 50 years or older by Dec. 31, 2025,
and qualifying event top finishers will be eligible to compete at the state level in the 2025 Florida Senior Games.
The games will be held Jan. 24 through March 9, 2025, with eight sports in various locations throughout the county.
The Florida Games Series Qualifier Events include:
• Table Tennis
• Archery
• Pickleball
• Basketball Shooting
• Basketball 3V3
• Swimming
• Tennis
• Billiards
Participants will receive one shirt that will be distributed at event site. Medals will be presented to the first-, second- and thirdplace finishers of each event. For event schedule and more information about Lee County Senior Games visit www.leeparks.org.
For additional details about Lee County Parks & Recreation locations, amenities and upcoming events, visit www.leeparks.org, call (239) 533-7275, or email leeparks@leegov. com. Stay connected on social media by following Lee County Parks & Recreation on Facebook and Instagram.
To receive the latest updates from Lee County Government, sign up for the newsletter at www.leegov.com/resources/ newsletters and follow Lee County Government on Facebook at www.facebook.com/leecountyflbocc.
Edison And Ford Holiday Nights 2024
Don’t miss The 49th Annual Edison And Ford Holiday Nights! Thousands of lights, hundreds of historic decorations, and one unique holiday experience await you nightly! Holiday Nights will run from November 29 through December 23, and December 26 through January 5, 2025, from 5:30 to 9 p.m.
Nights has been revamped with new light displays and much more. Don’t miss the Children’s Holiday Tree Trail with handmade ornaments created by students from local schools and shopping in the Museum Store and Garden Shoppe for unique holiday gifts. Plus, on select nights, there will be refreshments available for purchase, Santa visits, and carolers!
Nightly guided holiday tradition tours are at 6 and 7 p.m. (sold at the ticket office on a first-come first-served basis daily). Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
See website for more information.
Edison & Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, FL 33901
Around The Town
MONTHLY ART WALK
Date and Time: Friday, Dec. 6, and Jan. 3, 2025, 6 to 10 p.m.
The River District Alliance lights up downtown Fort Myers artistically the first Friday of every month. The streets will be lined with local and regional artists selling and displaying their one of a kind works of art, with many styles represented.
MONTHLY MUSIC WALK
Date and Time: Friday, Dec. 20, and Jan. 17, 2025, 6 to 10 p.m.
From jazz and blues to rock and roll, local and regional musicians line the streets of downtown Fort Myers, and the lineups vary each month, 6 to 10 p.m.
As always, Art Walk and Music Walk are free to attend. Find us on First Street, in Downtown Fort Myers. To help plan your parking, visit https://denisonparking.com/fort-myers/.
Explore Fort Myers at https://www.myriverdistrict.com/.
Artfest Fort Myers – Volunteers Welcome! Be Part Of The Arts!
ArtFest Fort Myers, Southwest Florida’s premier fine art festival is recruiting volunteers to join our dynamic team supporting this award-winning festival. “Our volunteer team comes from all walks of life,” explains Sharon McAllister, executive director, “and they have fun working together festival weekend, to ensure that festival attendees, professional artists, our generous sponsors and VIPs all have a great experience at ArtFest Fort Myers.”
The arts are a vital part of a complete community enhancing everyone’s quality of life and creating significant economic impact. Dedicated volunteers who make all the magic happen sustain the arts’ vitality. ArtFest Fort Myers welcomes diverse volunteers – those who are with us on festival weekend for four hours and those looking for more year-round involvement.
Festival weekend volunteers work a minimum four-hour shift at the festival February 1 and 2 or Opening Night January 31. Volunteers can
choose to interact with the professional artists, sell commemorative shirts and posters, assist in the children’s Art Yard, staff the VIP Club, get our Publix Run to the Arts 5K off to a great start or select one of dozens of other volunteer assignments.
But wait – what if you want to attend ArtFest Fort Myers and not be tied down as a volunteer? We have a great option for you, volunteer prefestival being involved with the festival setup days. Join us Thursday, January 30 or Friday, January 31 in roles such as site decorating or artist/ volunteer hospitality. We hire professional labor crews for the heavy lifting but you will be out and about decorating the art festival site and supporting setup crews but no heavy lifting.
Volunteer perks include reserved parking, ArtFest Fort Myers Volunteer T-shirt based on 2025 Commemorative Artist, snacks and water, enjoying talented artists from across the country and meeting more great volunteers!
Do you and your friends want to have an amazing opportunity to make a difference in our community? Sign up to volunteer over ArtFest Fort Myers weekend –February 1 and 2, 2025.
Visit ArtFestFortMyers.com and click the Volunteer button. Choose any available volunteer job that interests you – it is
first-come, first-served so sign up early to get your topchoice assignment! And no worries, there is no experience
required – your smiling face, fun attitude, mask and some good walking shoes are all that is needed!
Plan now to join ArtFest Fort Myers in the downtown Fort Myers River District as we make art come to life on February 1 and 2, 2025. Enjoy the experience with over 200 artists from across the county, the largest high school art exhibit and competition in south Florida and free interactive art experiences for children of all ages.
FAST FACTS
WHAT
Volunteer with Southwest Florida’s premier art festival WHEN
4-hour shifts February 1 and 2, 2025 and Opening Night January 31, 2025 or pre-festival shifts January 30 and 31
WHERE
Downtown Fort Myers River District on Edwards Drive HOW ArtFestFortMyers.com and click Volunteer button
PERKS
T-shirt; reserved parking; snacks and water; great artists; fun volunteers
PARKING
Reserved just for volunteers –best perk of all!
For more information visit ArtFestFortMyers.com or contact us at (239)768-3602 or info@ArtFestFortMyers. com – Like us on Facebook –Follow us on Instagram –Tag us #artfestfm.
Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center
FESTIVAL OF TREES
Once again, the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is hosting their 18th annual Festival of Trees event.
• Thursday Dec. 5 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Friday, Dec. 6 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Sunday Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
There is a $2 admission with children under age 5 admitted free. A preview party is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 4 from 6 to 8 p.m. View more information here.
Local businesses provide decorated trees with accompanying gifts and services such that some trees are valued at thousands of dollars. Raffle tickets are sold at $10 each, 3 for $25, 10 for $50 and 25 for $100. Voting is encouraged.
Find more information at 2024 Festival of Trees. Other holiday-related events and more can be found here.
About The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center
The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is run by Florida Arts, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization. The building was named after Berne Davis and her husband Sidney, who was a dedicated contributor of the arts and more in Southwest Florida. Prior to being renovated by Florida Arts, Inc., the current building was a former federal courthouse and post office.
The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located Downtown Fort Myers at 2301 First Street, Fort Myers, FL 33901, phone: (239) 333-1933.
Barbara B. Mann Holiday Events
DECK THE HALLS PRESENTED BY GULF COAST SYMPHONY
December 8, 7 p.m.
Celebrate the spirit of the season with this annual holiday tradition! The GCS is joined by the Fort Myers Symphonic Mastersingers. Enjoy Leroy Anderson’s endearing Sleigh Ride, Christmas movie classics, Mannheim Steamroller’s Silent Night, and much, much more!
THE NUTCRACKER NORTH FORT MYERS ACADEMY OF THE ARTS
December 11, 7 p.m.
Now back on stage in our 22nd year of production and our 14th performance at Barbara B. Mann, North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts welcomes members of the community to enjoy our special production of Tchaikovsky’s Holiday Classic, The Nutcracker.
The two-act ballet is a multifaceted arts educational experience for students of all ages and arts disciplines at North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts. As an Arts Schools Network “Exemplary School,” the Academy is thrilled to celebrate the talents of our students through the arts by bringing over 200 students ages 6 to 14 to the stage.
THE NUTCRACKER WITH GULFSHORE BALLET PRESENTED
BY GULF COAST SYMPHONY
December 21, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.
The Gulfshore Ballet joins the Gulf Coast Symphony to present Tchaikovsky’s mesmerizing holiday classic – The Nutcracker. Choreography by Iliana Lopez and Franklin Gamero. This twoact ballet is based on a holiday story by E.T.A. Hoffmann that centers on a family’s Christmas Eve celebration. It is the perfect introduction to ballet for the entire family.
CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE
December 28, 4 p.m.
December 29, 1 p.m.
Cirque Dreams Holidaze dazzles with a brilliant and whimsical family holiday spectacular. As the longest running cirque holiday theatrical event, this annual tradition wraps a Broadwaystyle production around an infusion of contemporary circus arts.
Florida SouthWestern State College, Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, Fort Myers, FL 33919, Box Office: (800) 440-7469 or (239) 481-4849, Administration Office: (239) 489-3033
ASSOCIATION PRESIDENTS
Admiral’s Isle Jeff McGinty
Bellavista Rick McCurdy
Coronado Geoff Smith
Courtyard Homes Tiffany Gaede
Crescent Cove .......... Sam Schiphorst
Crooked Pond Carol Tsilimos
Edgewater Dave Knust
Grande Cay David Lein
Gulf Harbour Master Chris Cope
Gulf Harbour Marina ... Dana Snyder
Harbour Landings I Megan Martin
Harbour Landings II Thomas Broadie
Harbour Links Joe Pierce
Long Pond Millie Johnson
Mariposa ......................... Steve Perseo
Mill Pond Maureen Herold
Osprey Landing Bill Crouch
Osprey Point Jay Ducharme
Palmas Del Sol Bill Aarons
Rivers Edge ............... Ron Harrington
Sagamore George Sorensen
Seaside Estates Richard Edelman
Tamarind Cay Harvey Gordon
The Shores I Gene Marshall
The Shores II ......... Dan Montgomery
The Shores III Dave Reimer
The Shores IV John Albano
GULF HARBOUR MASTER ASSOCIATION BOARD MEETINGS
will now be routinely held at Suitor Middleton Cox & Associates offices, 15751 San Carlos Blvd #8, Fort Myers, FL 33908. Meeting date and times will continue to be posted on the signs at the north and south entrances.
RESOURCE HUB
GULF HARBOUR
COUNTRY CLUB
BOARD OF GOVERNORS
Bill Lambert ..........................
President
Scott Bassett Vice President
Jack Bourget
George Johnson
Kim Bauman
Bruce Jasurda ......................
Chris Moore
Nata Munk
Elise Starr
Treasurer
Secretary
Governor
Governor
Governor
Governor
Governor
GULF HARBOUR MARINA
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President Doug Duncan
Vice President .... Stephen Patterson
Secretary Mike Needler
Treasurer Craig Anderson
Marina Appearance
Committee David Kelley
GULF HARBOUR
MASTER ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President Chris Cope
Vice President David J. Urban
Secretary Dave Van Namee
Treasurer ............................. Carl Pecko
Director Carol Gillespie
Director John Wilson
Director Sam Schiphorst
COMMUNITY NEWS
Bellavista
Coronado
Courtyard Homes
Crooked Pond
Edgewater
Grande Cay
Harbour Landings I
Harbour Landings II
Harbour Links
Long Pond
Marblehead Manor
Mariposa Mill Pond
Osprey Landing
Osprey Point
Palmas Del Sol
Paramount
Rivers Edge
Sagamore
Seaside Estates
Tamarind Cay
The Shores I
The Shores II
The Shores III
If you want your community news included here, please send articles and pictures to GulfHarbourReport@gmail.com by the 4th of each month.
ATTENTION ASSOCIATION BOARD MEMBERS
When your officers change, be sure to notify us so that we can keep both www.GulfHarbour33908.com and the Soundings updated.
GULF HARBOUR WEBSITES
GULF HARBOUR MASTER ASSOCIATION • www.GulfHarbour33908.com
GRANDE CAY • www.grandecay.com
HARBOUR LANDINGS I • www.harbourlandings.org
HARBOUR LINKS • www.harbourlinks.net
Mariposa • http://detaliassociates.com/secure/login.aspx
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
Gate Access and Community Patrol
Pre-Call Gate Access Line 239-935-5179
North Gatehouse 239-482-5039
South Gatehouse .............................. 239-433-0110
Patrol 239-340-8994
Assistance
Police/Fire/EMS-EMERGENCY 911 EMS-NON-EMERGENCY .............. 239-335-1660
Poison Control 800-282-3171
Lee County Sheriff - NON-EMERGENCY 239-477-1000
Iona McGregor Fire Station 239-433-0660
Highway Patrol .................................. 239-278-7100
Marine Patrol 239-332-6966
Coast Guard 239-463-5754
Property Management
Suitor,
Master Association
REMINDER
To contribute to your Gulf Harbour Soundings newspaper, please send articles, announcements, photos, events or any issues to GulfHarbourReport@ gmail.com.
PALMAS DEL SOL • www.palmasdelsol.net
PARAMOUNT • http://www.athomenet.com/theparamount
TAMARIND CAY • https://smca.cincwebaxis.com/cinc/home/
GULF HARBOUR COUNTRY CLUB • www.gulfharbour.com
MARINA • www.gulfharbourmarina. com Yacht Club • www.gulfharbouryachtclub. org
County Contacts
DISCLAIMER
The Soundings is a newsletter published for the benefit of the residents of Gulf Harbour. Seabreeze Communications Group assists in providing publishing, printing and advertising services. The content is that of the authors which should not be construed to be representations, opinions or views of the Gulf Harbour Master Association Inc., or its management, officers or directors or Seabreeze Communications Group. Additionally, the paid advertising in the Soundings should not be construed as an endorsement of any advertised product or service. Finally, none of the content of the Soundings may be reproduced for any purpose nor can the name GHY&CC Homeowner’s Association or similar modification be used in any way without the express prior written consent of the GH Master Association Inc Board of Directors.
GOLF CART RULES REMINDER
Gulf Harbour has had several incidents and issues involving golf carts. Reports have included underage driving, wrong-way driving, driving on pedestrian and bike paths, and driving under the influence.
Some excerpts from our Rules and Regulations:
Any member, family member, or guest may operate a motorized vehicle (i.e. cars, trucks, golf carts, motorized scooters, etc.) on Master Association property as long as the driver is at least 16 years of age, has a valid driver’s license, and has proof of vehicle insurance.
All golfers with golf carts should refrain from using pedestrian and bicycle pathways, if at all possible, especially if a golf cart path is available in that area and the golf cart driver is playing golf at the time. When use of a Gulf Harbour road is necessary, ATVs, and golf carts utilized for other than golf activities should be driven in the same direction as vehicle traffic and comply with all rules that apply to vehicles.
All Florida rules of the road must be followed when driving motor vehicles within Gulf Harbour.
Please consider the above when driving your golf cart at Gulf Harbour.
RESOURCE HUB
SEEKING SOUNDINGS WRITERS
Do you have an interesting story to share?
The Soundings is always looking for new and talented writers to submit articles on events, the social scene, restaurants, movies, family matters, village life, etc…
Now is your chance to share your interests with the community. You can contribute each month, just once, or once in a while.
• Are you involved in any particular activities in Gulf Harbour or around town?
• Can you share your knowledge about a specific topic or hobby?
• Do you have (or did you retire from) an interesting career?
• Are you the person who always knows what to do/where to go in our area?
• Do you like to take pictures or draw cartoons?
• Can you pass along a favorite recipe?
If you answered yes to any of the above or have an idea of your own, you can submit your articles (and photos) at GulfHarbourReport@gmail.com.
RULES & REGULATIONS REMINDER
Lakes: No boating, fishing or swimming in any lake within Gulf Harbour.
Eagle Perch Island: No fishing.
Marina: No recreational swimming or fishing in the marina. No fish or other marine life of any kind shall be cleaned, prepared or processed in any manner on the property.
Regulations are fully supported by: Gulf Harbour Master Association Inc., Gulf Harbour Golf and Country Club Inc., Gulf Harbour Marina Condominium Association Inc.
REMINDER
All Dogs MUST be leashed at ALL times in and on Gulf Harbour Properties.
