July 2017 Happenings Magazine

Theatre • Concerts • Art • Dining • Comedy • Music

JULY 2017

E V LI SIC

& L A LOC

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SHEENA BROOK AT RED WHITE & BOOM JERSEY GIRLS AT CULTURAL PARK THEATER GRETCHEN WILSON AT THE RANCH

FOURTH OF JULY IN SW FLORIDA NAPLES PLAYERS PRESENT SISTER ACT

Naples • Fort Myers • Cape Coral • Port Charlotte

Publisher’s Spotlight

Happy Fourth of July

It’s always nice to celebrate our nation’s independence. As Americans, we love our parades, fireworks, barbecues, cold beverages and this particular American loves his share of live music. For those who want to partake in some great live music, please see our Fourth of July roundup on page 12 of the magazine. Local and national artists will entertain thousands of area residents in Southwest Florida. And, a lot of that entertainment is free.

Please remember as you celebrate all the freedoms that we enjoy as Americans, to also make it a safe holiday.

Explore Key West

In this month’s magazine, we officially kick off a new feature about the cool special events that take place in Key West. We have partnered with our friends at Key West Express to offer our magazine readers some opportunities to get away and visit Key West and experience all of its wonderful events and attractions. We hope you will enjoy it. This month, we start with Hemingway Days and Mel Fisher Days.

Local and live music

Happenings Magazine has been entertaining Southwest Florida for nearly 22 years with articles, photos and listings about live music. In the summertime, we kick that up a notch or two and showcase a few more local artists than usual. It’s at this time of the year when the locals can get into their favorite restaurants or watering holes and hear some great music by some very talented local artists. I know I sound like a broken record, but when you do see musicians performing locally, be sure to tip them well. They truly deserve our applause and tips.

Theatre in the summer

A handful of theatres stay active all year in Southwest Florida, and we commend them for that.

So, here’s a rundown of what you can see on stage this month: Mary Poppins flies onto the Broadway Palm stage June 12 through Aug. 12 in Fort Myers.

In Cape Coral, Cultural Park Theater presents Jersey Girls July 14 - 16 and Standing O (a modern Broadway revue) July 21 - 23.

Laboratory Theater of Florida continues its run of Whatever Happened to Baby Jane: A Parody of the Horror through July 15.

In Naples, Sister Act can be seen on stage at the Sugden Theatre. The Naples Players perform the musical June 29 through July 30.

Right Bed, Wrong Husband is on stage at the Off Broadway Palm Theatre in Fort Myers through July 29.

More concerts

On a national scale, we do have some great entertainers coming to our neck of the woods in the coming months.

Jerrod Niemann will be at Red White and Boom in Cape Coral July 4, and he will return to play Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee in November. Other national artists on the schedule include the Steve Miller Band, Peter Frampton, Tracy Lawrence, Gretchen Wilson, Ted Nugent, Canaan Smith, Josh Thompson, Randy Houser, JJ Grey & Mofro, Los Lobos, Terri Clark, Chris Isaak, Don McLean, The Lacs, Big Smo, Charlie Daniels Band, Marshall Tucker Band and the Village People ... to name a few.

Rock on,

Jamie

What’s Inside

Theatre

pages 6 - 11

Sister Act, Mary Poppins, “Baby Jane”

Music

pages 14 - 17

Sounds of Summer, Rebecca Folsom

In Concert

pages 18 - 19

Tracy Lawrence, Gretchen Wilson

Dining

pages 20 - 21

Pinchers and 11 other restaurants

Comedy Clubs

page 24

Area comedy club schedules for July

Art

pages 26 - 31

Camera USA, Al Hoffacker exhibits

River District

pages 32 - 35

Freedom Fest, Comedy Night, Campo Felice

Calendar

pages 36 - 39

July cultural events in SW Florida

Publishers & Owners

Jamie & Kathy Kuser

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HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Theatre

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Sister Act on Sugden stage in Naples THE NAPLES PLAYERS

The Naples Players present their summer spectacular Sister Act the Musical.

This feel-great musical comedy is filled with powerful gospel music, rich loveable characters, outrageous dancing and a truly moving story that will leave audiences raising their voices to sing along well into the fall. This inspiring show’s hymnal is by Tony and eight-time Oscar winner Alan Menken (Newsies, Beauty and the Beast, Little Shop of Horrors) and was nominated for five Tony Awards including Best Musical.

Directed and choreographed with the creative, upbeat stylings of Dawn Lebrecht-Fornara, and accompanied by a full orchestra led by Charles Fornara, TNP’s production of Sister Act the Musical has more than a prayer of being the runaway hit of the summer in Southwest Florida.

“Sister Act is a sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship,” says TNP’s artistic director Bryce Alexander. “In this time of political conflict, this story of acceptance and devotion is not only a fitting community conversation, but also an uplifting and exciting escape into the music and emotions that defined a generation.”

Deloris Van Cartier (played by Jasmine Vizena) the feisty, strong-willed, larger than life character with moves, and the haughty, well-spoken Mother Superior who is a stickler for rules (played by Debi Guthery) in Sister Act, playing June 29 through July 30 in Naples.

The sparkling story follows disco diva, Deloris Van Cartier, witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won't be a found: a convent! Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and uptight Mother Superior. Using her unique disco moves and singing talent to inspire the choir, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community but, in doing so, blows her cover. Soon, the gang is giving chase, only to find them up against Deloris and the power of her newly found sisterhood.

Sister Act’s cast of unforgettable characters includes Deloris Van Cartier (Jasmine Vizena) the feisty, strong-willed, larger than life character with moves, the haughty, wellspoken Mother Superior who is a stickler for rules (played by local songstress Debi Guthery), the timid Sister Mary Robert who

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finds her voice (Erica Sample), the bubbly excitable Sister Mary Patrick (Gina Bucci), the confident chilledout gangster Curtis (Bret Poulter) and many more.

Sister Act includes music by Alan Menken, book by Cheri Steinkellner & Bill Steinkellner, additional book material by Douglas Carter Beane, based on the Touchstone Pictures motion picture, Sister Act, written

by Joseph Howard.

“Sister Act is a show that brings people of all ages together to enjoy the music and friendship which is the heart of the story,” says Alexander.

Sister Act opens June 29, with performances through July 30 at the TNP’s Sugden Theater in Blackburn Hall, 701 5th Ave South, Naples.

Performances will be Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $45 adults, $35 subscribers and $10 students & educators.

For tickets and more information, visit online at www.naplesplayers.org or call 239-263-7990.

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Whatever Happened to Baby Jane: A Parody of the Horror LABORATORY THEATER OF FLORIDA

The Laboratory Theater of Florida presents Whatever Happened to Baby Jane: A Parody of Horror by Dale Gutzman, playing now through July 15.

In 1917, Baby Jane is a child vaudevillian star, and her sister, Blanche, isn’t anything. Blanche eventually outshines her sister and becomes a bona fide film actress while Jane is left behind. One night, a car accident paralyzes Blanche and ends her movie career.

In 1962, the two sisters are living together in Blanche’s mansion. Jane has descended into alcoholism and cruelty, while Blanch manages the estate as best as she can. When Blanche informs her sister of her wish to sell the house, all hell breaks loose.

The show stars Randy Jones, Rob Green, Kayleigh O’Connell, Jack Weld, Cindi Heimberg, Eren Sisk, Patrick Erhardt, Steven Coe, Patrick Rogers, Yancy de la Roz and Holly Hagan. The Laboratory Theater artistic director Annette Trossbach directs.

“This amazingly-talented cast has embraced the horror genre and taken that to the next level: parody! The show is hilarious, surprising, sexy, dramatic, and absolutely outrageous! It's unlike anything you've seen before!” says Trossbach.

Whatever Happened to Baby Jane opened June 16. Remaining performances are on June 30 and July 1, 7, 8, 14 and 15 at 8 p.m., as well as on July 2 and 9 at 2 p.m.

Individual show ticket online pricing: $23 for adults, $20 for seniors and military, and $10 for students (does not

include service fees). For season ticket holders, this show is included as part of the 2017-2018 season pass.

The Smell of the Kill by Michele Lowe will be performed Aug. 4 – 26.

Every month, three wives meet in one of their homes while their husbands (old college friends) hang out. Each woman is experiencing her own version of marital issues – financial, sexual, emotional – and each is considering divorce.

Though typically nothing more than a gripe-and-moan session, this month's gathering sees something different ... the men have accidentally locked themselves in the meat locker downstairs.

Laboratory Theater will formally kick off its 2017-18 season in September when it presents Sordid Lives by Del Shores. Set in a small Texas town, a family gathers to deal with the death of their elderly matriarch, made more difficult by the fact that the details of her demise are sure to cause embarrassment from the townsfolk, but the family members themselves give reason enough for embarrassment, as we see them at both their best and their worst (think big hair, lots of booze, cheating, revenge, cross-dressing, and guns)! The play is loosely based on the playwright's own life. Sordid Lives will be performed Sept. 15 – 30.

For tickets and more information for all shows and events, call the theater at (239) 218-0481 or visit www.LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com. The Laboratory Theater of Florida is located in the River District at 1634 Woodford Ave, Fort Myers.

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

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Mary Poppins at Broadway Palm This summer is going to be Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious as Mary Poppins flies onto the Broadway Palm stage June 29 through Aug. 12.

Based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins delighted Broadway audiences for more than 2,500 performances and received nominations for nine Olivier and seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

Everyone's favorite nanny takes the stage in this musical adventure. Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep.

Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family how to value each other again.

Mary Poppins is an enchanting mixture of an irresistible story, unforgettable songs, breathtaking dance numbers and astonishing stagecraft.

You'll hear beloved songs such as “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” “A Spoonful of Sugar” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.”

Performances of Mary Poppins are Wednesday through Sunday evenings with select matinees. There is a summer special for children 18 and under, tickets are just $20 for the buffet and the show. Adult ticket prices range from $40 to $65 with discounts for groups of 20 or more. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling (239) 278-4422, by visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com or by stopping by the box office at 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.

Americana Community Music Association Inc.

Americana Acoustic Shows

John John Brown July 8 - Pete Benson opens

Songwriters Circle Showcase July 15

Rebecca Folsom July 22 - Ray Cerbone opens

Singer Songwriters Guitar Circle

Every Sunday 2 - 5 pm Free and Open to All

INFO: 239-691-4069

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Rebecca Folsom $10 - $15 donation per concert. Pay at door. The ACMA is a not for profit and is funded by tax deductible donations. Please check website for more information and visit YouTube on any of these artists.

Concerts held at All Faiths Unitarian Congregation 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Show starts 7 p.m.

www.AmericanACMA.org

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

CULTURAL PARK THEATRE COMPANY

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!

Lauren Tepper as Evelyn, Logan Wolfe as Claude, James Putnam as Ted and Michael Weaver as Martin.

Directed by June Koc

Right Bed, Wrong Husband at Off Broadway Palm Theatre

The Off Broadway Palm Theatre presents Right Bed, Wrong Husband playing now through July 29. Right Bed, Wrong Husband is a 1999 farce written by Neil Schaffner and Caroline Shaffner.

In order to increase his allowance, young bachelor and trust-fund baby Ted writes his tight-fisted uncle to tell him he has married, although he is only engaged. When his uncle unexpectedly drops in and mistakes Ted’s best friend’s wife as his wife, things get a bit complicated. The ante increases every time the uncle kisses Ted’s “wife” and so does the laughter when you throw in a maid who’s mistaken for something else, Ted’s real fiancée and a neighborly drunk.

Directing Right Bed Wrong Husband is Off Broadway Palm artistic director

Paul Bernier. Making their debuts at Broadway Palm are Jessie Taylor, Lauren Tepper and Logan Wolfe. Also appearing in the production are Paul Bernier, Kira Galindo, James Putnam and Michael Weaver.

The Off Broadway Palm is an intimate 100-seat theatre, located in the main lobby of Broadway Palm. Performances are Wednesday through Sunday evenings with select matinees.

Ticket prices range from $35 - $55 with group discounts available for parties of 20 or more. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling (239) 278-4422, by visiting www.BroadwayPalm.com or by stopping by the box office at 1380 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.

Theatre Conspiracy at the Alliance for the Arts announces its 2017-2018 season, which includes beloved classics, comedic favorites and award-winning new plays from fresh voices.

“From the classics to the cutting edge, we invite audiences to experience the broadest range of theatrical entertainment,” says founder and producing artistic director Bill Taylor.

The season begins with Women in Jeopardy by Wendy MacLeod playing Aug. 11 - 26 A side splitting comedy with an all-star local cast! Liz Abbott, Stephanie Davis and Karen Goldberg star in this riotous comedy about trading in wine glasses for spy glasses when the mid-life crisis just isn’t your speed. Attempting to get to the bottom of a murder mystery, these ladies imaginations run wild as they try to discover the truth and save their friend in this hilarious adventure.

Seven Guitars by August Wilson Nov. 3 – 18 A One-Man Christmas Carol adapted

by James Rana and Timur Kocak Dec. 15 & 16 Your Love, Our Musical by Rebecca Vigil and Evan Kaufman Jan. 11 – 14 Gidion's Knot by Johnna Adams Feb. 8 – 18 A Dollʼs House by Henrik Ibsen March 1 – 11 Grounded by George Brant March 22 – 25 A Raisin in the Sun

by Lorraine Hansberry May 3 – 13 Theatre lovers can save up to $72 with a season subscription. Season subscriptions range from $105 per person for five shows to $153 per person for all nine shows. Individual tickets to each show are $25, $11 for students or $22 for Alliance members.

To purchase tickets or for more information, call the box office at 239-9392787 or visit www.ArtInLee.org/Theatre.

Directed by Tyler Young

July 21, 22 & 23

men are dogs

Theatre Conspiracy presents Women in Jeopardy Aug. 11 - 26 at Foulds

Other season shows include: Buyer & Cellar by Jonathan Tolins Oct. 6 – 14

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

By Joe Simonelli

Aug.18-20

Directed by Christi Wengerter

Cultural Park Theater 528 Cultural Park Blvd. • Cape Coral

CALL FOR

TICKETS

239-772-5862

www.CulturalParkTheater.com JULY 2017

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Summer season in full swing at Cultural Park in Cape Coral

By Michael Moran

Cultural Park Theater is bursting at the seams with their summer line up featuring both musical revue’s concerts and comedy plays.

Opening on our main stage July 14 through July 16 and back by popular demand, is the Jersey Girls. This tribute to the many girl groups we all loved to hear like The Supremes, The Shirelles, The Angels and many more will take you back on a truly nostalgic trip with songs like, Stop in the Name of Love, Heat Wave, My Boyfriend’s Back and many more, as our contestants gather at the Jersey Shore to compete for the coveted title of the Best Jersey Girl Group.

Broadway takes our stage from July 21 through July 23 with our new Standing O! A Modern Broadway Revue, written and directed

by Tyler Young. CPTC patrons will be entertained with a breezily-paced, uplifting performance of Broadway hits from the past 15 years. This production will feature over two dozen performances, solos, duets and big groups with select cuts from shows like Rent, Footloose, Mamma Mia and many more including some classical Broadway hits as well.

Joe Simonelli’s Men are Dogs, opens on stage Aug 18 through July 20 under the direction

of Christi Wengerter. What do you get when you mix 6 women, 2 men and group therapy sessions? Just what the doctor ordered. Come and see this hilarious comedy about crazy mixed up relationships and how they are sorted out and of course, find out why, Men are dogs.

Finally our summer season will end with a bang when Liverpool Live takes stage with this live band tribute to the Beatles. On stage for four performances only Sept. 1 through Sept. 3. Their performance is spot on! They will involve you and present you with secrets and stories about the Beatles and their songs. Yes, this is a full costume show. The music is a note for note copy of the Beatles' music. The instruments are duplicates of the Beatles gear.

Members of this group include past cast members of Disney's Epcot in Orlando and Beatlemania. This group has played it all from corporate shows to sold out theaters. You will love the music and love the new spin on the performance.

Fun, fun. There it is. A summer season you won’t want to miss. Special summer season tickets are available at the box office now.

Reminder: Friday, Saturday performances at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Call our box office at 239-772-5862 for tickets. Cultural Park Theater is located at 528 Cultural Park Blvd. in Cape Coral.

Michael Moran is executive director of the Cultural Park Theatre Company.

Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall announces 2017-18 Broadway season

The Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW has announced the 2017-2018 Fifth Third Bank Broadway Series.

Love Never Dies Dec. 5 – 10 The ultimate love story continues in Love Never Dies, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s spellbinding sequel to The Phantom of the Opera. The year is 1907. It is 10 years after his disappearance from the Paris Opera House and the Phantom has escaped to a new life in New York where he lives amongst the screaming joy rides and freak shows of Coney Island.

Finding Neverland Jan. 9 - 14 Directed by visionary Tony-winner Diane Paulus and based on the critically-acclaimed Academy Award winning film, Finding Neverland tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother.

An American In Paris Jan. 23 - 28 An American In Paris is the new Tony Award-winning musical about an American soldier, a mysterious French girl, and an indomitable European city, each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of war.

Motown The Musical March 13-18 Motown The Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more.

The Bodyguard March 27 - April 1 Based on the smash hit film, the award-winning musical will star Grammy Award-nominee and R&B superstar Deborah Cox. Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker.

Beautiful The Carol King Musical April 3 – 8 Beautiful – The Carole King Musical tells the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit songwriting team with her husband Gerry Goffin, to her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history. Along the way, she made more than beautiful music, she wrote the soundtrack to a generation.

Season tickets for the six-show series and can be purchased at the box office, by phone (239) 481-4849 or online at www.bbmannpah.com.

THE LABORATORY THEATER OF FLORIDA PRESENTS

Whatever Happened to Baby Jane: A Parody of the Horror

By Dale Gutzman

Thinking TheaterTM

June 30, July 1, 7, 8, 14 & 15 July 2 & 9

www.LaboratoryTheaterFlorida.com

at 2 p.m.

239-218-0481

1634 Woodford Ave., Fort Myers River District

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at 8 p.m.

Connect with us @ LabTheaterFL

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Naples Players, Steampunk Stompers plan July 12 concert

The Naples Players invite you to get ready for the concert of the summer and the theme is steam! Strap on your goggles, corsets, top hats, bustles and bows and experience the largest steampunk show in Southwest Florida history.

Master musician Mark E. Pettey and his Steampunk Stompers band perform a concert of contemporary songs with unique steampunk twists complete with a tuba that shoots steam and a geared up animatronic steampunk drumset. As if that were not enough the concert includes special guest performance by the cast of TNP’s fall hit The Rocky Horror Show and yes, you will do “The Time Warp” again! VIP experience opportunities include a pre-show reception for great photo opportunities while you mix it up with The Steampunk Stompers and TNP’s cast of The Rocky Horror Show.

“It is so exciting that The Steampunk Stompers was born because of the connection that has developed between the very musicians who play during our musicals,” says TNP’s artistic director Bryce Alexander.

“It is even more delightful that these incredible musicians have chosen to give back to the organization that brought them together by providing the concert’s proceeds directly to The Naples Players. We are so thankful that they are willing to share their passions with us in so many diverse and dynamic ways.”

The Steampunk Stompers are five professional musicians with backgrounds rich in performance, gathered to create a unique blend of styles and sounds. Each player has an impressive resume of concerts, shows and appearances with internationally-known artists. Drawing the era of music that inspired Steampunk culture and mixing it with current hits gives The Steampunk Stompers their unique sound. Guests can expect the concert to kick off with the cast of Rocky Horror performing “Sweet Transvestite” (aka Sweet Transvesteam) followed by a steampunk version of the theme song to “Stranger Things” (aka Steamier Things) with it all wrapping up

with “The Time Warp” (aka Steamwarp).

Steampunk culture, showmanship and a great time for all is the theme for the evening and ticket sales benefits The Naples Players to support community theatre.

“Our band was born in the Orchestra Pit of TNP’s Sugden Theatre,” says Musician and Steampunk Stomper band member Mark E. Pettey. “The theatre has been so instrumental in supporting musicians that we wanted to do something to support them while showcasing The Stompers. Followers have been contacting us from across the country to tell us they are booking their tickets for the show.”

Pettey has performed on stages around the world for 40 plus years. Originally trained as a classical musician, he has been a member of several symphony orchestras, played on TV specials for Ringling Bros Circus, toured as keyboardist for the Marshall Tucker Band, appeared in concert with Frank Sinatra Jr., Doc Severinsen, Aretha Franklin, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Jody Watley, Peabo Bryson, Johnny Mathis and Barry Manilow.

The Steampunk Stompers Orchestra includes Mark Pettey - keyboards / trumpet / steel pan / bagpipes / vocals; Timothy Torres - electric cello / electric guitar / banjo; Kirsten Trembley - electric violin; Adren Hance sousaphone; Todd Betz - drums; Moe Perrera - percussion and Nick Rogers - electric guitar.

A Midsummer Night’s Steam, Southwest Florida’s largest steampunk concert is Wednesday, July 12 at 8 p.m. at the Sugden Theater in Blackburn Hall, 701 5th Ave South, Naples. VIP tickets include a 7 p.m. pre-show reception with The Steampunk Stompers and TNP’s cast of The Rocky Horror Show.

Tickets are $25 adults, $15 students/educators and $50 for VIP access.

For tickets and more information, visit www.naplesplayers.org or call (239) 2637990. The Naples Players perform at the Sugden Theatre, 701 5th Avenue South, Naples.

Mark Pettey & Kirsten Trembley of the Steampunk Stompers

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

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Fourth of July Southwest Florida will celebrate our nation’s birthday with parades, fireworks, live music and family activities in July.

As for fireworks, look to the skies in Naples, Downtown Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Englewood, Punta Gorda, Sanibel and Fort Myers Beach on Tuesday, July 4.

Everglades City will set off its fireworks on Saturday, July 1.

Hammond Stadium at CenturyLink Sports Complex will do their fireworks on Monday, July 3 after the Miracle game.

When it comes to July 4 parades, Bonita Springs (9 a.m.), Fort Myers Beach (10 a.m.), Naples (10 a.m.) and Sanibel (9:30 a.m.) have that covered.

For the music lovers, there are so many options to explore.

Here are the highlights of music-oriented events:

Marc Vee Band The Marc Vee Band will be playing at Riverside Park in Bonita Springs on July 4 at 6:45 p.m. They will play an eclectic set including songs

by Tom Petty and The Heart Breakers, Santana, Steely Dan, Pink Floyd, Eric Clapton, Hall and Oats, John Mayer, a soulful rendition of America The Beautiful, Classic Soul by Al Green, Marvin Gaye, some Marc Vee penned originals and more. Pictured are Matt Baxley on keyboards and vocals, Mark Siracusa on drums and vocals and Marc Vee playing guitar and singing. They play on Friday and Saturday nights at The Bay House in Naples and Marc plays solo at Key Lime Bistro on Captiva Island on Sundays and Tuesdays afternoon. Photo by Julie Renner

Jerrod Niemann to headline Cape Coral

Red White and Boom

Music Roundup Cape Coral Red, White & Boom 5 to 10:30 p.m.

Country star Jerrod Niemann will headline Red, White and Boom on Tuesday, July 4 in Cape Coral. National country artist Jacob Davis will also perform.

The family-friendly event runs 5 to 10:30 p.m. at the Cape Coral Bridge and includes live music, food and fireworks. The music starts at 5 p.m. with Sheena Brook. Jacob Davis will play at 6:15 p.m. Jerrod Niemann will go on stage at 8 p.m., and the Storm Smart fireworks spectacular will light the sky at 9:30 p.m.

Admission to the event is free. For more details, visit www.capeboom.com.

Fishermen’s Village in Punta Gorda

Noon to 10 p.m.

Live music by Rita Beach from noon to 4 p.m. near Good Ole Days Coffee Cafe. Live music by Country Express and Ambush from noon to 9 p.m. Music all day at Harpoon Harry’s.

4th Fest 2017

at Laishley Park, Punta Gorda

The Wayward Souls The Wayward Souls will play at Star Spangled Bonita July 4 at Riverside Park. The Wayward Souls band consists of Don Singletonguitar/vocals; Dan Odie Odum - drums/vocals; Harry Drew-sax; Tom Pillsy-bass/vocals; Rob Spratt - keyboards/vocals. The band often has another horn and percussionist.

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Cat Country 107.1 announces that Jerrod Niemann will headline this year’s Red White & Boom on Tuesday, July 4. Also playing will be Jacob Davis and local songwriter Sheena Brook.

The music starts at 5 p.m.

Nashville prolific hitmaker Jerrod Niemann is speaking from his heart – instead of his liver – with his romantic new single, “God Made A Woman,” now impacting country radio. Fueled by a nearly decade-long career, Niemann is digging deeper with his forthcoming Curb Records album featuring an uplifting duet, “A Little More Love,” with good friend and labelmate Lee Brice.

Known for clever wordplay and attention-grabbing lyrics, Jerrod Niemann last topped country charts with his platinum-certified multi–week No. 1 anthem, “Drink to That All Night,” from High Noon – on which he co-wrote eight of the 12 tracks.

Niemann first burst onto the scene in 2010, with the No. 1 smash “Lover, Lover.” From Academy of Country Music, Country Music Association, and CMT Award nominations, to headlining and touring with some of country’s hottest acts: Dierks Bentley, Brad Paisley, and Keith Urban, Niemann continues to make his mark by creatively pushing boundaries all while offering a sincere nod to the legends before him.

For more about the event details, visit online at www.capeboom.com

Live music begins with OCD Band at 3:30 p.m.; The Boogiemen Rock-n-Soul Revue at 5:30 p.m.; and the Jack Michael Band in concert at 7:30 p.m.

Fort Myers Beach Times Square

Remedy will perform from noon to 5 p.m., and High Tide plays from 6 to 11 p.m.

Star Spangled Bonita

The City of Bonita Springs will celebrate Independence Day with the annual Star Spangled Bonita event on Tuesday, July 4 at Riverside Park in Bonita Springs. The party in the park will begin at 4 p.m. and include a kids’ amusement area, the annual old-fashioned bed race, eating contests and live music by The Wayward Souls and the Marc Vee Band.

The City of Bonita Springs will light up the night sky with a spectacular fireworks display and laser light show after dark.

Admission to Star Spangled Bonita is free. Food and beverages will be available for purchase with proceeds from the beverage sales going to the Bonita Springs Rotary. www.cityofbonitasprings.org

WINK Freedom Fest Downtown Fort Myers

4 to 10 p.m. street party The River District Alliance (RDA) will host the annual WINK Freedom Fest presented by Fort Myers Pest Control July 4 in the historic River District, beginning at 4 p.m. and ending with the annual fireworks over the river at approximately 9:30 p.m.

Free to attend, the WINK Freedom Fest will include live entertainment by The Hipnauticals, a patriotic motor show, a kid’s zone including family friendly vendors, a chili dog eating contest at City Tavern, pictures with Captain America and the annual fireworks. www.winkfreedomfest.com

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Music

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John John Brown and Rebecca Folsom AMERICANA COMMUNITY MUSIC ASSOCIATION

The summer heat is not slowing down the Americana Community Music Association. The ACMA welcomes John John Brown to its Listening Room in Fort Myers on Saturday, July 8.

In the winter of 2013, right after his twin boys were born, John John Brown started writing songs that would turn into his debut album The Road.

No Depression calls it "one of those albums that suggests Brown’s talents have been stirring for some time," while Elmore magazine dubbed Brown "one of the more promising young names in folk music today."

John John's live acoustic performances have also been garnering much critical acclaim. In May of 2015, he was chosen as a Kerrville Folk Festival finalist for the legendary "new folk" competition, and in January of 2016 he went home a winner of the prestigious South Florida Folk Festival Songwriting Contest. Seeped in good storytelling and fingerpicking melodies, John John Brown seems to have discovered part of the mystery that surrounds the great singer/songwriter tradition.

ACMA member, songwriter and Street Jelly guru Pete Bensen opens the show for John John Brown.

On Saturday, July 15, the ACMA will host its Songwriters Circle Showcase. This will be a night of all original Americana music, as well as a thank you to All Faiths for use of the room. Donation at the door $10-15 for All Faiths.

Stage is open to members and nonmembers. If you’re a local songwriter, come check out the ACMA. In the last year, ACMA members performed in over 50 shows that featured only original music.

The ACMA Songwriter Circle is for acoustic songwriters of all levels. Songs and experiences are shared in a nonjudgmental, casual atmosphere. No membership required. All are welcome to come and play or just to listen. The circle meets Sundays from 2 to 5 p.m. Hosts are Bruce Gallant and David Clayton.

Rebecca Folsom will take the ACMA stage on Saturday, July 22. Rebecca Folsom’s music is about liberation. Her songs crack open hearts, inspire hope, and leave listeners with a deeper perspective. Rebecca’s world-class voice traverses a near-four-octave range. KUNC radio describes it as “knock-you-to-your-knees.” The Daily Camera describes her

Ray Cerbone

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JULY 2017

John John Brown music as “shining…with lush harmonies,” and Westword Magazine says, “Her songs hit like little earthquakes!”

While her range is impressive, it’s the expression in her voice that rivets your attention and stays with you long after the show ends. Rebecca’s voice pours forth from lilting tenderness to fully liberated, unbridled release. She brings both a pure vocal quality reminiscent of old Appalachia and a blues prowess.

This year, with the release of two new CDs, Rebecca is in full stride, more masterful than ever and more personal too.

Her newest CDs, Extraordinary Days and Little Medicines, born out of writing 52 new songs in a year, are a delightfully positive ensemble of songs.

Mixed to listening perfection, the delicious blend of front porch instrumentals, intimate vocals, and soaring harmonies reveal tales of human heartbreak, redemption, and liberation. As Rebecca’s songwriting paints a picture of shadow and light, she digs down to gather life’s stories, alchemizes them, and offers a transcending, toe-tapping vision of hope. These songs are little medicines for the soul.

Within a few weeks of its release, Extraordinary Days hit number 5 on the national Folk DJ chart, while the song “Better Times” was named number 1 Best Folk song. The CD has remained Top 40 on National Americana Country radio charts since it’s debut.

National radio has called the CD “Stunning” and “Spectacular.”

Rebecca is joined by a band of ultra-talented musicians steeped in folk/pop/Americana grooves and powerful background vocals that lift you up for a truly heart-opening and inspiring musical ride. Together their shared accomplishments are many, including Nashville songwriting success and a Grammy nomination, as well as topping the Roots/Americana and College radio charts, playing the highest caliber national and international venues, and being voted best of BBC television and radio. They have been professional singer/songwriters, touring musicians and teachers for over 20 years.

Rebecca is a true renaissance woman. Beyond her career as a recording artist and national touring musician, she is a published author with two books of poetry. She is also an oil painter with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and has shown in numerous galleries.

Rebecca finds great joy in sharing her artistic experience through performing, songwriting, painting, and Art of Vocal Freedom workshops. Her genius is in helping people to open their hearts, to leap into what they really love, and to shine.

Ray Cerbone will open for Rebecca Folsom. “My music is influenced by the songwriters of the mid 60s through the writers of today. I moved to SW Florida

eight years ago, and soon became one of the founding members of The Americana Community Music Association, a Fort Myers based group formed to promote original music, and began writing my own songs,” Cerbone said.

“I had the privilege to open for Florida singer songwriters Roy Schneider, Larry Mangum and Brian Smalley, and also open for touring musicians Jamie Michaels, Pierce Pettis and Robin O’Herin to name a few. I performed at The ACMA both solo and in special events, like The Island Hopper Festival, and local house concerts, as well as folk festivals like Barberville, Lake County, Will MacLean Folk Festival and Sarasota where I won the open stage competition. Playing mostly fingerstyle guitar and original songs, my music crosses several genres from storyteller ballads to folk to country based fun songs to blues,” he added.

“Five years ago, after performing a song for a well-known rock drummer who was putting a contemporary blues band together, I became the singer for The Apocalypse Blues Revue. Since then we have been signed to Mascot/Provogue Records, recorded our first ‘full on’ CD, and completed our first tour. We have headlined at clubs and events as well as opened for the likes of Blue Oyster Cult, Steven Tyler, and Robbie Krieger of The Doors. Our second tour is in the works and most of the songs for our second CD have been written. We were recently informed that we were nominated by our record company for a Grammy in the “best new contemporary blues record” category. Our music has been featured on BB King’s Bluesville on Sirius Radio as well as radio stations worldwide, Cerbone said.

The ACMA is a non-sectarian, not for profit organization.

Most concerts are held at All Faiths Congregation located at 2756 McGregor Blvd. in Fort Myers. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and all shows start at 7 p.m. For more info, visit www.americanacma.org.

Rebecca Folsom

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Sounds of Summer at Davis Art Center

The Sounds of Summer continues in downtown Fort Myers. This exciting concert series brings popular performers to the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center from June through August.

The multi-genre, biweekly series started in June and culminates in the Summer Singer Songwriter Competition in August. Each concert will bring audiences a unique and entertaining experience.

In July, the series continues with Strange Arrangement on Friday, July 14. Hailing from the tropical paradise Pine Island, Strange Arrangement is a creative musical “family” organized by the Brothers Van Kirk. The group consists of dedicated musicians who are making a positive impact on future generations with a multifaceted approach to creating and delivering music. Brothers Warren and Gregory each have a unique, broad range of musical tastes that are incorporated into their original music. With familiar rhythms and catchy hooks, Strange Arrangement is creating music that’s appealing to people of all ages and walks of life.

Ries Brothers & The Freecoasters will perform Friday, July 28. The Ries Brothers are a brother duo from Tampa Bay who are influenced by their love of rock, blues, funk, and reggae. The brothers have just completed a summer headlining tour, highlighted by a performance at "The House that Les Paul Built,” the legendary Iridium in NYC. The Ries Brothers have also opened for the Allman Brothers, David Cook, Daughtry, Los Lonely Boys, REO Speedwagon, Little River Band, the Edgar Winter Band & The Family Stone among others.

The Freecoasters are a reggae band from SWFL. Their unique blend of reggae, soul, and ska have made them a fixture in SWFL venues. This summer, the Freecoasters will embark on their first U.S. tour. Their 2016 album, Show Up, has been successful in the genre, and earned the Freecoasters the title of Ries Brothers Best Band in Fort Myers

Strange Arrangement

multi-instrumentalist residing in Fort Myers, Florida, where he attends the Bower School of Music & The Arts at Florida Gulf Coast University. He released his debut solo album “Cloud Chameleon” on in 2016. Alec is a student of the master musicians Matthew Sonneborn, Dan Miller and Danny Jordan.

A Summer Singer Songwriter Competition is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 25. This competition invites musical artists ages 18 and up to enter for a chance to win Grand Prize or People’s Choice. The Grand Prize winner will receive 12 hours of recording time at the brand new Six Fingers Studio inside the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, plus a performance spot at the Island Hopper Songwriter Fest. The People’s Choice winner will receive 8 hours of recording time at Six Fingers Studio inside the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. Sign up begins June 9 at www.sbdac.com.

Sounds of Summer tickets are $5 per show. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Performances are at 8 p.m. Visit www.sbdac.com for info and tickets.

The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St. in the historic downtown Fort Myers River District.

by Florida Weekly.

The summer concert series continues in August with Danny Sinoff and Morgan Marie on Friday, Aug. 11.

Danny Sinoff embraces the Great American Songbook, touching thousands of people's lives with his jazz music. When Danny sits down at his piano and sings these graceful melodies, it takes you back to a time where a great show, beautiful music, and being surrounded by your friends and family made a night out complete.

Morgan Marie is a vocalist from SWFL best known for her throwback sound. A jazz singer at heart, Morgan Marie has been involved in a variety of projects, from country and pop to jazz and blues. Her musical companion, Alec Prorock, is a musician and

Sundown Stroll July 20 at Tarpon Point Marina Village

Tarpon Point Marina Village in Cape Coral hosts a Sundown Stroll on the third Thursday of every month from 4 p.m. to sunset.

The band Acoustic Fire will perform at the Sundown Stroll on Thursday, July 20. Acoustic Fire includes Renee Hose and Steve McWilliams.

Net proceeds from the Sundown Stroll benefit local charities. The Sundown Stroll provides fun-filled events for the whole family. Tarpon Point Marina is located at 5991 Silver King Blvd.

For more event details, visit www.tarponpoint.com

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

The Freecoasters

Annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest planned for Sept. 22 - Oct. 1

The fourth annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest returns Sept. 22 - Oct. 1.

The popular festival brings music back to the beach with new artists and new events.

The free festival will take place over 10 days on Southwest Florida’s most beautiful barrier islands and offers a range of star-studded performances. The festival kicks off on Captiva Island, Sept. 22 24 and wraps up Sept. 29 - Oct.1 on Fort Myers Beach. Historic downtown Fort Myers will once again feature midweek performances. There will be a limited number of ticketed events for special performances.

More than 60 songwriters are scheduled to perform at more than a dozen local venues.

“Each year we get more talent and create more exciting events for the Island Hopper Songwriter Fest,” said Tamara Pigott, execu-

tive director of the Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau.

“This festival offers fans the rare opportunity to hear the stories behind the songs in small, intimate venues.”

Major acts and songwriters attending the festival will be announced in the near future.

“We look forward to surprising fans with some high-profile acts,” said Louis Kaplan, iHeartMedia, Sr. VP Programming.

“The Island Hopper Songwriter Fest is one of our favorite events of the year.”

Island Hopper is presented by Lee County Visitor & Convention Bureau, iHeartMedia, Cat Country 107.1 and BMI, the largest music rights organization in the U.S. For more information visit www.islandhopperfest.com.

Happenings Magazine is again an Island Hopper Songwriter Fest partner in 2017.

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Miami Music Festival at Shell Point July 18

Shell Point Retirement Community in Fort Myers presents a Miami Music Festival performance on Tuesday, July 18 at 7:30 p.m. at The Village Church Auditorium on The Island.

Every summer, the Miami Music Festival assembles some of the most talented young singers from top American conservatories and music schools for eight immersive weeks of training and performance. This summer, East Coast meets West Coast when a group of exceptional vocalists brings a menagerie of exhilarating opera arias and poignant American art songs to Shell Point.

Enjoy this evening of exquisite music with the next generation of singing stars. Purchase $25 tickets at www.shellpoint.org/summerconcerts, or by calling the box office at 239-4542067.

Hatley playing July 8; Charlotte Idol July 14 Cultural Center of Charlotte County

The Cultural Center of Charlotte County is hosting two musical events in July.

A southern rock inspired country music concert is set for Saturday, July 8 at 7 p.m.

Inspired by the outlaw attitude and heavy energy of southern rock, the Hatley Band takes the stage featuring songs from artists such as Johnny Cash, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Kenny Chesney, Elvis, Toby Keith, Jimmy Buffet, Marshall Tucker Band, Zac Brown Band and many more.

Hatley completed an original album in December 2014 in Nashville, under the guidance and production of Grammy Award - winning producer Mark Lambert, who has worked with Willie Nelson, Elton John, Ronnie Milsap and Randy Houser.

So be ready to enjoy some memorable original tunes, this

will be a great show. Get your tickets early. Advance tickets are $17, $13 for members (limit 2 at the member price). No discounts day of the event.

For tickets, call 941-625-4175 ext. 221 or visit www.theculturalcenter.com Charlotte County Homeless Coalition and Sam's Club presents Charlotte Idol 2017 on Friday, July 14 at 6 p.m.

Show tickets for audition night are $10 per person and can be purchased from Tina at the Homeless Coalition. Singer registration has a $20 entry fee email CharlotteIdolHC@gmail.com For sponsorship and tickets, contact Tina Figliuolo at 941-627-4313 X118 or online at events@cchomelesscoalition.org The Cultural Center of Charlotte County is located at 2280 Aaron St. in Port Charlotte.

LOCAL MUSIC SPOTLIGHT

Sheena Brook

Genre: Country Songs: Covers and originals.

Sheena Brook was born and raised in Southwest Florida. Her path through music has helped her become the artist she is today. As a live performer, she has created her own sound playing all types of genres, looping and creating on the fly. Sheena has played festivals with artists like Kristian Bush, Helen Darling, and Josh Turner. Sheena has written with hit writers such as JT Harding, Andy Albert and more.

Special notes: Sheena Brook was chosen as a member of Team Adam on NBC’s The Voice this past season. She will again be part of the annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest this fall. Her music is available online.

Schedule: Red White & Boom in Cape Coral July 4. Bell Tower Summer Concert Series July 6. Naples Beach Brewery July 13 & 27. Englewood Event Center July 29. See her full schedule online.

Booking: 239-560-1863 or sheenabrook1@gmail.com

Photo by Miranda Lawson Photography

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Paul Shaffer at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee

Paul Shaffer and The WorldĘźs Most Dangerous Band performed June 10 at Seminole Casino Hotel in Immokalee.

Special guest vocalist was Valerie Simpson of Ashford & Simpson. Photos by Jamie Kuser

Web: www.SheenaBrook.com

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Pocket Change to play July 8 at SummerJazz on Gulf in Naples

The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club continues its annual SummerJazz on the Gulf concert series on July 8 with the band Pocket Change.

The fun, free concert series combines a diverse array of jazz entertainment with beautiful views of the Gulf, stunning sunsets, refreshing breezes and a relaxing atmosphere.

Each concert is held on the resort’s picturesque Watkins Lawn overlooking the Gulf.

SummerJazz on the Gulf takes place one Saturday evening per month June-September, and each concert runs 6:30 – 9:30 p.m.

This year’s remaining concerts: Pocket Change on Saturday, July 8; Gloria West & The Gents on Saturday, Aug. 19; and Late Night Brass on Saturday, Sept. 16.

Pocket Change is a six-piece, high-energy show band that performs Motown, funk, R&B variety, soul, and dance/party music. Known

for their beautiful vocals and harmonies, and for their showmanship, Pocket Change is led by bandleader Eddie “The Thrill” Carmichael and music director Otis “Maestro” McCarthy.

They have performed at the Coconut Grove Arts Festival, Universal Studios Florida, Seminole Casino, Walt Disney World, and House of Blues (in Orlando and Myrtle Beach).

This will mark their fifth appearance at SummerJazz on the Gulf.

Hotel guests will receive complimentary parking at the resort. For those not staying at the resort there will be parking just north of the hotel at Lowdermilk Park, with free parking provided to those with a Naples beach sticker, and free trolley service to the resort and back.

Guests may bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating, however no outside food and beverage is allowed. Call (239) 261-2222 for more info.

LOCAL & LIVE MUSIC IN

Backstreets

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

915 SE 47th Terrace, Cape Coral • 239-945-7555

The Barrel Room

2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 239-333-2225

Bert’s Bar & Grill

4271 Pine Island Rd Matlacha • 239-282-3232

Blue Monkey Bar & Grille 7550 Mission Hills Drive suite 326, Naples 239-597-2583

Buckingham Blues Bar 5641 Buckingham Road Fort Myers • 239-693-7111

The Buddha Bar

12701 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers 239-482-8565

Cape Cabaret

4725 Vincennes Blvd., Cape Coral • 239-549-3000

The Cigar Bar

Hurricane Charley’s

The Rhythm House

Jacaranda

Seminole Casino Hotel

300 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda • 941-639-9695 1233 Periwinkle, Sanibel 239-472-1771

The Keys Bar & Grille

9905 Gulf Coast Main St., Fort Myers • 239-433-3323

Lakehouse Bar & Grill

3401 Bay Commons Drive, Bonita Springs • 239-948-4400

Lansdowne Street

24851 S. Tamiami Trail #7 Bonita Springs • 239-495-3800

Mike’s

17200 S. Tamiaimi Trail Fort Myers • 239-454-8454

The Nauti Mermaid

5961 Silver King Blvd.

Cape Coral • 239-541-5600

Nervous Nellie’s

Gulf Coast Town Center, Fort Myers • 239-267-6020

1131 First St., Fort Myers Beach 239-463-8077

2059 Tamiami Trail East Naples • 239-774-6060

255 13th Avenue S., Naples • 239-649-8200

The Colosseum The Cottage

1270 Estero Blvd., Ft Myers Beach • 239-765-5440

Dixie Roadhouse

Old Naples Pub

Paradise Tiki Hut at Dolphin Key

1502 Miramar St. Cape Coral • 239-540-8454

1023 SE 47th Terrace Cape Coral • 239-541-7900

Parrot Key Caribbean Grill

5785 Cape Harbour Drive Cape Coral • 239-542-0123

Pete’s Time Out

Fathoms

Fishermen’s Village

1200 W. Retta Esplanade Punta Gorda • 941-639-8721

Hotel Indigo

1520 Broadway, Fort Myers 239-337-3446

2500 Main St., Fort Myers Beach • 239-463-3257 1005 Estero Blvd.

Fort Myers Beach • 239-463-5900

16440 S. Tamiami Trail Fort Myers • 239-466-8326

506 S. 1st St., Immokalee • 800-218-0007

The Shell Factory

2787 N. Tamiaimi Trail North Fort Myers • 239-995-2141

Smokin Oyster Brewery

340 Old San Carlos Blvd.

For Myers Beach 239-463-3474

Sneaky Pete’s

3465 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs • 239-498-8887

The Stage

9144 Bonita Beach Road Bonita Springs • 239-405-8566

Ter-Tini’s

1901 Crystal Drive, Fort Myers • 239-277-5475

Tiki at Wyndham Garden

6890 Estero Blvd.

Fort Myers Beach • 239-463-5711

Tiki Bar at Days Inn

18051 S. Tamiami Trail Fort Myers • 239-267-7900

Twisted Vine Bistro

2214 Bay St., Fort Myers • 239-226-1687

The Village Pub

4360 Gulf Shore, Naples 239-262-2707

Whiskey Park

3380 Mercantile Ave., Naples • 239-263-6777

Yucatan Beach Stand

250 Old San Carlos Fort Myers Beach • 239-333-4386

Some of the places to hear live music in Southwest Florida.

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

JULY 2017

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INCONCERT

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• PERFORMANCES

IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA & THE SUN COAST

July 1

Steve Miller Band, Peter Frampton at Germain Arena

Tracy Lawrence

The Ranch Concert Hall, Fort Myers

Firefall & Al Stewart

Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

July 4

Jerrod Niemann, Jacob Davis

Cape Coral Red White & Boom

July 8

Gretchen Wilson

The Ranch Concert Hall, Fort Myers

July 11 & 12 Ted Nugent

SW Florida Event Center, Bonita

July 15

Steve Miller Band & Peter Frampton

Germain Arena, Estero

July 25

Canaan Smith

Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater

July 29

Dani Dease

The Ranch Concert Hall, Fort Myers

August 17

Canaan Smith

The Ranch Concert Hall, Fort Myers

August 25

Peter White & Euge Groove Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

August 26

Josh Thompson

The Ranch Concert Hall, Fort Myers

August 31

Tribal Seeds & Pepper

The Ranch Concert Hall, Fort Myers

September 2 Randy Houser

The Ranch Concert Hall, Fort Myers

September 8 Adam Ant

Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

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Steve Miller

© photo by Jamie Kuser

The Steve Miller Band with special guest Peter Frampton will perform Saturday, July 15 at 7:30 p.m. at Germain Arena in Estero.

Steve Miller was a mainstay of the San Francisco music scene that upended American culture in the late '60s. With albums like Children of the Future, Sailor and Brave New World, Miller perfected a psychedelic blues sound that drew on the deepest sources of American roots music and simultaneously articulated a compelling vision of what music - and, indeed, society - could be in the years to come. Then, in the '70s, Miller crafted a brand of pure pop that was polished, exciting and irresistible - and that dominated radio in a way that few artists have ever managed. Hit followed hit in what seemed like an endless flow: "Take The Money and Run," "Rock'n Me," "Fly Like an Eagle," "Jet Airliner" and "Jungle Love," among them. To this day, those songs are instantly recognizable when they come on the radio - and impossible not to sing along with.Ticket prices start at $37.50. Tickets are available at the box office, online at www.ticketmaster.com or call 239-948-7825 for more information.

The Family Crest to headline WGCU’s Twisted Strings in 2018

The Family Crest will headline the 2018 Twisted Strings Music Festival on Saturday, Jan 27 at Top Rocker Field, Six Bends HarleyDavidson in Fort Myers.

In its second year, Twisted Strings is WGCU Public Media’s outdoor festival bringing together classically trained musicians who fuse their years of musical training on stringed instruments with the sounds of jazz, blues, soul, rock, hip-hop and world music.

With lead vocalist Liam McCormick, The Family Crest blends classical romantic music with horn-laden Roaring ‘20s sounds. This San Francisco based sevenpiece band was named #13 on Pastes magazine Best New Bands of 2014 noting that “Even with just seven people on stage, The Family Crest’s sweeping orchestral pop can hardly be contained.” NPR Music named The Family Crest “Favorite New Artist” in 2014. In a recent review of the group’s latest album Prelude to War, Paste magazine writes “One thing is certain: These guys are just as explosive as ever, and these songs are going to bring the house down in a live setting.”

The gates will open at 4 p.m. for an evening of music, food and fun. Back by popular demand and performing as guests arrive will be Southwest Florida’s HotButtered Nuggets, bringing their own twist to artists ranging from Satchmo to Tom Waits to The Ink Spots.

The festival opener is Southwest Florida’s Bradford Leary Quintet. Billed as half Leonard Bernstein and half Lynyrd

PERFORMANCES

IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA & THE SUN COAST

September 8 & 9

JJ Grey & Mofro, Los Lobos

Big Orange Music Fest, Punta Gorda

September 17

Sammy Hagar & The Circle Coachman Park, Clearwater

September 24

The Psychodelic Furs Capitol Theatre, Clearwater

September 30 Terri Clark

The Ranch Concert Hall, Fort Myers

October 4 Chris Isaak

Barbara B. Mann Hall, Fort Myers

October 14 Don McLean

SW Florida Event Center, Bonita

October 21 Village People

Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee

October 21

The Lacs, Big Smo

The Ranch Concert Hall, Fort Myers

October 27

William Michael Morgan

The Ranch Concert Hall, Fort Myers Skynyrd, The Bradford Leary Quintet will have the audience on its feet.

The national opener will be Simply Three who continues to receive praise for their ability to impress listeners with a multitude of genres that span from Puccini and Gershwin to artists such as Adele, Coldplay and Michael Jackson.

The electrifying trio of Glen McDaniel, Nick Villalobos and Zack Clark, Simply Three has been captivating audiences worldwide with high-octane performances since 2010. By reshaping convention through this style of genre hopping, the trio continues to seek the true essence of classical crossover with original works as well as innovative arrangements that showcase their technical virtuosity and heartfelt musicality.

Tickets are on sale at www.twistedstrings.org. General admission is $35 per person or two tickets for $60. VIP tickets that include VIP parking, exclusive seating, catered meal, commemorative Festival tshirt plus a back stage pass to meet the bands are $150 per person or $1,350 for a table of 10.

October 28 Cody Johnson

The Ranch Concert Hall, Fort Myers

November 5

Jerrod Niemann

Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee

November 10 Shaggy

The Ranch Concert Hall, Fort Myers

November 11

Charlie Daniels Band and Marshall Tucker

Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee

Daily concert updates at HappeningsMagazine.net

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

SAM GALLOWAY CONCERT SERIES AT THE RANCH

Tracy Lawrence, Gretchen Wilson The Sam Galloway Concert Series in conjunction with Gator Country 101.9 continues this summer with more national artists performing at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon in Fort Myers.

Tracy Lawrence returns to The Ranch on Saturday, July 1. He is one of the most recognizable voices in country music with songs such as “Paint Me A Birmingham,” “Time Marches On,” “Alibis” and “Find Out Who Your Friends Are.” The entertainer has enjoyed 22 songs on the Billboard top ten charts with 18 number one singles, selling over thirteen million albums.

The Multi-platinum CMA and ACM award winning recording artist has helped shape the sound of country music for two decades, recently celebrating twenty-years in music. Few country artists have ever known the kind of success that Tracy Lawrence has earned and the influence his iconic voice has contributed to the country music genre.

Tracy Lawrence tickets start at $25.

Next up at The Ranch Concert Hall is Gretchen Wilson on Saturday, July 8.

After an almost three-year pause to focus on raising her daughter, Wilson is back in the country scene with new single, “Rowdy,” followed by a new album release in mid-June and a nationwide summer tour.

Best known for her smash hit and first single, “Redneck Woman,” Wilson has produced three #1 albums and a New York Times Best Selling autobiography, “Redneck Woman: Stories from My Life.”

“I recently moved from a farm to a neighborhood, so my daughter could study theatre in high school- she’s incredibly talented.” Gretchen Wilson said.

“I just love being outside. I mow the grass every few days just to have something to do outside! I’m sure I came up with some the song ideas for my new record in my backyard,” Wilson said. “I miss riding through the woods on four wheelers and having target practice out in the

Tracy Lawrence - July 1 field, but we do pretty much anything for our kids, don’t we?” Tickets for Gretchen Wilson start at $45.

Other upcoming shows in the Sam Galloway Concert Series include Canaan Smith on Aug. 17 ($15 in advance), Josh Thompson on Aug. 26 ($15 in advance), Randy Houser on Sept. 2, Terri Clark on Sept. 30 ($25 in advance), The Lacs, Big Smo & Demun Jones on Oct. 21 ($25 in advance), William Michael Morgan on Oct. 27 ($20 in advance) and Cody Johnson on Oct. 28 ($12 in advance).

The Sam Galloway Concert Series was started in the fall of 2014 to help bring awareness to Community Cooperative (The Soup Kitchen) and the good work they do in the community, says Brian Tidwell, general sales manager of Sam Galloway Ford.

The concert series features rock and country artists on a regular basis at the venue. Portions of the profits of

Gretchen Wilson - July 8 each concert go to help Community Cooperative feed the community, Tidwell said. For every pound of food donated, Sam Galloway Ford donates $1 to Community Cooperative. Concert goers are also encouraged to bring canned food items to the concerts at The Ranch.

For tickets & details, visit www.theranchfortmyers.com.

The Ranch can be reached at 239-985-9839.

For most concerts, the doors open at 7 p.m. at The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon, 2158 Colonial Blvd. in Fort Myers.

Veterans Day show at Seminole Casino Hotel features Charlie Daniels Band, Marshall Tucker

Charlie Daniels

Jay Goldberg Events & Entertainment presents The Charlie Daniels Band, The Marshall Tucker Band and the Jack Michael Band live in concert at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee on Veterans Day, Nov. 11 at 8 p.m.

From his Dove Award-winning gospel albums to his genre-defining Southern rock anthems and his CMA Award-winning country hits, few artists have left a more indelible mark on America’s musical landscape than Charlie Daniels. An outspoken patriot, beloved mentor to young artists and still a road warrior at age 80, Daniels has parlayed his passion for music into a multi-platinum career and a platform to support the military, underprivileged children and others in need.

The Charlie Daniels Band has populated radio with such memorable and timeless hits as “Long Haired Country Boy,” “The South’s Gonna Do It Again,” “In America,” “The Legend of Wooley Swamp” and of course, his signature song, “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” which won a Grammy for Best Country Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group in 1979 as well as single of the year at the Country Music Association Awards.

Over the course of his career, Daniels has received numerous accolades, including his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame (2016), the Musicians Hall of Fame and becoming a member

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

of the Grand Ole Opry. He was presented the Pioneer Award by the Academy of Country Music and was honored as a BMI Icon in recognition of his songwriting. He also received a star on the Music City Walk of Fame.

With hit singles like "Heard It In a Love Song," "Fire On The Mountain," "Can't You See," and "Take The Highway," The Marshall Tucker Band (MTB) earned seven gold and three platinum albums while they were on the Capricorn Records label. During the 1990s, the MTB scored four hit singles on Billboard's country chart and one on Billboard's gospel chart. More than 40 years after forming, The Marshall Tucker Band continues to tour, performing more than 130 live dates each year.

The Jack Michael Band features original artist Jack Michael from Punta Gorda performing original music as well as country and rock cover songs.

Advance tickets for this outdoor performance are on sale now for $55. A limited number of $125 VIP tickets are available, with a private section directly in front of the stage with seating, private bar and two beverages. Since this show is an outside event, attendees are welcome to bring their own chairs. However, no coolers or pets will be permitted. This is a rain or shine event.

For more details, visit www.moreinparadise.com or www.jaytv.com

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SUMMER DINING FOR LOCALS GameTime

1st Street Deli

at Gulf Coast Town Center

at Seminole Casino Hotel

At GameTime, you can play and eat in style! With a wide variety of menu selections including appetizers like Ahi Tuna Crisps and Fried Mac N' Cheese Balls; entreés that include Baby Back Ribs, Churrasco, Salmon and Pasta dishes; great kid’s meals; healthy Salads and delicious Sports Bar staples like Chicken

Diners at the Seminole Casino Immokalee will enjoy the 1st Street Deli. The authentic New York-style delicatessen brings a distinctly unique dining concept to the casino, featuring deli pickles, fresh bread and sandwiches bigger than your appetite. Offerings include piled high pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, reubens, hot paninis, hamburgers

and salads. It is open 24/7 with a special overnight menu including breakfast.

506 South 1st Street, Immokalee 800-218-0007 www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com

Capt’n Fishbones Seafood Grill at The Shell Factory

Capt'n Fishbones at The Shell Factory has moderately priced lunches, dinners and a full selection of cocktails. We serve Florida favorites like: shrimp, crab cakes, fish fries, burgers and sandwiches. Enjoy the great tropical weather at Dogbones Café or the Swamp Bar and Patio where even the four legged "children" are welcome.

Large group rates are available for lunches, dinners and meetings. Plan your next special event at one of our venues, Weddings, Receptions, Retirement Parties, Corporate Gatherings and Children's Birthday Parties, you name it, we are your perfect culinary choice. Capt’n Fishbones opens daily at 11 a.m. with daily specials and Happy Hour all day, every day. Hear live entertainment in the Swamp Patio daily from 4 - 7 p.m. Classic car shows are held every Thursday 4 - 7 p.m.

2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 239-995-2141 www.shellfactory.com

Downtown Enjoy House of Pizza it by the slice or get a whole pie,

Downtown House of Pizza has something for every size appetite. Pizza choices include cheese, Grandma’s Sicilian, veggie, white, meat lovers, supreme, tomato basil and others. In addition to great pizza, Downtown House of Pizza offers hot wings, a variety of fresh salads, and hot and cold subs.

239-337-DHOP

1520 Hendry St., Downtown Fort Myers www.downtownhouseofpizza.com

EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill

at Seminole Casino Hotel

EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill at Seminole Casino Immokalee is your place for down-home favorites. The Grill is serving up a delicious new menu featuring gluten-free and organic items, such as the gluten-free Cobb Salad and savory Organic Herb Roasted Chicken. The EE-TO-LEET-KE Grill opens daily at 11 a.m. and serves all day breakfast, sandwiches, seafood, steaks, tableside flambé desserts and the popular Seminole Fry Bread.

506 South 1st St., Immokalee 800-218-0007 www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com

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Wings and Nachos, you are certain to have a fantastic dining experience while everyone has a great time! We offer a full liquor Sports Bar and 24-1 all day every day on any individual beer and wine.

10037 Gulf Center Drive, Fort Myers 239-204-5964 www.gametimeplayers.com

Ichiban Japanese & Chinese

Located at the entrance to the Hotel Indigo, we offer a wide selection of Japanese and Chinese menu items.

Stop by for lunch or dinner.

They are open seven days a week (closed on Mondays for the summer).

1520 Broadway, #105, Downtown Fort Myers 239-334-6991

www.IchibanDowntownFortMyers.com

Lucky Mi at Seminole Casino Hotel

Asian-inspired upscale restaurant Lucky Mi Noodle House at Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee has unveiled several creative new menu items that further enhance the dining experience. In addition to Avocado Tempura, Sesame Seared Tuna, and Shanghai Ribs, Lucky Mi has added hot rocks house specials that allow guests to cook their own entrees to perfection at the table on volcanic rock heated to 575 degrees. The new Hot Rocks House Specials include Mixed Seafood (sea scallops, tiger shrimp, king salmon, Asian vegetables), Beef Tenderloin (thinly sliced beef tenderloin and Asian vegetables) and Surf and Turf (cold water lobster tail, sliced beef tenderloin and Asian vegetables), all served with steamed rice and lemon-ginger vinaigrette, hoisin sweet soy and Thai sweet chili dipping sauces.

506 South 1st Street, Immokalee 800-218-0007 www.seminoleimmokaleecasino.com

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Pinchers at The Marina at Edison Ford

Located on the historic Caloosahatchee River and offering the best riverfront dining experience and sunset views, Pinchers at the Marina at Edison Ford is the place for the freshest seafood. Caught from local waters by local fishermen, Pinchers brings the best catch from the water to the table. With 2 for 1 Happy Hour all day every day and kids eat free, Pinchers is Florida Seafood, Florida Style. Pinchers has 11 Florida locations including Tin City Naples, Bonita Springs, Tarpon Point Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach and Gulf Coast Town Center.

2360 West First St., Fort Myers 239-745-7049 www.pinchersusa.com

Marker 92 Waterfront Bar & Bistro

Twisted Vine Bistro

Treat your taste buds to simply prepared fish, premium steaks, an impressive wine selection and handcrafted cocktails. Dine indoors or outside on the patio and savor your favorite dish al fresco while overlooking the breathtaking views of the Caloosahatchee River, The Gulf of Mexico and Tarpon Point Marina. Happy Hour Daily from 4– 7 p.m.

5961 Silver King, Cape Coral 239-541-5600 www.Marker92.com

Tiki Hut Bar & Grill

at Dolphin Key Resort

There's always something to do at the Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at the Dolphin Key Resort. Located in Downtown Cape Coral, the biggest Tiki bar in the world offers live entertainment Wednesday through Sunday, Key West Style Relax Wednesday and Thursday, Light Rock and Country to listen and dance to Friday and Saturday, and then of course, let’s really dance Sunday afternoon to Brylcream with Doo Wop and Motown for the real dancers. The Tiki is a dog friendly bar, offers an outdoor atmosphere, so family, and friends two or four legged are welcome. Great food menu, with Florida Specials, pool table,TVs. Open 7 days.

Kitchen open late.

1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 239-540-8454 www.dolphinkeyresort.com

Twisted Vine Bistro located in downtown Fort Myers' historic River District, prides itself on an extraordinary dining experience. We offer only the freshest seafood, certified Angus Beef, and other unique innovative entrees. We also feature an extensive boutique wine list, with more than 30 wines by the glass. Twisted Vine Bistro grows our house herbs and spices in our courtyard garden! We can accommodate small private event parties for after hours, social gatherings or rehearsal dinners.

Dinner is served seven nights a week. We are open Monday through Thursdays 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m to 9 p.m. Join us for brunch in our courtyard garden. The Twisted Vine Bistro has expanded with the opening of The Barrel Room featuring live music and a late menu.

2214 Bay Street, Fort Myers 239-226-1687 www.twistedvinebistro.com

The Veranda

The Veranda's romantic setting in two turn-ofthe-century homes, combined with our Southern Regional Cuisine, an extensive wine list, and first class service staff will provide you with the most unique dining experience in SW Florida.

Celebrating more than 35 years in business, The Veranda is consistently honored as one of the most award-winning restaurants in the area.

2122 Second St., Fort Myers 239-332-2065 www.verandarestaurant.com

Put your restaurant in our

SUMMER DINING

SHOWCASE FOR LOCALS

Call 239-278-5236 or email swfhappenings@earthlink.net HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

JULY 2017

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Create musical memories aboard the ‘70s Rock & Romance Cruise Celebrity Summit • March 3 - 8, 2018 • Ft. Lauderdale to Jamaica & Grand Cayman

StarVista Live announces the 2018 voyage of the ‘70s Rock & Romance Cruise, bringing the passion of rock and the power of pop by the biggest stars of the era to the high seas on a luxury cruise ship that will wind its way through the Caribbean from March 3 - March 8, 2018.

Live concerts by the bands that made concert going a regular part of all of our lives will give a whole new meaning to “smooth sailing,” with Styx (special appearance March 5), Michael McDonald, America, Air Supply, War, The Guess Who, B.J. Thomas, Atlanta Rhythm Section, Badfinger featuring Joey Molland, Poco, Abbey Road on the River presents Hal Bruce, and more aboard the award-winning Celebrity Summit.

“I am truly excited to bring Styx music to the 70s Rock & Romance fans,” says Styx founding guitarist James “JY” Young. “We are planning on having a heckuva good time and everyone coming should plan on the same.”

“It’s very unique for us,” adds Dewey Bunnell of America, who performed on the 2017 Rock & Romance Cruise and will be returning in 2018. “We tour a lot, play lots of venues around the world but a cruise ship is a singularly unique experience. We get to be here with our fans, see you on the various decks, it’s great.”

“It really doesn’t get any bigger than this,” said Russell Hitchcock of Air Supply. “The

bands on this cruise have filled stadiums, topped the charts and launched thousands of love stories. It’s a spectacular, once-in-alifetime opportunity for the fans.”

“The first ‘70s Rock & Romance Cruise exceeded all of our expectations in so many ways,” adds Alan Rubens, StarVista Live senior vice president of entertainment and executive producer of the ‘70s Rock & Romance Cruise. “It was fantastic to see how many people decided to spend five days with us, how unbelievable each and every performance was, and how great it was to cruise the Caribbean sharing and remembering the music we all fell in love to in that phenomenal era. We set the bar high and now are working to make the 2018 cruise even more magical and memorable.”

Throughout the voyage, guests will have the opportunity to attend special events that bring them up close and personal with the artists onboard, including a wine and food pairing hosted by our top-rated sommelier, live game shows, behind the music Q&As, panel discussions, pool parties, and unforgettable theme parties. All will take place aboard the luxurious Celebrity Summit, renowned for excellence in dining, deluxe cabins and stunning showrooms. Celebrity Cruises represent modern luxury in cruise lines, through sleek cruise ships and top-of-the-line amenities.

This cruise will bring you back to the days of polyester, platforms and pet rocks and let you relive all the feel good memories, music and all the fun. So grab your special someone or your very best friends and get ready to celebrate the '70s with a Disco Party under the stars, a Classic Movie and TV Costume Ball and more. Dressing in theme is encouraged for these nights.

Participate in more than 20 celebrity-hosted events like artist Q&A sessions, panel discussions, game shows & trivia, cooking demonstration, wine tasting and more.

Renew your wedding vows while on the cruise and continue your promise of loving each other forever. A celebrity on the ship will read the vows.

Your cabin price includes more than 40 live performances and 20 celebrity interactive events with your fellow cruisers on this feel good party at sea.

Experience the music, the memories and the fun for five amazing days while reliving the best moments in your life.

Meals served on the ship in the main dining restaurant and casual dining areas The inaugural 70s Rock and Romance Cruise in March 2017 (except for meals at photos courtesy of StarVista Live the specialty restaurants) are included in your reservation, including 24 hour room service. All breakfasts and dinners and some lunches are served in both formal and casual restaurants. Lunch is always available in the casual dining restaurant as well as at the poolside restaurant and often available in some of the specialty restaurants. Dinner is available in most of the specialty restaurants each night. There is a charge for dining in the specialty restaurants.

To book your cabin, simply call or visit online. Various payment plans are available after paying a deposit, including a monthly payment option.

This will be the second sailing of the ‘70s Rock and Romance Cruise presented by StarVista Live. StarVista Live is also responsible for the Flower Power Cruise, Soul Train Cruise, the Country Music Cruise, the new Southern Rock Cruise and the Malt Shop Memories Cruise.

Cabin fares start at $1,349 for the 70s Rock and Romance Cruise and include admission to all main stage shows, meals in main dining options and major parties.

Happenings Magazine has again partnered with StarVista Live and our readers are being offered savings of up to $300 on their cabin prices. Simply call 844-355-ROCK or go to www.rockandromancecruise.com/happenings. Be sure to mention or use the special promo code “HAPPENINGS” for your savings.

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HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Comedy Clubs JULY

SATURDAY - 1

Cal Verduchi 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Carlos Mencia 7 & 9 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club Philly Plowden 6 & 9:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

SUNDAY - 2

Friday - 7 continued

Mike Epps 7 & 10 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

SATURDAY - 8

The Disgruntled Clown 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Sugar Sammy 7 & 9 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club

Carlos Mencia 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club

Mike Epps 6 & 9:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

Mike Armstrong 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

Sugar Sammy 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club

WEDNESDAY - 5 THURSDAY - 6

The Disgruntled Clown 7:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Sugar Sammy 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club Mike Armstrong 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

FRIDAY - 7

The Disgruntled Clown 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Sugar Sammy 6 & 8 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club

* schedules subject to change

SUNDAY - 9

Mike Epps 6 & 9:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

WEDNESDAY - 12

Rahn Hartman 7:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe Scotty K 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

THURSDAY - 13

Jay Hewlett 7:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Adam Hunter 7:30 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club

Comedy Club calendar online at www.HappeningsMagazine.net

Thursday - 13 continued

Scotty K 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

FRIDAY - 14

FRIDAY - 21

FRIDAY - 28

RC Smit h 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Pet er Fogel 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Brian Bradley 8:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

Frank Del Rizzo 8:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

Adam Ferrera 7 & 9 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club

Jay Hewlett 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Adam Hunter 7 & 9 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club Scotty K 8:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

SATURDAY - 15

SATURDAY - 22

SATURDAY - 29

RC Smit h 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Pet er Fogel 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Brian Bradley 6 & 9:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

Frank Del Rizzo 6 & 9:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

Adam Ferrera 7 & 9 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club

Jay Hewlett 7:30 & 9:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Adam Hunter 7 & 9 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club

SUNDAY - 23

Scotty K 6 & 9:30 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

Adam Ferrera 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club

Adam Hunter 7:30 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club

Laugh In Line Up 10 7:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

SUNDAY - 16

WEDNESDAY - 19

Brian Bradley 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

SUNDAY - 30

Guy Torr y 7:30 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Frank Del Rizzo 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

8595 College Parkway Fort Myers 239-479-5233 laughincomedycafe.com

Off the Hook Comedy Club

Peter Fogel 7:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Adam Ferrera 7 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club Brian Bradley 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

WEDNESDAY - 26

Guy Torr y 8 & 10 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club

THURSDAY - 27

THURSDAY - 20

RC Smith 7:30 p.m.

Laugh In Comedy Cafe

Guy Torr y 8 & 10 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club

Guy Torr y 8 p.m.

Off the Hook Comedy Club Frank Del Rizzo 8 p.m.

The Comedy Zone

2500 Vanderbilt Beach Road unit #1100, Naples 239-389-6901 offthehookcomedy.com

The Comedy Zone at Visani Restaurant

2400 Kings Highway, Port Charlotte 941-764-3463 visani.net

Suncoast Security Professional Security

Licensed, educated employees

Specializing in ...

• Crowd Control • Sporting Events • Concerts

Se Habla Espanol

• Arena/Stadium • Banquets/Halls • Block Parties

(239) 415-7007 Serving all of Florida

St. Lic. # B2000112

WWW.SUNCOASTSECURITY.BIZ

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• Armed • Unarmed • Uniformed • Licensed • Insured

Email: SUNCOASTSCRTY@AOL.COM

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Hemingway Days July 18-23

Ernest Hemingway look-alikes, writers, anglers and fans of the late author’s work are to converge on Key West Tuesday through Sunday, July 18 - 23, for the annual Hemingway Days celebration. The festival honors the legacy of the American literary giant who lived and wrote on the island for most of the 1930s.

Events include a look-alike contest for Hemingway hopefuls,

KEY WEST prose and poetry readings, the wacky “Running of the Bulls,” presentations on Ernest and his influence, and a three-day marlin tournament recalling his passion for angling.

Scores of stocky, bearded men resembling the writer are to compete in Sloppy Joe’s Hemingway Look-Alike Contest at Sloppy Joe’s Bar, 201 Duval St., a frequent hangout for him during his Key West years. Preliminary rounds are set for 6:30 p.m.

Thursday and Friday, July 20 and 21, with the finals at 6:30 p.m.

Saturday.

The look-alikes also star in activities including Saturday’s “Running of the Bulls” spoof and a salute to Hemingway on the 118th anniversary of his July 21 birth.

Held in conjunction with the festival is the Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition coordinated by Ernest’s granddaughter, author Lorian Hemingway.

Other highlights include literary readings at 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday, July 19, at the Key West Woman’s Club, 319 Duval St. Poetry lovers can discover Hemingway’s little-known verse at a Friday evening reading at the island’s 700 Fleming St. library.

Aspects of the author’s life and legacy are spotlighted during “Hemingway & Harry’s Way,” a presentation by Ted Geltner, who penned “Blood, Bone and Marrow: A Biography of Harry Crews.”

The program takes place July 18 at the Key West Art & Historical Society’s Custom House, 281 Front St. — also the site of a July 20 Hemingway symposium.

Those who share Ernest’s love of angling can compete for $50,000 in cash prizes in the July 19-22 Havana Club Key West Marlin Tournament.

Charlie Boice, center, is congratulated after winning the 2015 "Papa" Hemingway Look-Alike Contest in Key West. The competition is part of the annual Hemingway Days festival. Photo by Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau

Additional festival events include the 5K Sunset Run/Walk and Paddleboard Race, a DVD premiere of the 2015 performance of “The Hemingway Suite” in Havana, Cuba, a daylong street fair on Key West’s Duval Street and Sloppy Joe’s annual Arm Wrestling Contest.

Hemingway fans also can visit his former Key West home at 907 Whitehead St., now an attraction open for tours. The property will be the site of “To Have and Have Another,” a Sunday evening presentation and soiree hosted by the Key West Art & Historical Society.

For more about Hemingway Days, visit www.hemingwaydays.net. For Key West visitor information, go online to www.flakeys.com/keywest or call 1-800-LAST-KEY

Mel Fisher Days honor iconic Key West shipwreck salvager

Shipwreck fans, treasure seekers and history buffs can commemorate salvager Mel Fisher’s discovery of the sunken Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha July 13 - 15, in the island city he called home.

In July 1985, Fisher and his crew uncovered Atocha treasure and artifacts valued at $450 million after an exhaustive 16-year search. The galleon sank during a 1622 hurricane in approximately 55 feet of water 35 miles southwest of Key West.

Mel Fisher Days highlights include tours of the salvage boat J.B. Magruder that is used to seek stillundiscovered Atocha artifacts, exclusive explorations of the Fishers’ conservation lab, opportunities to hear tales from the crew that found the Atocha riches, a dock party and the chance to win an authentic Atocha treasure coin valued at $1,400.

Thursday and Friday’s schedule features limitedadmission behind-the-scenes tours of the private conservation laboratory at Mel Fisher’s Treasures, 200 Greene St. (side entrance), where rare Atocha artifacts and treasures are conserved and studied.

Saturday features a dock party from 4:30 to 9 p.m. at the Schooner Wharf Bar, 202 William St. in the Key West Historic Seaport, with appearances by members of the “golden crew” that discovered the Atocha’s riches in 1985.

The 90-foot Magruder is to be berthed behind the bar and open for tours from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Captain Andy Matroci and other crew members will guide the tours and share tales of treasure finds, explain search techniques and display state-of-the-art technology they use to explore the ocean floor.

Other attractions during the dock party include a silent auction, live auction, music, contests and raffles, book signings, the announcement of the winner of the Atocha coin and the presentation of the prestigious Mel Fisher Lifetime Achievement Award.

For event schedule, costs and registration, visit www.melfisherdays.com

Art

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• •

Melissa Miller Nece wins best of show at Alliance

Artists from all over Florida submitted more than 400 pieces for consideration in the Alliance for the Arts’ annual All Florida Exhibition. The juror, Kimberly Riner, narrowed the list to 46 pieces which were unveiled to the public during an opening celebration on June 2. The exhibit runs through June 30 at 10091 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers.

Melissa Miller Nece was awarded $1,000 for Best in Show for her colored pencil piece “Dash and Dive.” Mary Voytek won a $250 Golden Colors Gift Certificate for her second place for her mixed media sculpture “Motherboard.” Sherry Rohl won $100 for 3rd place for her ballpoint pen piece “Completing Interests 2.” Daniel Venditti, Jose Pardo and Stephen Bufter were awarded Juror’s Choice Awards.

"Drawing is the product of a direct connection between the eye, the mind and the hand. It feels organic, physical and spiritual at the same time,” says Best in Show winner Melissa Miller Nece.

“There is something profoundly satisfying in making marks that come together into something recognizable. Colored pencils are responsive tools that connect the texture of the paper with the ideas of the mind.”

Exhibiting artists include: Adriana Flores, Anna Rac, Betsy DJamoos, Buck Ward, Carla Wormington Messerli, Daniel Venditti, David Belling, Deborah Martin, Ed Takacs, Grayson Stoff, J.T. Phillippe, Janet George, Jim Stewart, JoAnn LaPadula, Joanna Coke, Joel Shapses, John O’Brien, Jose Pardo, Katy Danca Galli, Marc Harris, Mary

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“Dash and Dive” by Melissa Miller Nece

Klunk, Mary Voytek, Melissa Miller Nece, Mike Kiniry, Muffy Clark Gill, Nancy Terrell, Penelope Breen, Roger Sherman, Sherry Rohl, Simon Huebler, Stephen Bufter, Steve Conley, Sue Higgins, Susanne Brown, Terry Lynn Spry, Tracy Owen-Cullimore and Whit Robbins.

“It’s exciting to host artists from across all the pockets of Florida,” says exhibitions coordinator Krista Johnson. “The submissions truly showcase the breadth and creative talent of Florida’s independent artists.”

Camera USA show at Naples Art Association The Naples Art Association presents Camera USA on display now through Aug. 4.

Now in its seventh year, the Camera USA exhibition features recent work in color and black & white photography by photographers from across the United States.

The 2017 jurors are David Houston, director of the Bo Bartlett Center, Columbus State University; Gary Monroe, senior professor, Southeast Center for Photographic Studies, Daytona Beach; and Robin O’Dell, curatorial administrator and manager of Photographic Collections, Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg.

The Naples Art Association is located at 585 Park St. For more details, call 239-262-6517 or visit online at www.naplesart.org.

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Al Hoffacker exhibit at Davis Art Center

The Sidney and Berne Davis Art Center will feature the wildlife photography of Al Hoffacker in July.

Retired marine/wildlife scientist and back-country guide Al Hoffacker finds himself extremely fortunate to have experienced many memorable outdoor moments. This exhibition showcases wildlife of South Florida, the Everglades, and the one and only Florida Keys.

The exhibit opens Friday, July 7 during the Fort Myers Art Walk in the downtown historic River District. Art Walk operates from 6 to 10 p.m. on the first Friday of every month. Summer Gallery Hours at the center are Monday-Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The “Strictly Native and Untamed

Wildlife Photography” exhibit closes July 26.

Visit www.sbdac.com for more info.

The nonprofit arts and culture industry generates $140.1 million in annual economic activity in Lee County—supporting 3,875 fulltime equivalent jobs, and generating $18.8 million in local and state government revenues, according to the Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 national economic impact study.

Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 was conducted

by Americans for the Arts, the nation’s leading nonprofit organization for advancing the arts and arts education and is the most comprehensive economic impact study of the nonprofit arts and culture industry ever conducted in the United States.

According to the study, nonprofit arts and culture organizations in Lee County spent $34 million during fiscal year 2015. This spending is far-reaching: organizations pay employees, purchase supplies, contract for services and acquire assets within their community. Those dollars, in turn, generated $89.3 million in household income for local residents and $18.8 in local and state government revenues.

“The arts provide a host of cultural and entertainment benefits. They keep us connected through picture and movement, story and song. They introduce our children to our history and the endless possibilities that lie ahead of them,” says Lydia Black, executive director of Alliance for the Arts. “What is less understood is their positive economic contributions. The Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 sends a clear message: the arts are an investment that delivers both community wellbeing and economic vitality.”

As part of the Lee County study, the Alliance for the Arts created a pop out study for the nonprofit arts organizations residing within the city limits of Fort Myers. Within the city limits of Fort Myers, the nonprofit arts and culture industry generates $49.7 million in annual economic activity —supporting 1,389 full-time equivalent jobs, and generating $6.7 million in local and state government revenue.

Nationwide, the Arts & Economic

Prosperity 5 reveals that the nonprofit arts industry produces $166.3 billion in economic activity every year, resulting in $27.5 billion in federal, state and local tax revenues. In addition, it supports 4.6 million full-time equivalent jobs.

“This study demonstrates that the arts are an economic and employment powerhouse both locally and across the nation,” says Robert L. Lynch, president and CEO of Americans for the Arts. “A vibrant arts and culture industry helps local businesses thrive and helps local communities become stronger and healthier places to live. Leaders who care about community and economic vitality can feel good about choosing to invest in the arts.

Nationally as well as locally, the arts mean business.”

In addition to spending by organizations, the nonprofit arts and culture industry leverages $106.1 million in event-related spending by its audiences. As a result of attending a cultural event, attendees often eat dinner in local restaurants, pay for parking, buy gifts and souvenirs, and pay a babysitter. What’s more, attendees from out of town often stay overnight in a local hotel. In Lee County, these dollars support 3,875 full-time equivalent jobs, and generating $18.8 in local and state government revenues.

“It’s essential for our area businesses to support the role the arts play in local communities and economic vitality. The arts are an integral component of workforce development and recruitment, enhance quality of life and foster beauty and creativity. Businesses succeed and employee satisfaction rises when their communities are vibrant and full of life,” says Jeffrey Mudgett of Parker/Mudgett/Smith Architects.

The Arts & Economic Prosperity IV study was conducted by Americans for the Arts in partnership with the Alliance for the Arts. The full text of the Lee County and City of Fort Myers reports can be found at www.ArtInLee.org/Impact.

Al Hoffacker

Lee County’s nonprofit arts & culture industry generates millions in economic activity

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

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ACT features three themed exhibits

In July, ACT Gallery will feature a wide array of group artists that entered its themed open art exhibits. Artists were given three creative themes to choose from, “Current Social Issues,” “The Year of the Rooster” and “Bizarre and Surreal.”

The judge will pick the first, second and third places and honorable mention prizes on July 6.

Cash prizes will be awarded at the July 7 Art Walk. Join Arts for ACT Gallery, located at 2265 First St. in downtown Fort

Lisa Freidus

Katherine Boren

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Kyra Belan

Myers on Friday, July 7, from 6 to 10 p.m. for the opening reception and Saturday, July 8, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a less crowded and slower paced Art Walk.

Visitors can expect to see an array of eclectic, surreal, whimsical and realistic paintings, sculptures, watercolors, collage, oils, and photography for this month’s three themed exhibits. Entries proved to be very thought provoking and imaginative. The art ranged from professional to emerging, self-trained and “outsider” to highly skilled; there is truly something for everyone!

Come view these creative artworks from more than 40 artists for this annual group exhibit and support ACT Gallery.

This exhibit continues through Monday, July 31.

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Franco & Linzy exhibit extended through July 29 at Bob Rauschenberg Gallery Florida SouthWestern State College has extended the showing of its James Franco & Kalup Linzy: Collaborations exhibit at the Bob Rauschenberg Gallery.

The exhibit opened April 7 and has been extended to July 29.

The first two-person/collective museum exhibition of these internationally-renowned artists, James Franco and Kalup Linzy, premieres several new projects while surveying their collaborative and individual photography, painting, multi-media works and related ephemera (including costumes and props used to create works on view).

James Franco is an Academy Award-nominated actor, director, author and visual artist who has worked across media to explore issues from adolescence, stereotypes and autobiography to society’s preoccupation with celebrity. He has had solo exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, The Clocktower Gallery at P.S. 1 in New York, Peres Projects in Berlin, Gagosian Gallery in Beverly Hills and at the PACE Gallery.

Born in Clermont and raised in Stuckey, Florida, Kalup Linzy received his bachelor of arts degree and his M.F.A. from the University of South Florida in Tampa. In 2005, his participation in a group show at The Studio Museum in Harlem and a project at Taxter and Spengemann Gallery in Chelsea, led to a

review in The New York Times by Holland Cotter that opened with the declaration that “A star is born...”

Playing multiple roles (often within a single work), performance artist, actor, director and vocalist/musician, Linzy is the genre- and gender-bending star of video melodramas, which cover issues of race, politics, sexuality and family relationships. The recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, Linzy’s work has since been collected by institutions including The Museum of Modern Art/New York, The Studio Museum in Harlem, The Whitney Museum of American Art and The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Bob Rauschenberg Gallery is located on the Lee County campus of Florida SouthWestern State College. For additional information call 239-489-9313 or visit www.RauschenbergGallery.com.

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Carmen Sprague photography, Dolphin Wave Glass on display at Cape Coral Library gallery

Changing exhibits are featured in the art gallery of the Cape Coral Public Library, which is located at 921 SW 39th Terrace. The latest show will be available for viewing during library business hours from July 3 through Aug. 15.

A solo show of fine art photography by Carmen Sprague will be on exhibit on the walls of the library gallery. Carmen is originally from Lansing, Michigan where she worked for the General Motors Parts Division as editor and chief photographer for over 27 years.

She earned a degree in Applied Science and Photography from Lansing Community College’s Media Institute and Michigan State University. Sprague was a winner of the Kinsa Kodak Award in Black and White Portraiture.

After being diagnosed with cancer in 1996, Carmen felt it was time for a life change and relocated to the Florida Keys, where she owned and operated Carmen’s Gallery of Key West and co-owned Artists in Paradise of Big Pine Key Florida. Carmen is a current member of the Florida Keys Art Guild and the Lower Keys Artist Network.

Now living in Cape Coral, Carmen belongs to the Cape Coral Art League and serves on the board as first vice president. She’s also director of the league’s gift shop and teaches photography and graphics.

Creations by two Dolphin Wave Glass artists will be featured in the library gallery’s display cases. Naldyne K. Light owns and operates Dolphin Wave Glass. She not only makes glass art pieces for sale, but also creates custom commissioned pieces in fused glass such as bowls, dishes, jewelry, and other unique glass art forms.

Naldyne currently works with AAE Glass in Cape Coral, where she teaches entry and mid-level classes and continues her advanced education. Katherine Busch is an associate artist at Dolphin Wave Glass, and her work will also be featured in the gallery’s display cases. She has been working with glass for 10 years and enjoys making beautiful yet functional art glass pieces. Katherine supports local art societies, including the Cape Coral Art League and the Art Council of Southwest Florida.

The exhibits are sponsored by the Friends of the Cape Coral Library.

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Harbour View Gallery to feature Ellen Bianchi, Sandy O’Grady Harbour View Gallery in Cape Mary “Sandy” O’Grady has Coral will welcome featured been a permanent resident of artists Ellen Bianchi (paper castPunta Gorda since 1999. She ing) and Sandy O’Grady (basket, started experimenting with art pottery & stone art) at a reception when she retired in 2014 when on Tuesday, July 4 from 6 to 8 she began to explore her pasp.m. sion. In August 2013, her Ellen Bianchi is a Michigan German shepherd was bitten by native and relocated to Cape a rattle snake. She stayed home Coral to soak up the delightful with her to nurse her through.

SW Florida sunshine. A graduate She needed to keep her hands of Calvin College, she worked as busy and remembered she had an art teacher in the Michigan taken a class in pine needle basschools since 1979. She taught ketry. She had pine trees in the children from kindergarten yard and so it began. She made through adulthood, other teachseveral baskets for friends and ers, and lectured at such places family. as Michigan Art Educators In 2014, she talked with an Association and the University of artist at Sea Grape Gallery and Michigan. She was instrumental applied to be a member. She Ellen Bianchi in bringing quality art education was accepted and in the first 12 into classrooms and starting art education promonth sold 40 baskets. She started with the grams in schools that had none. usual bases of nuts and agates; however, she Ellen was a founding member of Harbour has started creating her own pottery bases.

View Gallery for nine years.

She also used shells and During her tenure at Harbour other local items. She wants View, she served on the her baskets to be original executive committee, promomaterials of SWFL as much tions committee, helped as possible. Sandy volunteers establish standard operating at Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary procedures, and was the and often times use feathers treasurer for six of those nine that she finds on the ground years. and even tiger whiskers that Most recently, Ellen are found when cleaning the became a member of DAAS enclosures.

Art Gallery in Fort Myers, Their work will be on diswhere she assumes the play through July. The gallery treasurer position as well as is located at 5789 Cape Sandy OʼGrady exhibits her paper castings.

Harbour Drive, Cape Coral.

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DAAS Gallery to showcase art of Jeff & Dale Ocasio

DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts will host the works of the very talented Jeff and Dale Ocasio, with an opening reception scheduled for Saturday, July 8.

The reception coincides with the SoCo Second Saturday art crawl, starting at 6 and closing at 10 p.m.

The makers of the Ocasiocasa, as they dubbed their magical studio on the second floor of the Edwards Building of the Alliance for the Arts campus, will display more than 30 pieces in the gallery.

These include sculptures, wall hangings and art prints, all created in the artists’ favorite medium of masking tape, wire, glue and acrylic paint.

Jeff and Dale Ocasio work collaboratively to create sculpted and digital art expressing an imaginative, storybook spirit. Sculpting with paper masking tape over wire and reclaimed objects is where their artwork begins. Many of their sculptures are documented through our own digital illustrations and animations. “Fin Folk” is their newest collection, and presents day-dreamlike portrayals of life forms beneath the waves. Hoping to draw attention to the inconspicuous watery world of weightless, acrobatic beings living under a glimmering surface, the Ocasio’s intentions are to remind us all to heed and take to heart the well-being of our waterways.

They imagine the many fins swiftly gliding back and forth are waving “hello” to all who stand at the shore. This show is Jeff and Dale’s wave back to them, to say: “We see

you. How do you do?”

DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts celebrated its first anniversary in April. The summer business hours are Wednesday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Sept. 30. The gallery is also one of the main cultural venues of the monthly SoCo Second Saturday art crawl. More information about the event is available at www.socoswfl.com. More information about the artists is available at www.ocasiocasa.com.

The gallery is located in the Royal Palm Square at 1400 Colonial Blvd, Suite 84, in Fort Myers. More information is available at www.daascoop.com or by calling the gallery directly at 239-590-8645.

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Englewood Art Center to host Summer Art Market July 7 & 8

Englewood’s arts and cultural scene is not taking a summer vacation. Sure, the pace slows down, but the Englewood Art Center, a division of Ringling College of Art and Design, is offering visitors and residents a chance to come in from the sizzling summer heat and enjoy the cool, vibrant vibes of original works of art created by more than 20 area artists.

EAC’s first annual Summer Art Market is Friday, July 7 and Saturday, July 8, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the center’s Loranger Gallery, 350 South McCall Road, Englewood.

This free, family-friendly event features original works of art in variety of media, including paintings, watercolor, ceramics, fiber art, sculpture and photog-

raphy. The two-day event also features artist demonstrations, live music, food trucks and activities for children.

According to Samantha Parkinson, the director of the Englewood Art Center, this inaugural event acknowledges the new reality of being a community that stays active all summer long.

“Englewood is growing,” she says. “We have more summer visitors and full-time residents. This inaugural arts market serves two purposes. It gives local artists a venue to exhibit during the summer— and it gives the people who stay and live here a chance to see some truly wonderful original works of art.”

For more information or to register, visit www.ringling.edu/EAC or call 941474-5548.

Island Conclave Gallery conducts photo contest on Pine Island

Now through August, area residents can show off your photography skills in the Pine Island Things To Do Photo Contest, sponsored by Island Conclave Fine Art Gallery.

All summer long, scout out locations, events and activities on Pine Island, Little Pine Island or Matlacha showcasing the Greater Pine Island area’s very “best” Things To Do and snap a photo.

Photos will be judged on the following criteria for first, second and third place: 1) Quality of photo, 2) Obvious Place or Thing to do on Pine Island, Matlacha or Little Pine Island in the following categories of either: a) Eco-Tourism & Nature b) Events, Entertainment or Activities, c) Retail Shopping & Galleries and/or d)

Home grown food/beverage, fruit or plant/tree presentations at area restaurants, nurseries or farms.

In all, there will be prizes valued at over $4,000 to be awarded for first, second and third place as well as “fan favorite” as voted on via Island Conclave Fine Art Gallery’s Facebook page photo contest tab.

Enter and read all about the rules/terms & conditions of the photo contest at www.facebook.com/IslandConclave Participants can also pick up the official rules at Island Conclave Fine Art Gallery at 5101 Pine Island Road in Bokeelia, but participants must enter and upload their photos online through their application above.

Tom Bond earns first place in ‘Water’ show at Visual Arts Center

Tom Bond won first place for his watercolor painting "Calm Evening."

The award was presented on May 25 by the Visual Arts Center in Punta Gorda. The title of the art show was "Water Water Everywhere" and ran through June 15.

Tom Bond is an internationally known artist.

His studio is located in Port Charlotte.

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River District

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

The Hipnauticals to play at WINK Freedom Fest July 4

The WINK Freedom Fest presented by Fort Myers Pest Control on July 4 will run from 4 to 10 p.m. in the River District. The family friendly event will include a patriotic motor show, contests, vendors, DJ, kids activities, chili dog eating contest, photos with Captain America, fireworks and live music by The Hipnauticals.

Admission is free. For more info, visit www.winkfreedomfest.com

First Celebrates Freedom July 6

Hungry families and children out of school for the summer will benefit from an evening of patriotic music and fellowship at First Celebrates Freedom, presented by First Presbyterian Church of Fort Myers and sponsored by the Galloway Family of Dealerships.

The event, planned for Thursday, July 6, at First Presbyterian Church at 2438 Second St. in downtown Fort Myers, will be a 90-minute performance of patriotic music, hymns, instrumentalists, and special guests beginning at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 6:30 p.m.

Admission is free, although voluntary cash donations and cans of non-perishable food will be accepted to benefit Community Cooperative (The Soup Kitchen).

“For some families, summer means a certain kind of freedom. For the families we serve, it means just the opposite. Summer months can be the cruelest season for families who can’t rely on the schools to feed their hungry children,” said Community Cooperative CEO Tracey Galloway.

To ease the strain this summer, Community Cooperative is partnering with Sam Galloway Ford for the fourth annual Summer Drive for Hunger with a goal of collecting 25,000 pounds of food and raising $25,000 to support hungry families during June and July. Sam Galloway

Ford will donate $1 for every pound of food dropped off at the Fort Myers dealership.

Community Cooperative provided food and other services to 10,250 people last year with the help of partner agencies, including the Harry Chapin Food Bank and United Way agencies. Community Cooperative was founded in 1984 to help alleviate hunger and suffering in Lee County. The church has been a strong supporter of the agency from the beginning and continues to support its ministry there by providing volunteers and other support for The Soup Kitchen and the Meals on Wheels program.

Organizer and sponsor Sam Galloway, Jr., said the annual event, now in its 19th year, was renamed from “A Midsummer Night’s Sing” to reflect the patriotic music as well as hymns that will be sung.

The First Presbyterian Chancel Choir and friends will be featured during the evening, which will include sing-a-longs of well-known patriotic music and hymns everybody knows.

“Please try to bring whatever cash donation you can and at least two cans of non-perishable food And, if you’re unable to contribute but still want to support the cause, come anyway and have a good time,” Galloway said.

For more information, call 239-334-2261 or visit www.fpcfortmyers.org.

Celebrate on the Rooftop

with the best view

of the Fireworks!

SPECIAL FREEDOM FEST RAFFLE

Historic Downtown

Spectacular Views Rooftop Bar

HAPPY HOUR daily on Rooftop Lounge!

1520 Broadway, Downtown Fort Myers, FL 33901

239-337-3446

www.hotelindigo.com/fortmyersfl 32

JULY 2017

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Ivy Cottage

Antiques & Treasures

6,000 square feet filled with treasures

Fine Antiques to Shabby & Cottage Chic. Vintage Treasures of times gone by.

Collectibles, Lighting, Candles, Home Decor and so much more.

Tuesday through Friday 11 - 5, Saturday 11 - 4 2259 Widman Way

Fort Myers River District

(formerly Peck Street)

(239) 226-0025

DIRECTIONS: Downtown Fort Myers ... Take MLK ... Look for the Oasis Restaurant. Turn on to Hendry Street, then left on Widman Way. We are directly one block BEHIND the Oasis Restaurant. FREE PARKING.

ICHIBAN Japanese & Chinese Cuisine

ut our Ask abo nition h Defi

Hig Special SUSHI

Six Day Lunch Menu!

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SUMMER HOURS: Tuesday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. • Saturday Noon - 11 p.m.

Sunday Noon - 10 p.m.

Fast Friendly Service and Soft Music!

1520 Broadway • Suite 105

DOWNTOWN FORT MYERS Tel: (239) 334-6991 • Fax (239) 334-6591 www.IchibanDowntownFortMyers.com

Located at the Entrance to the

Hotel Indigo

Future residents preview new Campo Felice

Campo Felice Retirement Living said “Aloha!” to more than 160 future residents and guests with an exclusive luau on the downtown community’s newly finished pool terrace May 31.

The evening included hors d’oeuvres from Fort Myers’

The Aloha Islanders performed Polynesianinspired music and movements for the eveningʼs entertainment. Photos by Heather Barkis

Global Event Marketplace, cocktails and Polynesianinspired music and movement provided by Aloha Islanders Hawaiian Entertainment of Fort Lauderdale.

Between bites and sips, future residents got to know each other better and toured floor plans and furnished models on the 18th floor of this entirely refurbished luxury highrise.

“The luau was our first major event at Campo Felice, and though we all had a wonderful time, it was only a small taste of what’s to come for this community and its residents,” said executive director Heather Battey.

Once completed, Campo Felice will boast 322 residences – with both waterfront views, city views and eight floorplans to choose from – and a wide range of amenities, including four on-site gourmet restaurants and a Starbucks Coffee, a state-of-the-art fitness center, 24/7 concierge and security, a salon and spa, a 49-seat cinema, valet parking, a dog park, weekly housekeeping, an art studio and media center, a grand ballroom, bocce ball court and much more.

The pool terrace, Campo Felice’s most recently completed amenity, features a beach-entry salt water pool, a salt water hot tub, fire pits and pool-side food and drink service, with views of the gorgeous Caloosahatchee River – sure to be a favorite among Campo community residents.

“But it’s not just the residents who are excited about the future of Campo Felice,” said Rebekah MacFarlane Barney, chief operating officer of the MacFarlane Group and the woman behind the idea and impetus of transforming the city skyline’s former eye sore into luxury senior living rentals. “Our entire team is thrilled to be a part of the renaissance taking place in downtown Fort Myers’ historic river district.”

Campo Felice Retirement Living, which is due to be completed later this year, is located at 2500 Edwards

Drive in the Historic River District of Downtown Fort Myers. To learn more about independent luxury senior (55+) living in downtown, call 239-628-3163 (toll free 855989-5000) or visit www.CampoSeniorLiving.com.

FORT MYERS DOWNTOWN RIVER DISTRICT

FIRST FRIDAYS

6-10 P.M.

EVERY MONTH

ALSO: Saturday after Art Walk 11 am - 4 pm

Shop Our Art Galleries & Art Spaces!

REVERIE & ROCK ART GALLERY • ARTS FOR ACT GALLERY TWO NEWTS GALLERY • ART LEAGUE OF FORT MYERS SIDNEY & BERNE DAVIS ART CENTER • TIMELESS • THE NEST BOOTLEGGERS ALLEY • MIVILLE GALLERY • SPACE 39 GRAND ILLUSION GALLERY • MARC HARRIS WILDLIFE AMERICAN LEGION VETERANS GALLERY • OLLIE MACK GENTRY

www.FortMyersArtWalk.com

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HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

SalusCare comedy night July 22 features professional comics, six local celebrities

Two nationally recognized professional comedians will bring more fun to the stage on July 22 when they perform at the third annual Laughter Is the Best Medicine Comedy Night to benefit SalusCare, Inc. Professional comedian Michael Palascak returns for the third time and will serve as emcee for the evening as well as perform his stand-up comedy routine.

Fellow professional comedian Pat McGann will perform the finale.

“We are thrilled to have not just one – but two professional comedians join us for our signature event. This is in addition to our six celebrity comics who will be competing for the title of ‘Lee County’s Best Comic,’” said SalusCare Development Committee chair Sue Ackert.

Tickets are now on sale for the event at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center and may be purchased at www.saluscarecomedynight.org. VIP tickets are $175 each and include reception with the comedians, heavy hors-d’oeuvres, beer/wine and show. General admission tickets are $125 each for dessert, beer/wine and show only.

Each of the six local celebrities will perform a five-minute stand-up routine for event attendees who will “vote” for the best comedic performance with their dollars. The local celebrities who will exchange laughs for votes are:

Chris Hansen, Lee Health Board member and Park Royal Hospital Dayna Harpster, WGCU Expressions editor Charles Runnells, News-Press reporter Frank Mann, Lee County commissioner Cole Peacock, RC Peacock Consulting Will Prather, Broadway Palm owner Attendees will have the opportunity to “vote” for “Lee County’s Best Comic” by placing cash or checks in containers labeled for each comic.

Palascak delighted television audiences in 2015 as one of five finalists on NBC’s Last Comic Standing. He has appeared on The Late Show with David Letterman, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson. He also has performed at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas and was the winner of HBO’s Lucky 21 Stand-up Contest.

McGann is a stand-up comedian and television host from Chicago. He created and hosted the Emmy nominated television show The Chicago Stand Up Project.

He has been invited to The Great American Comedy Festival, Laugh Fest, The Lucille Ball Comedy Festival and has been heard on the nationally syndicated The Bob & Tom Show, as well as seen on AXS-TV’s Gotham Comedy Live.

ArtFest Fort Myers is currently accepting applications from professional artists for participation in its 2018 juried show.

Featuring the work of 200 artists, ArtFest Fort Myers will bring thousands of art lovers and collectors to the largest outdoor gallery in Southwest Florida on the first weekend in February.

Why apply to participate at ArtFest Fort Myers? Creating an artwork-selling festival for artists is the focus of the year-round professional staff, with 18 years of consistent management. Targeting art buyers throughout Southwest Florida and beyond - from Marco Island to Sarasota and east to West Palm Beach – the promotional campaign includes all forms of media.

How are festival artists chosen? Each

October, ArtFest Fort Myers brings together a panel of professional artists who view submitted images and score each applying artist on a range of 1 – 7 points. The artists with the highest scores are then invited to participate in ArtFest. The jury panel varies each year but always represents a broad base of expertise with regard to artistic mediums - theirs is the difficult task of evaluating who is the “best-of–the-best” from the hundreds of artists who wish to join ArtFest Fort Myers.

Application deadline is Sept. 12.

For artist application information, contact ArtFest Fort Myers at 239-768-3602, email info@ArtFestFortMyers.com or visit the website at www.ArtFestFortMyers.com.

ArtFest Fort Myers accepting artist applications for 2018

THIRD FRIDAY EVERY MONTH LIVE MUSIC STARTS AT 6 PM

The next Music Walk will be

Friday, July 21

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JULY

Saturday -1 The All American Music Jam

Gulf Coast Town Center 9903 Gulf Coast Main Street Ft. Myers Families can come listen to blues and rock music, eat food and participate in activities such as face painting and crafts. The Steve Arvey Band. www.gulfcoasttowncenter.com 5 - 9 p.m.

239-267-5107

The Naples Players - Sister Act Through July 30 Sugden Community Theater, 701 5th Ave. S, Naples www.naplesplayers.org or 239-263-7990 Whatever Happened To Baby Jane: A Parody of the Horror Through July 15 The Laboratory Theater of Florida 1634 Woodford Ave., Fort Myers 239-218-0481 Tracy Lawrence The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers Doors open at 7 p.m. 239-985-9839 The Blues Crusaders The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 9 p.m. 239-333-2225 Mary Poppins Through Aug. 12 Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre 1380 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers 239-278-4422 Right Bed, Wrong Husband Through July 29 Off Broadway Palm Theatre 1380 Colonial Boulevard, Fort Myers 239-278-4422 Electric Lipstick Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Christmas in July All of July Shell Factory & Nature Park 787 N. Tamiami Trail (US 41) North Fort Myers Santa visits: July 1 - 4, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 239-995-2141 Summer Concert Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee 506 South 1st Street in Immokalee Featuring a star-studded roster of Asian entertainers. Admission is free for Seminole Wild Card program members. Free tickets will be distributed while supplies last on the day of the concert beginning at 7 p.m., and the show starting at 10 p.m. www.moreinparadise.com Dixieland Jazz Series - Naples Jazz Masters Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples 1 - 3 p.m. 239-263-1113 Tona Wong The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Live Music in the Village Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Paul Roush, 1 - 9 p.m., 941-575-3007

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ECity Parade & Celebration Everglades City, McLeod Park Historic Everglades City is always first – the first Collier County seat and now the first in the area to celebrate Independence Day. Opening ceremony is at 10 a.m. on the steps of City Hall. That is followed at 10:30 a.m. by the Patriotic Parade. The fun continues in McLeod Park when booths open at 11 a.m. featuring hot dogs & sodas, bake sale, face painting, arts & crafts vendors, raffles, kiddies’ best dressed contest, and playground games. Fireworks at 9 p.m. 239-695-3781 evergladeshistorical.org The Sunset Celebration - Hester Prynn Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900

Sunday -2 Live Music in the Village

Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Michael Hirst, 3 - 7 p.m., 941-575-3007 A Musical Salute to the Red, White and Blue GO's Summer Benefit Concert and Reception Music Salon of William Noll, 688 Trail Blvd, Naples Performance by Steffanie Pearce, and GO Emerging Artists. Tickets: $65 Proceeds benefit Gulfshore Harmony Choir and Social Engagement activities. 4 p.m. www.gulfshoreopera.org 239-529-3925.

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Wayward Souls Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 3:30 - 7:30 p.m., 239-540-8454 Joe Delaney & Brandon Robertson The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 239-333-2225

Monday -3 Independence Fireworks

Fort Myers Miracle - Hammond Stadium 14400 Six Mile Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers Miracle vs St. Lucie. 7:05 p.m. 239-768-4210 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Tuesday -4 WINK Freedom Fest

Downtown, Fort Myers Patriotic Auto Show, family fun, live music, contests & fireworks. 4 - 10 p.m. www.winkfreedomfest.com RJ Howson Band The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-333-2225 Soapy Tuna Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 6 - 10 p.m., 239-540-8454 Kenny G The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Englewood Firecracker Festival 300 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood The annual Englewood Firecracker Festival, Block Party and Craft Show, followed by a firework show.

Things get going on Dearborn Street starting at 10 a.m. with all American food from local restaurants and vendors, as well as beer and frozen drinks.

Over 60 craft vendors will be lining Dearborn, along with a muscle car show. Three live bands with music at noon. Free admission. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. www.charlotteharbortravel.com 4th Fest 2017 Laishley Park, 100 Nesbit Street, Punta Gorda Games, food, live music, fireworks. Jack Michael Band at 7:30 p.m. www.puntagordafireworks.com Pure Florida - Independence Day firework cruises The Marina at Edison Ford, 2360 W. First St. in Fort Myers Pure Florida will celebrate the Fourth of July with Independence Day firework cruises from its Naples and Fort Myers locations. www.PureFL.com.

Naples Fourth of July Parade 5th Avenue South, Naples The annual Fourth of July Parade will take place from 10 a.m. noon. The parade route will begin at Broad Avenue South, travel down 3rd Street South to 5th Avenue South, and end at 8th Street South.

239-692-8436 www.FifthAvenueSouth.com Naples Fourth of July Fireworks City Pier at 12th Avenue, Naples The annual Fourth of July Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. at the City Pier on 12th Avenue. 239-692-8436

Red, White, and Boom!

Cape Coral Pkwy at the foot of Cape Coral Bridge Entertainment Schedule: 5 p.m. - Sheena Brook 6:15 p.m. - Jacob Davis Music 8 p.m. - Jerrod Niemann 9:30 p.m. - Storm Smart Fireworks Spectacular Kids Patriot Park is open to all guests attending the celebration. 5 - 10 p.m. www.capeboom.com

Wednesday -5 Live Music in the Village

Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Chris G & Michael Hirst, noon - 3 p.m. 941-575-3007 Art Alive Naples Art District Studio and Gallery Tours 5 - 8 pm. 239-596-5099 www.NaplesArtDistrict.com John McCormick The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Thursday -6 Dog Daze

Miromar Outlets, Estero 6 p.m. near the Restaurant Piazza Enjoy pet-friendly specials and entertainment at participating stores and restaurants, the first Thursday of every month. 239-948-3766 Sheena Brook Be11 Tower Shops, Fort Myers 5 - 7 p.m. 239-489-1221

Times Square 4th of July Beach Entertainment Times Square, Fort Myers Beach Remedy • Noon till 5 p.m.

High Tide • 6-11 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900

Rich Lancaster Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 5 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454

Fort Myers Beach 4th of July Fireworks Fort Myers Beach Don't miss out on the annual fireworks display from the fishing pier on Fort Myers Beach from 8:45 p.m. to 10 p.m. The Matanzas Pass Bridge will be closed from 9:30 to 11 p.m. to oncoming traffic. www.fortmyersbeach.org

Shop, Dine, Rhythm and Wine Periwinkle Place, 2075 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Every Thursday in July. Live entertainment, complimentary refreshments and special savings from participating stores. Live music by Steve McDougal, Paul Dever, Bobby Blakely and Robby Hutto. 4:30 - 7 p.m. www.periwinkleplace.com

Fort Myers Beach Parade & Patriotic Events Time Square, Fort Myers Beach Parade starts of 10 a.m. & the patriotic event is held in Times Square from 1 - 3 p.m. The parade will start at Bay Rd. and head North, toward the Matanzas Pass Bridge. At Time Square there will be patriotic crafts, a watermelon eating competition and American themed trivia. www.fortmyersbeachfl.gov

Live Music in the Village Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Paul Roush , Noon - 3 p.m., Salty Paws Muttini Mingle from 5:30 - 8 p.m. 941-575-3007

Fishermen’s Village July 4th Celebration Fishermen's Village 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Freedom Swim – Begins at 11 a.m.

Live music – Country Express and Ambush The Band & Rita Beach from Noon-9 p.m. Harpoon Harry’s Kids crafts, treats and face painting, bathing suit and Hula Hoop contests, and live music all day!

King Fisher Fleet – enjoy a Fireworks Cruise, departing at 7:30 p.m. and returning to Village at 10 p.m.

Fireworks at 9 p.m. 941-575-3007 Bonita Springs July 4th Parade Downtown Bonita Springs 9 a.m. 239-949-6200 or www.local3444.org.

Star Spangled Bonita Riverside Park, downtown Bonita Springs Live music by Wayward Souls and Marc Vee Band.

There will be a children’s amusement area which will include a giant water slide, bounce house, amusement rides, slip-n-slide, water tag, train rides, face painting, wrecking ball, high striker and more.

Watermelon and ice cream eating contests will take place. 4 p.m. 239-949-6262.

Harbour View Gallery reception Harbour View Gallery, 5789 Cape Harbour Drive, Cape Coral Artists Ellen Bianchi and Sandy O Grady, 6 - 8 p.m. 239-540-5789

Ben Allen Band 9118 Strada Pl, Naples Nothing says America like country music. Ben Allen Band on the concert lawn. 6 - 9 p.m. 239-254-1080 First Celebrates Freedom First Presbyterian Church, 2438 Second St., Fort Myers Music event to benefit Community Cooperative 7 p.m. 239-334-2261 Nettie The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Dan Miller & Lew DelGatto Jazz Quartet The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-333-2225

Friday -7 The Sunset Celebration - High Tide

Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Strictly Native and Untamed Wildlife Photography exhibit Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St, Fort Myers Exhibit opens Friday, July 7 during Fort Myers Art Walk from 6-10 p.m. Runs through July 26. www.sbdac.com

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

It Comes Naturally Exhibit Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs, 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs Opening Reception July 7, 6-8 p.m. Runs through July 27 239-495-8989 Mike Imbasciani Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 6:30 - 10:30 p.m., 239-540-8454 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 ACT Gallery exhibit opens Arts for ACT Gallery, 2265 First St., For Myers Reception for group exhibits 6 - 10 p.m. during Art Walk. 239-337-5050 Summer Art Market Through Saturday Englewood Art Center, Loranger Gallery, 350 South McCall Road, Englewood.

A chance to come in from the sizzling summer heat and enjoy the cool, vibrant vibes of original works of art created by more than 20 area artists. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. www.ringling.edu/EAC 941-474-5548 Free Ice Cream Social with Timeless Tunes Lake Kennedy Center, 400 Santa Barbara Blvd. Cape Coral Doors open 1:30 p.m., show starts at 2 p.m.

Join us for free ice cream and entertainers, Vicki and Rich–the Timeless Tunes, and celebrate National Parks and Recreation month. Pre-registration required. 239-574-0575 My Sky Exhibit Alliance For The Arts 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers Opening reception 6 – 8 p.m. Runs through July 29.

239-939-2787 Fort Myers Art Walk Downtown Fort Myers Visit the many exciting galleries, exhibitions and performances. 6 - 10 p.m. www.fortmyersartwalk.com Live Music in the Village Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Michael Hirst, noon - 3 p.m. & Singer Frank Matyok, 5 - 9 p.m. Center Court. 941-575-3007 Rusty Wright Band The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-333-2225

Saturday -8 Postgame Comedy Showcase

Fort Myers Miracle - Hammond Stadium 14400 Six Mile Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers Comedians include Chris Gorges, Michael Panzeca and B.J. Odom. Miracle vs Palm Beach. 6:05 p.m.

239-768-4210 Double Standard Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 ACMA concert - John John Brown All Faiths Unitarian Church, 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers Doors 6:30 p.m., show 7 p.m., $10-$15 donation.

Pete Benson opens. 239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org Del Prados The Shell Factory and Nature Park 787 N. Tamiami Trail (US 41) North Fort Myers 6:30 p.m. 239-995-2141 Rockin Jake The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 9 p.m. 239-333-2225

Southern Rock Inspired Country Music Concert Cultural Center of Charlotte County 2280 Aaron St, Port Charlotte Hatley Band takes the stage. Advance tickets $17, $13 for members (limit 2 at the member price) 7 p.m.

941- 625-4175 x221 or www.theculturalcenter.com Saturday Art Walk Downtown Fort Myers 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.fortmyersartwalk.com Improv Tonight!

Center for Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs Bonita City Improv performs musical improv, games and scenes that include suggestions provided by the audience! 8 - 10 p.m. 239-495-8989 Dixieland Jazz Series - Naples Jazz Masters Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples 1 - 3 p.m. 239-263-1113 Live Music in the Village Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Paul Roush, noon - 4 p.m. & Danny Beach, 5 - 9.m. 941-575-3007 Jeff & Dale Ocasio exhibit at DAAS Co-Op DAAS Co-Op Art Gallery & Gifts, 1400 Colonial Blvd., suite 84, Fort Myers 5 p.m. 239-590-8645 The Sunset Celebration - Tiger Blue 1Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Gretchen Wilson The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon 2158 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers Doors open at 7 p.m. 239-985-9839 SoCo Second Saturdays Corner of McGregor Blvd and Colonial Blvd, driving east and turning south on Summerlin Rd, then making a right turn on Royal Palm Blvd., Fort Myers With exciting and unique offerings around every corner, SoCo Second Saturdays celebrate the arts yearround, rain or shine. 6-8 p.m. www.SoCoSWFL.com.

SummerJazz on the Gulf - Pocket Change The Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club 851 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples 6:30 p.m. 239-261-2222 Tona Wong The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Sunday -9 Live Music in the Village

Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Paul Roush, 2 - 6 p.m. 941-575-3007 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Nexx Level Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 3:30 - 7:30 p.m., 239-540-8454 Joe Delaney & Brandon Robertson The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 239-333-2225

Monday - 10

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE

Tuesday - 11

Kenny G The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Sounds of Summer with Strange Arrangement Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St, Fort Myers Doors opens for cocktails at 7:30 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets: $5 www.sbdac.com

Wednesday - 12 The Steampunk Stompers present

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

“A Midsummer Night’s Steam” Sugden /Blackburn Hall, 701 5th Ave. S, Naples 8 p.m. (VIP access at 7 p.m.) Adult tickets $25, Student/Educator tickets $15 (Special VIP access tickets $50) www.naplesplayers.org 239-263-7990

James Armstrong Band The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 9 p.m. 239-333-2225

John McCormick The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Thursday - 13 Live Music in the Village Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Paul Roush, noon - 3 p.m. 941-575-3007 Deven Starr Be11 Tower Shops, Fort Myers 5 - 7 p.m. 239-489-1221 Michelle Lambert Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 5 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Shop, Dine, Rhythm and Wine Periwinkle Place, 2075 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Every Thursday in July. Live entertainment, complimentary refreshments and special savings from participating stores. Live music by Steve McDougal, Paul Dever, Bobby Blakely and Robby Hutto. 4:30 - 7 p.m. www.periwinkleplace.com Nettie The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Dan Miller & Lew DelGatto Jazz Quartet The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-333-2225

Friday - 14 The Sunset Celebration - High Tide

Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Mystery Walk Downtown Fort Myers 6-8 p.m. Registration begins at First and Hendry streets in front of Iberia Bank. www.fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com Relentless Fire Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Jersey Girls Through July 16 Cultural Park Theater 528 Cultural Park Boulevard, Cape Coral 239-772-5862 Live Music in the Village Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Singer Michael Hirst, noon - 3 p.m. & Dick & Kammy, 5 - 9 p.m. 941-575-3007 Charlotte Idol 2017 Cultural Center of Charlotte County 2280 Aaron St, Port Charlotte Tickets for audition night are $10 per person and can be purchased at Homeless Coalition. 6 p.m. 941627-4313 X118 or events@cchomelesscoalition.org

Saturday - 15 Steve Miller Band with Peter Frampton Germain Arena 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero 7:30 p.m. 239-948-7825 MangoMania Tropical Fruit Fair Through July 16 German-American Social Club 2101 Pine Island Rd., Cape Coral Live music, kid-friendly activities, games, contests, fruit & more! www.mangomaniafl.net Rachelle Coba Band The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 9 p.m. 239-333-2225 The Sunset Celebration - Hester Prynn Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 25th Anniversary Postgame Concert Fort Myers Miracle - Hammond Stadium 14400 Six Mile Cypress Parkway, Fort Myers Miracle vs St. Lucie. 6:05 p.m. 239-768-4210 Live Music in the Village Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Jeff Hughes, noon - 4 p.m. & Michael Hirst, 5 - 9 p.m. 941-575-3007 Dixieland Jazz Series - Naples Jazz Masters Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples 1 - 3 p.m. 239-263-1113 Tona Wong The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Ragady Lapsey Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 ACMA concert - Songwriters Circle Showcase All Faiths Unitarian Church, 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers Doors 6:30 p.m., show 7 p.m., $10-$15 donation.

239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org

Sunday - 16 Live Music in the Village

Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Michael Hirst, 3 - 7 p.m.

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Wayward Souls Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 3:30 - 7:30 p.m., 239-540-8454 Joe Delaney & Brandon Robertson The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 239-333-2225

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Monday - 17 Chuck Peterson

The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Tuesday - 18 Miami Music Festival Performance

The Village Church Auditorium on The Island Shell Point Retirement Community, Fort Myers 7:30 p.m. $25 www.shellpoint.org 239-454-2067 Kenny G The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Wednesday - 19 Art After Hours The Baker Museum 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples Enjoy free admission to The Baker Museum the last Wednesday of month from 6 to 9 p.m. 239-597-1111

Ayla Lynn Be11 Tower Shops, Fort Myers 5 - 7 p.m. 239-489-1221

Friday - 21 The Sunset Celebration - High Tide

Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Standing O! Through July 23 Cultural Park Theater 528 Cultural Park Boulevard, Cape Coral 239-772-5862 JP Soars and the Red Hots The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 9 p.m. 239-333-2225 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

John McCormick The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Art & Poetry Networking Event Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St, Fort Myers Gulf Coast Leisure presents Art & Poetry Networking Event showcases the best art and poetry SW Florida has to offer. 8 p.m. Admission $10 www.sbdac.com

Moon Over Buffalo July 19-23 Center for Performing Arts, 10150 Bonita Beach Rd SE, Bonita Springs 239-495-8989

Live Music in the Village Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Michael Hirst, noon-3 p.m., Danny Beach, 5-9 p.m.

Thursday - 20 Shop, Dine, Rhythm and Wine

Periwinkle Place, 2075 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Every Thursday in July. Live entertainment, complimentary refreshments and special savings from participating stores. Live music by Steve McDougal, Paul Dever, Bobby Blakely and Robby Hutto. 4:30 - 7 p.m. www.periwinkleplace.com Third Thursday on Third 3rd Street South Shopping District 5 - 8 p.m. 239-649-6707 Alive After Five Downtown Punta Gorda Every third Thursday the merchants bring you live music, artists and demoing, food trucks, other entertainment. 5 - 8 p.m. 941-391-4856 Nettie The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Michelle Lambert Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 5 - 9 p.m., 239-540-8454 Dan Miller & Lew DelGatto Jazz Quartet The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-333-2225 Sundown Stroll Tarpon Point Marina Village 5991 Silver King Blvd., Cape oral Fun, family friendly event on the third Thursday every month. Live music by Acoustic Fire, 4 p.m. to sunset. www.tarponpoint.com

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Music Walk Downtown Fort Myers 6-10 pm. www.fortmyersriverdistrictalliance.com Hester Prynn Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

Saturday - 22 The Sunset Celebration - Remedy

Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Laughter Is the Best Medicine Comedy Night Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, Fort Myers Professional comedian Michael Palascak will serve as emcee. Fellow professional comedian Pat McGann will perform the finale. VIP tickets $175, GA $125. www.saluscarecomedynight.org ACMA concert - Rebecca Folsom All Faiths Unitarian Church, 2756 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers Doors 6:30 p.m., show 7 p.m., $10-$15 donation. Ray Cerbone opens. 239-691-4069 www.americanacma.org Norman Jackson Band The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 9 p.m. 239-333-2225 Dixieland Jazz Series - Naples Jazz Masters Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples 1 - 3 p.m. 239-263-1113 Neon Summer Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

Live Music in the Village Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Chris G, noon - 4 p.m. & The Country Express Band, 5 - 9 p.m. 941-575-3007

Live Music in the Village Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Michael Hirst , noon - 3 p.m. & George Voss Duo, 5 - 9 p.m. 941-575-3007

Lee Allcorn's Southern Country Soul Cultural Center of Charlotte County 2280 Aaron St, Port Charlotte Sebring-native, Lee Allcorn, digs deep from the traditional sounds of country music. Advance tickets $17, $13 members. 7 p.m. 941-625-4175 ext. 221 www.theculturalcenter.com

Sounds of Summer with Ries Brothers & the Freecoasters Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center 2301 First St., Fort Myers Doors opens for cocktails at 7:30 p.m. Show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets: $5 www.sbdac.com

Tona Wong The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Sunday - 23 Live Music in the Village

Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Rita Beach, 2 - 6 p.m. 941-575-3007 Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Angel Lewis Project Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 3:30 - 7:30 p.m., 239-540-8454 Joe Delaney & Brandon Robertson The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 239-333-2225

Monday - 24 Chuck Peterson

The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Tuesday - 25

Kenny G The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Shore Patrol Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454 Annie Piper Band The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 9 p.m. 239-333-2225

Saturday - 29 The Sunset Celebration - Tiger Blue Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900 Dixieland Jazz Series - Naples Jazz Masters Norris Center, 755 8th Ave. S., Naples 1 - 3 p.m. 239-263-1113 Cece Teneal The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 9 p.m. 239-333-2225 Live Music in the Village Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Chris G, noon - 4 p.m. & Singer and Tenor Sax player David McDonald, 5 - 9 p.m. 941-575-3007 Deb & The Dynamics Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral 7 - 11 p.m., 239-540-8454

Wednesday - 26

Tona Wong The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Thursday - 27 Shop, Dine, Rhythm and Wine

Fisherman’s Village, 1200 West Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda Leslie DaCosta performs Dixieland Jazz, 3 - 7 p.m.

941-575-3007

John McCormick The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

Periwinkle Place, 2075 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Live entertainment, complimentary refreshments and special savings from participating stores. Music

by Steve McDougal, Paul Dever, Bobby Blakely and Robby Hutto. 4:30-7 p.m. www.periwinkleplace.com Strange Arrangement & The Brothers Van Kirk Be11 Tower Shops, Fort Myers 5 - 7 p.m. 239-489-1221 Nettie The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141 Dan Miller & Lew DelGatto Jazz Quartet The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 7 p.m. 239-333-2225

Friday - 28 The Sunset Celebration - High Tide

Times Square, Fort Myers Beach 6 - 10 p.m. (weather permitting) 239-463-5900

Sunday - 30 Live Music in the Village

Henry Ford's 154th Birthday Edison and Ford Winter Estates 2350 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers The day will start off with free birthday cake served at 10 a.m. Living history characters, Henry and Clara Ford will be available for photo opportunities.

239-334-7419 www.edisonfordwinterestates.org Nexx Level Tiki Hut Bar & Grill at Dolphin Key Resort 1502 Miramar St., Cape Coral Joe Delaney & Brandon Robertson The Barrel Room at Twisted Vine Bistro 2210 Bay St., Fort Myers 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. 239-333-2225

Monday - 31

Chuck Peterson The Shell Factory & Nature Park, 2787 N. Tamiami Trail, North Fort Myers 4 - 7 p.m. Swamp Patio, 239-995-2141

HAPPENINGS Arts & Entertainment MAGAZINE