May-June 2013

ontheGulf

ArtsNaplesFest Celebrates

Latin America

ArtsNaples World Festival celebrates the heritage of Latin America, May 10-14, with five days and nights of art exhibits, concerts, cinema, and cuisine. Artists and performers representing a wide range of Hispanic cultures and arts will perform piano recitals and jazz concerts at The von Liebig Art Center and Philharmonic Center for the Arts in Naples. The von Liebig Art Center will also host a special exhibition of Latin American art, ‘La Casa,’ thru June 1. As part of the ArtsNaples Festival, the Naples International Film Festival will present film screenings of award-winning films by Latin American filmmakers.

NEWS & PREVIEWS

The Festival begins Friday afternoon, May 10 with a piano recital by Priscila Navarro at The von Liebig Art Center. Navarro is a 19-year-old from Lima, Peru. She currently studies at the Bower School of Music at Florida Gulf Coast University.

A Gala Opening Celebration follows at 7pm at the Naples Sailing & Yacht Club, where guests will enjoy a feast of Latin fusion cuisine, fine wines and regional cocktails, as well as Latin music and dance performances.

Eighteen year-old CubanAmerican pianist Antonio Madruga performs an afternoon concert on Saturday, May 11 at The von Liebig Art Center. Madruga was selected as a member of the Grammy Awards Jazz Ensemble and, at the invitation of First Lady Michelle

Obama, performed at the White House. Concert begins at 2pm. Madruga also performs with his Trio, May 12-14, at The Ritz-Carlton in Naples. Music starts at 9pm each night. The Ritz-Carlton is located at 280 Vanderbilt Beach Rd. in Naples. Call 598-3300 for information.

The Festival’s opening night concert on May 11 in the Philharmonic Center for the Arts’ Hayes Hall features world-renowned guitarist Rene Gonzalez joining the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra for performance of Joaquin Rodrigo’s ‘Concierto de Aranjuez,’ considered one of the greatest pieces of Spanish music. Tango icon Astor Piazzolla’s ‘Four Seasons of Buenos Aires’ will also be performed. Acclaimed pianist Nachito Herrera will end the concert playing music of his native Cuba. Concert starts at 8pm. Herrera will also perform solo at The von Liebig Art Center on May 13 at 2pm.

World-renowned classical guitarist Rene Gonzalez performs at The von Liebig Art Center at 2pm on May 12. Gonzalez is one of the finest classical guitarists in America and is a professor at University of Miami’s Frost School of Music.

On May 13 the Naples Botanical Garden will host an Argentinian Tango exhibition featuring the internationallyacclaimed Tango legend Pablo Repun. Argentine cocktails will be served at 5:30pm, followed at 6pm by a dance performance by Repun and three other tango professionals, supported by a live band. The Naples Botanical Garden is located at 4820 Bayshore Dr. in Naples. For information, call 390-2788.

The last day of the Festival, May 14, features Sandra Lopez & Paul Posnick performing

‘Zarzuelas,’ short dramatic works incorporating Latin music and dance.

Lopez has performed with the Metropolitan Opera, Florida Grand Opera and Palm Beach Opera, to mention a few. Posnick is a celebrated pianist. Performance starts at 2pm.

ArtsNaples World Festival closes with a Grand Finale at the Philharmonic Center for the Arts featuring nine-time Grammy Award winning trumpeter Arturo Sandoval. Legendary Brazilian jazz guitarist, Romero Lumbambo opens the concert, which starts at 8pm.

In conjunction with ArtsNaples World Festival, the Naples International Film Festival will present screening of awardwinning films by Latin-American filmmakers at Silverspot Cinemas in Naples. Sundance Film Festival Grand Prize winner The Maid, from Chile, will be shown May 11 at 3pm; Academy Award and Golden Globe nominee City of God, from Brazil, will be shown May 13 at 7pm; and Academy Award nominee Pan’s Labyrinth, from Mexico, will be screened May 14 at 7pm.

Silverspot Cinemas is located at 9118 Strada Pl. in Naples. For information, call the naples International Film Festival at 775-3456.

The von Liebig Art Center is located at 585 Park St. in downtown Naples. The Art Center is open Monday-Friday 10am-4pm. Call 262-6517 for information.

The Philharmonic Center for the Arts is located at 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd. in Naples. For information, call 597-1900.

For information about ArtsNaples World Festival, call 390-2788.

Trumpet legend Arturo Sandoval performs in concert in the Grande Finale of the ArtsNaples World Festival on May 14 at the Philharmonic Center for the Arts in Naples.

Polk Museum

Hosts Art Fair & Street Party

The Polk Museum of Art in downtown Lakeland, Florida, presents the 42nd annual MidFlorida Mayfaire by-the-Lake, the weekend of May 11 & 12 along the shores of Lake Morton, and also Mayfaire Saturday Night Festival of Arts & Athletes on May 11 on nearby Lake Mirror.

Held on Mother’s Day each year, and begun as a crafts fair on the lawn of the Lakeland Public Library, MidFlorida Mayfaire bythe-Lake has grown into one of Florida’s premier outdoor art festivals and street fairs, attracting 65,000 visitors. Admission is free.

The fair features a juried art show showcasing the works of almost 200 painters, sculptors, printmakers, photographers and craftspeople, as well as live entertainment all day on the lawn of the Library and a children’s area with an Art Tent, rock-climbing wall and other activities. The fair is open 9am-4pm each day.

At 5pm on May 11, the fun moves to Lake Mirror Promenade, just two blocks away, for Mayfaire Saturday Night, a free dance party with live music and fireworks display at 9pm. Lawn chairs and blankets are welcome. The concert and party ends at 11pm.

In addition, about 1,200 athletes are expected to participate in the 34th annual Mayfaire Classic 5K Road Race & Walk. The race begins at 7pm at Lake Mirror Center.

During MidFlorida Mayfaire by-the-Lake, admission to the Polk Museum of Art is free. Visitors can enjoy the exhibition ‘C. Paul Jennewein: An Usher for a New American Style.’

The Polk Museum of Art is located at 800 E. Palmetto St. in Lakeland. Free shuttles will run around Lake Morton and up to the Museum during the festival. Call 863-688-7743 for information.

Etc., Etc., Etc.

The Naples Players’ ETC… Readers’ Theatre concludes it’s 11th season on May 5 with a reading of J.M. Barrie’s classic comedy ‘What Every Woman Knows’ at 7:30pm in the Sugden Community Theatre’s intimate Tobye Studio.

ETC…’s mission is to present less than fully-staged published plays and new plays by Southwest Florida playwrights. May 31 is the deadline to submit original oneact plays for consideration for next season by the Readers’ Theatre’s 10th annual ‘Evening of New Plays’ contest.

New Play winners will be presented December 6 & 7 at 7:30pm. A reception follows the plays and awards ceremony.

Playwrights must live in Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Glades, or Hendry counties. Entries must be no longer than 30 minutes and a non-musical. A limit of seven characters is suggested. Entries must be original works, not adaptations, and not previously published or produced (they may have been presented in workshops or stage readings, but not in Southwest Florida). Playwrights

retain all rights to their plays and give performance rights to The Naples Players for ‘An Evening of New Plays’ and a limited number of encore readings.

Playwrights can submit one entry, sending two copies of scripts, in standard play format, to: An Evening of New Plays, The Naples Players, 701 5th Avenue, Naples 34102. One title page with the name of the play, synopsis and list of characters must be attached to scripts. A separate page, with name of play and playwright’s name and contact information should accompany the script, but not attached. This helps maintain anonymity during the judging process. For scripts to be returned, a self-addressed, stamped envelope should be included.

Finalists receive a commemorative plaque, a $100 royalty and complimentary tickets to the performance to the December 6 event. Finalists will be notified in September.

For information about The Naples Players’ ETC… Readers’ Theatre, call 263-7990.

Latin Art in Naples

On view in the Frederick O. Watson Gallery in The von Liebig Art Center thru June 1,’La Casa’ is a special exhibition of artwork by

artists throughout Latin America, including three living in Naples. The exhibit features drawings, paintings, sculpture, prints, mixed-media, fiber, repoussé, and retablos – including twentyone works from the Patty & Jay Baker Naples Museum of Art’s Bryna Collection. The Naples Museum of Art houses one of the largest collections of Mexican art in the nation..

On May 2, the Naples Art Association presents a lecture,’ Latin American Influence on the Art & History of Florida’ by bilingual storyteller Carrie Sue Ayvar. The lecture is at 5:30pm at The von Leibig Art Center, located at 585 Park St. in downtown Naples is open Monday-Friday 9am-4pm. Call 262-6517 for information.

Marco Museum Exhibits ‘A

Villager’sView’

The Marco Island Historical Museum is hosting ‘South Florida: A Villager’s View,’ thru June 27, an exhibition of oil paintings by award-winning Goodland, Florida resident and painter, Tara O’Neill.

The tropical palette of her childhood continues to inform Tara’s work. ‘South Florida: A

Mayfaire Saturday Night is a free street party and dance on the Lake Mirror Promenade in downtown Lakeland on May 11.

The von Liebig Art Center in Naples presents ‘La Casa,’ an exhibition of Latin-American art, thru June 1.

Villager’s View’ relates her views, past and present, of a working fishing village steeped in brilliant flora and exotic animals.

The Marco Island Historical Museum, open TuesdaySaturday 9am-4pm, is located at 180 South Heathwood Dr. on Marco Island. The museum also features exhibits exploring the area’s Calusa Indians, the pioneers who settled the area’s fishing village, pineapple plantation and clam cannery, and the island’s growth. Call 642-1440 for information.

Clyde Butcher Photographs at Rookery Bay

The Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve presents ‘Living Waters: Aquatic Preserves of Florida Exhibition,’ an exhibit of images by worldfamous photographer, environmental activist and Everglades resident, Clyde Butcher. The exhibit featuring a collection of 29 black & white photographs, will be on view May 2-November 14 at the Reserve’s Environmental Learning Center art gallery.

Since 2004, ‘Living Waters’ has traveled the state to increase awareness of and appreciation for Florida’s 41 aquatic preserves. The 110,000-acre Rookery Bay National Reserve

encompasses two of those aquatic preserves.

In conjunction with the exhibit, Rookery Bay will show the companion nature film documentary, Living Waters: Aquatic Preserves of Florida, Monday-Thursday at 11am. The film explores Florida’s 12 distinctive aquatic preserves and their ecological importance, as well as the impact of people on water quality, aquatic vegetation and the stability of the shoreline. The film includes an introduction and closing remarks by Butcher.

The Rookery Bay Estuarine Research Reserve is located at 300 Tower Rd., south of Naples. The Environmental Learning Center is open Monday-Saturday 9am-4pm. Call 417-6310 for information.

Play Readings Benefit Local Groups

Theatre Conspiracy will be performing Love, Loss and What I Wore, a play written by Nora & Delia Ephron, ten times with ten different casts to benefit ten different Southwest Florida charities and arts organizations. The show plays May 9-25 on Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays at 8pm, with one Sunday matinee on May 19 at 2pm.

An Off-Broadway hit, Love, Loss and What I Wore explores five women and how their wardrobes relate to pivotal moments in their lives. Nora Ephron said, "Everybody

associates their clothing with an important event in their life –their divorce, their marriage, falling in love, their prom nights. It's just so powerful for women."

The opening night performance on May 9 will benefit Florida Repertory Theatre, followed by readings on May 10 benefiting Hope Clubhouse Of Southwest Florida, and May 11 benefiting the Adonis Autism Assistance Foundation.

The performance May 16 will benefit WGCU Public Media, May 17 benefits the Junior Florida Everblades Hockey Association and May 18 benefits the Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation. The matinee on May 19 will benefit the Lee County Alliance Of The Arts.

The show May 23 will benefit Abuse Counseling & Treatment, while the show May 24 benefits Goodwill Industries Of Southwest Florida and May 25 benefits Dress For Success Southwest Florida. Call the Theatre Conspiracy at 936-3239 for information.

Lakes Park Hosts Garden Party

Lakes Park Enrichment

Foundation is hosting a free daylong celebration in recognition of National Public Gardens Day on Friday, May 10, 7am-2pm. The free event includes garden tours; birding tips and tours; guest speakers including well-known local author Charles Sobczak, cartoonist Doug McGregor and local birding expert Vince McGrath; demonstrations by local garden clubs, nurseries and growers; storytelling, and children’s activities and programs. In addition, the winners of the 2013 Botanic Gardens at Lakes Park Photography Contest will be awarded at noon. The winning photos will be on display during the day.

There will be guided bird walks at 7:30 & 9am and garden tours on the hour 8am-1pm, including the succulent collection, ginger garden, butterfly garden, heritage rose garden, vertical garden, water garden, bromeliad garden, and community garden. Mary Anne Williams will be storytelling in the gazebo at 9 & 11am.

Lakes Regional Park is located at 7330 Gladiolus Dr. in Fort Myers. Call 851-6434 for information.

The Marco Island Historical Museum hosts an exhibit of paintings by Goodland resident , Tara O’Neill, thru June 27.

The Rookery Bay art gallery hosts ‘Living Waters: Aquatic Preserves of Florida,’ an exhibit of Clyde Butcher’s photographs, May 2- November 14.

frm minnesota tomiracle

DOUG MIENTKIEWICZReturns to His Baseball Roots

by J EFF B ERLINICKE

New Fort Myers Miracle Manager Doug Mientkiewicz looked so much at home as he walked around the back fields at the Minnesota Twins spring training complex that it was like he never left the Twin Cities.

Although he was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in 1995 and spent his first six years in the big leagues with the Twins, he is remembered as the guy who made the final out that won the 2004 World Series for the Boston Red Sox, when he caught a flip from pitcher Keith Fowlke, stepped on first, and ended a lifetime of suffering by Red Sox fans who hadn’t had a World Championship since 1918.

Mientkiewicz earned a certain degree of notoriety when people started to wonder where the ball from the final out of the World Series was. Mientkiewicz kept it. Fans and Red Sox officials demanded the ball be sent back, so a deal was worked out where Mientkiewicz ‘loaned’ the ball to the Red Sox for a year. It is now in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

The final out of the 2004 World Series was the last time Mientkiewicz appeared in a Boston uniform. It was off to the New York Mets the following season, followed by several stops in other cities. Few remember his final years bouncing around the major leagues, but, after being hired to manage the Miracle, a Class A team in the Minnesota organization, it was old times all over again. Mientkiewicz made his mark as a Minnesota

Twin and he’s back to wearing the Twinstripes, preparing kids right out of high school and college to make it to Minnesota.

He spent seven years with the Twins before his odyssey around the major leagues that landed him in six different spots before his career ended in 2009. Since then, he’s been a batting coach in the Los Angeles Dodgers organization, but he always knew he was a Minnesota Twin at heart. When he was offered his first managing job during the offseason, Mientkiewicz jumped at it knowing he would be back with the Twins.

“You can never forget where you came from,’’ Mientkiewicz said during spring training. “This is where I always wanted to be and coming back to the Twins is special. I always considered myself a Minnesota Twin.’’

He played baseball at Florida State and has spent enough springs down in Florida that he’s used to the heat, but this will be his first summer in Florida since he himself was a minor league prospect with the Twins.

Part of his job as manager of the Miracle is to control a group of kids who want to be somewhere other than Fort Myers. The Miracle is at least two rungs on the ladder below the big leagues, so Mientkiewicz knows he will be working with kids who have the same hunger to get out of Fort Myers as he did back in the days when he was clawing his way to Minnesota.

“I like working with the young kids and

I remember what it was like down here,’ said Mientkiewicz. “And look forward to seeing them up in Minnesota.’’

During his playing career, he was known as a flashy fielder on a flashy team. The Twins never made the World Series during his stint in Minnesota, but were a perennial postseason team. He joined with players like Torii Hunter, AJ Pierzynski, Joe Mauer, and Justin Morneau to provide the nucleus of a solid team that kept the payroll numbers low and the winning numbers high.

“He was a great guy in that clubhouse,’’ Hunter said during the spring as a new member of the Detroit Tigers. “I always thought he was the type of player who could be a manager one day. He had what it takes and I’m sure he’ll do a great job. That Minnesota Twins organization is a great one.’’

He always wanted to be back with the Twins in some capacity and after Jake Mauer (Joe’s older brother) moved in the Twins organization from Fort Myers to Cedar Rapids, there was an opening and Mientkiewicz was able to come back home. The Islamorada resident said he feels like a Minnesota Twin all over again.

“It’s good to be back,’’ Mientkiewicz said, walking around the back fields at the Twins spring training complex in Fort Myers. “It’s a great place to be. Winning a World Series was great in Boston, but my best memories are with the Twins.’’ •

Mientkiewicz is one of only five players to win a Gold Glove, an Olympic gold medal and a World Series ring.

Fat Chance blames the food industry for the nation’s obesity epidemic.

What Happened to Food?

by Andrew Elias

Kaufman’s Bet the Farm explores the science and poltics of the global food crisis.

PEOPLE HAVE NEVER BEEN more concerned about their diet and about the food they and their families eat. We are wellaware that most of us consume far too much sugar and salt and fat, but not always educated about the extent to which they have been insinuated and infiltrated into every corner of our food pyramid. And fewer of us are aware of the very deliberate, strategic and scientific methods that agri-chemical corporations have employed for decades to assure massive private profits at the expense of poor public health.

Several new books have been published recently that investigate the history and science behind the drive towards smart eating and the constant battle for healthy food.

Fat Chance

Beating the Odds Against Sugar, Processed Food, Obesity, andDisease

by Robert H. Lustig

HUDSON STREET PRESS

Lustig is best known for his YouTube documentary, Sugar: The Bitter Truth. Fat Chance is his follow up, not only presenting more evidence of the toxicity of sugar and the disastrous effects its growing consumption is having on the hormones that regulate hunger, weight and metabolism, he also offers realistic recommendations for both personal solutions and realistic public policy suggestions. Lustig posits that the nation’s obesity epidemic is less the fault of personal gluttony and inactivity and more the design of a huge food industry enabled by a misguided government. Informative and enlightening, Lustig manages to find humor in a deadly serious health crisis.

Bet the Farm

How Food Stopped Being Food

by Frederick Kaufman WILEY

Farmers grow enough food to easily feed the world’s entire population and yet more people are starving than ever. In Bet the Farm Kaufman investigates why the food we eat is getting less healthy and less delicious at the same time the world’s biggest food companies are enjoying their largest profits. He delves into the science, politics and even the financialization of food. He considers the pros and cons of genetically modified foods and the hidden connection between global food and global food system. He explains how the global food commodity markets are having far-reaching geo-political impacts. Bet the Farm is an alarming indictment of an industry that is driven by marketing and money at the expense of nutrition and the environment.

Salt Sugar Fat

How the Food Giants Hooked Us

by Michael Moss RANDOM HOUSE

Moss, a Pulitzer Prize–winning investigative reporter at The New York Times tells the story of the rise of the processed food industry and its link to the emerging obesity epidemic. He explains how corporations have hooked the nation on salt, sugar and fat – and also offers concrete ways to fight back. He takes us inside the research labs where food scientists use cutting-edge technology to calculate the ‘bliss point’ of sugary beverages or enhance the ‘mouthfeel’ of fat by manipulating its chemical structure, and behind the scenes of marketing campaigns deviously designed to redirect real health concerns and how the most alluring products – those with the highest amounts of salt, sugar and fat – are strategically placed in supermarkets and on grocery shelves. Moss paints a bleak picture of a food and chemical industry as addicted to the profits harvested from sugar, salt and fat as their customers are addicted to the tastes. He also has suggestions for how to best to combat these forces through education, investigation and vigilance.

Foodopoly

The Battle Over the Future of Food and Farming in America

by Wenonah Hauter

THE NEW PRESS

As one of the nation’s leading healthy food advocates, Hauter believes that the local food movement is not enough to solve America’s interrelated food and health crisis. She identifies the real culprit as the consolidation and corporate control of food production, which prevents farmers from raising healthy crops and limits the choices for consumers. Through meticulous research, she presents a startling account of how agricultural policy has been hijacked by lobbyists for agri-business at the expense of independent farmers and explains the wide-ranging economic, cultural, ecological and nutritional impact –and how consolidation, deregulation and corruption are exasperating the crisis. Thankfully, after identifying the problems plaguing our food supply, diets and health, Hauter also explains how solving this crisis will require both personal activism and grassroots politics to reshape our food system from farm to table . •

Moss explains that the food and chemical industries are as addicted to salt, sugar and fat as we are.

Foodopoly identifies the problems plaguing our food supply and ways to combat them.

BERT’S BAR & GRILL

4271 Pine Island Road • MATLACHA

282-3232

Open Daily 11AM-11PM

Wine&

Waterfront locationwith outside casual affordable dining on the Dock. Million Dollar View of Matlacha Pass and open water.Seafood, Burgers, Baskets & More. Live music nightly. www.bertsbar.com

1st DANZ

12901 McGregor Boulevard • #10 FORT MYERS

931-3269

Lite menu: Wed-Sat 8-11PM

Lunch: Oct-May Mon-Sun11:30AM-2:30PM

Serving good home cooking witha twist –they add in a dance lesson and a dance party! Everyone is welcometo this unique experience of food and dance.

www.1stdanz.com

THE

DOCK

at Crayton Cove

845 12th Avenue S • NAPLES 263-9940

Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner • Sunday Brunch

Bay views, great food and a laid back attitude. ‘The Real Taste of Naples’ ® since1976. Freshest seafood, salads, steaks & sandwiches with tropical flair. Sunday Brunch & Make YourOwn Bloody Mary Bar. www.dockcraytoncove.com

&Dine

RIVERWALK at Tin City

1200 5th Avenue S • NAPLES

263-2734

Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner SundayBrunch

For outdoor waterfront dining that’s a little history and a lot of fun, since 1979. Freshestseafood, salads, steaks & sandwiches, Gulf Coast style. Sunday Brunch and Make Your Own BloodyMary Bar. www.riverwalktincity.com

SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

THE VERANDA

2122 Second Street at Broadway • FORT MYERS

332-2065

Lunch:MON-FRI 11AM-2PM • Mid-Day Menu: MON-FRI 2PM-4PM

Dinner: MON-SAT 5:30PM-10PM

In the heart of historic downtown Fort Myers, the Veranda will take you to a bygone era of Antebellumcharm. The romantic setting in two turnof-the-century homes, Southern Regional Cuisine, extensivewine list and first class service provides the most unique dining experience in Southwest Florida.Celebrating their 32nd year as one of the most award-winning restaurants in the area. www.verandarestaurant.com

an interview

with The Veranda’s

by Cindy-jo Dietz

Like many writers, I also have another job as a barber here in Fort Myers. As such, I work closely with many long-time residents of the Fort Myers area, coming from all walks of life. On many occasions, while working with someone’s hair, the subject of where a good place to dine here in town comes up. Many love Italian food, some prefer Americana and then there are the more discerning diners who prefer a more ‘upscale’ experience. The Veranda is often mentioned. It’s a popular favorite for local business people, to residents looking for a special evening out, to young men looking to impress a date or sweetheart.

If I had a nickel for every time The Veranda was suggested as the place to go for a meal that was going to blow my socks off, I would be a very rich woman. So, of course finding out I would be interviewing their Chef William Murray peaked my interest.

Located within a historic set of houses dating back to 1902, The Veranda sits on the corner of Second Street & Broadway, smack dab in the middle of the downtown courts district.

Walking up to the front door, I am immediately impressed. The building and dining rooms look spectacular. The atmosphere is old world, wood everywhere, with elegant finishes and tapestries. It all brings you back to another time. In fact the site originally was contained within a fort. It is unlike any other restaurant in town. And like the decor and ambience of the restaurant, Chef Murray is as unique in his own way.

Chef Murray is serious about his work at The Veranda. He, like many of the staff, have been working with the Pedens, owners for the past 35 years, since early in his restaurant career. The Veranda, he tells me, has a very low turnover rate. It’s all part of what makes it such a special dining establishment and is a huge part of what helps to keep its excellent reputation.

“It’s the consistency, it’s the atmosphere, ‘ he explains. “It’s known to be very romantic.” He continues, “The service experience, the quality of the

food, the desserts –everything is top notch, right from when you’re walking in the door to walking back out.”

A chef since 1989, Murray says he has always known this is what he wanted to do with his career. “Right from the get-go I knew I wanted to work in a restaurant,” He recalls. “When I was in high school my first job was as a dishwasher. I worked my way up to being an assistant kitchen manager. Then I moved to Florida and went to the Culinary Institute of America.”

Murray says originally it was his mother’s cooking that inspired him. “I used to be right next to her all the time,” he says. “Actually a long time ago, I was probably 12 years old, she picked a chicken cordon bleu recipe out from the newspaper. We made it together every week.”

Murray says that although he has worked a few brief stints at other establishments, The Veranda has been his primary location for most of his career. “I was a chef at Smitty’s on McGregor, which has the same owners as The Veranda. Most of my career has been spent working for the Pedens,” he says. “They’ve made me more particular about my plates and my tastes. The owners have very high standards and they have brought me up to those standards.”

I have had the opportunity to work in the restaurant business myself. Typically, and I don’t mean to generalize, but chefs can often be quite ornery and controlling. It’s their kitchen and they like to run it their way. I asked Chef Murray how the way he runs his kitchen might be different.

Chef William Murray

“I’m not a screamer, but I do expect the job to get done. I’m pretty low key until you don’t listen to me,’ he says. “Everyone knows. My kitchen staff has been here four, five, six years at the least. It’s like a big family here.”

Does Chef Murray have a favorite dish off the menu? “The Florida Grouper,’ he declares. “It’s served with a green tomato, shrimp and black eyed pea succotash, and finished with Tabasco butter.”

And what makes this dish different from the rest? The Chef explains, “It has more of a southern flare. A lot of our menu is more French. Plus, it has Tasso ham in it. That has about the most powerful flavor.”

Aside from Chef’s choice, I asked what the patrons prefer. “The Filet Mignon, the Yellowtail Snapper, the Veal Piccata – everything,’ he says. “I mean, I can’t pick just one.”

Are there any ingredients that he prefers

working with? “Cilantro,” he says. “It has a fresh flavor. And garlic obviously. Mainly just all fresh herbs.”

I asked the Chef about how The Veranda adopts the latest culinary trends and what is trending now. “Right now it’s all about healthy, fresh, organic food,’ he notes. “I’ve actually created a light and luscious menu. Three years ago I lost about 115 pounds in about 6 months –just on a diet.” Not easy to do working in a kitchen, but the proof is written all over the trimmed down chef.

Will there be any other new recipes served at The Veranda any time soon? “Generally, we do one or two different tweaks about three times a year,’ he says. “ In fact, in the next three

weeks we’re changing the menu, but we’re not quite sure what we’re changing it to yet.”

Are there any mainstays that will never be removed? “The table side Chateaubriand, table side Caesar and the Bourbon Street Filet. Those, for sure, aren’t going anywhere,” he assures me.

Like all professionals, the chef encourages patrons to let him, and the rest of the staff, know how their dining experience was. He says, “People come by my window all the time. It’s an open kitchen. We get a lot of positive thoughts, from excellent to the presentation was beautiful, but still we are continually trying to better ourselves.”

Personally, I think this attitude is what makes The Veranda and Chef Murray so superb. Even when at the top, the staff is committed to making the dining experience at their restaurant even better. •

The Veranda, now and then.

New Gems From Old Friends

by Andrew Elias

TOM JONES EXPLODED onto the music scene in 1965 with hits like ‘It’s Not Unusual,’ ‘What’s New Pussycat?’ ‘Delilah,’ and the theme from the James Bond film Thunderball. He became an icon of the 60s, but had not had a hit since 1971’s ‘She’s a Lady.’ For decades he toured constantly, but recorded little. He became a benchmark for the Vegas-style crooner of his generation, more physical and flashy than Sinatra . Women threw panties at him on stage.

In 1988, Jones released his cover of Prince’s ‘Kiss’ with the studio band The Art of Noise, his first hit in 17 years. In 1999, 11 years later, he released Reload, a collection of songs by the likes of David Byrne, Randy Newman, Ray Davies, David Bowie, and Lenny Kravitz performed with bands like The Pretenders, The Cardigans, Simply Red, Portishead, and the Barenaked Ladies. Reload was a strong pop record and a small success. But his duet with Van Morrison, a sparse and intimate version of ‘Sometime We Cry,’ stood apart and foreshadowed Jones’ rediscovery of his musical and emotional roots.

Fast-forward to 2010 and the release of the highlyacclaimed Praise & Blame, an album of spiritual songs, including gospel classics by Pops Staples and Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Dylan’s ‘What Good Am I?,’ and John Lee Hookers’ ‘Burning Hell,’ as well as originals co-written with producer Ethan Jones. The instrumentation is spare and the arrangements raw. Praise & Blame is a stark and exciting record.

Tom Jones’ new release, at age 73,, is Spirit in the Room. It continues his personal soul-searching and musical exploration of the blues, with acoustic covers of songs by Paul McCartney, Paul Simon, Tom Waits, Richard Thompson, Odetta, and Leonard Cohen. Cohen’s ‘Tower of Song’ is a standout, as is a bluesy version of the Fifth Dimension’s ‘Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)’ and his scorching take on Blind Willie Johnson’s ‘Soul of a Man.’

Jones' voice is still golden, but now scuffed a bit with age it adds a vulnerability that reinforces his lyrical struggles with mortality and faith and love. He could easily have rested on his laurels and continued a career of celebrity, but he has chosen to explore his music, adventuring in new directions that have returned him to his roots.

Spirit In The Room is a record many Tom Jones fans will be surprised, yet delighted, to hear. It might be his best album ever. The one-time pop star has aged gracefully into a wise old bluesman. And he sounds like he couldn’t be happier.

Boz Scaggs emerged from the San Francisco music scene of the 60s, first as a member of the original Steve Miller Band (Scaggs met Miller as a teenager in prep school in Dallas, Texas) and then on his own, with his debut album, in 1969, produced by non other than Rolling Stone magazine’s Jan Wenner. Over the next decade Scaggs released seven acclaimed albums, with Silk Degrees, in

1976, a huge success, boasting hits, ‘Lowdown,’ ‘Lido Shuffle,’ ‘What Can I Say,’ ‘What Do You Want the Girl to Do?,’ and ‘Georgia.’

Scaggs spent the 80s in semi-retirement, limiting his performances to an annual black-tie New Year’s Eve party at his club in Frisco, until joining friend Donald Fagen’s band, the Rock & Soul Revue in the early 90s. In recent years, Scaggs has toured as a member of the Dukes of September, with friends Michael McDonald (former Doobie Brother) and Donald Fagen (Steely Dan).

Memphis is Scaggs new release, his first in five years. Recorded in the same studio that Willie Mitchell produced so many of Al Green’s greatest records, the album is a reminder of what attracted fans to Scaggs’ music in the first place –the easy-going rhythms, silky voice and excellent songs. His cover of Green’s ‘So Good to Be Here,’ in a great example. Boz shows proper reverence for the song even as he subtly makes it his own.

His covers of Willy DeVille’s ‘Mixed Up, Shook Up Girl’ and ‘Cadillac Moon’ (written by Moon Martin, but a highlight of DeVille’s live shows) showcase his talents at sweetly crooning soulful ballads as well as his ability to boogie. Add to these, respectful covers of classics like ‘Rainy Night in Georgia,’ ‘Love on a Two Way Street’, an jazzy version of Steely Dan’s ‘Pearl of the Quarter,’ and his own ‘Gone Baby Gone,’ (a song that could easily be mistaken for an old Al Green original), and you have a successful return for a guy who has been making great music for more than 40 years.

Although they have been collaborating for decades, Old Yellow Moon, an album of duets by Emmylou Harris and Rodney Crowell, incredibly, is their first release together. Crowell has been supplying Harris with songs since since her debut album, Elite Hotel, in 1975, and was a member of her Hot Band for a short time before going solo. Over the years, Harris has recorded Crowell gems like ‘Til I Gain Control Again,’ ‘IAin’t Living Long Like This,’ ‘Even Cowgirls Get the Blues,’ ‘IDon’t Have to Crawl,’ ‘Ashes by Now,’ and ‘Bluebird Wine’, which they revisit, with some new lyrics, on Old Yellow Moon.

The album showcases Harris & Crowell’s gorgeous harmonies, set against a sparse, acoustic soundscape. A cover of Roger Miller’s classic ‘Invitation to the Blues’ is a highlight, as is ‘Bluebird Wine,’ but the pair’s version of Crowell’s ‘Open Season on My Heart’ (a hit for Tim McGraw) as well as ‘’Hanging Up My Heart’ and ‘Black Caffeine’ (by Hot Band member, Hank Devito) are also wonderful examples of two old friends seemingly effortlessly making touching music together. •

Boz Scaggs; new album, Memphis, was recorded in the same studio as many of Al Green’s classic records.

Incredibly, Old Yellow Moon, is the first album Harris & Crowell have released together.

Spirit In The Room might be Tom Jones’ best album.

WEDNESDAY

•Philharmonic Youth Chorale: Concert with Naples Music Club.Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples. 7p. 643-7275.

•REO Speedwagon, Styx, Ted Nugent: Concert. Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero. 7p. 800-948-7825.

•Underground Wednesdays: Receptions, exhibits, demos, live music at dozens of galleries & studios. Pine Ridge Industrial Park, Pine Ridge Rd, west of of Airport Rd, Naples.5-8p. Free. 8211061.

2

THURSDAY

•ART Connects Lecture: Latin American Influence on the Art & History of Florida. The vonLiebig Art Center, 585 Park St, Naples. 5:30p. Free. 262-6517.

•Cindy-Lee & the John Chapman Trio: Dance band. 1st Danz, 12901 McGregor Blvd, #10, Ft Myers. 8-11p. 931-3269.

•Darius Rucker: Concert. Germain Arena, 11000 EverbladesPkwy, Estero. 7:30p. 800-948-7825.

•Ft Myers Miracle vs St Lucie: Hammond Stadium, 14400 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 7684210.

•Larry the Cable Guy, Bill Engvall: Comedy show. Germain Arena, 11000 EverbladesPkwy, Estero. 7:30p. 800-948-7825.

•Memorial Day Observance: Fort Myers Mastersingers concert. Bower Chapel, Moorings Park Naples. 11a. 288-2535.

•Murder at the Silver Garter Saloon: Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre. Promenade at Bonita Bay, US 41 & S Bay Dr, Bonita Springs. 7p. 495-8989.

• N a p l e s P h i l h a r m o n i c O r c h e s t r a : Beethoven’s 5th.Philharmonic Center, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. 8p. 597-1900.

• P i c k i n ’ i n t h e P a r k : Acoustic music jam session. Lodge by the lake,Veterans Community Park,55 Homestead Rd S,Lehigh Acres. 6-9p. Free. 3691521.

3 FRIDAY

•Art Reception: Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd, Ft Myers. 5-7:30p. Free. 939-2787.

•Art Reception: Arts for ACT Gallery, 2265 1st St, Ft Myers. 6-10p. Free. 3375050.

•Art Reception: Ocasiocasa

Studio Gallery, 1540 Bwy, Ft Myers. Tue-Fri 11a-6p, Sat 1-5p. 691-8292.

•Art Walk: Receptions, exhibits, demos, live music at several galleries & studios. Downtown Ft Myers’ historic River District. 610p. Free. 855-732-3836.

•Ft Myers Miracle vs St.

Lucie: Hammond Stadium, 14400Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 7684210.

•Murder at the Silver Garter Saloon: Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre. Promenade atBonita Bay, US 41 & S Bay Dr, Bonita Springs. 7p. 495-8989.

•Naples Philharmonic Orchestra: Beethoven’s 5th. Philharmonic Center, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. 8p. 597-1900.

4 SATURDAY

•An Evening at the Kentucky Derby: Kate Davis concert & dinner party. Davis Art Center, 2301 1st St, Ft Myers. 5:30-9p. Reserve. 333-1933.

•Ft Myers Miracle vs St

Lucie: Hammond Stadium, 14400Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 6p. 7684210.

•The Odyssey Experience Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd, Ft Myers. Florida Rep Lunchbox Theatre Series. 11a. 332-4488.

•Walk & Talk: Meet artists, discussion. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd,

Ft Myers. 10a. Free. 9392787.

5

SUNDAY

•Celtic Woman: Concert. BB Mann Performing Arts Hall, 8099 College Pkwy, Ft Myers. 2 & 7p. 481-4849.

• F a m i l y F u n D a y : Art exhibits, entertainment, games, refreshments. BIG Arts, 900 Dunlop Rd, Sanibel. 3p.395-0900.

•Ft Myers Miracle vs Tampa: Hammond Stadium, 14400 Six MileCypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 4p. 768-4210.

•Naples Players’ ETC… Readers’ Theatre: What Every Woman Knows. Full lengthdrama. Tobye Studio, Sugden Theatre, 701 5th Ave S, Naples. 7:30p. 2637990.

6 MONDAY

•Ft Myers Miracle vs Tampa: Hammond Stadium, 14400 SixMile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 768-4210.

7 TUESDAY

•Art Reception: Watson MacRae Gallery, 2340 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. 5-7p. Free. 472-3386.

•Ft Myers Miracle vs Tampa: Hammond Stadium, 14400 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 768-4210.

• N a p l e s P h i l h a r m o n i c Orchestra : Prokofiev & Martinu. Philharmonic Center, 5833Pelican Bay

•Cindy-Lee & the John Chapman Trio: Dance band. 1st Danz, 12901 McGregor Blvd, #10, Ft Myers. 8-11p. 931-3269.

• P i c k i n ’ i n t h e P a r k : Acoustic music jam session. Lodge by the lake,Veterans Community Park,55 Homestead Rd S,Lehigh Acres. 6-9p. Free. 3691521.

10 FRIDAY

•50 Shades! The Musical: BB Mann Performing Arts Hall, 8099 College Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7:30p. 481-4849.

•Art Reception: Cape Coral Arts Studio, 4533 Coronado Blvd, Cape Coral. 5-7p. Free. 574-0802. 574-0802.

•Florida Tarpons vs Sarasota Thunder: UIFL indoor football. Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero. 7:30p. 674-3100.

•Gala Opening Celebration: Latin cuisine, music, dancing, art exhibit at sunset. Naples Sailing &Yacht Club, 896 River Point Dr, Naples. 7p. Reserve. 3902788.

Blvd, Naples. 8p. 597-1900.

•Palette to Palate: Art receptions, demos, wine tastings, happy hour. Crayton Cove galleries & restaurants, 8th St S & 12th Ave S, Naples. 5-9p. 849-4745.

•SWFL Symphony Young People’s Concert: ‘The Symphony is All Around.’ BB Mann Performing Arts Hall, 8099 College Pkwy, Ft Myers. 10 & 11:30a.4180996.

8 WEDNESDAY

•Art Reception: Local artists showcase, speakers, special activities, North Collier Regional Park, 15000 Livingston Rd, Naples. 2528476.

•Collier County’s 90th Anniversary: Speakers, artists, entertainment, historical re-enactors. Naples Depot Museum:1051 5th Ave S,Naples.1-5p. Free. 262-6525.

•Ft Myers Miracle vs Tampa: Hammond Stadium, 14400 SixMile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 10:30a. 768-4210.

9 THURSDAY

•Baby C Fundraiser: Painting ‘Lovegrove’s Heart.’ Vino’s Picasso, 15250 Tamiami Tr, #109, Ft Myers. 6:30-9:30p. 2886953.

•Calusa Group of the Sierra Club: Calusa Nature Center, 3450 Ortiz Ave, Ft Myers. 6:30p. 694-5513.

•National Public Gardens Day Celebration: Garden tours; birding tours, speakers, photo contest exhibit, demos, story-telling, kids activities, etc. Lakes Regional Park, 7330 Gladiolus Dr, Ft Myers.7a-2p. Free. 851-6434.

•Peter Pan – The Musical: Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs Youth Theatre. Promenade atBonita Bay, US 41 & S Bay Dr, Bonita Springs. 7p. 495-8989.

•Priscila Navarro: ArtsNaples World Festival piano concert. The von Liebig Art Center, 585 ParkSt, Naples. 2p. 2626517.

11 SATURDAY

•An Evening of Classical Divertissements & La Bayadere: Gulfshore Ballet student dance performance.BIG Arts Center, 900 Dunlop Rd, Sanibel. 6p. 590-6191.

•Antonio Madruga: Arts Naples World Festival piano concert. The von Liebig Art Center, 585 Park St, Naples. 2p. 262-6517.

•Art After Dark: Receptions, exhibits, demos, music at several galleries & studios. Crayton Cove, Naples CityDock, 8th St S & 12th Ave S, Naples. 6-9p. Free. 8211061.

•Art Reception : GuessFisher Gallery & Phil Fisher Studio/Gallery, Crayton Cove, 810 12 Ave. S,Naples. 6-8p. Free. 659-2787.

•Art Reception: Nestled in the Cove gallery, Crayton Cove, 1187 8th St S, Naples. 6-9p.Free.849-4745.

•ArtsNaples World Festival

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

MAY JUNE

whatGoeson

Brazilian jazz guitarist Romero Lubambo joins Cuban trumpet legend Arturo Sandoval with the Philharmonic Jazz Orchestra on May 14 at the Philharmonic Center in Naples as part of ArtsNaples World Festival. Call 390-2788 for information.

what Goes on

Opening Night: Philharmonic Center for the Arts,5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. 8p. Reserve. 390-2788.

•MidFlorida Mayfaire bythe-Lake: Outdoor art festival, live music & dance, kids activities. Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland Library, Lake Morton, downtown Lakeland. 9a-4p, street party & fireworks onLake Mirror Promenade 5:30-11p. Free. 863-6887743.

•Peter Pan – The Musical: Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs Youth Theatre. Promenade at Bonita Bay, US 41 & S Bay Dr, BonitaSprings. 2 & 7p. 495-8989.

•The Maid (La Nana): ArtsNaples World Festival film screening hosted by Naples Int’l Film Festival. Silverspot Cinema, 9118 Strada Pl, Naples. 3p. 7753456.

•The Zstones: Rolling Stones tribute band concert.Davis Art Center, 2301 1st St, Ft Myers. 7-10p. 333-1933.

SUNDAY

•Antonio Madruga Trio : ArtsNaples World Festival piano concert. Ritz-Carlton, 280 VanderbiltBeach Rd ., Naples. 9p. 3902788.

•Contemporary Latin American Cinema: ArtsNaples World Festival event by Naples Int’l Film Fest. Silverspot Cinema, 9118 Strada Pl, Naples. 7753456.

•MidFlorida Mayfaire bythe-Lake: Outdoor art festival, live music & dance, kids activities. Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland Library, Lake Morton, downtown Lakeland. 9a-4p. Free. 863-688-7743.

•Mother’s Day in the Garden: Naples Botanical Garden,4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples. 9a-5p.643-7275.

•Naples Dixieland Jazz Band:Concert. Cambier Park, 580 8th St S, Naples. 2-4p. Free.213-3053.

•Rene Gonzalez: ArtsNaples

World Festival guitar concert. The von Liebig Art Center, 585 ParkSt, Naples. 2p. 262-6517.

•SWFL Symphony Youth

Orchestra Concert: Cypress Lake High School, 6750 Panther Ln, Ft Myers. 7p. Free for elementary school students. 418-0996.

13

piano concert. Ritz-Carlton, 280 VanderbiltBeach Rd ., Naples. 9p. 3902788.

•Argentinian Tango Exhibition: Tango legend, Pablo Repun. ArtsNaples World Festival event. Naples Botanmical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples. Cocktails 5:30p, performance 6p. 390-2788.

•City of God (Cidade de Dues): ArtsNaples World Festival film screening hosted by Naples Int’l Film Festival. Silverspot Cinema, 9118 Strada Pl, Naples. 7p. 775-3456.

•Films for Film Lovers: ‘8 Women.’ Film screening & discussion. Promenade at Bonita Bay, US 41 & S Bay Dr,Bonita Springs. 7p. 4958989.

• F t M y e r s M i r a c l e v s

Dunedin: Hammond Stadium, 14400 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 768-4210.

Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 768-4210.

16

THURSDAY

•American Idiot: BB Mann Performing Arts Hall, 8099 College Pkwy, Ft Myers. 8p. 481-4849.

•Cindy-Lee & the John Chapman Trio: Dance band. 1st Danz,12901 McGregor Blvd, #10, Ft Myers. 8-11p. 931-3269.

• F t M y e r s M i r a c l e v s Dunedin: Hammond Stadium, 14400 SixMile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 768-4210.

•Pickin’ in the Park: Acoustic music jam session. Lodge by the lake,Veterans Community Park,55 Homestead Rd S, Lehigh Acres. 6-9p. Free. 369-1521.

19 SUNDAY

•Third Weekend Art: Receptions, exhibits, demos, live music at dozens of galleries & studios.Pine Ridge Industrial Park, Pine Ridge Rd, west of of Airport Rd, Naples.1-4p. Free. 8211061.

22 WEDNESDAY

•Dreamgirls: Philharmonic Center, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. 8p. 597-1900.

•Steve Martin & The Steep Canyon Rangers featuring Edie Brickell: BB Mann Performing Arts Hall, 8099 College Pkwy, Ft Myers. 8p. 481-4849.

23 THURSDAY

27 MONDAY

•Films for Film Lovers: ‘The Other Side of the Street.’ Film screening & discussion. Promenade at BonitaBay, US 41 & S Bay Dr, Bonita Springs. 7p. 4958989.

28 TUESDAY

•Ft Myers Miracle vs Charlotte: Hammond Stadium, 14400Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 7684210.

29 WEDNESDAY

•Everclear, Live, Filter, Sponge: Concert. Lee Civic Center,11831 Bayshore Rd, N Ft Myers. 7p.543-8368.

14400 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 7684210.

4 TUESDAY

•Ft Myers Miracle vs Brevard: Hammond Stadium, 14400 SixMile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 7684210.

5 WEDNESDAY

•Ft Myers Miracle vs Brevard: Hammond Stadium, 14400 SixMile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 7684210.

MONDAY

•Antonio Madruga Trio :

ArtsNaples World Festival

•Ignacio ‘Nachito’ Herrera: ArtsNaples World Festival piano concert. The von Liebig Art Center,585 Park St, Naples. 2p. 2626517. 14

•Tucker Carlson: Speech & dinner. Hosted by Lee Republicans. Harborside Event Center, downtown Ft Myers. 6-10p. Reserve. 288-6953.

•Uptown Express: Concert Promenade at Bonita Bay, US 41 & S Bay Dr, BonitaSprings. 7p. 4958989.

TUESDAY

•Antonio Madruga Trio : ArtsNaples World Festival piano concert. Ritz-Carlton, 280 VanderbiltBeach Rd ., Naples. 9p. 3902788.

•Arturo Sandoval & Romero Lumbambo:ArtsNaples World Festival concert. Philharmonic Center for the Arts, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. 8p. Reserve. 390-2788.

•Crosby, Stills & Nash:BB Mann Performing Arts Hall, 8099 College Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7:30p. 4814849.

• F t M y e r s M i r a c l e v s

Dunedin: Hammond Stadium, 14400 SixMile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 768-4210.

•Pan’s Labyrinth (El Laberinto del Fauno) ArtsNaples World Festival film screening hosted by Naples Int’l Film Festival. Silverspot Cinema, 9118 Strada Pl, Naples. 7p. 7753456.

•Zarzuelas, Sandra Lopez & Paul Posnick: ArtsNaples World Festival music & dance concert. Thevon Liebig Art Center, 585 Park St, Naples. 2p. 262-6517.

WEDNESDAY

17 FRIDAY

•Art Reception: Student Showcase.Center for the Arts of Bonita, 26100 Old US 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. 6-8p. Free. 495-8989.

•Music Walk:Live music & dancing at several cafes, clubs & galleries. Downtown Ft Myers’ historic River District. 6-10p. Free. 855-732-3836.

18 SATURDAY

•Gulf Coast Writers Association: Zion Lutheran Church, 7401 Winkler Rd, Ft Myers. Meets third Sat ea. mos. 10am-12pm. 4891673.

•Ostego Bay Fundraiser: Painting ‘Lovegrove’s Fish.’ Hosted by Vino’s Picasso. Bonita Bill’sWaterfront Cafe, 702 Fishermans Wharf, Ft Myers Beach. 6:30-9:30p. 288-6953.

•Third Weekend Art: Receptions, exhibits, demos, live music at dozens of galleries & studios.Pine Ridge Industrial Park, Pine Ridge Rd, west of of Airport Rd, Naples. 11a-4p. Free. 8211061.

•Cindy-Lee & the John Chapman Trio: Dance band. 1st Danz, 12901 McGregor Blvd, #10, Ft Myers. 8-11p. 931-3269. •

: Acoustic music jam session. Lodge by the lake,Veterans Community Park,55 Homestead Rd S,Lehigh Acres. 6-9p. Free. 3691521.

24 FRIDAY

•Fort Myers Mastersingers: Memorial Day concert. Bower Chapel, Moorings Park, 120Moorings Park Dr, Naples. 11a. 643-9111.

•Ft Myers Miracle vs Charlotte: Hammond Stadium, 14400 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 7684210.

•Naples Philharmonic Orchestra: Patriotic Pops. Philharmonic Center, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. 8p. 597-1900.

25 SATURDAY

•Florida Tarpons vs tba: Indoor football. Germain Arena, 11000 Everblades Pkwy, Estero. 7:30p.6743100.

•Ft Myers Miracle vs Charlotte: Hammond Stadium, 14400Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 6p. 7684210.

• N a p l e s P h i l h a r m o n i c

Orchestra: Patriotic Pops. Philharmonic Center, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. 8p. 597-1900.

30 THURSDAY

•Art Walk: Receptions, exhibits, demos, music. Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs studios at the Promenade at Bonita Bay, US 41 & S Bay Dr, Bonita Springs. 5-8p. Free. 4958989.

•Cindy-Lee & the John Chapman Trio: Dance band. 1st Danz, 12901 McGregor Blvd, #10, Ft Myers. 8-11p. 931-3269.

•Ft Myers Miracle vs Bradenton: Hammond Stadium, 14400 Six Mile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 768-4210.

•Locals Live!: Open mic entertainment.Promenade at Bonita Bay, US 41 & S Bay Dr, Bonita Springs. 810p.Free. 495-8989.

•Pickin’ in the Park: Acoustic music jam session. Lodge by the lake,Veterans Community Park,55 Homestead Rd S, Lehigh Acres. 6-9p. Free. 369-1521.

31 FRIDAY

•Art Reception: Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd, Ft Myers. 5-7:30p. Free. 939-2787.

JUNE 1 SATURDAY

•Underground Wednesdays: Receptions, exhibits, demos, live music at dozens of galleries & studios. Pine Ridge Industrial Park, Pine Ridge Rd, west of of Airport Rd, Naples.5-8p. Free. 8211061.

6 THURSDAY

•Calusa Group of the Sierra Club: Calusa Nature Center, 3450 Ortiz Ave, Ft Myers. Second Thu of month. 6:30p. 694-5513.

•Cindy-Lee & the John Chapman Trio: Dance band. 1st Danz, 12901 McGregor Blvd, #10, Ft Myers. 8-11p. 931-3269.

•Ft Myers Miracle vs Brevard: Hammond Stadium, 14400 SixMile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7p. 7684210.

•Pickin’ in the Park: Acoustic music jam session. Lodge by the lake,Veterans Community Park,55 Homestead Rd S,Lehigh Acres. 6-9p. Free. 3691521.

7 FRIDAY

•Art Reception: Arts for ACT Gallery, 2265 1st St, Ft Myers. 6-10p. Free. 3375050.

•Art Reception: Ocasiocasa Studio Gallery, 1540 Bwy, Ft Myers. Tue-Fri 11a-6p, Sat 1-5p. 691-8292.

•Art Walk: Receptions, exhibits, demos, live music at several galleries & studios. Downtown Ft Myers’ historic River District. 610p. Free. 855-732-3836.

•

Dunedin: Hammond Stadium, 14400 SixMile

• V e r d i ’ s ‘ L a T r a v i a t a ’ : Opera. Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra with Philadelphia’s Center City Opera Theater.BB Mann Performing Arts Hall, 8099 College Pkwy, Ft Myers. 7:30p. 481-4849.

26 SUNDAY

•Ft Myers Miracle vs Charlotte: Hammond Stadium, 14400 SixMile Cypress Pkwy, Ft Myers. 4p. 7684210.

•Walk & Talk: Meet artists, discussion. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd, Ft Myers.10a. Free. 9392787.

3 MONDAY

•Ft Myers Miracle vs Brevard: Hammond Stadium,

•Scooby-Doo Live – Musical Mysteries: Comedy show. Germain Arena, 11000 EverbladesPkwy, Estero. 7p. 800-948-7825.

8 SATURDAY

•Art After Dark: Receptions, exhibits, demos, music at several galleries & studios. Crayton Cove, Naples CityDock, 8th St S & 12th Ave S,

what Goes on

Florida Co-Op Gallery: Coconut Point Mall, 8074 Mediterranean Dr, Estero.

Tue-Thu & Sat 11a-6p, Sun 12-5p. Free. 466-1947.

•Art Gallery Old Naples 2: Crayton Cove, 1187 8th St S, Naples. 560-9569.

•Art League of Fort Myers: 1451 Monroe St, Ft Myers. May 3-31: Beautiful Color. Mon-Fri, 11a-3p. 275-3970.

• A r t o f t h e O l y m p i a n s

Museum: Al Oerter Center of Excellence, 1300 Hendry St, downtown River District, Ft Myers. Full Circleworks by Bill Kund & Skip Cutting. Tue-Sat, 10a-4p.

Closed Sun & Mon. 3325055.

•Arts For ACT Gallery: 2265

First St, Ft Myers. May 3Jun 3: Fiber Art by Quilters Group Exhibit, Cupcakes & Tea by CassandraSchulz, Ronda at Eye Level by photographer George Mitchell.

June 7-Jul 1: The Art of Brian Christensen, ACT Gallery Members Exhibit, Abstracts &More by Sally Malsomson. Mon-Sat 11a4:30p/1st & 3rd Fri, 11a-10p. Call for Sat hrs. Free. 3375050.

•Bert’s Pine Bay Gallery: 4332 Pine Island Rd, Matlacha. Sun & Mon, 10a5p/Tue-Sat, 10a-7p. Free. 283-1335.

•BIG ARTS: Barrier Island Group for the Arts, 900 Dunlop Rd, Sanibel. MonSat 1-4p. 395-0900.

•BIG ARTS on Periwinkle Gallery: 2244Periwinkle Rd, Sanibel. Mon-Fri, 9a4p. 472-9700.

•Bob Rauschenberg Gallery: Edison State College, 8099 College Pkwy, Ft Myers. Thru May 3:Student Art Show.Mon-Fri 10a-4p & Sat 11a-3p. Free. 489-9313.

•Cape Coral Art League: 516 Cultural Park Blvd, Cape Coral. Mon-Fri 1-4p. 7725657.

•Cape Coral Arts Studio: 4533 Coronado Pkwy in Rubicond Park, Cape Coral. May 3-30: May Bouquets. 574-0802.

•Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs Studios at the Promenade at Bonita Bay: 26811 S Bay Dr, Bonita Springs. Artists studios open MonSat 10a-3p. Exhibitions, receptions and demos, live music. Thu 10a-7p. Art Walklast Thu of month 48p. Free. 495-8989.

•Center for the Arts of Bonita Springs: 26100 Old 41 Rd, Bonita Springs. May 3-9: Elementary & Middle School exhibition; May 1724: Student Showcase; Thru May 30: Portrait, People, Presence & Silly Faces

& Miniatures & Get Squared. Mon-Fri, 9a-5p, Sat 9a-3p. Free. 495-8989.

•Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery: 52388 Tamiami Tr, Ochopee. Daily 10a-5p. 695-2428.

•Clyde Butcher’s Venice Gallery & Studio: 237 Warfield Ave, Venice. TueFri 10a-4p. 486-0811.

•Collier County Museum: 3301 Tamiami Tr E, Naples. Educational programs, every Wed, 2pm. Mon-Fri, 9a-5p. & Sat 9a-4p. 7748476.

•Davis Art Center: 2301 First St, Ft Myers. May 3-24: The Art of London Amara; Jun 7-28: The Art of Playing. Mon-Fri, 10a-5p. 333-1933.

•Florida Gulf Coast University Art Galleries: 10501 FGCU Blvd S., Ft Myers

Thru May 4: Finals - Spring

2013 Senior Projects. MonFri, 10-4p & Thu 4-8p. ArtLab: Mon-Fri 10a-4p. 590-7199.

•Fort Myers Beach Art Association: Donora & Shell Mound, Ft Myers Beach.

Summer hours: Wed & Thu 9a-12p. 463-3909.

•Gallerie du Soleil: 393 Broad Ave S, Naples. MonSat, 10a-6p & Sun 12-5p. 417-3450.

•Gallery on Fifth: Mercato, 5130 Strada Pl, Naples. Mon-Sat, 10a-6p & Sun 125p. 220-7503.

•Gardner Colby Gallery: 386 & 365 Broad Ave S, Naples.

Mon-Sat 10a-5:30p & Sun 12-5p. 403-7787.

•Guess-Fisher Gallery & Phil Fisher Gallery: 810 12th Ave S, Naples. MonThu 12-5p, Fr & Sat 12-9p, Sun 1-5p during high season. 659-2787 & 4038393.

•Harbour View Gallery: 5789 Cape Harbour Dr, #104, Cape Coral. Art reception with visiting artists first Tuesday every month, 6-8p. Daily 11a-8p. 540-5789.

•Hirdie-Girdie Art Gallery: 2490 Library Way, Sanibel. Mid-Nov – mid-May MonSat, 11a-5p. 395-0027.

•Howl Gallery/Tattoo: 4164 Cleveland Ave, Ft. Myers.

Mon-thu 11a-8p, Fri & Sat 12-10p. 332-0161.

•HW Gallery: 1305 Third St S, Naples. Daily 10a-5p. 263-6640.

•Island Visions: 4643 Pine Island Rd, Matlacha. Daily 10a-5p. 282-0452.

•Kathleen Bradford Studio/Gallery: 4259 Bonita Beach Rd,Bonita Springs. Tue-Sat 11:30a-6p. 7766844.

•Lee County Commissioner’s Office: Old County

Courthouse, 2120 Main St, Ft Myers. 533-2226.

•Lovegrove Gallery & Garden: 4637 Pine Island Rd, Matlacha. Matlacha Historic Walking Tours: Tue & Fri, 9a. 283-6453.

•Marco Island Center for the Arts: 1010 Winterberry Dr, Marco Island. Art reception 2nd Tue of month. Tue-Fri 9-4, thru May. 394-4221.

•Marco Island Historical Museum: 180 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Thru Jul 26: New World –Lost World. Tue-Sat 9a-5p & Sat 9a-4p. 642-1440.

•Museum of the Everglades: 105 West Broadway, Everglades City. Thru Jun 1:Barron Collier’s Path Through the Everglades – The Tamiami Trail. Mon-Fri, 9a-5p & Sat 9a-4p. 695-0008.

•Naples Museum of Art: 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. Thru Jul 7:Revelation - Major Paintings by Jules Olitski & Multiplicity. Tue-Sat 10-4p, Sun 12-4p. 597-1900.

•Nestled in the Cove Gallery: Crayton Cove, 1187 8th St S, Naples. Limited days & hours during summer. 8494745.

•Nora Butler Designs: Crayton Cove, 800 12th Ave. S, Naples. Tue-Sat 11a-6p. 403-8287.

•North Collier Regional Park Exhibit Hall:15000 Livingston Rd, Naples. Thru summer:A Brush with History.Mon-Sat, 9a-5:30p. 252-4060.

• N o r t h w e s t R e g i o n a l Library: 519 Chiquita Blvd N, Cape Coral. Mon, Wed, Thu 10a-6p; Tue 12-8p; Fri & Sat 9a-5p. 533-4803.

•Ocasiocasa Studio Gallery: 1540 Bwy, Ft Myers. TueFri 11a-6p, Sat 1-5p. 6918292.

• P h y s i c i a n s R e g i o n a l Healthcare System: 6101 Pine Ridge Rd., 2nd fl atrium, Naples. Mon-Fri, 6a-8p & Sun 9a-8p. Free. 262-6517.

•Ringling Museum of Art: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota. Thru May 6: Barnum & Bailey in Europe; thru May 19: Herb Ritts - LA Style; thru Jul 14: Mythic Creatures of China; May 7Sep 16: Circus Moderns; Jun 14-Sep 8: American Moderns 1910-1960 - From O’Keeffe to Rockwell; Jun 21-Aug 25:Witness to War:

WWII Photographs from the Collections of Veterans. Ongoing: New Acquisitions, 20th Century Abstract Art from the Ringling Collection & From the Vaults: John Ringling’s Asian & Cypriot Art. Thu: The Gar-

dens of Ringling Guided Tour, 10:30. Daily 10a-5p, Thu 10a-8p. 941-359-5700.

•Rosen Gallery & Studios: No rth Line Plaza, 2172 J & C Blvd, N Naples. Thru May 7:Nancy Wood-Woltz: Expressions of Impressions. Daily tours of artist’s studios - Reserve. Mon-Sat, 12-6p. 821-1061.

•Southwest Florida Museum of History: 2031 Jackson St, Ft Myers Tue-Sat 10a-5p. 321-7430.

•Space 39 Gallery: 39 Patio de Leon, Ft Myers. MonWed 4p-12a & Thu-Sun 4p2a. 690-0004.

•Sunshine Studios/Jo-Ann Sanborn:760 N. Collier Blvd,Marco Island. New works daily. Wed-Sat 11a5p, Thu til 8p.642-6367.

•Sweet Art Gallery: 2054 Trade Center Way, Naples. Mon-Fri 10a-5p & Sat 10a1p. Free. 597-2110.

•Sylvie’s Artistic Selections: 16681 McGregor Blvd, #306, Ft Myers. Tue-Sat 11a-6p. 437-6959.

•The Artists’ Gallery: The Esplanade, 760 N. Collier Blvd, Marco Island.MonWed 10a-5p, Thu & Fri 10a8p,Sat 10a-4p, Sun 10a-2p.784-4436.

•The von Liebig Art Center: 585 Park St, Naples.Thru Jun 1: La Casa Latin American Art - Words, Signs & Symbols (members exhibit). Jun 15-Aug 23: Camera USA - Nat’l Photo Award Exhibit,Naples Daily News Photographers Exhibit MonSat 10a-4p. 262-6517.

•Tower Gallery: 751 Tarpon Bay Rd, Sanibel. Artist Cooperative of Fine Art. Historic beach house featuring professional area artists. Daily 10a-9p. 472-4557.

•Union Artists Studios: Alliance of the Arts campus, 10051 McGregor Blvd,

#202, Edwards Bldg, Ft Myers. 826-3861.

•Unit A Art Space: Marcus Jansen, 1922 Evans Ave, Ft Myers. By appt. Receptions first Fri of month. 849-7772.

•Vallez Studio: Crayton Cove, 784 12th Ave S, Naples. 262-0381.

•Vavrina Art Gallery: 12581 New Brittany Blvd, Ft Myers. Open by appt. 9360305.

•Watson MacRae Gallery: 2340 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel. Mon-Sat 10:30a-5p. 472-3386.

attractions

• A r t o f t h e O l y m p i a n s

Museum: 1300 Hendry St, downtown River District, Ft Myers. Tue-Sat, 10a-4p. Closed Sun & Mon. 3325055.

• B a b c o c k W i l d e r n e s s

Adventures: 8000 State Rd 31,Punta Gorda. Tue-Sat. Reservations for tours 800-500-5583.

• B a i l e y - M a t t h e w s S h e l l

Museum: 3075 SanibelCaptiva Rd, Sanibel. Raymond Burr Memorial Exhibit,Deep-Sea Mollusks, Henry DomkeNature Photographer. World Record-Sized Shells. Open Daily 10a-5p. 3952233.

•Burroughs Home & Gardens: 2505 First St, Ft Myers. Living history tours daily 11a & 1p, 5-9p. 3370706.

•Butterfly Estates : 1815 Fowler St, Ft Myers. TueSat, 9a-3p. 690-2359.

•Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium: 3450 Ortiz Ave, Ft Myers. Live animal shows daily, Planetarium shows, Wed-Sat, 9a-5p & Sun, 11a-5p. 275-3435.

•Cape Coral Historical Museum: 544 Cultural

Park Blvd, Cape Coral. Wed, Thu & Sun 1-4p. 7727037.

•Collier County Museum: 3301 Tamiami Tr E, Naples. Thru Jun 28: Obscured by Time – The Magic of Florida. Educational programs, every Wed, 2pm. Mon-Fri, 9a-5p. & Sat 9a-4p. 774-8476.

•Conservancy of SWFL : New Smith Preserve Way & Goodlette Frank Rd. 9:30a4:30p. 430-2466.

•Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary: 375 Sanctuary Rd W, Naples. Blair Audubon Center, Boardwalk Exploration & Exhibits (Rod J Wiley – Audubon Florida Photographer of the Year). Daily 7a-5:30p. 348-9151.

•CREW: Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Wate rshe d, 23998 Corkscrew Rd , Estero. Marsh Hiking Trails open sunrise-sunset. 657-2253.

•CROW: Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, 3883 Sanibel-Captiva Rd, Sanibel. Healing Winds Visitor Education Center. Tue-Sun 10a-4p. 472-3644.

•Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge: One Wildlife Dr, Sanibel. 4721100.

• E d i s o n & F o r d W i n t e r E s t a t e s M u s e u m : 2350 McGregor Blvd, Ft Myers. May 25: Art in the Gardens - Snakes & Lizards. Thru May: Discovering Southwest Florida with Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Thru May: Gators in the Garden (Free). Daily 9a5:30p. 334-7419.

• G o l i s a n o C h i l d r e n ’ s Museum of Naples: North Collier Park, 15080 Livingston Rd, Naples. Special hours for children on autistic spectrum: Breaking the Barriers, Second Sat of

The Naples Players present The Mousetrap thru May 11 at the Sugden Community Theatre in Naples. For information, call 263-7990.

month 8-9a & Sensory Night, 4th Tue of month 58p. Register. 514-0084.

•Holocaust Museum & Education Center of SWFL : Sandalwood Square, 4760 Tamiami Tr N, Naples. Thru Jul 31:Sosüa, The Dominican Republic – A Refuge from theHolocaust in the Tropic. May-Dec: Tue-Sun, 1-4p. Guided Tours: 1:30p. 263-9200.

•Imaginarium Science Center: 2000 Cranford St, Ft Myers. Family Friday Nites: every Friday open til 8p. Mon-Sat 10a-5p, Sun 12-5p. 321-7420.

• I m m o k a l e e P i on e e r Museum at Roberts Ranch: 1215 Roberts Av e, Immokalee. Thru Jul 26: Five Centuries of Tradition – Florida Cattle Ranching. Mon-Fri, 9a-5p. 658-2466.

•Marco Island Historical Museum : 180 S. Heathwood Dr., Marco Island. Thru Jun 27: South Florida - A Villager’s View. Thru Jul 26: New World –Lost World. Tue-Sat 9a-5p & Sat 9a-4p. 642-1440.

•Museum of the Everglades: 105 West Broadway, Everglades City. Thru Jun 1:Barron Collier’s Path Through the Everglades –The Tamiami Trail. MonFri, 9a-5p & Sat 9a-4p. 6950008.

•Museum of the Islands: 5728 Sesame, Pine Island Center. 283-1525.

•Naples Botanical Garden: 4820 Bayshore Dr, Naples. May 12: Mother’s Day in the Garden. Wed-Mon 9a-5p & Tue 8a-5p. 643-7275.

•Naples Depot Museum: 1051 Fifth Ave S, Naples.

Mon-Fri 9a-5p & Sat 9a-4p. 262-6525.

•Naples Museum of Art: 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd, Naples. Thru Jul 7: Revelation - Major Paintings by Jules Olitski Tue-Sat 104p, Sun 12-4p. 5597-1900.

•Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens: 1590 GoodletteFrank Rd, Naples. Daily 9a5p. 262-5409.

•Palm Cottage Museum & Norris Gardens: Naples Historical Society, 137 12th Ave. S, Naples. Walking tours of Naples Historic District – Wed 10a; Guided Garden Tours – Thu 10a; Reserve. Tue-Sat 1-4p. 2618164.

•Ringling Museum of Art: 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota. Thru May 6: Barnum & Bailey in Europe; thru May 19: Herb Ritts - LA Style; thru Jul 14: Mythic Creatures of China; May 7Sep 16: Circus Moderns; Jun 14-Sep 8: American Moderns 1910-1960 - From O’Keeffe to Rockwell; Jun 21-Aug 25:Witness to War:

WWII Photographs from the Collections of Veterans.

Ongoing: New Acquisitions, 20th Century Abstract Art from the Ringling Collection & From the Vaults: John Ringling’s Asian & Cypriot Art. Thu: The Gardens of Ringling Guided Tour, 10:30. Daily 10a-5p, Thu 10a-8p. 941359-5700.

•Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center: 300 Tower Rd, Naples. May 2Nov 14:Living WatersAquatic Preserves of Florida. Daily programs: 11a & 2p. Guided kayak trips Tue & Th 10a & 1p.

Hrs: M-Sat, 9a-4p. 4176310.

•Sanibel Historical Museum & Village: 950 Dunlop Rd, Sanibel. Wed-Sat, 10a-4p. 472-4648.

•Seminole Gulf Railway: Colonial Station, Colonial Blvd & Metro Pkwy. Murder Mystery Dinner Train: Wed-Sun Eves. 275-8487.

•Shell Factory & Nature Park: 2787 N Tamiami Trail, N Ft Myers. Daily 10a-5p. 995-2141.

•Southwest Florida Museum of History: 2031 Jackson St, Ft Myers Guided Downtown walking tours. TueSat 10a-5p. 321-7430.

parks

•Bonita Beach Park: 27954 Hickory Blvd., Bonita Springs. Tue: Leisure & Fitness Walk, 8a. Free. 533-7444.

•Bowditch Point Regional Park: 50 Estero Blvd, Ft Myers Beach. Guided walk: Tue 9:30a. Free. 463-3764.

•Bunche Beach: 18201 John Morris Rd, Ft Myers. Low tide beach walk: 7p, 2nd & 4th Thu, May-Oct. 7076794.

•Caloosahatchee Regional Park: 18500 North River Rd, Alva. Guided Nature Walks: 9a. Free. Reserve 693-2690.

•Collier-Seminole State Park: US 41 (Tamiami Trail), S Naples. Satguided walks 10a. Free. Hiking trail, self-guided boardwalk nature trail, exhibits, camping, fishing, boating canoeing. 3943397.

•Delnor-Wiggins Pass

State Park: 11135 Gulfshore Dr, Naples. Beach, fishing, picnic areas. Fri: Ranger programs 9:30a. Free. 597-6196.

•Estero Park : 9200 Corkscrew Palms Blvd, Estero. 248-1609.

•Everglades National Park : Gulf Coast Visitor Center,815 Oyster Bar Ln.Everglades City. MayOct 9a-4:30p. 695-3311.

•Hickeys Creek Mitigation Park: 17980 Palm Beach Blvd, Alva. Guided walk: 9a 1st Thu, May-Oct. Free. Reserve 693-2690.

•Koreshan State Historic Site State Park: US Hwy 41 & Corkscrew Rd, Estero. 992-0311.

•Lakes Regional Park: 7330 Gladiolus Dr, Ft Myers. Guided tours of the Botanic Garden - second Sat of month, 9a, Thru May. Strolling tour free. 533-7575.

•Lovers Key State Park: South of Ft Myers Beach. 463-4588.

•Lynn Hall Park: 950 Estero Blvd, Ft Myers Beach. Laughter Yoga, Fri 8a. Free. 229-7356.

•Manatee Park: 10901 Palm Beach Blvd, Ft Myers. Daily: All About Manatees, daily, 11a & 2p, Fri 11a. 8a-sundown. 6905030.

•Matanzas Pass Preserve: 119 Bay Rd, Ft Myers Beach. Thu: Guided Mangrove Walk, 9:30a. Free. 707-3015.

•Myakka River State Park: 13207 SR 72, Sarasota. Canoeing, camping, wildlife tours by air-boat & tram, scenic drive, guided walks. 361-6511.

•North Collier Regional Park : 15000 Livingston Rd, Naples. 252-4060.

•North Ft Myers Park: 2021 N Tamiami Tr, N Ft Myers. Free. Reserve. 652-4512.

• R u t e n b e r g P a r k E c oLiving Center: ‘FloridaF riendly’ Garden/ Landscape Workshops: Wed 10:30-11:30a. Free. 533-7515.

•Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve: 7791 Penzance Blvd, Ft Myers. Guided walks: Wed 9:30a MayOct. Free. 533-7550.

•Veterans Park: 55 Homestead Rd, Lehigh Acres. Wed: walking club, 9:30a. Free. 369-1521.

•Wa-Ke-Hatchee Park : 16730 Bass Rd, Ft Myers. Mon-Thu: Flow Yoga & Mat Pilates 9a. Tue: Yoga & Meditation 4:30p. Wed: Tai chi 1p. Wed: Laughter Yoga 6:30p. Classes free. 432-2154.

live music

•1st Danz: 12901 McGregor Blvd #10, Ft Myers. Wed: Swing Dance Party 8-11p; Thu: Live Dance Band: Cindy-Lee & John Chapman Trio Thu 8-11p; Fri:

Authentic Argentine Tango Party 8-11p. MayOct: closed for lunch. 9313269.

•Bert’s Bar & Grill: 4271 Pine Island Rd, Matlacha. Live music. 282-3232.

•Big Game Waterfront Grill: 2200 Main St, Ft Myers Beach. Live music Sun-Fri 4-6p,Fri & Sat 7-10p. Sun: Toucan Do; Mon, Wed, Fri: Erik Huffman; Tue: Dave Dale; Thu: Anthony Wayne; Fri & Sat: Gatlin. 463-3043.

•Buckingham Blues Bar : 5641 Buckingham Rd., Ft Myers. Open jams: Wed 811p & Sun 3-6p. Free. Live music Fri & Sat 9p-12a, Backyard BluesFest, selected Sat 1-11p.6937111.

•C-Grape Coffee & Wine Bar : 4450 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs. Live music Fri & Sat 7-10p. 2217388.

•City Tavern: 2206 Bay St, Ft Myers. Live music ThuSat. 226-1133.

•Cottage Bar: 1270 Estero Blvd, Ft Myers Beach. Live music nightly. 765-5440.

•Freds Food, Fun & Spirits!: 2700 Immokalee Rd., Naples. Sun: Singer/Songwriter Workshop Jam 56:30p, Notorious Band of Misfits 7-10p; Wed: Open Mic; Fri & Sat; Live music. 431-7928.

•Hotel Indigo: 1520 Broadway, Ft Myers. Wed: Open Mic. Fun in the Sun: Every Sat 4p-9p, Rooftop Lounge. 337-3446.

•Laugh-In Comedy Café: College Pkwy Shopping Center at College Pkwy & Winkler Rd, Ft Myers. Live comedy Fri & Sat. 479LAFF.

•Morgan House : 33 Patio DeLeon, Ft Myers. Live music Thu-Sat 6-10p. 3373377.

•Paradise Tiki Hut : 1502

Miramar St, Cape Coral. Live music nightly. 5421988.

•Parrot Key Caribbean Grill : 2500 Main St, Ft Myers Beach. Live music nightly 7-10p.Sun & Tue: Gatlin; Wed: The Island Doctor or Palmetto Band; Thu & Sat: Frank Torino; Fri:Taylor Stokes. 4633257.

•Red Rock Saloon : 2278 First St, Ft Myers. Live

music Tue, Fri, Sat. 6898667.

•Reserve Cigar & Wine Bar: 10950 S. Cleveland Ave, Ft Myers. Live music Fri & Sat. 210-0300.

•RJ’s Bar & Grill: 1475 N. Tamiami Tr, N.Ft Myers. Live music nightly. 9979600.

•Roadhouse Café: 15660 San Carlos Blvd, Ft Myers. Live music. 415-4375.

•Sneaky Pete’s : 3465 Bonita Beach Rd, Bonita Springs. Live music nightly. 498-8887.

•The Hut at the Peace Tropical Gardens: 5150 Buckingham Rd, Ft Myers. Thu 7:30-11p: Tommy Lee Cook & The Boys of Buckingham; Fri 7:30-11p: Harry Cassano & Tracy Mosley; Sat 7:30-11p: Candace Zona & The Certified Band. 2250907.

•The Joint at Cape Harbour: 5785 Cape Harbour Dr, Cape Coral. Live music

Tue, Fri, Sun. 542-0123.

•The Veranda: 2122 Second St, Ft Myers. Rick Russell: Tue-Sat 6:30-9:30 in piano lounge. 332-2065.

•Twisted Conch : 837 SE 47th Ter, Cape Coral. Live Music. 542-6622.

•World of Beer: Bell Tower Shops, 13499 S Cleveland Ave, Ft Myers. Live music

Thu-Sat. 437-2411.

•Yabo: Live music. 2259226.

FARMERSMARKETS

THURSDAY

•Coconut Point Greenmarket: Coconut Point, Estero. 10a-2p. 249-9480.

•River District Farmers Market: Centennial Park, 2000 W First St, Ft Myers. 7a-1p. 321-7100.

SATURDAY

•Alliance for the Arts’ GreenMarket: 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. 9a-1p. 939-2787.

•Bonita Springs: The Promenade Shoppes, US 41 & Bonita Bay Blvd, Bonita Springs. 7a-12p. 495-8464.

•Cape Coral Farmers Market: SE 47th Ter & S. 10th Pl, Cape Coral. 8a-1p OctMay. 549-6900.

•Shoppes at Vanderbilt

Farmers Market: Collection at Vanderbilt, Vanderbilt Beach Rd & Airport PullingRd, Naples. 8a-1p. 273-2350.

•Third Street Farmer’s Market: Third St S & Gordon Dr, Naples. 7:30-11;30a.

SUNDAY

•Sanibel Island Farmers Market: Sanibel City Hall, 800 Dunlop Rd, Sanibel. 8a-1p. 691-9249.

Arts for ACTGallery in downtown Fort Myers host ‘Ronda at Eye Level,’ an exhibition of photographs by George Mitchell, May 3-June 2. Call 939-2553 for information.