Outdoor Christmas Lighting Tips

Nothing says Christmas like neighborhoods lit up like Christmas trees! Everyone loves to drive around and look at the holiday creations! However, there are precautions that need to be taken when installing these Christmas wonderlands!

According to http://www.diynetwork.com, people need to use caution when installing exterior lighting. Here are some tips to follow before and during your holiday lighting!

Safety First!

Use a good ladder when installing your lights. Secure them with insulated holders (never use tacks or nails). Don't install your lights on trees that come in contact with power lines. Before installing your Christmas lights, plug them in to make sure all of your bulbs are working. Make sure to turn your lights off when you leave or go to bed at night.

Use the Proper Outlet

For starters, safety first! Your source of power should come from a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet. This type of outlet will shut the circuit down if there is overcurrent. We want your lights to shine, not sparks to fly! If you don't have a GFCI outlet, a qualified electrician can permanently install one outdoors for holiday seasons to come. Or, you can buy a portable outdoor unit from your local home store for less than $20.

Keep Extension Cords Out of the Way

When using extension cords, make sure they are rated for outdoor use, and keep the connections above ground, snow and water. Try to avoid high-traffic areas. Tape cords across walkways, and use the correct length needed to travel to your lights. You don't want your cords to be too long so they pile up and create walking hazards.

Always Choose Waterproof Lights

There is a variety of lights to choose from. First and foremost, always use waterproof or water-resistant lights with a tag marked underwriters lab (UL). This means the lights meet national industry standards with the American National Standards Institute. Also, when you're buying Christmas lights to use outside, make sure they are rated for outdoor use (just like your extension cords). Never use indoor Christmas lights outdoors.

Using C7 or C9 Bulbs

For a more traditional holiday light, you will want to use a C7 or C9. These are the cone-shape lights you'll find most often in home improvement and convenience stores. The difference in these lights is size and wattage, with C9 being a little bigger and easier to see from a distance. Both come in frosted or clear color bulbs and are great for illuminating both your house and trees.
You can buy these in strands of 25 bulbs or larger strands of 100 bulbs. The 25-bulb strands can be connected together (daisy chained) up to a maximum of three strands; 100-bulb strands should be connected separately. Don't connect them together! The C7 and C9 strands use a standard screw-in candelabra base for easy bulb replacement. The strands are connected so if one bulb fails it only affects itself. Buying light strands with inner fuses is a great idea to prevent excess current on the strands.

Now that safety is first in your mind, here are some decorating ideas to make your holiday brighter!

Using Miniature Bulbs

Another option for outdoor lighting is the "miniature," which costs less and consumes less power than the classic outdoor light string. It can be used around the perimeter of your home, as well as in trees. In most cases, the miniature comes in strands of 50 or 100. The strings run in series, which means if one bulb or socket fails, you can lose a whole section.
The positive thing is that most miniature bulbs have a shunt inside of them to keep the entire string of lights lit if a bulb filament burns out. The key is to quickly replace the burned-out bulb. The shunt will allow the rest of the lights to remain lit, but it will increase the voltage in the rest of the bulbs, reducing their lifetime. With miniatures, you get what you pay for, so get a quality set of lights, and don't connect more than three sets of strings.

Using Landscape Net Lighting

To light shrubs and bushes, net lighting is a great way to go. Net lighting is a mesh of interconnected mini LED lights that can drape right over your shrubs like a blanket. No more weaving light strings in and out of branches!

Using Animated Lighting

Animated lights are great for Nativity scenes, as well as reindeer and angel displays. Animated lights are made of wire frames outlining different shapes and scenes, and they are surrounded with mini lights in different color variations and patterns.

Using Shimmer Spheres

Shimmer spheres come in shaped and circular formations, like snowballs, or stars and striped formations. They are made up of many lights in different sizes. You can even find some that twinkle. Your house will be shining with holiday cheer for the whole block to enjoy.

No matter what type of lighting you use this Christmas, your home will always be a special place for generations to gather and celebrate! ProMo Lawn Care, and its' staff, wish you all a very Happy Holiday!

Holiday Events in Southwest Florida!

There are many events scheduled this month in Southwest Florida! From car shows to concerts, there is something for everyone to enjoy! Below is a list of special events, so be sure to check them out and have a Happy Holiday Season!

Florida's Largest Single Day Event, Car & Motorcycle Show

Organization: Florida Hot Rods & Hogs

All day concert, 15 bands 3 stages. all genres. Hot Rods & Motorcycle show. Food, beer, art and merchandise. Celebrities and side shows.
Kid Activities!!
Great Day for the whole family.
$12 adults. Kids are Free
Can food collection for Harry Chapin Food Bank.

Date: Sunday  December 4, 2011      
Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 AM
Venue: Lee Civic Center
Address: 11831 Bayshore Rd
Location: North Fort Myers
Email: shari@flhrh.com
Website: flhrh.com 

 

The Caloosahatchee Bromeliad Society presents Organization: Caloosahatchee Bromeliad Society 100's of show plants on exhibit. 1000's of bromeliads for sale as yard and patio plants, house and gift plants, decorations and arrangements. To access the back of Terry Park and the Sale: if heading West on Palm Beach Blvd. turn onto Veronica Shoemaker(S) to Marion (W); if heading East onto Palm Beach Blvd. turn onto Royalston (E) after the railroad tracks. Date: Sunday  December 4, 2011       Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Venue: Terry Park Address: 3410 Palm Beach Blvd. Location: Fort Myers Email: DrLarry@comcast.net

Almost Acoustic Christmas Organization: Hammond Stadium Come and enjoy singing by Gavin DeGraw, Michelle Branch, Hanson, Parachute, Mat Keamey, Fitz and The Tantrums. Tickets are $20. For more information please call 239-768-4210. Date: Sunday  December 4, 2011       Time: 12:00 PM Venue: Hammond Stadium Address: 14100 6 Mile Cypress Parkway Location: Fort Myers     25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Organization: Theatre Zone THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE is a hilarious tale of overachievers' angst chronicling the experience of six adolescent outsiders vying for the spelling championship of a lifetime. The show's Tony Award winning creative team has created the unlikeliest of hit musicals about the unlikeliest of heroes: a quirky yet charming cast of outsiders for whom a spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time. For more information please call 1-888-966-3352 Date: Sunday  December 4, 2011       Time: 2:00 PM Venue: Theatre Zone Address: 13275 Livingston Rd. Location: Naples Website: www.theatrezone-florida.com Over The River and Through The Woods Organization: Cultural Park Theater Nick is a single guy from New Jersey. He sees both sets of his grandparents every Sunday for dinner. But everything changes when the job he's been waiting for, marketing executive, would take him away from his grandparents. Thus begins a series of schemes to keep Nick around. Date: Sunday  December 4, 2011       Time: 3:00 PM Venue: Cultural Park Theater Address: 528 Cultural Park Blvd. Cape Coral Location: Cape Coral Website: www.culturalparktheater.com Two Piano Concert Organization: Cultural Center of Charlotte County The Two Piano Group of the Cultural Center of Charlotte County would like to entertain you with a Holiday concert at 3 pm on Sunday, December 4 in the Music Room. Music will range from light classics to Holiday favorites. You'll enjoy 12 selections, performed by talented area pianists, played on our two Steinway & Sons grand pianos. Tickets are just $5, making this a very affordable way to spend an afternoon with family and friends. All funds raised apply towards the maintenance of our pianos. Tickets can be purchased in the Administration Office or at the door. Date: Sunday  December 4, 2011       Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Venue: Cultural Center of Charlotte County Address: 2280 Aaron Street Location: Port Charlotte Email: marketing@theculturalcenter.com Website: www.theculturalcenter.com/ White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 5:30pm Dinner, 7pm show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Sunday  December 4, 2011       Time: 5:30 PM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Website: www.broadwaypalm.com This is Christmas Organization: First Baptist Church Come and join us for music of Mark Hayes, John Rutter, & Mack Wilberg. These songs will be played by First Baptist Sanctuary Choir, Vocal Artistry, Ringer, Soloists, and members of the SWFL Symphony. For more information please call 239-334-7747. Date: Sunday  December 4, 2011       Time: 7:00 PM Venue: First Baptist Church Address: 1735 Jackson St. Location: Downtown Fort Myers

 

 

25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Organization: Theatre Zone THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE is a hilarious tale of overachievers' angst chronicling the experience of six adolescent outsiders vying for the spelling championship of a lifetime. The show's Tony Award winning creative team has created the unlikeliest of hit musicals about the unlikeliest of heroes: a quirky yet charming cast of outsiders for whom a spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time. For more information please call 1-888-966-3352 Date: Sunday  December 4, 2011       Time: 7:30 PM Venue: Theatre Zone Address: 13275 Livingston Rd. Location: Naples Website: www.theatrezone-florida.com
Brad Williams Organization: Off The Hook Comedy Club Williams has appeared on numerous TV shows including Mind of Mencia, Live at Gotham, the Tonight Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Pitboss. Date: Sunday  December 4, 2011       Time: 8:00 PM Venue: Off The Hook Comedy Club Address: 599 S. Collier Blvd. Suite 218 Marco Island, FL 34145 Location: Marco Island Website: www.captbriens.com
Free Drop-In Meditation class Organization: Kadampa Meditation Centers of Florida Guided Buddhist meditation classes to help promote positive living. Everyone is welcome regardless of your religious affiliation. There is never any wish to convert anyone to Buddhism. We also offer classes on: Wednesday 6-6:45 PM ($5 donation) Thursday 7-8:15 PM ($10 donation) Sunday 10-11:30 AM ($10 donation) Please also visit our website for information about classes in Naples and Cape Coral. Date: Tuesday  December 6, 2011       Time: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Venue: Samudrabadra Buddhist Center Address: 6338 Presidential Court, Fort Myers, FL 33919 Location: Fort Myers Email: info@meditationinfortmyers.org Website: meditationinfortmyers.org
Victorian Postcard Tea Organization: Uncommon Friends Foundation Begin your holiday season with a tradition of the 1800's - the sending of Christmas postcards. Hear how the Victorian postcard came about and indulge in a holiday treat. Bring your Christmas card list as you'll be given a short stack of vintage reproduction postcards. More postcards will be available for sale. Tea punch, tea, and a holiday sweet will be served. $25.00 Date: Tuesday  December 6, 2011       Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM Venue: Burroughs Home & Gardens Address: 2505 First Street Location: Downtown Fort Myers Email: christine@burroughshome.com Website: www.burroughshome.com
Free Talk on Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Organization: Integrative Mindfulness Free talk on Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), an educational program in which participants learn simple meditation techniques, gentle yoga, walking meditation, & other practices. MBSR is taught at medical institutions such as Duke, Vanderbilt, & MIT, & is proven to offer significant benefits for health & well-being. MBSR is especially useful for chronic conditions exacerbated by stress. Date: Tuesday  December 6, 2011       Time: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Venue: The Brooks Executive Suites Address: 9990 Coconut Road Location: Bonita Springs Email: madeline@integrativemindfulness.net Website: www.IntegrativeMindfulness.net    Holiday in the Park Organization: Riverside Park Come and join us for a Holiday in the Park and the annual tree lighting. Enjoy the sounds of the season! Showcasing some of the areas best musical talent. A blizzard in the Park with a giant snow slide, snow pile, train rides, free cookies and cider. Come and see Santa and Mrs. Clause arrive by horse and carriage to Bonita Springs. You can bring your lawn chairs or blankets. This is a FREE event!!!!!! Date: Tuesday  December 6, 2011       Time: 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM Venue: Riverside Park Address: 10450 Reynolds St. Location: Bonita Springs White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 5:30pm Dinner, 7:30pm show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Tuesday  December 6, 2011       Time: 5:30 PM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Website: www.broadwaypalm.com Free Talk on Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Organization: Integrative Mindfulness Free talk on Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), an educational program in which participants learn simple meditation techniques, gentle yoga, walking meditation, & other practices. MBSR is taught at medical institutions such as Duke, Vanderbilt, & MIT, & is proven to offer significant benefits for health & well-being. MBSR is especially useful for chronic conditions exacerbated by stress. Date: Tuesday  December 6, 2011       Time: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM Venue: The Brooks Executive Suites Address: 9990 Coconut Road Location: Bonita Springs Email: madeline@integrativemindfulness.net Website: www.IntegrativeMindfulness.net Hope Hospice Volunteer Training Organization: Hope Hospice Hope Hospice will conduct a volunteer training class on Wednesday, December 07, 2011 from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. Refreshments provided. Advance registration is required. Hope Volunteers are needed for office work, patient visits, light housekeeping, transportation, community events and other rewarding activities. For more information call 239-489-9180, or visit www.hopehcs.org/volunteer Date: Wednesday  December 7, 2011       Time: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Venue: Hope Hospice Address: 2430 Diplomat Parkway E. Location: Cape Coral Email: mishpet9@aol.com White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 11:45am Lunch, 1:15pm Show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Wednesday  December 7, 2011       Time: 11:45 AM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers   Old-Fashioned Christmas Celebration Organization: Gulf Coast Village The holidays are just around the corner, and Gulf Coast Village invites you to celebrate the season with our family! Come on over and get in the festive spirit with some tasty food, old-fashioned Christmas caroling, good conversation and great times. This event is open to the public. This is a complimentary admission with donation of two or more canned food items to support CCMI. For more information please call 239-573-3306. Date: Wednesday  December 7, 2011       Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM Venue: Gulf Coast Village Address: 1333 Santa Barbara Blvd. Location: Cape Coral Pearl Harbor Day Ceremony Organization: Fishermen's Village Annual remembrance and salute to the men and women of Pearl Harbor. Call Commandant Hank Mastowski, 941 764-8286 for more information. Reception after Ceremony at Military Heritage Museum. This event will be located in the Center Court. Date: Wednesday  December 7, 2011       Time: 5:00 PM Venue: Fishermen's Village Address: 1200 W. Retta Esplanade Location: Punta Gorda Website: www.fishville.com White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 5:30pm Dinner, 7:30pm show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Wednesday  December 7, 2011       Time: 5:30 PM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Website: www.broadwaypalm.com Breathing Mediation Organization: Kadampa Meditation Centers of Florida The benefits of breathing meditation include stress relief, improved health, greater ability to face challenges calmly, and more peaceful relationships. $5 donation requested. Date: Wednesday  December 7, 2011       Time: 6:00 PM - 6:45 PM Venue: Samudrabadra Buddhist Center Address: 6338 Presidential Court, Fort Myers, Florida 33907 Location: Fort Myers Email: info@meditationinfortmyers.org Website: www.meditationinfortmyers.org Liberace's Christmas Special Organization: Cultural Center of Charlotte County The Cultural Center of Charlotte County Dinner Theater Series continues with a wonderful Christmas experience with a Liberace's Christmas Special. For one night only, Martin Preston will recreate the magic of Liberace in a spectacular full-length show, complete with crystal candelabra, glittering grand piano, and the incomparable illusion of the world's greatest showman. On Wednesday December 7, 2011 at 7:00 pm, Liberace will ignite the stage once again! Mr. Preston is an actor and musician who has devoted the last 14 years to recapturing the music and glamor of the late, great Liberace. A classically trained pianist, Martin will astound you with glorious musical memories, all performed live, of Liberace favorites including Malaguena, The 12th Street Rag, The Beer Barrel Polka, I'll Be Seeing You, and a breathtaking montage of Gershwin showstoppers. On stage he will be joined by William Garon, the handsome Broadway song stylist, who will delight you with the beautiful "Song on the Sand," a grand tour of Oklahoma! and a dazzling visit with the Phantom of the Opera. Garon has starred in many theatrical productions including My Fair Lady, Milk and Honey, and Gigi, and he has toured extensively throughout the US, Canada, Europe, and the Far East, and has headlined on some of the world's finest luxury cruise liners.Our dinner menu includes Old Fashion Pot Roast, Mashed Potato, Green Beans, and Chocolate Cake. The meal will also include a tossed salad, roll, iced tea, coffee and water. A cash bar will be available during the meal and in the Theater lobby. The meal will be served at 5:30 in the Conference Center and the show will follow at 7:00 pm in the Theater. Tickets for the dinner and show combination are $23.00 for Cultural Center Members or $25.00 for the general public. Can't come for dinner? Then join us for just the show. Tickets are $8.00 for Cultural Center Members and $9.00 for non-members. Groups of 15 or more show tickets are $7.00 . The Cultural Center Box Office is located at 2280 Aaron Street in Port Charlotte. You can come by or call for tickets (941) 625-4175 x221. We have representatives available Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm and Saturdays from 10am until 2 pm. You can also check us out on the web at www.theculturalcenter.com. Date: Wednesday  December 7, 2011       Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Venue: Cultural Center of Charlotte County Address: 2280 Aaron Street Location: Port Charlotte Email: marketing@theculturalcenter.com Website: www.theculturalcenter.com/ White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 5:30pm Dinner, 7:30pm show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Thursday  December 8, 2011       Time: 5:30 PM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Website: www.broadwaypalm.com Thursday Meditation Drop-In Classes Organization: Kadampa Meditation Centers of Florida Guided Buddhist meditation classes to help promote positive living with teachings that are suitable for beginners as well as more experienced practitioners. Everyone is welcome regardless of your religious affiliation. There is never any wish to convert anyone to Buddhism. We do request a $10 donation for this class. Please see our website for a calendar & info. on other classes and locations. Date: Thursday  December 8, 2011       Time: 7:00 PM - 8:15 PM Venue: Samudrabadra Buddhist Center Address: 6338 Presidential Court, Fort Myers, FL 33919 Location: Fort Myers Email: info@meditationinfortmyers.org Website: www.meditationinfortmyers.org Eddie Ifft Organization: Off The Hook Comedy Club Ifft has had appearances on Comedy Central's Premium Blend and NBC's Late Friday Night. He has performed stand-up with names such as Dave Chapelle, Kevin Nealon, Chris Rock and Robin Williams. In addition he worked with Andy Dick in a sketch show at the Toyota Comedy Festival. Date: Thursday  December 8, 2011       Time: 8:00 PM Venue: Off The Hook Comedy Club Address: 599 S. Collier Blvd. Suite 218 Marco Island, FL 34145 Location: Marco Island Website: www.captbriens.com THE 25TH PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Organization: Theatre Zone THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE is a hilarious tale of overachievers' angst chronicling the experience of six adolescent outsiders vying for the spelling championship of a lifetime. The show's Tony Award winning creative team has created the unlikeliest of hit musicals about the unlikeliest of heroes: a quirky yet charming cast of outsiders for whom a spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time. For more information please call 1-888-966-3352. Date: Thursday  December 8, 2011       Time: 8:00 PM Venue: Theatre Zone Address: 13275 Livingston Rd. Location: Naples Website: www.theatrezone-florida.com Burroughs Home Living History Tours Organization: Uncommon Friends Foundation Join Mona or Jettie Burroughs as they share the history and colorful tales of living in one of Fort Myers' oldest homes. Call ahead and we can order you a lovely catered lunch. Tours are Friday mornings at 11:00a.m. Reserve a particular date for a groups of 8 or more. Tour: $10 Lunch: $10. Date: Friday  December 9, 2011       Time: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM Venue: Burroughs Home & Gardens Address: 2505 First Street Location: Downtown Fort Myers Email: christine@burroughshome.com Website: www.burroughshome.com Cruise for a Cause Organization: Lovers Key State Park A sunset cruise benefits the PACE Center for Girls. Guest will leave from Lovers Key and cruise around Estero Bay while enjoying refreshments and holiday fun. The cost is $30 plus a gift for a preteen or teenage girl. For more information please call 239-594-0213. Date: Friday  December 9, 2011       Time: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Venue: Lovers Key State Park Address: 8700 Estero Blvd. Location: Fort Myers Beach Holiday House Organization: Uncommon Friends Foundation Join us in celebrating the holidays with a Southwest Florida Tradition. The Fort Myers Women's Community Club presents "Believe" as they decorate the historic Burroughs & Langford Kingston Homes for the holidays. December 9th -23rd, 5:00p.m.-9:00p.m., $5 children under 12 are free Date: Friday  December 9, 2011       Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Venue: Burroughs Home & Gardens Address: 2505 First Street Location: Downtown Fort Myers Email: christine@burroughshome.com Website: www.burroughshome.com White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 5:30pm Dinner, 7:30pm show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Friday  December 9, 2011       Time: 5:30 PM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Website: www.broadwaypalm.com Christmas Concert Organization: covenant Presbyterian Church Featuring the outstanding Covenant Concert Choir accompanied by professional Brass, Organ and Timpani, this annual Christmas Concert takes a very special look at the joyful compositions of the great composer John Rutter. The audience will be thrilled by the joyful sounds of Rejoice and Be Merry , Candlelight Carol , What Sweeter Music and more. The Jubilate Ringers will also be performing! Date: Friday  December 9, 2011       Time: 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Venue: covenant Presbyterian Church Address: 2439 McGregor Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Email: info@covpcfm.com Website: covpcfm.com THE 25TH PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Organization: Theatre Zone THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE is a hilarious tale of overachievers' angst chronicling the experience of six adolescent outsiders vying for the spelling championship of a lifetime. The show's Tony Award winning creative team has created the unlikeliest of hit musicals about the unlikeliest of heroes: a quirky yet charming cast of outsiders for whom a spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time. For more information please call 1-888-966-3352. Date: Friday  December 9, 2011       Time: 8:00 PM Venue: Theatre Zone Address: 13275 Livingston Rd. Location: Naples Website: www.theatrezone-florida.com Eddie Ifft Organization: Off The Hook Comedy Club Ifft has had appearances on Comedy Central's Premium Blend and NBC's Late Friday Night. He has performed stand-up with names such as Dave Chapelle, Kevin Nealon, Chris Rock and Robin Williams. In addition he worked with Andy Dick in a sketch show at the Toyota Comedy Festival. Date: Friday  December 9, 2011       Time: 9:00 PM Venue: Off The Hook Comedy Club Address: 599 S. Collier Blvd. Suite 218 Marco Island, FL 34145 Location: Marco Island Website: www.captbriens.com Lee County Heartwalk Organization: Centennial Park Come and join us for this annual 5k walk. The walk begins at 9am but registration will begin at 8am. It is FREE to participate but donations will be appreciated. Donations will help the American Heart Association. Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 8:00 AM Venue: Centennial Park Address: 2000 W First St Location: Downtown Fort Myers Imaginarium's Annual Holidayland Organization: Imaginarium Santa's first stop is at the Imaginarium! From 10 am to 5 pm with special activities from 11-2 pm. Visit with Santa, pose for photos, enjoy festive face painting, a Holiday science show, create shrink-magic ornaments and other make and take activities exploring winter holidays around the world! Child FREE with PAID adult. For more information call (239) 321-7420 or visit us online at: www.imaginariumfortmyers.com Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Venue: Imaginarium Address: 2000 Cranford Ave Location: Downtown Fort Myers Email: hfinnegan@cityftmyers.com Website: www.imaginariumfortmyers.com Black Widow's Fantastic Toy Crusade Organization: Toys for Tots Win a Vespa S50 Scooter at Black Widow's Fantastic Toy Crusade for Charlotte County Toys for Tots! 11am to 4pm at the dealership. Marines will be there collecting donations for Toys for Tots. A donation of one, unwrapped toy will get you a raffle ticket for a chance to win great prizes! Free Captain America Poster to first 50 donators. On the hour (12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm) winners will be drawn. Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Venue: Black Widow Harley-Davidson/Vespa/Piaggio Address: 2224 El Jobean Road Location: Port Charlotte Email: kkendall@blackwidowh-d.com Website: www.blackwidowh-d.com White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 11:45am Lunch, 1:15pm Show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 11:45 AM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Website: www.broadwaypalm.com    Sea Turtle Soiree - Fine Wine, Cheese, Beer and Art Organization: Sea Turtle Conservancy An elegant evening of fine art, music and cuisine in honor of a stellar year of sea turtle conservation and stewardship. Event will feature live music, wine and craft beer tastings with keepsake glasses, hors d'oeuvres and exhibits by local artists. Proceeds from the sale of artwork will benefit sea turtle conservation. The nonprofit Sea Turtle Conservancy works to ensure the survival of sea turtles through research, education, advocacy and the protection of their natural habitats. Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM Venue: Barrier Island Center Address: 8385 S Hwy A1A, Melbourne Beach, FL 32951 Location: Venice Beach Email: intern@conserveturtles.org Website: conserveturtles.org/barrierislandcenter.php?page=bicsoiree Holiday House Organization: Uncommon Friends Foundation Join us in celebrating the holidays with a Southwest Florida Tradition. The Fort Myers Women's Community Club presents "Believe" as they decorate the historic Burroughs & Langford Kingston Homes for the holidays. December 9th -23rd, 5:00p.m.-9:00p.m., $5 children under 12 are free Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Venue: Burroughs Home & Gardens Address: 2505 First Street Location: Downtown Fort Myers Email: christine@burroughshome.com Website: www.burroughshome.com White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 5:30pm Dinner, 7:30pm show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 5:30 PM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Website: www.broadwaypalm.com A Home for the Holidays Organization: Coconut Point Ford Come and join us for LIVE entertainment, cocktails, heave hours d'oeuvres, live and silent auction. Among the many dazzling auction items include: A one-week's stay in a luxury condo in Cozumel, A chance to pay a round of golf with a PGA Tour Pro, Autographed memorabilia from Animal Plant star Victoria Stilwell, baseball MVP Joe Mauer and other celebrities and many many more! 100% of the proceeds to benefit the animals at the GCHS no-kill shelter. Ticket price is $75. For more information please call 239-332-0364. Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Venue: Coconut Point Ford Address: 22400 S. Tamiami Trail Location: Estero Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade Organization: Salty Sam's Marina The pirate ship will embark on a two-hour cruise on the 65-foot replica Spanish galleon to view the Christmas Boat Parade. The pirate ship will depart from Salty Sam's Marina at 6pm just ahead of the parade boats, travel through Matanzas Pass and then allow the decorated vessels to pass by. The ship will travel with the boats around Bowditch Point past the Pink Shell and then return to Salty Sam's Marina for the winners Circle Party at Big Game Waterfront Grill. Tickets for this cruise at $20. For more information please call 239-765-7272. Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Venue: Salty Sam's Marina Address: 2500 Main St. Location: Fort Myers Beach   Bonita Christmas Boat Parade Organization: Fish House Restaurant Boaters are needed! The parade begins and ends at The Fish House Restaurant. Perfect viewing areas can be found at The Fish House Restaurant and the Imperial River Boat Ramp. For more information please call 239-495-0455. Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 6:00 PM Venue: Fish House Restaurant Address: 4685 Bonita Beach Rd Location: Bonita Springs Website: www.bonitaboatparade.com MIACC CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE ON NAPLES BAY Organization: MARINE INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION OF COLLIER COUNTY Join us in viewing holiday boats and lights on Naples Bay! Visit www.MIACC.org for more information. Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Venue: Naples Bay Address: Naples Bay Location: Naples Email: Director@MIACC.org Website: www.MIACC.org Eddie Ifft Organization: Off The Hook Comedy Club Ifft has had appearances on Comedy Central's Premium Blend and NBC's Late Friday Night. He has performed stand-up with names such as Dave Chapelle, Kevin Nealon, Chris Rock and Robin Williams. In addition he worked with Andy Dick in a sketch show at the Toyota Comedy Festival. Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 7:00 PM Venue: Off The Hook Comedy Club Address: 599 S. Collier Blvd. Suite 218 Marco Island, FL 34145 Location: Marco Island Website: www.captbriens.com Fort Myers WineTrail and Beyond Organization: RDA/Entertainment Florida Fort Myers Wine Trail and Beyond occurs the 4th Saturday of every month starting December 10th, 2011. Featuring wine, spirits, beer tasting's and seminars, top local restaurants prepare food, chef demos, live music, with local galleries and retailers participating, and more... Each monthly event has a different theme. This month taste a bite of food and a red and white wine at each location. $25. Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM Venue: Downtown Address: Downtown Fort Myers Location: Downtown Fort Myers Email: infor@fortmyerswinetrail.com Website: www.fortmyerswinetrailandbeyond.com THE 25TH PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE Organization: Theatre Zone THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE is a hilarious tale of overachievers' angst chronicling the experience of six adolescent outsiders vying for the spelling championship of a lifetime. The show's Tony Award winning creative team has created the unlikeliest of hit musicals about the unlikeliest of heroes: a quirky yet charming cast of outsiders for whom a spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time. For more information please call 1-888-966-3352. Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 8:00 PM Venue: Theatre Zone Address: 13275 Livingston Rd. Location: Naples Website: www.theatrezone-florida.com    Eddie Ifft Organization: Off The Hook Comedy Club Ifft has had appearances on Comedy Central's Premium Blend and NBC's Late Friday Night. He has performed stand-up with names such as Dave Chapelle, Kevin Nealon, Chris Rock and Robin Williams. In addition he worked with Andy Dick in a sketch show at the Toyota Comedy Festival. Date: Saturday  December 10, 2011       Time: 10:00 PM Venue: Off The Hook Comedy Club Address: 599 S. Collier Blvd. Suite 218 Marco Island, FL 34145 Location: Marco Island Website: www.captbriens.com White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 11:45am Lunch, 1:15pm Show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Sunday  December 11, 2011       Time: 11:45 AM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Website: www.broadwaypalm.com 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee Organization: Theatre Zone THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE is a hilarious tale of overachievers' angst chronicling the experience of six adolescent outsiders vying for the spelling championship of a lifetime. The show's Tony Award winning creative team has created the unlikeliest of hit musicals about the unlikeliest of heroes: a quirky yet charming cast of outsiders for whom a spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time. For more information please call 1-888-966-3352 Date: Sunday  December 11, 2011       Time: 2:00 PM Venue: Theatre Zone Address: 13275 Livingston Rd. Location: Naples Website: www.theatrezone-florida.com Holiday House Organization: Uncommon Friends Foundation Join us in celebrating the holidays with a Southwest Florida Tradition. The Fort Myers Women's Community Club presents "Believe" as they decorate the historic Burroughs & Langford Kingston Homes for the holidays. December 9th -23rd, 5:00p.m.-9:00p.m., $5 children under 12 are free Date: Sunday  December 11, 2011       Time: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM Venue: Burroughs Home & Gardens Address: 2505 First Street Location: Downtown Fort Myers Email: christine@burroughshome.com Website: www.burroughshome.com White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 5:30pm Dinner, 7:30pm show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Sunday  December 11, 2011       Time: 5:30 PM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Website: www.broadwaypalm.com Holiday House Organization: Uncommon Friends Foundation Join us in celebrating the holidays with a Southwest Florida Tradition. The Fort Myers Women's Community Club presents "Believe" as they decorate the historic Burroughs & Langford Kingston Homes for the holidays. December 9th -23rd, 5:00p.m.-9:00p.m., $5 children under 12 are free Date: Tuesday  December 13, 2011       Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Venue: Burroughs Home & Gardens Address: 2505 First Street Location: Downtown Fort Myers Email: christine@burrroughshome.com Website: www.burroughshome.com White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 5:30pm Dinner, 7:30pm show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Tuesday  December 13, 2011       Time: 5:30 PM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Website: www.broadwaypalm.com The Nutcracker Organization: Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall Come and join us for the special presentation by the North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts. The time honored ballet is a great holiday gift for the young and the old. Reserved seating only. Tickets are $7, $15, $20 and 425. For more information please call 239-481-4849. Date: Tuesday  December 13, 2011       Time: 7:00 PM Venue: Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall Address: 8099 College Parkway " Fort Myers, FL 33919 Location: Fort Myers Website: www.bbmannpah.com Cultural Center Presents a Country Christmas Organization: Cultural Center of Charlotte County Come celebrate the holidays with local performers the "Country Express" as they sing your favorite country hits, and sing-a-long to your holiday favorites! Local entertainment powerhouse "Country Express" will get you in the Christmas mood, as well as sing all your favorite country tunes. Tickets are only $14.00, groups of 15 more $12.00. The Cultural Center Box Office is located at 2280 Aaron Street in Port Charlotte. You can come by or call for tickets (941) 625-4175 x221. We have representatives available Monday through Friday from 9am to 4pm and Saturdays from 10am until 2 pm. You can also check us out on the web at www.theculturalcenter.com. Date: Tuesday  December 13, 2011       Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Venue: Cultural Center of Charlotte County Address: 2280 Aaron Street Location: Port Charlotte Email: marketing@theculturalcenter.com Website: www.theculturalcenter.com/  Big Band Christmas Luncheon and Show at the Cultural Center Organization: Cultural Center of Charlotte County The Cultural Center of Charlotte County will be holding a Big Band Christmas luncheon and show on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 from 11 am to 2 pm in our Conference Center. Enjoy a delicious meal as you swing to the music of Ingroov Big Band, playing your Big Band favorites during this Holiday Season! The menu includes the following main entrées: Crab Cakes with Dill Sauce, and Fettuccini with Grilled Tenderloin. Also included are a Fruit Salad, Chilled Strawberry Soup, Scalloped Potatoes, Sautéed Button Mushrooms, Creamed Spinach and Green Beans with Bacon. A delicious Cherries Jubilee will be served for dessert. Iced Tea, Coffee or Water is also included. Advance tickets are $15 per person through December 9th, $17 per person after that date or at the door. Tickets may be purchased at the Cultural Center Information Desk, The Learning Place, The Midtown Deli Café, the Administration Office or at the door on the day of the event. Contact us at (941) 625-4175, ext. 212 to purchase tickets using a credit card or to obtain additional information. Date: Wednesday  December 14, 2011       Time: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Venue: Cultural Center of Charlotte County Address: 2280 Aaron Street Location: Port Charlotte Email: marketing@theculturalcenter.com Website: www.theculturalcenter.com/ The Irish Tenors Christmas Reunion Organization: Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall Whenever thoughts turn to Ireland and Irish Music, The Irish Tenors immediately spring to mind. Ranked as Ireland's premier ambassadors of song, they entertain audiences worldwide with a quality of performance which is unrivalled, incomparable and, most importantly in their eyes, worthy of the rich cultural heritage of the country of Ireland, and the exquisite musical treasury created by Irish people everywhere, throughout history. We invite you to experience their beautiful music live and welcome in the holidays with Finbar Wright Anthony Kearns Ronan Tynan Date: Wednesday  December 14, 2011       Time: 7:30 PM Venue: Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall Address: 8099 College Parkway Location: Fort Myers Website: www.bbmannpah.com Verandah golf tournament supports The Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida Verandah, the 1,456-acre master-planned community located along the Orange River in Fort Myers, has teamed up with PGA Tour player Derek Lamely, Major League Baseball Hall of Fame member Bert Blyleven, future LPGA player Michelle Shin and Verandah Director of Golf Nathan Groce for a golf exhibition benefiting The Children's Hospital of Southwest Florida. Date: Thursday  December 15, 2011       Time: 12:30 PM - 5:00 PM Venue: Verandah Location: Fort Myers Email: cindym@bonitabaygroup.com Website: https://co.clickandpledge.com/advanced/default.aspx?wid=48053    FGCU Relay For Life Team Party Organization: FGCU Relay For Life Join us for Relay For Life's Team Party! You can learn about Relay, sign-up your team, turn in funds raised, and get fundraising ideas. Date: Thursday  December 15, 2011       Time: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM Venue: Ballyorney Irish Pub Address: 13851 S. Tamiami Tr Location: Fort Myers Email: Audra.Holowesko@CANCER.ORG Website: main.acsevents.org/site/TR?pg=entry&fr_id=36885    Burroughs Home Living History Tours Organization: Uncommon Friends Foundation Join Mona or Jettie Burroughs as they share the history and colorful tales of living in one of Fort Myers' oldest homes. Call ahead and we can order you a lovely catered lunch. Tours are Friday mornings at 11:00a.m. Reserve a particular date for a groups of 8 or more. Tour: $10 Lunch: $10. Date: Friday  December 16, 2011       Time: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM Venue: Burroughs Home & Gardens Address: 2505 First Street Location: Downtown Fort Myers Email: christine@burroughshome.com Website: www.burroughshome.com Winter Wonderland Organization: The Sarasota Family YMCA A FREE EVENT FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY Friday, December 16th 4:00p.m.-7:00 p.m. At the Frank G. Berlin Sr. Branch YMCA 1075 S. Euclid Ave. Sarasota Fl, 34237 (941) 955-8194 Fun Events Include: Real Snow for Sledding Face Painting Cookie Decorating Bounce House A Visit From Santa The event will include free cookies, sweets, and hot chocolate for all. Please check in at the registration table for your wristband to take part in all the seasonal activities and food. Sign up for a membership during the event and save $100. Ask for more details at the membership desk. Date: Friday  December 16, 2011       Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Venue: Frank G. Berlin Sr. Branch YMCA Address: 1075 S. Euclid Ave. Sarasota Fl, 34237 Location: Sarasota Email: mazpell@thesarasotay.org Website: www.thesarasotay.org Holiday House Organization: Uncommon Friends Foundation Join us in celebrating the holidays with a Southwest Florida Tradition. The Fort Myers Women"s Community Club presents "Believe" as they decorate the historic Burroughs & Langford Kingston Homes for the holidays. December 9th -23rd, 5:00p.m.-9:00p.m., $5 children under 12 are free Date: Friday  December 16, 2011       Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Venue: Burroughs Home & Gardens Address: 2505 First Street Location: Downtown Fort Myers Email: christine@burroughshome.com Website: www.burroughshome.com White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 5:30pm Dinner, 7:30pm show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Friday  December 16, 2011       Time: 5:30 PM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Website: www.broadwaypalm.com Great Bluegrass Music and Southern Cookin' Organization: Skeeterland Band Kick back, enjoy some fried chicken, gator tail or ribs and tap your toes to bluegrass tunes performed by one of S.W. Florida's busiest bluegrass quartets. no cover charge. Great family entertainment . Truly a taste of the Everglades Date: Friday  December 16, 2011       Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Venue: Cracklin' Jack's Restaurant Address: 9080 Collier Blvd. Location: Naples Email: douganddonna@earthlink.net Website: skeeterlandband.com Motown Recording Artist & Former Lead Singer of Organization: Cultural Center of Charlotte County Glenn Leonard, the former lead singer of one of Motown's most iconic groups, The Temptations, will be appearing at the Charlotte County Cultural Center Theater on Dec 16th, in an exclusive performance of his show titled GLENN LEONARD PRESENTS HITSVILLE LIVE! The Hitsville Live show is a 90 min. tribute to all the stars of Motown including The Supremes, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, The Marvelettes, Stevie Wonder and of course The Temptations, among many others. This show is the only currently running tribute to Motown that features an actual recording member of the famed record label. Mr. Leonard was the lead singer and first tenor of The Temptations from 1975-83, and recorded an impressive 10 albums with the group, toured the world many times, and was featured on numerous television programs throughout United States and worldwide. One of his signature songs, from his time with The Temptations, was their version of Silent Night from their highly acclaimed Christmas album which features Glenn's high tenor voice and is still one of the most widely played Christmas songs on the radio today, world-wide& and which will be featured in the Cultural Center performance. Glenn's recording of the Temptations' song Power has also been heard on the recent Blackberry television advertising campaign. Joining Mr. Leonard on stage is the Hitsville Live Band, an 8-piece group of vocalists and musicians from the Charlotte County area that Mr. Leonard exclusively uses for his Hitsville Live performances. This group also performs in the area as The Crashers and consists of: Carlton Flonnoy (lead vocals), Carmen Peters (lead vocals), Yahaloma Ramos (lead vocals), Mark Wolf (percussion), Gene Hart (keyboards), Tommy LoBue (guitar), Chris D'Urso (bass) and Loren Berry (drums). This fast paced, high energy, show is being produced by Celebrity Direct Entertainment, also based in Charlotte county. This show is the first concert in the Cultural Center's series of Celebrity Direct produced shows titled Season of The Stars. Other national acts appearing in this concert series are: The Mills Brothers (Jan 7), Ken Brady's Original Casinos (Jan 14), Gene Ferrari: A Salute To Legendary Singers Of Our Time (Jan 22), Glenn Leonard's Temptations Revue (Feb 6), and The Mystics (Feb 19). Tickets are just $19 each, and discounts apply for purchasing additional concert series tickets. To reserve your seats, or for more information, contact the Cultural Center box office at 941.625.4175 x221 or visit http://www.celebritydirect.net or http://www.hitsvilleliveshow.com Date: Friday  December 16, 2011       Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Venue: Cultural Center of Charlotte County Address: 2280 Aaron Street Location: Port Charlotte Email: marketing@theculturalcenter.com Website: www.theculturalcenter.com/ WWE RAW Holiday Tour Organization: Germain Arena Come and watch John Cena, CM Punk, Alberto del Rio, The Miz, Kofi Kingston, Evan Borne, R-Truth, the Divas and more!!! $62.00 (1st 5 Rows Ringside), $47.00 (remaining Floor plus center Arena Bowl sections), $37.00 (select side and corner Arena Bowl sections), $27.00 (remaining corner Arena Bowl sections), and $17.00 (end Arena Bowl sections) Parking is $5. For more information please call 239-948-7825. Date: Friday  December 16, 2011       Time: 7:30 PM Venue: Germain Arena Address: 11000 Everblades Parkway Estero FL, 33928 Location: Estero Website: www.germainarena.com Messiah Organization: Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall Come and join us for the performance of Messiah at the Mann. The Symphonic Chorale of Southwest Florida will be performing. Tickets are $22 - $42. For more information please call 239-560-5695. Date: Friday  December 16, 2011       Time: 8:00 PM Venue: Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall Address: 8099 College Parkway " Fort Myers, FL 33919 Location: Fort Myers Bob Zany Organization: Off The Hook Comedy Club Zany's long, long resume is bursting with close to 1000 national television stints, including a coveted spot on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, as well as co-starring roles alongside Matt Damon in The Informant and David Spade in Joe Dirt. Date: Friday  December 16, 2011       Time: 9:00 PM Venue: Off The Hook Comedy Club Address: 599 S. Collier Blvd. Suite 218 Marco Island, FL 34145 Location: Marco Island Website: www.captbriens.com    Breakfast with Santa Organization: Fishermen's Village Bring a pack of wrapped cheese crackers or granola bar to be donated to the Yah Yah Girls Back Pack Program for Kids! Reservations required by calling 941 575-4544. Date: Saturday  December 17, 2011       Time: 9:00 AM Venue: Fishermen's Village Address: 1200 W. Retta Esplanade Location: Punta Gorda Website: www.fishville.com  Homemade for the Holidays Craft Show Organization: Cultural Center of Charlotte County The Cultural Center of Charlotte County is holding a special Homemade for the Holidays Handmade Craft Show on Saturday, December 17, 2011. The show will be held in the Conference Center and is free to the public. This is a wonderful opportunity to buy beautiful handmade gifts for the special people on your Holiday list that you won't find in the department stores. This is not a flea market; all items will be new and handmade. Vendor tables are available for $20 plus tax. If you are interested in participating, come by the Administration Office, or call us at 941-625-4175, ext. 230 to reserve you table space now! Date: Saturday  December 17, 2011       Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Venue: Cultural Center of Charlotte County Address: 2280 Aaron Street, Port Charlotte, FL 33952 Location: Port Charlotte Email: marketing@theculturalcenter.com Website: www.theculturalcenter.com/  White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 11:45am Lunch, 1:15pm Show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Saturday  December 17, 2011       Time: 11:45 AM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Website: www.broadwaypalm.com  Holiday House Organization: Uncommon Friends Foundation Join us in celebrating the holidays with a Southwest Florida Tradition. The Fort Myers Women's Community Club presents "Believe" as they decorate the historic Burroughs & Langford Kingston Homes for the holidays. December 9th -23rd, 5:00p.m.-9:00p.m., $5 children under 12 are free Date: Saturday  December 17, 2011       Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Venue: Burroughs Home & Gardens Address: 2505 First Street Location: Downtown Fort Myers Email: christine@burroughshome.com Website: www.burroughshome.com      White Christmas Organization: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater 5:30pm Dinner, 7:30pm show. The stage adaptation about two ex-GI's who have become famous entertainers. They put on a show to save the Vermont resort of their former commanding general. The 1954 film starred Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. The Irving Berlin score includes Blue Skies, Happy Holidays, Sisters and the title song White Christmas. For more information please call 239-278-4422 Date: Saturday  December 17, 2011       Time: 5:30 PM Venue: Broadway Palm Dinner Theater Address: 1380 Colonial Boulevard Location: Fort Myers Website: www.broadwaypalm.com    Holiday Arbor Lights Organization: Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium Come enjoy hot cocoa and cookies with Santa and then go for a nature walk where our trails are lit up with beautiful Christmas lights! Sure to be a family favorite! Date: Saturday  December 17, 2011       Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Venue: Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium Address: 3450 Ortiz Avenue Location: Fort Myers Email: melinda@calusanature.org Website: www.calusanature.org  Southwest Florida Symphony Holiday Pops - Timeless Treasures Organization: Southwest Florida Symphony James Stephenson - Guest Conductor Sara Dell'Omo - Soloist Date: Saturday  December 17, 2011       Time: 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM Venue: Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall Address: 8099 College Pkwy. Location: Fort Myers Email: info@swflso.org Website: www.swflso.org  Bob Zany Organization: Off The Hook Comedy Club Zany's long, long resume is bursting with close to 1000 national television stints, including a coveted spot on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, as well as co-starring roles alongside Matt Damon in The Informant and David Spade in Joe Dirt. Date: Saturday  December 17, 2011       Time: 10:00 PM Venue: Off The Hook Comedy Club Address: 599 S. Collier Blvd. Suite 218 Marco Island, FL 34145 Location: Marco Island Website: www.captbriens.com  Dog & Family Fun for a Cause: 4rd Annual Dog and Owner Olympics Organization: AAS von Tente Kennels Inc. Dog and Owner Olympics a new Dog Sport invention by Veit & Anke Bachmann Owner of AAS von Tente Kennels Inc. A combination of Agility, Rally and Schutzhund / BH Obedience with a Twist. Come, You're invited to a lot of FUN for all, both dogs and families. The best of all, at is for a Cause, to animals what need are help! The 2011 Dog and Owner Olympics will feature pet-related services from AAS Von Tente Kennels Inc., demonstrations from area dog trainings clubs, like the German Shepherd Schutzhund Club of SW- Florida Inc. and the Fort Myers Calusa Dog Agility Club. The Dog and Owner Olympics 2011 for a Cause, is an event in which $5 from all entry proceeds are donated to: PROJECT K.I.T.T. "K-9" s Involved in Targeting Terrorism Which, through donations, will send needed equipment and supplies to Military Working Dog (MWD) handlers who are stationed in Afghanistan, Iraq, and others of the world in the war on terrorism. Date: Sunday  December 18, 2011       Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 AM Address: 10911 Sharon Drive Location: North Fort Myers Email: Veitbachmann@aasvtk.com Website: www.aasvtk.com/     Holiday Arbor Lights Organization: Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium Come enjoy hot cocoa and cookies with Santa and then go for a nature walk where our trails are lit up with beautiful Christmas lights! Sure to be a family favorite! Date: Sunday  December 18, 2011       Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Venue: Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium Address: 3450 Ortiz Avenue Location: Fort Myers Email: melinda@calusanature.org Website: www.calusanature.org  Straight No Chaser Organization: City Of Palms Park Straight No Chaser fan? Look no further. Eventful is where you'll find all the latest and most up-to-date information on Straight No Chaser's 2011 tour dates. And the good news doesn't end there; Straight No Chaser's 2011 tour will be rolling into Fort Myers on December 18! Don't miss Straight No Chaser at City of Palms Park during their 2011 concert tour: snap up those Straight No Chaser tickets before they sell out! Want to spread the word on Straight No Chaser's upcoming concert in Fort Myers? Get your friends in on the action by clicking below on "I'm Going" or "I Wanna Go" to share event details on Facebook Date: Sunday  December 18, 2011       Time: 8:00 PM Venue: City Of Palms Park Address: 2201 Edison Ave. Location: Fort Myers Website: eventful.com    Million Dollar Quartet Organization: Naples Philharmonic Million Dollar Quartet is the smash hit musical inspired by the true story of the famed recording session where Sam Phillips, the Father of Rock 'n' Roll brought together icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first and only time. Featuring timeless hits including Blue Suede Shoes, Fever, That's All Right, Sixteen Tons, Great Balls of Fire, I Walk the Line, Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On, Who Do You Love?, Matchbox, Folsom Prison Blues, Hound Dog and more. For more information please call (239) 597-1900 Date: Tuesday  December 20, 2011       Time: 8:00 PM Venue: Naples Philharmonic Address: 5833 Pelican Bay Boulevard Naples, FL 34108 Location: Naples Website: www.thephil.org