ALERT SANIBEL-CAPTIVA ISLANDS, FORT MYERS AND FORT MYERS BEACH!!!!!!  VIP TO READ REGARDING YOUR BUSINESS ON SANIBEL ISLAND, FLORIDA AND CAPTIVA ISLAND, FLORIDA. THIS IS MUST READ! GROW YOUR BUSINESS NOW!

DID YOU KNOW?

We can help your business in many ways. Here are just a few reasons:

Do you have a website? Do you have a blog? Are you attached to all Social Media?  Did you know 400 countries and over 368 social networks are attached to our sites? Many try to do this all themselves, rather than focusing on your own business. We do not own a restaurant, a real estate agency, a retail store, etc. We focus on what we are good at. Shouldn’t you? Think about this for a moment:

What if we switched business’s for a day. Could we run yours? Can you run ours? The answer is obvious. NO!  If you have time to do all we offer, you’re not focusing your energy in the right area. Many try to do it themselves. They get off to a great running start and fizzle out. That is why we are so very important to you. The Internet is POWERFUL. Your looking at it right now! Imagine if more people were looking at your business.Ask yourself this:  Do you really have the time and knowledge to do all necessary to accomplish the goals of all this? If you do, your business is not as successful as it could or should be. FACT.

Here are just some of the projects we can do for you. :

WHAT WE OFFER:

SanibelCaptivaDaily.com was launched in 2008 to promote local business and events. Being extremely successful in that short amount of time, we were forced to open up the FortMyersdaily.com;  and the FortMyersBeachDaily.com with other communities on the horizon.

Our statistics are sound, as they originate in Google’s analytics, greatly effective web-based tools and state-of-the-art diagnostic tools. With our experience and know-how, we can track factual statistics and data about our company’s effectiveness as well as our clients. Our capabilities allow us to monitor visitors to our site and your postings in order to gear your message to your viewer’s desires. This optimizes your exposure to your specified target audience.

Our powerful “add this” button provides the option for the visitor to push the posting onto any of the social networks that they are involved with; launching it out to the world of web.

Unlike other traditional advertising, we average over 500,000 page views or ‘visits’ which are more beneficial –as opposed to ‘hits’ on a web site. A ‘hit’ would be the same as someone window shopping your business; where as a ‘visit’ equates to a customer actually entering your store to look around.

When we first started, we were all about direct traffic, meaning 100% of the people would have to type in for example: www.sanibelcaptivadaily.com because we were so fresh.

Today, with our tremendous growth spurt our numbers changed, 48% are coming to us via search engines, 28% coming to us via referring sites, and now 35 % are direct traffic.

We have accomplished this by utilizing Key Words and SEO in addition to websites throughout the world pulling our feeds and putting them on their own sites, an extremely powerful concept. We are also attached to 8 blog directories and over 368 social networks. In addition to that, our site is seen in every state and well over 400 countries. Each time we do a posting on a client; we “Key Word” and optimize our clients business. The more postings we do, the more powerful their business will become.

With all of this in mind, we literally have the power to catapult you like no other out to the world of Google.

Placing an ad on the Daily.com provides incredible results, a great click-through rate is 10%, and our clients average 50% to 99% depending on their positioning. The reason is our limited advertising space, we do this to ensure our clients are seen and not lost. In addition, we have learned, it is not only the ad but the POWER OF THE POSTING.

Our site has 8 pages and every time someone visits; they average clicking on at least 4 pages, and, they spend about 2.5 minutes on the site. Every day 52% of our visits are by first time viewers. Statistics show that over 80% of those new visitors become daily users.

People can’t miss us when we are working in the field. We are dressed from head to toe in our powerful colors: pink and green, branding and logo. When we are out taking photos, we hand out our signature Daily.com cards to every person we photograph. Our cards are so powerful that people like to hold on to them as if they were credit cards. The cards clearly state, where the photo will be seen within 24 to 48 hours.

Along with our packaging options, we offer a great number of extras to help your business succeed and give you the advantage in the competitive world of on-line marketing.

• Video Production:  A video can be utilized for your company’s web site, online marketing, and television.
• High Resolution Photography:  With High Resolution photos, you have the capability to use them for graphic designs, brochures, and large needed formats. Not only can we take your photos on land, we have the resources to take professional underwater and aerial photography.
• News Release: Creating a document customized for your target audience, locally, nationally or international by distributing them to the proper channels.
• Web Design:  It is extremely important to have a well-known presence on the web which the Daily.com can accommodate. We have the capability to design and create your online personality while optimizing it to full potential, with the best developers around.
• Social Media Workshop: As we have learned over the years, this will enhance your business as we work together to catapult you into the world of web. We enjoy training our clients how to do things for themselves when it comes to the ever-changing art of technology.
• Social Media Maintenance: You as a business owner may not have the time readily available to maintain your own social media presence. We offer services where we maintain your accounts/pages for you to free up more time within your daily responsibilities.

And much, much more such as:

• Mobile SMS Text Package
• Event planning
• Q R codes

Just to name a few….It is ever-changing daily.

If your business is not keeping up with the ever-changing trends of online media and you’re not using any if not all of the above, statistics show your competitors who are, already have an extremely substantial advantage.

We look forward to working with you and helping you grow your business through this fast and ever-changing world of technology.

IT’S TIME TO TAKE CONTROL. LITERALLY! CALL US TODAY SO WE CAN HELP YOU DESIGN A PACKAGE FOR YOUR BUSINESS TO SUCCEED.. 239-822-6593

ALERT SANIBEL-CAPTIVA ISLANDS, FORT MYERS AND FORT MYERS BEACH!!!!!!  VIP TO READ REGARDING YOUR BUSINESS ON SANIBEL ISLAND, FLORIDA AND CAPTIVA ISLAND, FLORIDA. THIS IS MUST READ! GROW YOUR BUSINESS NOW!

Lakes Regional Park to Host National Public Gardens Day on Friday, May 10

FORT MYERS, Fla.  Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation is hosting a day-long celebration in recognition of National Public Gardens Day on Friday, May 10, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free and open to the public, the event includes garden tours; birding tips and tours; guest speakers including well-known local author Charles Sobczak and cartoonist Doug McGregor; demonstrations by local garden clubs, nurseries and growers; children’s story-telling and activities and more. In addition, the culmination of the 2013 Botanic Gardens at Lakes Park Photography Contest will take place at noon with the presentation of the awards. The winning photos will be on display during the day. The day begins with a bird walk at 7:30 a.m. and a second bird walk at 9 a.m., starting in the gardens and continuing to the new wetlands area of the park.

Hourly tours of gardens include the succulent collection, ginger garden, the butterfly garden, heritage rose garden, vertical garden, water garden, bromeliad garden, the wedding gazebo and community garden. Continental breakfast will be available in the morning, as well as refreshments throughout the day. For a schedule of events, visit www.LakesPark.org.   “A variety of activities and programs will showcase the many gardens and other special features of Lakes Park,” said Susan Moore, active member of the Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation. “The day will emphasize the impact of Lakes Park on our local natural environment and all the benefits the park has to offer.” Lakes Park joins more than 500 public gardens in the nationwide celebration, and May 10 is officially designated as “National Public Gardens Day in Lakes Park” by the Lee County Board of County Commissioners. The event is being sponsored locally by the Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation, a 501C3 organization that enriches the park with many projects including an expansion of the Botanic Garden at Lakes Park. The foundation’s main focus is to assist Lee County Parks and Recreation in the continued implementation of the $30 million Lakes Park Master Plan, enhancing the park’s environmental aesthetics, wildlife habitat and recreational amenities for the community to enjoy for many years to come. For more information on the foundation, visit www.LakesPark.org.  The Lee County Bird Patrol is also assisting in this event. National sponsors include the American Public Gardens Association, Better Homes and Gardens Magazine, and Rain Bird Irrigation. Free Parking is available by downloading a voucher at www.LakesPark.org. Lakes Regional Park is located at 7330 Gladiolus Drive between US 41 and Summerlin Dr. For more information contact Marsha Asp, Vice President of Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation, at 239-851-6434.

Starfish Grille Sanibel Island, Fl Restaurant offers Sanibel Island Arts, Entertainment, Music and Fine Wines. Sanibel Island, Fl Starfish Grille offers a great Sanibel Seafood Grille in a Snazzy way. A wonderful Fish House with Global Fusion!

TONIGHT! 6-9 FREE WINE TASTING OF ARGENTINA ALONG WITH GREAT FOOD SPECIALS.

Starfish Grille Sanibel Island, Fl Restaurant offers Sanibel Island Arts, Entertainment, Music and Fine Wines. Sanibel Island, Fl Starfish Grille offers a great Sanibel Seafood Grille in a Snazzy way. A wonderful Fish House with Global Fusion!

IT WAS A BLAST……..GET THERE EARLY. SEE YOU THEN http://www.starfishgrillesanibel.com/

 SEE YOU TONIGHT! (TELL THEM THE DAILY SENT YOU AND YOUR TOLL WILL BE REIMBURSED OFF YOUR TAB) GET TO KNOW THE STAFF, THEY ARE WONDERFUL!

CLICK BELOW TO SEE LAST WEEKS WINE TASTING. 

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FORT MYERS FLORIDA OFFER SOME BEAUTIFUL BIRDS

FORT MYERS FLORIDA TATTOO CONVENTION 2013 PICTURES

WELL, WE KNOW ABOUT TATTOOS

AND BIG ONES TOO!

AND PIERCINGS

BUT THINGS GOT A LITTLE CRAZY WHILE WE COVERED THIS EVENT……

WOW!

HOLD ON….THIS WAS WILD!!!! SOME SUPER COOL AND BEAUTIFUL ARTIST WORK WAS EVERYWHERE!

ALONG WITH GREAT TALENT!

CLICK BELOW TO SEE ALL THE PICTURES OF THIS EVENT. PHOTO CREDIT: KEVIN STAHL

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GREEK FEST FORT MYERS FLORIDA 2013 PICTURES

GREAT FOOD!

GREAT ENTERTAINMENT!

GREAT DRINKS!

FUN FOR ALL: CLICK BELOW TO SEE ALL THE GREAT PICTURES OF GREEK FEST FORT MYERS FLORIDA 2013 (PHOTO CREDIT: KEVIN STAHL)

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ALL I CAN SAY IS: OKAY DOKY………LOL

I THINK KEVIN FELL IN LOVE WITH ANOTHER WOMEN THAT HAPPENS TO BE NOT REAL! lol

Fort Myers/Fort Myers Beach Florida: Fort Myers Medieval Festival Is Something To Go Check Out.

Fort Myers Medieval Festival is a very cool thing to go see.

Fort Myers/Fort Myers Beach Florida: Fort Myers Medieval Festival is something to go check out.

It will be going on this weekend and next weekend at Lettuce Lake Park, Fort Myers, Florida.

Be sure to stop by and see your knight in shining armor.

 http://www.medieval-faire.org/  Click below for more pictures. (Photo Credit: Kevin Stahl)

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Fort Myers/ Fort Myers Beach: Peace, Love And Happiness To All.

And to all a great day.

THE DANCING SHOE IN FORT MYERS FOR ALL YOUR DANCING SUPPLIES

GREAT PLACE FOR ALL YOUR DANCING NEEDS. OWNER SUSIE IS WONDERFUL TO WORK WITH. FOR MORE INFO CALL: 239-939-2124.

CLICK BELOW TO SEE SOME SILLY PICTURES OF US. EGADS…(TAKING ONE FOR THE TEAM FOR SURE)..AND LOL

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SMILE FOR THE CAMERA AND SEND YOU PICTURES IN………….

SEND TO SANDYKOSTICK@GMAIL.COM IN A JPG FORM THAT DOES NOT NEED TO BE OPENED. THANKS.

ARE YOU READY FOR CHRISTMAS? KATHRYN KUNKLER IS! Thank you Nikolaws Ernest for sending us this super fun Holiday picture.

ARE YOU READY FOR CHRISTMAS? KATHRYN KUNKLER IS!\photo credit Nikolaws Ernest

Handyman – Home Repair – Home Maintenance in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach , FL. ARE YOU READY FOR YOU’RE HOLIDAY DECORATIONS?

ARE YOU READY FOR YOU’RE HOLIDAY DECORATIONS? Are you wanting this done to your home, resort or boat?

(HURRY, IT’ S GETTING BUSY!!) BEFORE AND AFTER. bathrooms, ::::.pressure washing….EGADS..WHAT A DIFFERENCE:  CALL NOW!!! 239-321-3109 USE PROMO CODE ” DAILY” BY NOVEMBER 15TH TO GET 10 % OFF. Check out more:

If you are looking for a reliable  Handyman – Home Repair – Home Maintenance in Handyman – Home Repair – Home Maintenance in Fort Myers and Fort Myers Beach , FL. ARE YOU READY FOR YOU’RE HOLIDAY DECORATIONS?  , FL. Then be sure to look up Kevin Joe Stahl. “DO IT ALL STAHL. ” Great reputation and great references Well known and well respected professionally.Check out the before and after pictures…go to https://www.facebook.com/KevinHandyManStahl?fref=ts to see his work and learn more.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR THE 26th ANNUAL AMERICAN SAND SCULPTING CHAMPIONSHIP, NOVEMBER 16TH – 25TH

FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. Coming this fall, master sand sculptors from around the world are scheduled to hit the beach to work with over 1,000 tons of sand to create 30 unbelievable works of sand sculpture art, all under the theme of “Winter Wonderland”. This event is the 26th Annual American Sand Sculpting Championship, the largest sand sculpting competition in Florida, scheduled for November 16th – 25th.

This much-anticipated event is presented and managed this year by local organizations; Big C Events, Pinchers Crab Shack, the Holiday Inn Fort Myers Beach and The Sand Lovers, all who are working in partnership with the Greater Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce.

Southwest Florida residents and visitors alike will have a remarkable opportunity to see a collection of some of the world’s top sand sculptors create master sculptures and compete for the title of American champion. The singles competitions will take place the first week, followed by the doubles competition in week two.

Guests of all ages are invited to attend daily or at anytime from the 16th until the 25th. In addition to watching the sculptors compete, there will be various interactive activities for all ages to participate in during the event.

In addition to the scheduled events, this year from the 23rd to the 25th will be the return of a long-standing tradition; the Advanced Amateur Florida State Championships. This competition is open to amateur sculptors who have never competed at the master level and are not a professional and sculptor. For details visit: http://fmbsandsculpting.com/states.

Another exciting event is the Amateur Competition taking place on Sunday, November 18th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Amateur competition is a mixed team/solo event (categories for children and adults) intended as a venue for beginning or advanced amateurs and is open to all levels except masters and professionals. For more details visit: http://fmbsandsculpting.com/amateur.

This year guests have a chance to experience an exciting first-time event, the Junkanoo Sand Sculpting Luau! This event is being held on opening night, Friday, November 16th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Junkanoo on the Beach, located at 4030 Estero Blvd. Tickets are available for $30 per person and includes parking, dinner buffet and live entertainment. For tickets, please call Junkanoo on the Beach directly at (239) 463-2600 or contact the Greater Fort Myers Beach Area Chamber of Commerce at (239) 454-7500.

The main event will be open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Discounted tickets are on sale now in advance of the event for $4 (adults and children 5 and older, children 4 and under are FREE) at any Pinchers Crab Shacks, Texas Tony’s BBQ and the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce.

Also, participating 7-11 locations will be selling discounted tickets in advance for $4 and it includes a $20 off discount on a Key West Express round trip ticket and $10 off a food and beverage purchase at the Seminole Casino of Immokalee. All tickets purchased at the event are $5 for adults and children 5 and older. Children 4 and under are FREE.

For a full schedule of the daily events and information, please visit the event site at http:// http://fmbsandsculpting.com/ or the event’s Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/SandSculptingFestival.

LOCATION & TRANSPORTATION

The 26th Annual American Sand Sculpting Competition will be at the Holiday Inn located at 6890 Estero Boulevard on Fort Myers Beach. Attendees are encouraged to arrive from the south in order to avoid traffic congestion. Event directors have coordinated a revolving bus system to transport attendees from the Lover’s Key parking area to the site. Parking is also available in the Publix shopping center at Bonita Beach Road and U.S. 41 where the Lee County beach “Trollee” will pick up attendees.

PLEASE NOTE: Interviews with master sculptors available upon request. Images of previous sculptures and events are also available upon request.

When is the last time you spent downtown Fort Myers? Lots to do and see………

Fort Myers/Fort Myers Beach: Good Morning Fort Myers/Fort Myers Beach.

I hope you all have a wonderful day with Fort Myers/Fort Myers Beach.

Fort Myers Florida: If You Haven’t Been Down Town Fort Myers Florida, You Really Need Too.

Down Town Fort Myers Florida has a lot to offer you.

So what are you waiting for? Come to Down Town Fort Myers Florida and see for yourself.

26th ANNUAL AMERICAN SAND SCULPTING CHAMPIONSHIP DATES ANNOUNCED – NOV. 16-25, 2012

Officially Largest Sand Sculpting Event In The State, New Partnerships Announced

FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. The American Sand Sculpting Championship is returning soon and will be better than ever! For ten days (November 16 – 25) master sand sculptors will hit Fort Myers Beach forming the largest sand sculpting event in the state! Perpetually coordinated by the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce, the 26th annual event will be managed by Big C Events, Pinchers Crab Shack, the Holiday Inn Fort Myers Beach and The Sand Lovers, all of which have been involved in other successful sand sculpting events including hosting the World Championships of Sand Sculpting last year. ”The partnership with the Chamber, the Holiday Inn Fort Myers Beach, and Pincher’s Crab Shack is a winning combination for our beach community,” said Bud Nocera, President of the Greater Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce. “We invite our beach businesses to join in with their own events to make this truly an island-wide festival.” “We’re really excited about this collaboration,” commented Jason Camp of Big C Events / Pinchers Crab Shack. “We have a passion for the beach, sand sculpting and family friendly events. We look forward to a fun and successful ten days.” Tourists and residents alike will have the rare opportunity to see a collection of some of the world’s very best sand sculptors create amazing sand sculptures. Featuring 30 sculptors hailing from several different countries, the singles will compete the first week, followed by the doubles. “As local Master Sand Sculptors we are honored to be part of this team,” commented Bill Knight of The Sand Lovers. “The positive local support and newly formed partnerships make the event a success even before it opens.” The American Sand Sculpting Championship was recognized as a top 20 event of the entire southeastern United States by the Southeastern Tourism Society and featured not only world class sculptors, but more than 60 vendors in the Sand Vendor Village, sponsored by Target. “We are so pleased to see the support behind this year’s American Sand Sculpting Championship event,” commented Fort Myers Beach Mayor, Larry Kiker. “This is a momentous event for our town every year and we’re looking forward to a spectacular time on the beach. Guests are welcome to attend daily or at anytime from the 16th until the 25th. There will be many interactive activities for guests to partake in including: 30 Sand Sculptures – Viewing 30 sand sculptures, over 1000 tons of sand will be sculpted, including one huge 350 ton sand sculpture Quick Sand Speed Sculpting -Watch two sculptors face off in a 10 minute sculpt off. They sculpt a subject the audience chooses and the audience chooses the winner. Sand Sculpting Demonstrations and Lessons –Learn the Tricks of the Master Sculptors.

Flying Colors – Watch world renowned Artist and Master Sand Sculptor

“John Gowdy” create a painting on a spinning canvas, timed to music in less than 10 minutes.

Live Chain Saw Art – With Australian Artist, Andy Hancock. Watch Andy create works of art from logs in a few minutes with only a chainsaw.

Amateur Contest – Open to anyone and all levels of sculptors. Try your hand at sand sculpting. State Championships – After four years, this year we are bringing back a long-standing tradition “The State Championships”. This is a competition where an advanced amateur sand sculptor can prove their abilities and get one step closer to being accepted as a Master Sculptor. Photo Opportunity Sculptures – Custom designed sculptures, step into the sculpture and have your photo taken, “think Christmas cards”.

Kids Activity Area – Featuring Bounce Houses, Rock Climbing Wall, Bungee Jump and much more…

Sand Vendor Village – Over 50 vendors from around the country–offering a great selection of food, beverages, specialty retail and arts & crafts. Tickets are just $5 for adults and children 5 and older, 4 and under are free. For more information, please visit http://sandsculptingfestival.com/ or the event’s Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/SandSculptingFestival#!/events/193913987397285/

LOCATION & TRANSPORTATION The 26th Annual American Sand Sculpting Competition will be at the Holiday Inn located at 6890 Estero Boulevard on Fort Myers Beach. Attendees are encouraged to arrive from the south in order to avoid traffic congestion. Event directors have coordinated a revolving bus system to transport attendees from the Lover’s Key parking area to the site. Parking is also available in the Publix Shopping Center at Bonita Beach Road and U.S. 41 where the Lee County beach “Trollee” will pick up attendees. PLEASE NOTE: Interviews with master sculptors available upon request. Images of previous sculptures and events are also available upon request.

Yes that would be us………..lol

Who loves the silly things you can do on Fort Myers Beach Florida? Only a grown dude can get away with this. LOL

Fort Myers Presents Metal Mayham and Legends of  Rock:     Quiet Riot and Hear Kitty, A-200, 10,000 Views, PUSH, Great White, Quiet Riot, and Skid Row and many more. Pictures from the www.fortmyersdaily.com  Great job by Rob Lyons and 94.5 the Arrow. 

AS WE SAY: ROCK ON . COM !

Enjoy! we did. They all not only looked great, but sounded amazing.  We have super cool pics on and off stage, ya know (behind the scenes)  Everyone was soooo cool at this concert. All the bands, people, and yes even the groupies that still flash there tata’s, ( we can’t put those up, lol ) TRUE ROCK!  Video to come, stay tuned. LOVE YOU GUYS! Sandy K and all the staff at the daily. ( Photo Credit: Kevin Stahl)

Fort Myers Beach Shells:There Are Many Kinds Of Windows To look Through And it Doesn’t Always Have To Be Glass

Get closer and look through this window.

Beautiful view

Fort Myers Beach Shells:There Are Many Kinds Of Windows To look Through And it Doesn’t Always Have To Be Glass

Visit Fort Myers BeachVisit Fort Myers Beach. While the rest of the country is cold, we are loving the weather here on Fort Myers Beach. When you Visit Fort Myers Beach you will enjoy a beautiful vacation with wonderful things to do like:  Fort Myers Beach Restaurants, Fort Myers Beach Hotels, and Fort Myers Beach Fishing Charters and much more.

Fort Myers Beach, FL | Official Visitor Info | Chamber of Commerce

Fort Myers Beach, FL | Official Visitor Info | Chamber of Commerce 

Start Planning Your Fort Myers Beach Vacation Here! This bird got the word: He found out where to stay, where to play and what to do on Fort Myers Beach.

 Fort Myers Beach Chamber would like to extend a warm, sunny welcome to our little corner of paradise Fort Myers Beach and to the Official Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce website, where you can plan your trip to Ft Myers Beach, with confidence.

just click here to see more: http://fortmyersbeachchamber.org/

A Really Beautiful Bird Around Southwest Florida.

 Pileated woodpeckers, the largest woodpeckers in North America, hammer their heads into trees with a force of 15 mph, 20 times a second. So, how do their heads not turn to mush?

Thick muscles, sponge-like bones, and a third eyelid keep bird brains intact. For more information, go to: http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/pileated_woodpecker/id/nc

Welcome to the Edison & Ford Winter Estates

 This is a MUST SEE IN FORT MYERS

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It Only Takes A Spark To Keep The Fire Burning. Warmth comes from having someone in your heart.

AND OH, WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD……….

Holiday Last minute gifts…….If you are in a rush this can help. Check it out: http://www.fortmyersdaily.com/store/

Flowers blooming all over SWF………..(photo credit: Kevin Stahl)

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WINNER OF 25th ANNUAL
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP OF
SAND SCULPTING ANNOUNCED!

Event Still Ongoing Through November 27th

 The World Championship of Sand Sculpting is underway and the winners for this solo division competition have been announced!

PHOTOS ATTACHED OF EACH, ADDITIONAL HIGH-RES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

The Sculptor’s Choice Award is one of the most prized, as it’s an award given by the sculptor’s peers. It signifies distinct creativity and skill demonstration.

Charlie Beaulieu, event director and a World Championship winner twelve times over, commented “This is the best venue the World Championship event has ever been held at. The sculptures are amazing which makes the judging very difficult.”

This is the first time the World Championship of Sand Sculpting event has ever been held in Florida. From today until the 27th, master sculptors will be on-site to create additional exhibition art, and answer questions about the masterpieces.. Guests will also enjoy a myriad of other activities including live music daily.

Event hours are as follows: Monday-Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For a more detailed schedule of activities and event information, please visit: http://www.worldchampionshipofsandsculpting.com/fmb/world_championship_of_sand_sculpting_ft_myers_beach_event_schedule.htm

Today, Tuesday, November 22nd, The Beach Arts Cooperative will host The Orpheus Players’ performance of an original play, “Sisters of the Sea” on a stage set in the sand behind the Holiday Inn. The opening reception starts at 6:00 p.m. followed by the performance at 7:00 p.m. $30 ticket price includes two drinks. For ticket information, please call 239-463-4461 or visit: http://www.beachartscooperative.org/

Discounted World Championship of Sand Sculpting event tickets are available for purchase at Costco in Fort Myers, Naples or Estero, any 7-11 store in Lee or Collier County and all Pinchers Crab Shack locations while supplies last.

Tickets at the event are just $6 for adults, $5 for children 5 to 17 years old and those 4 and under are free. For more information on the event, please visit: http://www.worldchampionshipofsandsculpting.com.

A designated portion of the event proceeds will be donated to the “Eliminate Project” sponsored by Kiwanis International and UNICEF. For specific details about this cause, please visit: http://sites.kiwanis.org/Kiwanis/en/theELIMINATEproject/home.aspx.

LOCATION & TRANSPORTATION
The World Championship of Sand Sculpting will be held at the Holiday Inn located at 6890 Estero Boulevard on Fort Myers beach. Attendees are encouraged to arrive from the south in order to avoid traffic congestion. Event directors have coordinated a revolving bus system to transport attendees from the Lover’s Key parking area to the site. Parking is also available in the Publix shopping center at Bonita Beach Road and U.S. 41 where the Lee County beach “Trollee” will pick up attendees. CLICK BELOW TO SEE MORE: 

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SANIBEL MASTERS ART FESTIVAL FRIDAY AND SATURDAY WITH KATIE GARDENIA AND MANY OTHER GREATS

“Sanibel Turtle Garden,” an acrylic on wood painting by artist Teri Causey, has been selected as the poster image for the Annual Sanibel Masters Art Festival, which will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on FRIDAY Nov. 25 and SATURDAY the 26th at the Sanibel Community House. The festival features 75 terrific artists. The proceeds from the event benefit the programs at the Sanibel Community House and BIG ARTS, a home for all the arts.  Admission is free, but donations are accepted at the gates. As a special treat, the BIG ARTS Chorus will perform a preview of their holiday concert at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 26.  For more information, visit boulderbrookproductions.net or facebook.com/boulderbrookart.

Regarding this years poster art: The festival hs used a similar type of underwater sea turtle image for the past three years, and this year when we saw the vibrant colors of Teri’s painting, we immediately selected it. The color palette of the painting offered us a chance to freshen up the design. The new colors are so varied from the past that it allowed us to create a similar poster but something that really looks new and fresh. Sanibel Island has a fondness for turtles and we like to keep the poster for this event from changing too much, so that it is recognizable each year.  Many guests have started a Sanibel Masters Art Festival poster collection. Signed posters will be available for the first 50 visitors to Teri’s booth.

ALSO CHECK OUT THIS EXCITING NEWS:

She’s a baker, artist and former Bubble Room restaurant owner. And, now she’s an author.

Katie Gardenia, one of the most prominent Sanibel-Captiva area residents, recently released “A Bubble Moment,” a combination cookbook and coffee table book sure to delight residents and visitors to the area. She will sign her book, and sell her fabric sculpture and fiber art pieces, during the Sanibel Masters Art Festival being held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 25 and 26 at the Sanibel Community House.

For years, Gardenia owned the whimsical Bubble Room restaurant on Captiva Island. It was famous for serving the biggest slices of homemade cake, with wedges that looked as if they were designed for an art gallery. In her book, she shares al her recipes including red velvet cake, bubble bread, and orange crunch cake. But, she emphasizes, it’s more than a cookbook. The four-color, hardcover, 117-page book chronicles the history of the Bubble Room building, the people who came in and out of its door, the people who helped create it, long and tall stories, local color, her original recipes, old photos, and page after page of handmade collages. As the reader travels through the story, they will come upon handmade paper pages that have “secret envelopes” that were artfully hand stamped, chalk colored, that are waiting unveil more information.

Hanging out on Fort Myers

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Lakes Park announces winners of “Scarecrows in the Park” celebrity-judged contest,
invites the public to vote and help determine winners

FORT MYERS, Fla. (Oct. 20, 2011) – Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation announces the  winners of the “Scarecrows in the Park” contest chosen by local celebrity judges during the “Scarecrows in the Park” kick-off event held on Friday, Oct. 14. The winners were selected from three categories: Gulf Coast Orthodontics’ scarecrow “Scared Straight” was selected “Most Creative,” the award for “Best Company Correlation” was given to Coral Veterinary Clinic for their scarecrow “Walking the Doc’s,” and Girl Scout Troop 858, sponsored by Miller, Helms & Folk, swept the “Best Youth-Created Entry” with “Samoa-crow.”  Lakes Park invites the public to cast their votes to help determine the grand winners. The contest is part of the annual Lakes Park “Fall Festival and Halloween Extravaganza,” which continues through Halloween, Oct. 31. Celebrity judges and festival attendees vote for their favorite scarecrow to determine the winners.

“The contest and festival are off to such a great start,” says Marsha Asp, chairperson for the Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation. “During our opening weekend, more than 1200 attendees cast their votes for their favorite scarecrow. That exceeds our vote total for the entire two weeks last year! We can hardly wait for next weekend.”

In addition to “Scarecrows in the Park,” the festival includes a pumpkin patch, bounce houses, hayrides, and a Halloween Express train.

The Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable corporation established in 2004 by a group of Lee County business leaders and dedicated citizens who recognize Lakes Park as an extremely important green area in Lee County. The foundation’s main focus is to assist Lee County Parks and Recreation in the continued implementation of the $30 million Lakes Park Master Plan, enhancing the park’s environmental aesthetics, wildlife habitat and recreational amenities for the community to enjoy for many years to come. Currently, the Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation is focusing its fundraising on creating a botanical garden at Lakes Park.  For more information on the foundation, visit www.LakesParkEnrichmentFoundation.org.

FORT MYERS, FL – Florida Gulf Coast University invites aspiring writers to attend the Sanibel Island Writers Conference, Thursday, Nov. 3 through Sunday, Nov. 6 at BIG Arts and The Sanibel Island Public Library.  Participants can attend a variety of workshops, panels, lectures and readings presented by celebrated writers and teachers. Registration is now open.

John Sayles, Henry Rollins, Dan Bern and John K. Samson will headline the conference.

Veteran filmmaker and novelist Sayles will deliver the keynote address Saturday, Nov. 5. Sayles’s most recent novel is the critically acclaimed “A Moment in the Sun” (2011, McSweeney’s). The address will begin at 6 p.m. in Schein Hall at BIG Arts, 900 Dunlop Road, and is open to the general public once all the registered conference attendees have been seated.  Author Steve Almond (“Candyfreak,” “God Bless America”) will open.

Henry Rollins brings “An Evening of Storytelling” to the conference at 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4 in Schein Hall at BIG Arts.

Registered conference attendees and FGCU students gain immediate admission. Tickets for the general public to Rollins’ event are free, but must be reserved in advance.  To reserve tickets, visithttp://henryrollinssanibel.eventbrite.com/.  Rollins hosts a weekly radio show on L.A.’s renowned NPR affiliate KCRW, is a regular contributor to VanityFair.com with his “Straight Talk Espresso” blog and recently joined forces with National Geographic as host of a series of television specials.

On Thursday, Nov. 3, acclaimed singer-songwriters Bern and Samson will perform solo concerts at 6 p.m. in Schein Hall.

Bern has released over a dozen albums, including the critically acclaimed “Fifty Eggs,” “New American Language,” and the children’s album “2 Feet Tall.”  Bern’s songwriting skills were used in the films “Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story,” and “Get Him to the Greek.”

Samson is the singer and songwriter for The Weakerthans, an acclaimed Canadian rock band that has released five CDs, including the award-winning “Reconstruction Site” (2004) and “Reunion Tour” (2008). Samson’s poetry and prose have appeared in Matrix Magazine, Geist, The Believer, and Post-Prairie—an Anthology of New Poetry. He lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where he’s also the managing editor and co-founder of a small publishing house, ARP (Arbeiter Ring Publishing).

The concert is open to the general public once all the registered conference attendees have been seated.

In addition to the artists mentioned above, the conference offers workshops, presentations, panels and readings from the following authors, editors and literary agents:

Lynne Barrett (fiction/editor), Nickole Brown (poetry/editor/publicist), Kevin Canty (fiction), Ron Currie Jr. (fiction), John Dufresne (fiction), Carmen Edington (editor), William Giraldi (fiction/editor), Barbara Hamby (poetry), John Hoppenthaler (poetry), Christopher Joyce (NPR-writing for radio), David Kirby (poetry), Christopher Phillips (Socrates Cafe), Robert Root (creative nonfiction/editor), Christopher Schelling (literary agent),  Laurel Snyder (YA lit), Darin Strauss (memoir), Jay Wexler (creative nonfiction), Thomas Williams (novella/editor), Tom Zoellner (investigative journalism).

For a complete schedule or to register visit www.fgcu.edu/siwc. Contact Tom DeMarchi at tdemarch@fgcu.edu or (239) 590-7421.

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Art Walk kicks off Labor Day weekend in the Fort Myers River District

Art Walk will jump start an active Labor Day weekend in downtown Fort Myers.

The next monthly Art Walk will be held Friday, Sept. 2 with local art galleries and art stops featuring new exhibits and shows.

Then on Sunday, Sept. 4, the River District Alliance will host a Labor Day Weekend Block Party featuring live music on three stages. Those festivities begin at 6 p.m.

The monthly Art Walk runs from 6 to 10 p.m. on the first Friday of every month. The September Art Walk will include more than a dozen art galleries and art stops and will include new art shows, live music, and the traditional after party.

In October, Art Walk will celebrate its third anniversary. This monthly cultural event draws between 1,500 and 2,500 people each month.

Some highlights of the Friday, Sept. 2 Art Walk:

- Art of the Olympians: Table Tennis opening reception and exhibition match featuring former US Open & Florida State Champion Marvelous Marvin Leff.  Also, “21” featuring original works by 21 international Olympian artists. Vocalists Callie Atkinson, Sarah Daigle, and Jordan Pilant, winners of the 2011 Young Artists Awards competition, perform from 7-9 p.m.

- Art League of Fort Myers: Opening reception for Time of Transition exhibit.

- Arts for ACT Gallery: Opening reception for new show featuring artists Philip Heubeck, Sam Brough, and Annie St. Martin.

- Coloring The World: Opening reception for visiting featured artist Scott Guelcher.

- daas Gallery: Opening reception for Unfair: The Art of Alex Heria.

- Gallery Showcase and Information Center at IberiaBank (Bayview Court at First Street). Art Walk T-shirts are available at this location as well as buttons, maps and brochures.

- The Franklin Shops: Artwork on display by one of America’s greatest wildlife illustrators, John James Audubon.

- HOWL Gallery: Opening reception for a new exhibit featuring the fine art of Ohio based rock concert poster icon Derek Hess.

- In One Instant: Opening of Snap Flash Photo: Photography Portfolio of David Dack Maki.

- Leoma Lovegrove: “America America” showcases Lovegrove’s patriotic spirit and brilliant colors. Percentage of sales benefits local NYPD 10/13 in tribute to the fallen of the 9-11 attacks on America ten years ago.

- Sidney & Berne Dais Art Center: Opening for master artist Stacie Krupa’s “Sassy Spicy Soulmates – Seahorses, Sea Turtles & Salty, Socialite Friends.”

- Space 39 Gallery:  Group art show.

- Syzygy Gallery: Spiritual and religious art by Christina Jarmolinski.

Nearly 50 participants make Art Walk successful each month and they include the Alliance for the Arts, AmeriDry, Art League of Fort Myers, Art of the Olympians, Arts for ACT Gallery and Boutique, Browtopia, Cigar Bar, Coloring The World, Cool Hand Luc’s, daas Gallery, Downtown House of Pizza, Enjewel, First United Methodist Church, Florida Repertory Theatre, Fort Myers Redevelopment Agency, The Franklin Shops, French Connection Cafe, Green-n-Groovy Gallery & Boutique, Hampton Inn & Suites, Happenings A&E Magazine, Hideaway Sports Bar, Hotel Indigo, HOWL Gallery/Tattoo, Ichiban Japanese & Chinese Restaurant, IberiaBank, In One Instant Gallery of Photography, Legacy Harbour Hotel & Suites, Leoma Lovegrove, Mad Hatter Galleries, Main Street Antiques, Market America Realty & Investments, Morgan House Restaurant, The Oasis Luxury Condos, Potomac Bead Company, Red Door Studio, Red Rock Saloon, Renaissance Creativity Center, River District Alliance, Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, Select Transportation, Space 39 Gallery, Spirits of Bacchus, Syzygy Gallery, Twisted Vine Bistro, United Café, Bar & Bistro, The Veranda Restaurant, What’s Up Dogs?, Yanos Restaurant, and the Young Artists Awards Program.

Held the first Friday of every month from 6 to 10 p.m., Art Walk features local and national artwork in the downtown art galleries and several art stops in the Fort Myers River District. The evening culminates with an after party at 10 p.m. The September after party will be held at Spirits of Bacchus on Hendry Street.

Another highlight of the very popular evening is the weekly Friday Night Live free concert series which takes place in the Patio de Leon. Sista Sanjah (reggae) will perform from 6 to 9 p.m.

Always a collector’s item, new Art Walk buttons will be available at galleries that night. Art Walk has its own T-shirt (in red or black). Shirts are available for a $12 donation at the IberiaBank gallery showcase during Art Walk.

A free shuttle service courtesy of Select Transportation Inc., with stops planned near the art venues, and parking at the Harborside Event Center will be available for Art Walk patrons. Shuttle stops include The Oasis Condominiums, Art of the Olympians, and the Patio de Leon entrance at First Street.

In October, look for the return of the seasonal Saturday Art Fair along the sidewalks of downtown. This will be the third year for the monthly Saturday Art Fair which runs October through April. This year, the art fair is a juried event. To find out more about the Saturday Art Fair, contact Claudia Goode at 239-337-5050.

A map of Art Walk, transportation, and parking will be distributed by participating galleries. Art Walk is a rain or shine event. Art Walk was started by a group of art galleries and art enthusiasts and debuted in October of 2008. Art Walk is a River District Alliance event. For more information on Art Walk, participating galleries and links to gallery websites, visit www.fortmyersartwalk.com.

MUSIC WALK Celebrates 1 Year Anniversary

The monthly Music Walk returns August 20th to the downtown Fort Myers River District for its 1 Year Anniversary. Music Walk started in August of 2010 and was modeled after the extremely successful Fort Myers Art Walk. Over a dozen restaurants, bars, and galleries became Music Walk venues, and a massive outpouring of local musicians continue to perform month after month. The interest and attendance in the event has only grown since the first Music Walk in August of 2010, with the off-season summer months being just as busy as the traditional in-season months.

Music Walk founder and chairman of the event, Andy Howl, who co-owns HOWL Gallery/Tattoo, attributes the success of the event to the area’s need for more monthly entertainment options and a untapped grass roots music culture. “I think Fort Myers has the potential to be a magnet for art and music, it just takes the right timing and mixture of people to make it happen. Downtown Fort Myers has everything to be a state-wide destination for art and music.”

The first 400 attendants of the 1 Year Anniversary on August 20th will be able to get a free Music Walk guitar pick manufactured by Clayton Guitar Picks. Guitar picks will be evenly distributed among the venues. Additionally, a limited edition 1 Year Anniversary button will also be available at the venues. Blue Music Walk balloons will decorate the historic downtown streets. Visit the Music Walk website for a list of venues. www.fortmyersmusicwalk.com

The 3rd Saturday event features live music at over a dozen venues, including restaurants, galleries, and bars, plus street performers all over the beautiful downtown streets. Music Walk venues showcase a variety of music, from punk, rockabilly, indie, reggae, and folk, to piano, steel drums, and more. The event is the largest of its kind regionally. Music Walk is an all ages event that starts at 7 p.m. and goes until 10 p.m. or close at many venues. Free parking available.

Music Walk partners and venues include: HOWL Gallery/Tattoo, Spirits of Bacchus, Space 39, Red Rock Saloon, United Cafe, French Connection Cafe, Enjewel, Happenings Magazine, Hotel Indigo, Twisted Vine Bistro, Indigo Room, Harborside Event Center, Coloring The World, City Tavern, Downtown House of Pizza, World Famous Cigar Bar, Hideaway Sports Bar, Morgan House, The Veranda Restaurant, Market America Realty, Syzygy Gallery, Main Street Antiques, WinkNews6, Classic Rock 94.5, Cool Hand Luc’s, and AmeriDry.

Each month brings more people to Music Walk, with an estimated 4,000 attendees to the July event. Music Walk is organized by Andy Howl with help from Dee Hohimer, Suzy Lewis, and Jamie Kuser of Happenings Magazine.  Music Walk is a River District Alliance event. The River District Alliance is a non-profit organization that manages events and unifies business owners in the Fort Myers River District.