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Of Special Note (3/12/14)

By Staff | Mar 12, 2014

Hartner selected as Citizen of the Year

The Lee County Board of County Commissioners selected Dr. Judith Hartner as the recipient of the Paulette Burton Citizen of the Year Award for 2013.

The award is granted to the citizen who has provided outstanding civic contributions to the Lee County government.

Hartner is director of the Florida Department of Health in Lee County. A 22-year veteran leader of the department, she is credited with spurring the development of programs outside of public health through partnerships, a positive attitude and collaboration between the community and government.

Commissioners chose her from a field of eight nominees. The finalists included Rose Garcia and Ismael Hernandez.

The Burton Citizen of the Year award was created in 1991 in honor of Burton, who died in an auto accident. A long time Sanibel resident and government watchdog, she spent many years serving as a voice of the people to the commission, as well as playing an active role in Sanibel politics.

Model railroad show set

The Scale Rails Spring Train Show will be held March 15-16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Araba Shrine Temple, at 2010 Hanson St., Fort Myers.

Hosted by the Scale Rails of Southwest Florida, it will feature dealers and collectors selling trains and accessories.

Admission is $7 for adults and $2 for teens; children under 12 and service personnel in uniform are free.

For information, call Jim Edmier at (239)?731-0520.

Lehigh Concert Band to perform two concerts

The Lehigh Concert Band will perform two St. Patrick’s Day concerts on March 16 at 3 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, at 705 Leeland Heights Blvd., and on March 20 at 6:30 p.m. at the Lehigh Spring Festival on Homestead Road.

The events are free, though donations are accepted.

The concerts will feature selections like “O Danny Boy,” “Blue Tango” and “Irish Medley,” as well as an audience sing-a-long of two favorite Irish songs.

The band will perform upbeat concert pieces, including a medley of ABBA hits and Willie Nelson songs. It will also feature the Lehigh Sax Sensations.

The Lehigh Concert Band has open spots for any concert band musician who can play at a high school or college level or above.

Clarinet, french horn and tuba players are particularly needed.

The season runs from November to April, and the band rehearses at 7 p.m. every Tuesday at the Faith Lutheran Church, at 705 Leeland Blvd.

Those interested in joining are invited to stop by a Tuesday rehearsal or any performance.

For information, call Lynne Criss at (239) 949-1834 or visit: www.lehighconcertband.org.

Learn how to garden

Grow a Gardener, an eight-session program designed to educate all ages on edible gardening in Southwest Florida, will be held Mondays at 3:30 p.m. at the Veterans Park Recreation Center, at 55 S. Homestead Road.

Instructors are volunteer Lee County Master Gardeners trained by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

All graduates will receive a certificate of completion from Lee County University of Florida/IFAS.

The cost per workship is $2.50, paid to the instructor. A $10 lifetime membership fee to Veterans Park is also required.

The remaining workshops are:

– March 17: Insects – do not kill the good guys

– March 24: What parts of the plant we can eat

Members can sign up online at: webtrac.leegov.com; non-members must sign up at the center.

For information on the program, call Karen Harty at (610) 530-8883. For information on the center, call (239) 369-1521.

Demonstration at Arts of the Inland meeting

The Arts of the Inland will meet at 6 p.m. March 18 at the Riverbend Clubhouse, at 1031 Riverbend Drive, LaBelle.

There will be a demonstration by AOI member Donna Thewlis on the art of porcelain painting – using powdered minerals mixed with oil on porcelain tiles, some as thin as paper. The artwork is then fired in a kiln several times, framed and wired for hanging.

Thewlis is a member of local and state porcelain painters and has won awards in competitions.

The public is invited to attend.

For information, visit: www.artsoftheinland.com or contact LaVon Koenig at (239) 303-5849 or artsinland@gmail.com.

Edible Gardening Exchange to meet

The Lehigh Acres Edible Gardening Exchange will meet March 20 at 7 p.m. at the Veterans Park Recreation Center, at 55 S. Homestead Road.

The guest speaker is Holly Sobetski, Seed Bank Manager at ECHO. She will speak about seed saving techniques.

After the first meeting, the venue requires a $10 lifetime membership fee.

For information, contact Karen Harty at (610) 530-8883.

Gulf Coast Writers to recognize winners

The Gulf Coast Writers Association will meet March 22 from 10 a.m. to noon at Zion Lutheran Church, at 7401 Winkler Road, Fort Myers.

The annual business meeting will include the nomination of officers and the announcement of the 2014 GCWA?Writing Contest winners. Awards will be presented, and the first place winners in each of the three categories will read their submissions.

Members and first-time visitors are free; guests are $5.

For information, visit online at: www.gulfwriters.org or call (239) 247-4515.

Call for visual artists

Visual artists are invited to submit up to two framed/gallery wrapped pieces of art for the judged Inspirations Art Show, which will be held April 6 in the Crown Room at the Majestic Golf Club, at 350 S. Homestead Road.

Mediums accepted are watercolor, mixed media, pen and ink, oil, acrylic, pastels and charcoals.

Works must have been completed within the last two years.

Works which have received an award higher than honorable mention in any AOI or ACSWF shows are not eligible.

All work must be original.

Cash prizes and ribbons will be awarded.

Entry fees for Arts of the Inland and Art Council of Southwest Florida members is $10 per artwork; the non-members fee is $20 per entry.

For the complete prospectus and application, visit: www.artsoftheinland.com. Applications must be received by March 28.

For information, contact LaVon Koenig at (239) 303-5849 or artsinland@gmail.com

General Woman’s Club plans show, luncheon

The General Woman’s Club of Lehigh Acres will host its annual fashion show and luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 29 at Colonial Country Club, at 9175 Independence Way, Fort Myers.

This year’s theme is “A Rainbow of Fashions,” by Anthony’s of Fort Myers.

Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased at the monthly meeting or by calling Diane Lashua at (412) 708-0422 or Sue Thompson at (239) 369-4807.

LRMC offers insurance help for Marketplace

People needing assistance signing up for health insurance on the online Marketplace can call Lehigh Regional Medical Center’s free helpline at (239) 368-4407.

A certified application counselor will help individuals navigate the insurance exchanges and selection process, enroll in the program and find a physician.

The deadline for enrollment is March 31.

Once coverage begins, individuals can schedule well visits with their new primary care physician, pediatrician, internal medicine specialist or family doctor.

For details, contact Jameeka Latimer at (239) 368-4407 or Jameeka.Latimer@hma.com.

County seeking public input on transportation

Help plan for better transportation in Lee County by taking the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization survey online at: www.Lee2040.metroquest.com.

Nearly 400,000 new residents are expected to reside in Lee County by 2040. To address the growing transportation needs, the county is exploring ways to reduce the number of vehicle trips and increase travel options.

This involves looking at where residents and jobs may locate in Lee over the next 25 years. To do this, conceptual growth scenarios are being presented in the survey.

The MPO is asking the public to share their ideas about new ways to grow relating to future transportation investments. Available through March, the survey only takes a few minutes to complete.

Public input will be used to help select a preferred approach to future growth and the transportation system needed to support that growth. This is a first step in developing the Lee County 2040 Long Range Transportation Plan.

To learn more about the MPO, visit: www.LeeMPO.com.

LCDAS announces Microchip Clinics

Lee County Domestic Animal Services will host a series of clinics to encourage microchipping of pets to help increase the return of stray animals and protect owners if their pet is lost or stolen.

Microchip Clinics will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. on the first Friday of each month, with the exception of July. The dates are:

– April 4

– May 2

– June 6

– Aug. 1

– Sept. 5

– Oct. 3

– Nov. 7

– Dec. 5.

Cost is $15 per pet; no appointment is necessary. Lee County pet-licensing fees are reduced if a pet is sterilized and microchipped.

Visit: www.leelostpets.com to view pets or for information.

Lehigh Singers to perform at concerts

The Lehigh Singers will perform at the following concerts:

– April 5: Buckingham Presbyterian Church, at 4241 Buckingham Road, Fort Myers, at 4:30 p.m.

– April 7: St. Peter Lutheran Church, at 3751 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, at 7:30 p.m.

– April 8: Tice Methodist Church, at 4545 Lyneda St., Fort Myers, at 7:30 p.m.

Admission is free, with a goodwill offering suggested.

For information, call (239) 560-7111.

The Lehigh Singers rehearse every Tuesday at 7:15 p.m. at the Cayuga Music Studio. Members are asked to attend every rehearsal until the concert in early April.

If you have not been in the group in the past, call (239) 822-1890 for an audition.

Free tax preparation help is available

The United Way is sponsoring free tax assistance on Wednesdays and Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon at 201 Plaza Drive, Suite 103.

If your household income was less than $57,000 last year, trained IRS volunteers will help you file your taxes.

You must bring your photo ID, Social Security card and birth dates, wage and earning forms, interest and dividend forms, bank routing and account numbers, and the total you may have paid for day care.

Appointments are required.

For information or an appointment, call (239)?369-5818.

Water fitness classes available at public pool

The Lehigh Acres Community Pool, at 1400 W. Fifth St., offers a variety of water fitness classes.

Commit to get fit with aqua aerobics. Choose the fast-paced workout at 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, or the free low-impact National Arthritis Foundation-sponsored class at 1:15 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays.

Classes are in chest-deep water, 45 minutes in length and do not heavily impact joints.

Lifeguards are on duty; lap swimmers are welcome. The pool is closed Sunday and Monday.

Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for ages 17 and under, and $2 for seniors.

For details, call (239) 369-8277 or visit: www.leeparks.org.

Pickin’ In The Park scheduled each week

Musicians come together to perform during Pickin’ In The Park from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursdays at the lodge by the lake at the rear of Veterans Park.

The public is welcome to join in playing or just enjoy the music. There is no charge.

For information, call (239) 369-1521.

Fenway South Farmer’s Market open to public

The Fenway South Farmer’s Market will be held every Monday from 2 to 6 p.m. at JetBlue Park at Fenway South, at 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers.

The market offers produce, cheeses, pastas, seafood, baked breads, meats, herbs, ready-to-eat meals, flowers, crafts, soaps, candles, live music and more.

Visit online at: www.buylocallee.com.

Children’s Choir holding rehearsals

The Lehigh Children’s Choir rehearses from 6-7 p.m. Tuesdays at Cayuga Music Studio, at 1100 Homestead Road.

The spring concert will be in late March, with additional performances from February through April.

For information, call (239) 368-2488.

Of Special Note (3/12/14)

By Staff | Mar 12, 2014

Hartner selected as Citizen of the Year

The Lee County Board of County Commissioners selected Dr. Judith Hartner as the recipient of the Paulette Burton Citizen of the Year Award for 2013.

The award is granted to the citizen who has provided outstanding civic contributions to the Lee County government.

Hartner is director of the Florida Department of Health in Lee County. A 22-year veteran leader of the department, she is credited with spurring the development of programs outside of public health through partnerships, a positive attitude and collaboration between the community and government.

Commissioners chose her from a field of eight nominees. The finalists included Rose Garcia and Ismael Hernandez.

The Burton Citizen of the Year award was created in 1991 in honor of Burton, who died in an auto accident. A long time Sanibel resident and government watchdog, she spent many years serving as a voice of the people to the commission, as well as playing an active role in Sanibel politics.

Model railroad show set

The Scale Rails Spring Train Show will be held March 15-16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Araba Shrine Temple, at 2010 Hanson St., Fort Myers.

Hosted by the Scale Rails of Southwest Florida, it will feature dealers and collectors selling trains and accessories.

Admission is $7 for adults and $2 for teens; children under 12 and service personnel in uniform are free.

For information, call Jim Edmier at (239)?731-0520.

Lehigh Concert Band to perform two concerts

The Lehigh Concert Band will perform two St. Patrick’s Day concerts on March 16 at 3 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, at 705 Leeland Heights Blvd., and on March 20 at 6:30 p.m. at the Lehigh Spring Festival on Homestead Road.

The events are free, though donations are accepted.

The concerts will feature selections like “O Danny Boy,” “Blue Tango” and “Irish Medley,” as well as an audience sing-a-long of two favorite Irish songs.

The band will perform upbeat concert pieces, including a medley of ABBA hits and Willie Nelson songs. It will also feature the Lehigh Sax Sensations.

The Lehigh Concert Band has open spots for any concert band musician who can play at a high school or college level or above.

Clarinet, french horn and tuba players are particularly needed.

The season runs from November to April, and the band rehearses at 7 p.m. every Tuesday at the Faith Lutheran Church, at 705 Leeland Blvd.

Those interested in joining are invited to stop by a Tuesday rehearsal or any performance.

For information, call Lynne Criss at (239) 949-1834 or visit: www.lehighconcertband.org.

Learn how to garden

Grow a Gardener, an eight-session program designed to educate all ages on edible gardening in Southwest Florida, will be held Mondays at 3:30 p.m. at the Veterans Park Recreation Center, at 55 S. Homestead Road.

Instructors are volunteer Lee County Master Gardeners trained by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

All graduates will receive a certificate of completion from Lee County University of Florida/IFAS.

The cost per workship is $2.50, paid to the instructor. A $10 lifetime membership fee to Veterans Park is also required.

The remaining workshops are:

– March 17: Insects – do not kill the good guys

– March 24: What parts of the plant we can eat

Members can sign up online at: webtrac.leegov.com; non-members must sign up at the center.

For information on the program, call Karen Harty at (610) 530-8883. For information on the center, call (239) 369-1521.

Demonstration at Arts of the Inland meeting

The Arts of the Inland will meet at 6 p.m. March 18 at the Riverbend Clubhouse, at 1031 Riverbend Drive, LaBelle.

There will be a demonstration by AOI member Donna Thewlis on the art of porcelain painting – using powdered minerals mixed with oil on porcelain tiles, some as thin as paper. The artwork is then fired in a kiln several times, framed and wired for hanging.

Thewlis is a member of local and state porcelain painters and has won awards in competitions.

The public is invited to attend.

For information, visit: www.artsoftheinland.com or contact LaVon Koenig at (239) 303-5849 or artsinland@gmail.com.

Edible Gardening Exchange to meet

The Lehigh Acres Edible Gardening Exchange will meet March 20 at 7 p.m. at the Veterans Park Recreation Center, at 55 S. Homestead Road.

The guest speaker is Holly Sobetski, Seed Bank Manager at ECHO. She will speak about seed saving techniques.

After the first meeting, the venue requires a $10 lifetime membership fee.

For information, contact Karen Harty at (610) 530-8883.

Gulf Coast Writers to recognize winners

The Gulf Coast Writers Association will meet March 22 from 10 a.m. to noon at Zion Lutheran Church, at 7401 Winkler Road, Fort Myers.

The annual business meeting will include the nomination of officers and the announcement of the 2014 GCWA?Writing Contest winners. Awards will be presented, and the first place winners in each of the three categories will read their submissions.

Members and first-time visitors are free; guests are $5.

For information, visit online at: www.gulfwriters.org or call (239) 247-4515.

Call for visual artists

Visual artists are invited to submit up to two framed/gallery wrapped pieces of art for the judged Inspirations Art Show, which will be held April 6 in the Crown Room at the Majestic Golf Club, at 350 S. Homestead Road.

Mediums accepted are watercolor, mixed media, pen and ink, oil, acrylic, pastels and charcoals.

Works must have been completed within the last two years.

Works which have received an award higher than honorable mention in any AOI or ACSWF shows are not eligible.

All work must be original.

Cash prizes and ribbons will be awarded.

Entry fees for Arts of the Inland and Art Council of Southwest Florida members is $10 per artwork; the non-members fee is $20 per entry.

For the complete prospectus and application, visit: www.artsoftheinland.com. Applications must be received by March 28.

For information, contact LaVon Koenig at (239) 303-5849 or artsinland@gmail.com

General Woman’s Club plans show, luncheon

The General Woman’s Club of Lehigh Acres will host its annual fashion show and luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 29 at Colonial Country Club, at 9175 Independence Way, Fort Myers.

This year’s theme is “A Rainbow of Fashions,” by Anthony’s of Fort Myers.

Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased at the monthly meeting or by calling Diane Lashua at (412) 708-0422 or Sue Thompson at (239) 369-4807.

LRMC offers insurance help for Marketplace

People needing assistance signing up for health insurance on the online Marketplace can call Lehigh Regional Medical Center’s free helpline at (239) 368-4407.

A certified application counselor will help individuals navigate the insurance exchanges and selection process, enroll in the program and find a physician.

The deadline for enrollment is March 31.

Once coverage begins, individuals can schedule well visits with their new primary care physician, pediatrician, internal medicine specialist or family doctor.

For details, contact Jameeka Latimer at (239) 368-4407 or Jameeka.Latimer@hma.com.

County seeking public input on transportation

Help plan for better transportation in Lee County by taking the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization survey online at: www.Lee2040.metroquest.com.

Nearly 400,000 new residents are expected to reside in Lee County by 2040. To address the growing transportation needs, the county is exploring ways to reduce the number of vehicle trips and increase travel options.

This involves looking at where residents and jobs may locate in Lee over the next 25 years. To do this, conceptual growth scenarios are being presented in the survey.

The MPO is asking the public to share their ideas about new ways to grow relating to future transportation investments. Available through March, the survey only takes a few minutes to complete.

Public input will be used to help select a preferred approach to future growth and the transportation system needed to support that growth. This is a first step in developing the Lee County 2040 Long Range Transportation Plan.

To learn more about the MPO, visit: www.LeeMPO.com.

LCDAS announces Microchip Clinics

Lee County Domestic Animal Services will host a series of clinics to encourage microchipping of pets to help increase the return of stray animals and protect owners if their pet is lost or stolen.

Microchip Clinics will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. on the first Friday of each month, with the exception of July. The dates are:

– April 4

– May 2

– June 6

– Aug. 1

– Sept. 5

– Oct. 3

– Nov. 7

– Dec. 5.

Cost is $15 per pet; no appointment is necessary. Lee County pet-licensing fees are reduced if a pet is sterilized and microchipped.

Visit: www.leelostpets.com to view pets or for information.

Lehigh Singers to perform at concerts

The Lehigh Singers will perform at the following concerts:

– April 5: Buckingham Presbyterian Church, at 4241 Buckingham Road, Fort Myers, at 4:30 p.m.

– April 7: St. Peter Lutheran Church, at 3751 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, at 7:30 p.m.

– April 8: Tice Methodist Church, at 4545 Lyneda St., Fort Myers, at 7:30 p.m.

Admission is free, with a goodwill offering suggested.

For information, call (239) 560-7111.

The Lehigh Singers rehearse every Tuesday at 7:15 p.m. at the Cayuga Music Studio. Members are asked to attend every rehearsal until the concert in early April.

If you have not been in the group in the past, call (239) 822-1890 for an audition.

Free tax preparation help is available

The United Way is sponsoring free tax assistance on Wednesdays and Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon at 201 Plaza Drive, Suite 103.

If your household income was less than $57,000 last year, trained IRS volunteers will help you file your taxes.

You must bring your photo ID, Social Security card and birth dates, wage and earning forms, interest and dividend forms, bank routing and account numbers, and the total you may have paid for day care.

Appointments are required.

For information or an appointment, call (239)?369-5818.

Water fitness classes available at public pool

The Lehigh Acres Community Pool, at 1400 W. Fifth St., offers a variety of water fitness classes.

Commit to get fit with aqua aerobics. Choose the fast-paced workout at 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, or the free low-impact National Arthritis Foundation-sponsored class at 1:15 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays.

Classes are in chest-deep water, 45 minutes in length and do not heavily impact joints.

Lifeguards are on duty; lap swimmers are welcome. The pool is closed Sunday and Monday.

Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for ages 17 and under, and $2 for seniors.

For details, call (239) 369-8277 or visit: www.leeparks.org.

Pickin’ In The Park scheduled each week

Musicians come together to perform during Pickin’ In The Park from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursdays at the lodge by the lake at the rear of Veterans Park.

The public is welcome to join in playing or just enjoy the music. There is no charge.

For information, call (239) 369-1521.

Fenway South Farmer’s Market open to public

The Fenway South Farmer’s Market will be held every Monday from 2 to 6 p.m. at JetBlue Park at Fenway South, at 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers.

The market offers produce, cheeses, pastas, seafood, baked breads, meats, herbs, ready-to-eat meals, flowers, crafts, soaps, candles, live music and more.

Visit online at: www.buylocallee.com.

Children’s Choir holding rehearsals

The Lehigh Children’s Choir rehearses from 6-7 p.m. Tuesdays at Cayuga Music Studio, at 1100 Homestead Road.

The spring concert will be in late March, with additional performances from February through April.

For information, call (239) 368-2488.

Of Special Note (3/12/14)

By Staff | Mar 12, 2014

Hartner selected as Citizen of the Year

The Lee County Board of County Commissioners selected Dr. Judith Hartner as the recipient of the Paulette Burton Citizen of the Year Award for 2013.

The award is granted to the citizen who has provided outstanding civic contributions to the Lee County government.

Hartner is director of the Florida Department of Health in Lee County. A 22-year veteran leader of the department, she is credited with spurring the development of programs outside of public health through partnerships, a positive attitude and collaboration between the community and government.

Commissioners chose her from a field of eight nominees. The finalists included Rose Garcia and Ismael Hernandez.

The Burton Citizen of the Year award was created in 1991 in honor of Burton, who died in an auto accident. A long time Sanibel resident and government watchdog, she spent many years serving as a voice of the people to the commission, as well as playing an active role in Sanibel politics.

Model railroad show set

The Scale Rails Spring Train Show will be held March 15-16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Araba Shrine Temple, at 2010 Hanson St., Fort Myers.

Hosted by the Scale Rails of Southwest Florida, it will feature dealers and collectors selling trains and accessories.

Admission is $7 for adults and $2 for teens; children under 12 and service personnel in uniform are free.

For information, call Jim Edmier at (239)?731-0520.

Lehigh Concert Band to perform two concerts

The Lehigh Concert Band will perform two St. Patrick’s Day concerts on March 16 at 3 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, at 705 Leeland Heights Blvd., and on March 20 at 6:30 p.m. at the Lehigh Spring Festival on Homestead Road.

The events are free, though donations are accepted.

The concerts will feature selections like “O Danny Boy,” “Blue Tango” and “Irish Medley,” as well as an audience sing-a-long of two favorite Irish songs.

The band will perform upbeat concert pieces, including a medley of ABBA hits and Willie Nelson songs. It will also feature the Lehigh Sax Sensations.

The Lehigh Concert Band has open spots for any concert band musician who can play at a high school or college level or above.

Clarinet, french horn and tuba players are particularly needed.

The season runs from November to April, and the band rehearses at 7 p.m. every Tuesday at the Faith Lutheran Church, at 705 Leeland Blvd.

Those interested in joining are invited to stop by a Tuesday rehearsal or any performance.

For information, call Lynne Criss at (239) 949-1834 or visit: www.lehighconcertband.org.

Learn how to garden

Grow a Gardener, an eight-session program designed to educate all ages on edible gardening in Southwest Florida, will be held Mondays at 3:30 p.m. at the Veterans Park Recreation Center, at 55 S. Homestead Road.

Instructors are volunteer Lee County Master Gardeners trained by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

All graduates will receive a certificate of completion from Lee County University of Florida/IFAS.

The cost per workship is $2.50, paid to the instructor. A $10 lifetime membership fee to Veterans Park is also required.

The remaining workshops are:

– March 17: Insects – do not kill the good guys

– March 24: What parts of the plant we can eat

Members can sign up online at: webtrac.leegov.com; non-members must sign up at the center.

For information on the program, call Karen Harty at (610) 530-8883. For information on the center, call (239) 369-1521.

Demonstration at Arts of the Inland meeting

The Arts of the Inland will meet at 6 p.m. March 18 at the Riverbend Clubhouse, at 1031 Riverbend Drive, LaBelle.

There will be a demonstration by AOI member Donna Thewlis on the art of porcelain painting – using powdered minerals mixed with oil on porcelain tiles, some as thin as paper. The artwork is then fired in a kiln several times, framed and wired for hanging.

Thewlis is a member of local and state porcelain painters and has won awards in competitions.

The public is invited to attend.

For information, visit: www.artsoftheinland.com or contact LaVon Koenig at (239) 303-5849 or artsinland@gmail.com.

Edible Gardening Exchange to meet

The Lehigh Acres Edible Gardening Exchange will meet March 20 at 7 p.m. at the Veterans Park Recreation Center, at 55 S. Homestead Road.

The guest speaker is Holly Sobetski, Seed Bank Manager at ECHO. She will speak about seed saving techniques.

After the first meeting, the venue requires a $10 lifetime membership fee.

For information, contact Karen Harty at (610) 530-8883.

Gulf Coast Writers to recognize winners

The Gulf Coast Writers Association will meet March 22 from 10 a.m. to noon at Zion Lutheran Church, at 7401 Winkler Road, Fort Myers.

The annual business meeting will include the nomination of officers and the announcement of the 2014 GCWA?Writing Contest winners. Awards will be presented, and the first place winners in each of the three categories will read their submissions.

Members and first-time visitors are free; guests are $5.

For information, visit online at: www.gulfwriters.org or call (239) 247-4515.

Call for visual artists

Visual artists are invited to submit up to two framed/gallery wrapped pieces of art for the judged Inspirations Art Show, which will be held April 6 in the Crown Room at the Majestic Golf Club, at 350 S. Homestead Road.

Mediums accepted are watercolor, mixed media, pen and ink, oil, acrylic, pastels and charcoals.

Works must have been completed within the last two years.

Works which have received an award higher than honorable mention in any AOI or ACSWF shows are not eligible.

All work must be original.

Cash prizes and ribbons will be awarded.

Entry fees for Arts of the Inland and Art Council of Southwest Florida members is $10 per artwork; the non-members fee is $20 per entry.

For the complete prospectus and application, visit: www.artsoftheinland.com. Applications must be received by March 28.

For information, contact LaVon Koenig at (239) 303-5849 or artsinland@gmail.com

General Woman’s Club plans show, luncheon

The General Woman’s Club of Lehigh Acres will host its annual fashion show and luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 29 at Colonial Country Club, at 9175 Independence Way, Fort Myers.

This year’s theme is “A Rainbow of Fashions,” by Anthony’s of Fort Myers.

Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased at the monthly meeting or by calling Diane Lashua at (412) 708-0422 or Sue Thompson at (239) 369-4807.

LRMC offers insurance help for Marketplace

People needing assistance signing up for health insurance on the online Marketplace can call Lehigh Regional Medical Center’s free helpline at (239) 368-4407.

A certified application counselor will help individuals navigate the insurance exchanges and selection process, enroll in the program and find a physician.

The deadline for enrollment is March 31.

Once coverage begins, individuals can schedule well visits with their new primary care physician, pediatrician, internal medicine specialist or family doctor.

For details, contact Jameeka Latimer at (239) 368-4407 or Jameeka.Latimer@hma.com.

County seeking public input on transportation

Help plan for better transportation in Lee County by taking the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization survey online at: www.Lee2040.metroquest.com.

Nearly 400,000 new residents are expected to reside in Lee County by 2040. To address the growing transportation needs, the county is exploring ways to reduce the number of vehicle trips and increase travel options.

This involves looking at where residents and jobs may locate in Lee over the next 25 years. To do this, conceptual growth scenarios are being presented in the survey.

The MPO is asking the public to share their ideas about new ways to grow relating to future transportation investments. Available through March, the survey only takes a few minutes to complete.

Public input will be used to help select a preferred approach to future growth and the transportation system needed to support that growth. This is a first step in developing the Lee County 2040 Long Range Transportation Plan.

To learn more about the MPO, visit: www.LeeMPO.com.

LCDAS announces Microchip Clinics

Lee County Domestic Animal Services will host a series of clinics to encourage microchipping of pets to help increase the return of stray animals and protect owners if their pet is lost or stolen.

Microchip Clinics will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. on the first Friday of each month, with the exception of July. The dates are:

– April 4

– May 2

– June 6

– Aug. 1

– Sept. 5

– Oct. 3

– Nov. 7

– Dec. 5.

Cost is $15 per pet; no appointment is necessary. Lee County pet-licensing fees are reduced if a pet is sterilized and microchipped.

Visit: www.leelostpets.com to view pets or for information.

Lehigh Singers to perform at concerts

The Lehigh Singers will perform at the following concerts:

– April 5: Buckingham Presbyterian Church, at 4241 Buckingham Road, Fort Myers, at 4:30 p.m.

– April 7: St. Peter Lutheran Church, at 3751 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, at 7:30 p.m.

– April 8: Tice Methodist Church, at 4545 Lyneda St., Fort Myers, at 7:30 p.m.

Admission is free, with a goodwill offering suggested.

For information, call (239) 560-7111.

The Lehigh Singers rehearse every Tuesday at 7:15 p.m. at the Cayuga Music Studio. Members are asked to attend every rehearsal until the concert in early April.

If you have not been in the group in the past, call (239) 822-1890 for an audition.

Free tax preparation help is available

The United Way is sponsoring free tax assistance on Wednesdays and Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon at 201 Plaza Drive, Suite 103.

If your household income was less than $57,000 last year, trained IRS volunteers will help you file your taxes.

You must bring your photo ID, Social Security card and birth dates, wage and earning forms, interest and dividend forms, bank routing and account numbers, and the total you may have paid for day care.

Appointments are required.

For information or an appointment, call (239)?369-5818.

Water fitness classes available at public pool

The Lehigh Acres Community Pool, at 1400 W. Fifth St., offers a variety of water fitness classes.

Commit to get fit with aqua aerobics. Choose the fast-paced workout at 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, or the free low-impact National Arthritis Foundation-sponsored class at 1:15 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays.

Classes are in chest-deep water, 45 minutes in length and do not heavily impact joints.

Lifeguards are on duty; lap swimmers are welcome. The pool is closed Sunday and Monday.

Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for ages 17 and under, and $2 for seniors.

For details, call (239) 369-8277 or visit: www.leeparks.org.

Pickin’ In The Park scheduled each week

Musicians come together to perform during Pickin’ In The Park from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursdays at the lodge by the lake at the rear of Veterans Park.

The public is welcome to join in playing or just enjoy the music. There is no charge.

For information, call (239) 369-1521.

Fenway South Farmer’s Market open to public

The Fenway South Farmer’s Market will be held every Monday from 2 to 6 p.m. at JetBlue Park at Fenway South, at 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers.

The market offers produce, cheeses, pastas, seafood, baked breads, meats, herbs, ready-to-eat meals, flowers, crafts, soaps, candles, live music and more.

Visit online at: www.buylocallee.com.

Children’s Choir holding rehearsals

The Lehigh Children’s Choir rehearses from 6-7 p.m. Tuesdays at Cayuga Music Studio, at 1100 Homestead Road.

The spring concert will be in late March, with additional performances from February through April.

For information, call (239) 368-2488.

Of Special Note (3/12/14)

By Staff | Mar 12, 2014

Hartner selected as Citizen of the Year

The Lee County Board of County Commissioners selected Dr. Judith Hartner as the recipient of the Paulette Burton Citizen of the Year Award for 2013.

The award is granted to the citizen who has provided outstanding civic contributions to the Lee County government.

Hartner is director of the Florida Department of Health in Lee County. A 22-year veteran leader of the department, she is credited with spurring the development of programs outside of public health through partnerships, a positive attitude and collaboration between the community and government.

Commissioners chose her from a field of eight nominees. The finalists included Rose Garcia and Ismael Hernandez.

The Burton Citizen of the Year award was created in 1991 in honor of Burton, who died in an auto accident. A long time Sanibel resident and government watchdog, she spent many years serving as a voice of the people to the commission, as well as playing an active role in Sanibel politics.

Model railroad show set

The Scale Rails Spring Train Show will be held March 15-16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Araba Shrine Temple, at 2010 Hanson St., Fort Myers.

Hosted by the Scale Rails of Southwest Florida, it will feature dealers and collectors selling trains and accessories.

Admission is $7 for adults and $2 for teens; children under 12 and service personnel in uniform are free.

For information, call Jim Edmier at (239)?731-0520.

Lehigh Concert Band to perform two concerts

The Lehigh Concert Band will perform two St. Patrick’s Day concerts on March 16 at 3 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church, at 705 Leeland Heights Blvd., and on March 20 at 6:30 p.m. at the Lehigh Spring Festival on Homestead Road.

The events are free, though donations are accepted.

The concerts will feature selections like “O Danny Boy,” “Blue Tango” and “Irish Medley,” as well as an audience sing-a-long of two favorite Irish songs.

The band will perform upbeat concert pieces, including a medley of ABBA hits and Willie Nelson songs. It will also feature the Lehigh Sax Sensations.

The Lehigh Concert Band has open spots for any concert band musician who can play at a high school or college level or above.

Clarinet, french horn and tuba players are particularly needed.

The season runs from November to April, and the band rehearses at 7 p.m. every Tuesday at the Faith Lutheran Church, at 705 Leeland Blvd.

Those interested in joining are invited to stop by a Tuesday rehearsal or any performance.

For information, call Lynne Criss at (239) 949-1834 or visit: www.lehighconcertband.org.

Learn how to garden

Grow a Gardener, an eight-session program designed to educate all ages on edible gardening in Southwest Florida, will be held Mondays at 3:30 p.m. at the Veterans Park Recreation Center, at 55 S. Homestead Road.

Instructors are volunteer Lee County Master Gardeners trained by the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

All graduates will receive a certificate of completion from Lee County University of Florida/IFAS.

The cost per workship is $2.50, paid to the instructor. A $10 lifetime membership fee to Veterans Park is also required.

The remaining workshops are:

– March 17: Insects – do not kill the good guys

– March 24: What parts of the plant we can eat

Members can sign up online at: webtrac.leegov.com; non-members must sign up at the center.

For information on the program, call Karen Harty at (610) 530-8883. For information on the center, call (239) 369-1521.

Demonstration at Arts of the Inland meeting

The Arts of the Inland will meet at 6 p.m. March 18 at the Riverbend Clubhouse, at 1031 Riverbend Drive, LaBelle.

There will be a demonstration by AOI member Donna Thewlis on the art of porcelain painting – using powdered minerals mixed with oil on porcelain tiles, some as thin as paper. The artwork is then fired in a kiln several times, framed and wired for hanging.

Thewlis is a member of local and state porcelain painters and has won awards in competitions.

The public is invited to attend.

For information, visit: www.artsoftheinland.com or contact LaVon Koenig at (239) 303-5849 or artsinland@gmail.com.

Edible Gardening Exchange to meet

The Lehigh Acres Edible Gardening Exchange will meet March 20 at 7 p.m. at the Veterans Park Recreation Center, at 55 S. Homestead Road.

The guest speaker is Holly Sobetski, Seed Bank Manager at ECHO. She will speak about seed saving techniques.

After the first meeting, the venue requires a $10 lifetime membership fee.

For information, contact Karen Harty at (610) 530-8883.

Gulf Coast Writers to recognize winners

The Gulf Coast Writers Association will meet March 22 from 10 a.m. to noon at Zion Lutheran Church, at 7401 Winkler Road, Fort Myers.

The annual business meeting will include the nomination of officers and the announcement of the 2014 GCWA?Writing Contest winners. Awards will be presented, and the first place winners in each of the three categories will read their submissions.

Members and first-time visitors are free; guests are $5.

For information, visit online at: www.gulfwriters.org or call (239) 247-4515.

Call for visual artists

Visual artists are invited to submit up to two framed/gallery wrapped pieces of art for the judged Inspirations Art Show, which will be held April 6 in the Crown Room at the Majestic Golf Club, at 350 S. Homestead Road.

Mediums accepted are watercolor, mixed media, pen and ink, oil, acrylic, pastels and charcoals.

Works must have been completed within the last two years.

Works which have received an award higher than honorable mention in any AOI or ACSWF shows are not eligible.

All work must be original.

Cash prizes and ribbons will be awarded.

Entry fees for Arts of the Inland and Art Council of Southwest Florida members is $10 per artwork; the non-members fee is $20 per entry.

For the complete prospectus and application, visit: www.artsoftheinland.com. Applications must be received by March 28.

For information, contact LaVon Koenig at (239) 303-5849 or artsinland@gmail.com

General Woman’s Club plans show, luncheon

The General Woman’s Club of Lehigh Acres will host its annual fashion show and luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 29 at Colonial Country Club, at 9175 Independence Way, Fort Myers.

This year’s theme is “A Rainbow of Fashions,” by Anthony’s of Fort Myers.

Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased at the monthly meeting or by calling Diane Lashua at (412) 708-0422 or Sue Thompson at (239) 369-4807.

LRMC offers insurance help for Marketplace

People needing assistance signing up for health insurance on the online Marketplace can call Lehigh Regional Medical Center’s free helpline at (239) 368-4407.

A certified application counselor will help individuals navigate the insurance exchanges and selection process, enroll in the program and find a physician.

The deadline for enrollment is March 31.

Once coverage begins, individuals can schedule well visits with their new primary care physician, pediatrician, internal medicine specialist or family doctor.

For details, contact Jameeka Latimer at (239) 368-4407 or Jameeka.Latimer@hma.com.

County seeking public input on transportation

Help plan for better transportation in Lee County by taking the Lee County Metropolitan Planning Organization survey online at: www.Lee2040.metroquest.com.

Nearly 400,000 new residents are expected to reside in Lee County by 2040. To address the growing transportation needs, the county is exploring ways to reduce the number of vehicle trips and increase travel options.

This involves looking at where residents and jobs may locate in Lee over the next 25 years. To do this, conceptual growth scenarios are being presented in the survey.

The MPO is asking the public to share their ideas about new ways to grow relating to future transportation investments. Available through March, the survey only takes a few minutes to complete.

Public input will be used to help select a preferred approach to future growth and the transportation system needed to support that growth. This is a first step in developing the Lee County 2040 Long Range Transportation Plan.

To learn more about the MPO, visit: www.LeeMPO.com.

LCDAS announces Microchip Clinics

Lee County Domestic Animal Services will host a series of clinics to encourage microchipping of pets to help increase the return of stray animals and protect owners if their pet is lost or stolen.

Microchip Clinics will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. on the first Friday of each month, with the exception of July. The dates are:

– April 4

– May 2

– June 6

– Aug. 1

– Sept. 5

– Oct. 3

– Nov. 7

– Dec. 5.

Cost is $15 per pet; no appointment is necessary. Lee County pet-licensing fees are reduced if a pet is sterilized and microchipped.

Visit: www.leelostpets.com to view pets or for information.

Lehigh Singers to perform at concerts

The Lehigh Singers will perform at the following concerts:

– April 5: Buckingham Presbyterian Church, at 4241 Buckingham Road, Fort Myers, at 4:30 p.m.

– April 7: St. Peter Lutheran Church, at 3751 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach, at 7:30 p.m.

– April 8: Tice Methodist Church, at 4545 Lyneda St., Fort Myers, at 7:30 p.m.

Admission is free, with a goodwill offering suggested.

For information, call (239) 560-7111.

The Lehigh Singers rehearse every Tuesday at 7:15 p.m. at the Cayuga Music Studio. Members are asked to attend every rehearsal until the concert in early April.

If you have not been in the group in the past, call (239) 822-1890 for an audition.

Free tax preparation help is available

The United Way is sponsoring free tax assistance on Wednesdays and Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon at 201 Plaza Drive, Suite 103.

If your household income was less than $57,000 last year, trained IRS volunteers will help you file your taxes.

You must bring your photo ID, Social Security card and birth dates, wage and earning forms, interest and dividend forms, bank routing and account numbers, and the total you may have paid for day care.

Appointments are required.

For information or an appointment, call (239)?369-5818.

Water fitness classes available at public pool

The Lehigh Acres Community Pool, at 1400 W. Fifth St., offers a variety of water fitness classes.

Commit to get fit with aqua aerobics. Choose the fast-paced workout at 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, or the free low-impact National Arthritis Foundation-sponsored class at 1:15 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays.

Classes are in chest-deep water, 45 minutes in length and do not heavily impact joints.

Lifeguards are on duty; lap swimmers are welcome. The pool is closed Sunday and Monday.

Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for ages 17 and under, and $2 for seniors.

For details, call (239) 369-8277 or visit: www.leeparks.org.

Pickin’ In The Park scheduled each week

Musicians come together to perform during Pickin’ In The Park from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursdays at the lodge by the lake at the rear of Veterans Park.

The public is welcome to join in playing or just enjoy the music. There is no charge.

For information, call (239) 369-1521.

Fenway South Farmer’s Market open to public

The Fenway South Farmer’s Market will be held every Monday from 2 to 6 p.m. at JetBlue Park at Fenway South, at 11500 Fenway South Drive, Fort Myers.

The market offers produce, cheeses, pastas, seafood, baked breads, meats, herbs, ready-to-eat meals, flowers, crafts, soaps, candles, live music and more.

Visit online at: www.buylocallee.com.

Children’s Choir holding rehearsals

The Lehigh Children’s Choir rehearses from 6-7 p.m. Tuesdays at Cayuga Music Studio, at 1100 Homestead Road.

The spring concert will be in late March, with additional performances from February through April.

For information, call (239) 368-2488.