The Gentlemen’s Club of Fort Myers will hold its 20th Roast, this year benefiting the Nature Park Foundation at the Shell Factory. The group plans to roast Lee County Commissioner Frank Mann of Alva, who represents Lehigh and the eastern part of Lee County. The event is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 29.

“This should be our best ever, as Commissioner Mann is the wittiest man I know,” said Tom Cronin, the master of ceremonies. Five “tried and proven funny” roasters, including Larry Hart, Joe D’Alessandro, Marietta Mudgett, Sheriff Mike Scott, and States Attorney, Steve Russell will give it their best shot to embarrass and harass Mann, Cronin said.

During our roast, Commission Chairman Frank Mann will be subjected to comedic insults, (“limited”) praise, outlandish true and maybe true stories, and possibly a few heartwarming tributes, Cronin said. No one is better able to take the jokes in good humor and not as serious criticism and dish it right back, he said.

“It is an honor to be roasted; Frank will be surrounded by friends, fans, well-wishers, and possibly a few detractors, all who can receive some of the same treatment during the course of the evening.

This year’s charity is the Nature Park at the Shell Factory. Recently completed renovations have enhanced the attraction which currently open Tuesday through Sunday, and beginning October 31, open seven days a week.

A beautiful botanical trail winds through the habitats of more than 300 animals, reptiles, fish and birds. The Petting Farm, EcoLab (Ecological Laboratory) and Park are home to camels, lamas, turkeys, bunnies, lemurs, gators, armadillo, skunks and many more creatures available for viewing, petting and educational activities.

This year the Roast will be held in the Dolphin Room at the Shell Factory, with open bar from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Dinner will be served from 6:30 to 7:30, when the nonsense will begin, Cronin said. Cost is $250 a couple or $800 for a table of eight.

“I am hoping that after 20 years as chairman, we will break through the $300,000 mark to Lee County charities,” Cronin said. Checks should be made payable to the Nature Park Environmental Education Foundation, Inc., a 501C3. Information can be obtained at 239-995-2141, Ext. 117 or at tomsoffice@shellfactory.com.