New Season at the Schoolhouse

New season at the Schoolhouse


Many improvements made to island's Herb Strauss Theater

Victor Legarreta, left, and Madison Mitchell stand on both sides of The Herb Strauss Schoolhouse Theater's sign on Periwinkle Way, which promotes upcoming productions to passersby. The theater will raise the curtain on its 2009-10 season on Oct. 15.

As the folks at The Herb Strauss Schoolhouse Theater prepare to raise the curtain on their 2009-10 season of comedic productions and musical revues, they are still putting a few finishing touches on improvements made during a very busy summer "off-season."

"We've made so many changes," said Victor Legarreta, artistic director for the historic Sanibel playhouse. "There's new carpeting, new paint, a new concession stand and we did a lot of work outside, too."

According to Madison Mitchell, the theater's marketing director, they have installed new carpeting throughout the building, installed dimmer lights inside the theater and a concession stand and bar in the main lobby. Above the stand, a new flatscreen television will promote upcoming productions as well as facility sponsors.

"The newest addition is the outdoor patio," explained Mitchell, making her way down the front stairs and walking to the east side of the building. "It's a really nice place that people will have to sit before or after a show."

A decorative white trellis is featured at the entrance to the patio, which winds along a red brick walkway to an area with shaded bench seating, an intimate spot which Mitchell explained will be officially dedicated to the past presidents of The Schoolhouse Theater - formerly known through its long history as the Pirate Playhouse, The Old Schoolhouse Theater, The J. Howard Wood Theater and The Periwinkle Playhouse.

On opening night for the 2009-10 season, which will be Thursday, Oct. 15, a dedication celebration will be held beginning at 6:30 p.m., with hors d'oeuvres and cocktails to follow at 7 p.m.

Among the other changes to the facility is new exterior paint and expanded landscaping throughout the parking lot, including painting all of the curbs pink.

"We're also attempting to go green a little more," added Mitchell. "We're doing away with our mailers and are asking people to go to our Web site - www.theschoolhousetheater.com - for information about upcoming shows."

On the roster for the 2009-10 season at The Herb Strauss Schoolhouse Theater are the following productions:

"Lovely Night: The Music of Oscar Hammerstein" - Sponsored by Henderson Franklin, Attorneys at Law, this will be a rousing tribute to the music of Oscar Hammerstein II, a composer of some 850 songs including "Getting To Know You," "The Sound of Music," "Ol Man River" and ""Oklahoma!" Running Oct. 15 through Nov. 7

"Plaza Suite" by Neil Simon - Sponsored by Bank Of The Islands and Royal Shell Vacations, this play offers one of Simon's most hilarious works based upon the trials and tribulations of relationships. Running Nov. 12 through Dec. 5

"Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some!)" - Sponsored by Brian Johnson VIP Realty and Pinocchio's Original Italian Ice Cream, the production features a trio of actors performing a side-splitting rendition of every Christmas tale, guaranteed to be an evening of holiday merriment and laughter. A play written by Michael Carleton, James FitzGerald and John K. Alvarez. Running Dec. 15 through 31

"Unnecessary Farce" - Sponsored by 'Tween Waters Inn, this comedic farce from Paul Slade Smith follows two inexperienced police officers who try to catch the mayor in an embezzlement scandal. Too bad that everything that could go wrong actually does! Running Jan. 14 through Feb. 6

"Fly Me To The Moon: A Tribute to The Rat Pack" - Sponsored by Lily & Co. and the Bell & Beggs Team, this musical revue features the unforgettable music made famous by Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr. Running Feb. 18 through March 20

"Something's Afoot" - Sponsored by Congress Jewelers, this British musical farce by James McDonald, David Vos and Robert Gerlach offers a colorful assortment of characters thrown together in a murder mystery... where everybody is a suspect! Running March 25 through April 24
All performances begin at 8 p.m.
With only two weeks remaining until their first production hits the stage, Mitchell and Legarreta are both equally excited to begin the season.

"It's definitely been a very productive summer, to say the least," said Mitchell, who pointed out that she is most looking forward to staging "Plaza Suite" in November.
"I'm going to be in it," she explained with a laugh. "Actually, I'm really looking forward to opening night so we can show off everything that's new and refurbished."
Legarreta added that he's excited to see the Florida debuts of "Unnecessary Farce" and "Something's Afoot."

"We'll have some of the popular people who have played here returning," he noted, explaining of the latter, "It's a murder mystery musical. A very big cast. It's kinda like 'Clue' but with a British twist... and singing!"

To purchase tickets or for more information about The Herb Strauss Schoolhouse Theater, visit the box office at 2200 Periwinkle Way, call 472-6862 or go to their Web site at www.theschoolhousetheater.com.

Flu Season is here

Flu season is here

Inoculations recommended

Flu Facts What is Influenza (also called flu)? The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent seasonal flu is by getting a seasonal flu vaccination each year. Every year in the United States, on average 5 to 20 percent of the population gets the flu; more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu-related complications; and about 36,000 people die from flu-related causes. Some people, such as older people, young children, pregnant women and people with certain health conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), are at increased risk for serious complications from seasonal flu illness. This flu season, scientists believe that a new and very different flu virus (called novel 2009 H1N1) may cause a lot more people to get sick than during a regular flu season. It also may cause more hospital stays and deaths than regular seasonal flu. More information about the new H1N1 flu is available here. Symptoms of Flu Symptoms of seasonal flu include: fever (often high), headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose and muscle aches. Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults. Some people who have been infected with the new H1N1 flu virus have reported diarrhea and vomiting. When to Get Vaccinated Against Seasonal Flu Yearly seasonal flu vaccination should begin in September, or as soon as the seasonal flu vaccine is available, and continue throughout the flu season into December, January, and beyond. This is because the timing and duration of flu seasons vary. While seasonal flu outbreaks can happen as early as October, most of the time seasonal flu activity peaks in January or later. Information about when to get vaccinated with the new H1N1 flu vaccine can be found here. Source: WWW.cdc.gov

Even though H1N1 has garnered much of the public attention surrounding vaccinations this year, health experts are stressing that everyone should still get a shot of the seasonal flu vaccine. The seasonal influenza vaccine is currently available in clinics and drug stores across Lee County. Each year doctors predict what the seasonal strain will look like and synthesize a vaccine that prevents those injected from contracting the often deadly flu. Anna Vann, president of the Visiting Nurses Association of Southwest Florida, said 36,000 people die each year from the seasonal flu. An additional 220,000 are hospitalized each year. “It’s not a benign illness,” she said. “The CDC (Centers for Disease Controls) recommends that everyone get a seasonal flu shot this year.” The injection is administered in two ways: the traditional shot where it is injected into the muscle and another where the vaccine is sprayed into the nose. Vann said that a person getting over the flu is more likely to catch other strains, including H1N1, because they have a weakened immune system. “The problem is that you don’t want people getting sick with seasonal flu and then getting better but having a weakened immune system,” she said. “When you fight off regular flu it makes your immune system work harder.” The pneumonia shot is another vaccine that should be considered by people over the age of 65, as well as those with chronic diseases and smokers. Pneumonia is an infection or inflammation of the lungs, and smokers have a higher risk of developing this type of infection. According to the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 60,000 Americans die from pneumonia each year. Furthermore, the CDC reported that 30 percent of all H1N1-related deaths were in people who also had pneumonia. Flu and pneumonia shots are offered by the Visiting Nurses Association (visitingnurseswfl.com) for $25 and $45, respectively. There are 16 vaccination sites offered by the VNA in Cape Coral. The Lee County Health Department is also providing the community with flu shots. They are free to children, ages 6 months to 18 years, and $25 for anyone over the age of 19 — only cash or checks are accepted. Flu vaccinations are free to anyone with Medicare Part D, and they must bring their Medicare card with them to the health department, she said. Jennifer James-Mesloh, spokesperson for the health department, said most people get their shots through an employer or local drug store. But the department will have clinics and will open local high schools as vaccination sites. Last year, the health department administered 5,172 flu vaccines to various age groups, while this year that number is due to increase dramatically. The health department also released its action plan for administering the H1N1 vaccine as soon as its available in mid-October. Small supplies of the vaccine — specifically a flu mist for children — will be shipped to county health departments as early as next week. At this time the county health department hasn’t received the H1N1 vaccines, said James-Mesloh, but the county has already filled out its order to the state. Once it arrives the department plans to vaccinate 190,000 people in four months – one health department worker can administer 25 vaccines per hour. “The best we can understand is that they are coming from the state and all county health departments have submitted orders and state will ship them,” she said. The health department also is seeking volunteers to help with the H1N1 vaccinations process. Approximately 2,000 volunteers are needed — both medically and non-medically trained — which is equivalent to the relief effort from Hurricane Charley. To sign up as a volunteer, call United Way’s 211 or log on to the county health department’s Web site at www.leeeoc.com.

St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church Noah’s Ark Thrift Shop serves community bargains, camaraderie

 In the Biblical account of the story of Noah's Ark, God protected and nurtured Noah, his family and animals from a global flood.

The story line is not too much different at St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church Noah's Ark Thrift Shop - except for the menagerie of animals. The thrift shop draws countless residents and visitors from around the world who seek the warmth and camaraderie offered in the little ark-like building.

 And those waiting to go back to Noah's Ark - which has been closed for a month and a half of cleaning and remodeling - can get their shopping bags out because the shop will be reopening today at 9:30 a.m. When Noah's Ark reopens in October it will be open on Tuesdays and Fridays only until they reopen fully for season on Nov. 1.

  The non-profit thrift shop which carries gently used and in many cases new designer clothing, furniture and household goods is a mecca for those looking for deals and for socializing.

 The about a quarter of a century shop caters to the well-heeled looking for an incredible find, the struggling trying to make ends meet and to those just looking for a friendly face.

 "It's an institution," said Betty Modys, a volunteer at Noah's Ark. "We're almost like a meeting place."

 At least 70 seemingly tireless volunteers work throughout the week to organize, sort, stock and inventory items donated to Noah's Ark.

 The new inventory is filled with spectacular deals and finds, including an $80 Michael Kors top for $8, Mikasa dinnerware, a Robb & Stuckey chair for $75, Waterford dishes and a carved duck by Tom Ahern for $150. The piece would typically go for $450, according to Noah's Ark staff. And for holiday enthusiasts there is a huge inventory of Halloween costumes and decorations as well as Autumnal and Thanksgiving adornments. There is even a fiber optic plush turkey.

 "There's plenty of stuff to open up with," Modys said. "We have some really good stuff. There's enough Halloween stuff to have the biggest party."

 But as volunteers scampered through the immaculate shop making last minute preparations and hanging clothes, a sense of joy and reverie was palpable.

 Sue Scutakes smiled as she steamed shirts to be put on racks. She said she is looking forward to getting to know all of the customers that will be coming to the shop as well as the regulars.

 Lynn Kern is one of the regulars. She gets a gleam in her eye when she thinks about her favorite shopping haunt.

 "It's the thrill," she said. "Shopping there is a shopping event. I don't know here you can get so much for so little."

She often buys toys and games for her grandchildren when they are visiting and then donates the stuff back when they leave.
 "It's very green," she said.

Kern marvels at how hard the staff work to keep Noah's Ark afloat. Kern, a volunteer at the island human care agency FISH notes how many people depend on getting affordable household items. And for some Noah's Ark becomes a means for social interaction - away to chase the blues of loneliness away.

 "They are so much to so many people," Kern said.

 But the store is more than a store where pleasantries are exchanged and deals are made.

 "It's a ministry," Modys said.

 Modys and the other volunteers are members of the St. Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church. Giving back and being of service to others is a main tenet of their Christian faith.

 Last year the thrift shop helped organizations such as: Brightest Horizons, Community Housing Resources, Fort Myers Soup Kitchen, F.I.S.H., Girls Making it on Purpose, Habitat for Humanity, Hope Hospice, Southwest Florida Addiction Services, and Quality Life.

And since much of the inventory that is sold comes from estates donated by families, volunteers encourage family members to continue bequeathing the donations when a loved one passes away.
 "It's difficult to do," Modys said. "At least you know it's going to a good place."
Receipts are giving to people who make donations.
Ample free parking is available on the church property. For more information about the store, call 472-3356.

Island Cinema

Island Cinema,

We love the Island Cinema

Sanibel Island Cinema, Sanibel Island Entertainment

Yes! The Island Cinema is back open!!! After a brief break over the slow month, the Island Cinema is back with a bang! Go to www.islandcinema.com for more movie info, like the show times for “500 Days Of Summer”, “Inglourious Basterds” and “The Informant!”. Or you can check out our calender for times and other things to do around the Island Cinema before or after your show!

Thanks http://www.sanibelcaptivadaily.com/!!

LIVE ON THE ISLANDS

Entertainment - Live on the Islands

Ellington's Jazz Club and Restaurant has live jazz seven nights a week from 7 to 11pm at its new location at 1244 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel phone 337 5299

Biddles Buckets entertainment line up is: Tuesday, karaoke: Wed, David Barbar, Thursday Robby Hutto and the absent-minded band. Friday, Karaoke: and Saturday, Steve Reynolds. Biddles Bucket is at 2499 Periwinkle Way. 472 2323

The Crow's Nest at 'Tween Waters Inn, Captiva, has live entertainment Fridays and Saturdays starting at 9pm.

RC Otter's  11506 Andy Rosse Lane, Captiva, has live music daily with dining inside and outside.

Keylime Bistro on Captiva features live entertainment seven days and nights each week.

McT's Shrimp House and Tavern's entertainer on Friday and Saturday nights is Ira Wilkes.

The Jacaranda, 1223 Periwinkle Way, has entertainment nightly from 8pm to midnight.

The Island Cow's live entertainment is from 6 to 9:30pm nightly. The line-up: Monday, Dan Confrey; Tuesday, Jeff Key: Wednesday, Ken Wasiniak Thursday, Diana Lynn: Friday, Greg Watts: Saturday, Diana Lynn: and Sunday, Ken Wasiniak.

Doc Ford's Fort Myers Beach Rum Bar and Grille at 708 Fisherman's Wharf, Fort Myers Beach, has entertainment most Friday and Saturday evenings and Sunday Afternoon and evening.

Sunshine Seafood Cafe at 8750 Gladioulus Drive Fort Myers has live entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights Featuring Jazz and Relaxing Dining entertainment.

The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum

The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum

Kayaking at J.N. Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge

Kayaking at J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge

The second annual Islands FallFest breezes into town September through November. This fun-for-all event celebrates the area's tropical charm, natural wonders and distinctive coastal culture. From sand-sculpting competitions and nature festivals to crowd-pleasing food and music events, there's sure to be plenty of fun, bargains and beautiful weather.