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News from the Friends of Lovers Key State Park
January 2, 2018 - Happy New Year!
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You are cordially invited to attend the
Friends of Lovers Key, Inc. Annual Meeting

January 23rd, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
The Fort Myers Beach Woman’s Club
175 Sterling Avenue
Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931

 


Pursuant to ARTICLE IX Section 1 of the By-Laws of Friends of Lovers Key Inc. NOTICE is hereby given of the Friends of Lovers Key, Inc's Annual Meeting for the purpose of electing members to the Board of Directors and the transaction of other business. We will also be giving an update on the progress of the future Environmental Learning Center at Lovers Key State Park.    

After the regular business of the Annual Meeting is complete, please join us for an interesting presentation on Shorebirds by Adam DiNuovo. Light refreshments will be provided.

About our Speaker
Adam has been the Shorebird Monitoring and Stewardship Program Manager for Audubon Florida since April 2015. He has worked on seabird and shorebird research projects from coast to coast for the past 17 years. Projects have included American Oystercatchers in South Carolina, Piping Plovers in the Gulf of Mexico following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, and in Maine, Atlantic Puffins and Arctic Terns.
Not a member? Join today!

Welcome to Kae Moore FOLKS Fundraising Consultant


The Friends of Lovers Key State Park (FOLKS) have announced the hiring of fundraising consultant, Kae Moore, to guide their $1.5 million Capital Campaign to complete the Environmental Learning Center (ELC).
Kae Moore
"Lovers Key is in a unique position to attract people of all ages, provide wonderful learning programs, and all at this gorgeous place on the Gulf," Mr. Moore said.

Funds from the Campaign will complete the inside rooms and displays. The future $4 million facility building will be funded by the state of Florida. The ELC will provide a complete educational experience of the five ecological systems inside the park.

Mr. Moore has extensive fundraising experience  at major colleges such as Purdue, Florida State, Evansville, Southern Indiana, and Colorado State. He has resided full time in Southwest Florida since 2013 and is active in the Bonita Springs morning Rotary Club.

He describes this new Learning Center at Lovers Key, "as an opportunity for life long learning programs for all ages. Understanding the ecosystems of this beautiful park will enlighten our school age children and the many life long learners."


“The Florida Horse Conch” (pronounced ‘konk’) as it is commonly called, is one of a species of extremely large predatory subtropical and tropical sea snails. The word "conch" comes from a Greek word meaning "shell."  Triplofusus giganteus is a marine gastropodmollusc.  Although known as a horse conch, it is not a true conch as it is of the family Fasciolariidae, the spindle snails, tulip snails and their like.



The Florida Horse Conch is the largest gastropod in American waters, and one of the largest univalves in the world. It does not look like a horse, nor does the animal inside resemble a horse, but for a shell, it is as big as a horse! This large sea snail is found along the coast of North Carolina to the north, to the Yucatán in the Gulf of Mexico to the south, and all of Southwest Florida. Florida declared it the state seashell in 1969.

Native to the marine waters around Florida, it can grow to a length of twenty-four inches. The female horse conch attaches capsule-like structures to a rock or old shell, with each capsule containing several dozen eggs the size of a pinhead. They grow from a tiny larva into a snail weighing approximately ¼ lb. in their first year, and will reach about 4½ lbs. as adults. Its large shell size makes it very popular with shell collectors.

Young horse conchs have orange-colored shells that fade to dark brown over time. The animal can retract their soft parts entirely into the shell and close it with the operculum. The soft parts are bright orange in color. They use a pad, or foot, that extends from their shell to drag their shell along. As they move, often times their mouth and eyes can be seen coming out from the opening of the shell. This species dwells on sand, weed and mud flats from the low intertidal to shallow sub-tidal zones, in 20-foot deep water.



This Florida horse conch is dining on a lightning whelk.

Native Americans, including the Calusa and Tequesta, used the horse conch to make several types of tools. The whole shell was attached to a wooden handle and used as a hammer or woodworking tool. The body whorl was used as a drinking cup. And of course the shell has been used as a horn to trumpet upon.

Horse Conch predators are mainly humans that use them for their shells and for food. Other predators include octopus, which use their suction cups to suck the conch out of its shell. Certain starfish are able to slip one of their arms into the operculum of the conch, force its stomach out and ingest the conch right from its shell.

If you find a horse conch shell, you may keep it but only if there is no live animal inside. In Lee County Florida, you may not harvest or possess any shells that contain a live organism except for oysters, hard clams (quahogs), sunray venus clams and coquinas. You must possess a saltwater fishing license to collect a shell with an animal inside.

If you have a question, picture or shelling story you would like to share send it to ShellingWithSandy@gmail.com

Happy Shelling!

Sandy Sandness

Reference:  Wikipedia, iloveshelling.com

Reprinted courtesy of the Island Sand Paper, SAND LIFE Magazine, and www.fortmyersbeach.news

Another successful Outdoor Adventure Day



FWC officers Francis and Felix brought Police Dog Roscoe for a visit.

Almost 300 visitors came out to Lovers Key State Park for The 2017 Great Outdoor Adventure Day on Saturday, December 2nd. This event, which has been held annually since 2003, gives the park a chance to showcase its lesser known amenities and activities. The beach is the main draw for most visitors to the park. Many of those visitors, however, aren’t aware that Lovers Key offers much more than its famous beach.


Stand-up paddle-boarding demonstrations were popular throughout the day.

The park also has 5 miles of hiking/biking trails and an inland waterway that is great for canoeing, kayaking and paddle-boarding. This year’s Great Outdoor Adventure Day brought in many vendors and agencies from the area, including CROW (the Center for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife), J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge, The Florida Public Archaeology Network, and the Everglades Astronomical Society.


20,000 SW Florida seashells decorate this 2005 Volkswagen Beetle, The Shell Love Bug.

A highlight of this year’s event was the Shell Love Bug, brought by the Lee County Convention and Visitors Authority. This vehicle, a 2005 Volkswagen Beetle, is adorned with 20,000 shells found right here in Southwest Florida!

Another big part of the event is the interpretive programs. Park Rangers and Volunteers offer programs throughout the year. This day gives them a chance to introduce visitors to abbreviated versions of some of the most popular kayak tours, bike tours, and nature trail walks.

Beach BBQ and Songwriters At Sunset Concert
Thursday, January 4, 2017
BBQ 3:15pm – Concert 4:15pm


Friends of Lovers Key (FOLKS) has once again joined with the Americana Community Music Association (ACMA), to offer a series of monthly Free Acoustic concerts of all original music this season.

Come down to the beach for a pre-concert BBQ with hamburgers, hot dogs, soda, beer, and wine by donation. All proceeds benefit the future Environmental Education Center at Lovers Key State Park. After the BBQ stay for the concert which will feature local musicians Bob Williams, Mike McMillan, Ed Summer, and Bill Steel

Bob Williams’ original songs, and the stories behind his songs, always bring a smile! As a teenager, Bob began writing his own music. Pulling elements from Folk-Rock and Country-Rock, Bob created a sound all of his own. Bob’s songs are personal, irreverent, funny, and sad, and most importantly, true to his heart.

Mike McMillan got his first guitar as a teenager and has been pursuing his musical dreams ever since (in between jobs, 4 kids and several dogs). After his first Doc Watson concert in the 1970’s, he was inspired to learn finger picking and then later, many blues songs.

Ed Summers hails from Norton Shores, Michigan. He’s been playing Bass Guitar for several years around the Fort Myers area. Ed’s influences include Motown, Blues and Jazz.

Bill Steel is a Snowbird from the southernmost part of Canada – Windsor, Ontario. He played in a small band as a teenager, dabbled for many years, but then "came out" of the musical closet after retirement. He is inspired by singer-songwriters like John Prine, Guy Clark, Townes Van Zant and the many talented members of ACMA.

The concerts take place in the gazebo on the beach; seating is available for the first 80 people. Bring a beach chair for additional seating on the sand. Refreshments will be available by donation and will benefit FOLKS.

Songwriters at Sunset concerts are scheduled for Feb 1, Mar 1, and Apr 5, 2018.

Come to a Tropical Beach Party 

Lovers Key State Park
Thursday, January 18th, 2018
5:30pm-8:30pm

Space is limited -- RSVP Today!  



Friends of Lovers Key will be hosting a special "Island" evening on the beach at Lovers Key State Park. Wear your favorite tropical outfit and enjoy a BBQ dinner including ribs, chicken, pulled pork and island flavored desserts catered by Texas Tony's. Cash bar will be available Live entertainment provided by Johnny Caribe.  Cost is $50 per person, which includes park admission, food and 2 drinks.

All proceeds for the event will benefit the future Environmental Learning Center at Lovers Key State Park.

For additional information or to RSVP, please call (513) 503-8750 or email: beachparty@friendsofloverskey.org


Yoga on the Gazebo at Lovers Key State Park 

Monday mornings through April



The Friends of Lovers Key (FOLKS) has partnered with Naples Yoga Center (NYC) to offer Monday morning yoga on the gazebo at Lovers Key, beginning on Monday, Jan. 8 and continuing through April.

Naples Yoga Center is committed to providing high quality and affordable Yoga for everyone. Join Naples Yoga Center instructor Sandy McShane for an hour of Open Vinyasa Flow (multilevel) and experience the magic of yoga on the spectacular Lovers Key gazebo on the beach.

Your participation helps to fund the future Environmental Learning Center, as a portion of the class fee will be donated to the FOLKS.

Bring a yoga mat, water, and any props you may need.
Be sure to give yourself time to park and take the tram down to the gazebo. 

FEES: 
$10 per class plus park entry fee.
Park entry fees are $8 for vehicles (2-8 people), $4 for single person in vehicle, $2 for pedestrian/bicyclist.

CONTACT: For additional information please contact Naples Yoga Center at 239-592-4809.

Valentine's Day Vow Renewal at Lovers Key

Wednesday, February 14, 2018
Lovers Key State Park
8700 Estero Blvd.
Fort Myers Beach, FL 33931



Three separate Vow Renewal Ceremonies will take place: 10am, 1pm, and 4pm.

Love is always in the air at Lovers Key, but even more so on Valentine’s Day. Couples are invited to join us in the park for our special 9th Annual Vow Renewal Ceremonies at the Gazebo on the beach. 

Couples will have the opportunity to choose either a 10:00am, a 1:00pm ceremony or a 4:00pm ceremony. All ceremonies include a Champagne Toast, full meal catered by Truly Scrumptious, coffee, cake and desserts, dancing, socializing, photo, as well as a special gift and door prizes.

Pre-registration for this event is required as it is open to only 40 couples each ceremony, and it is expected to sell out. FEES: $100 per couple, non-refundable donation to the Friends of Lovers Key, Inc. (FOLKS).

To register or more information, please contact the Event Chair, Judy Greenwood by phone 708-359-0466, or email fjgreenwood@gmail.com

 

Lovers Key Welcomes Ranger Bob to the park!


Robert (Bob) Azzara grew up in Massachusetts. He studied architectural and mechanical design at Southeastern Massachusetts University. Bob later studied culinary arts in Boston and Sarasota.

In 1985, Bob moved to Sarasota and spent several years as a chef. After that he started and ran some successful building and maintenance businesses.

Bob volunteered at Myakka River State Park and began to think about working in the parks full time. Given his business experience and his love of the outdoors, it seemed the Park Service could be a great fit. When he heard of an open position, he decided to apply. He was hired and so began his new career – which he has loved.

After three years in that position, he made the switch to Park Ranger, fortunately at, Lovers Key, his favorite park in District 4. Bob says, "I feel very blessed to be a part of the awesome team at beautiful Lovers Key State Park."
 

Save the Dates!
Mark your Calendars!

2017/2018 Season of FOLKS Special Events

Check our website and upcoming E-News for more details as these events draw near.

Songwriters at Sunset Free Live Acoustic Musical Concerts in the Gazebo
First Thursday of the Month
Jan. 4, 2018
Feb. 1, 2018
March 1, 2018
April 5, 2018
Dec. 6, 2018

Tropical Beach Party on the Beach
Jan. 18, 2018

FOLKS Annual Membership Meeting
January 23, 2018

Nautical Market and Boat Show
Feb. 9-11, 2018

Valentines Vow Renewal on the Beach
Feb. 14, 2018

Wine Tasting on the Beach
March 21, 2018

Luau on the Beach
April 11, 2018

13th Annual Turtle Trot and Family Fun Day
May 12, 2018
 
Lovers Key State Park Interpretive Events
January, 2018

Tues. Jan 1, 10 am
First Day Hike

Fri. Jan 5, 10 am
Manatee Talk

Tues. Jan 9, 10 am
Lovers Key Fishing Clinic

Fri. Jan 12, 10 am
A Walk on the Wild Side

Thurs. Jan 18, 10 am
Beach Walk and Estuary Tour

Fri. Jan 19, 10 am
Black Island Kayak Tour

Mon. Jan 22, 10 am
Beginning Birding

Fri. Jan 26, 10 am
Sea Turtle Program

Space is limited – Call for Reservations: 239-463-4588  

Collin Jacobs joins Lovers Key State Park as a Park Ranger


Collin is a recent graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University, where he majored in Environmental Studies. During his time at FGCU, he concentrated on the ecology of storm water management. His senior research project focused on the development of a rapid bio-assessment tool for storm water treatment ponds in Lee County.

Collin moved to Florida from Carroll County, Maryland. In his free time, he enjoys many outdoor activities, playing fetch with his dog, Spot, and practicing and playing his drum kit and bass guitar. Collin’s future career plans include becoming a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Law Enforcement Officer.

Lovers Key State Park welcomes OPS Part-time Park Ranger Allyson Cross

 
Allyson Cross is originally from Tampa, FL and is an environmental studies student at Florida Gulf Coast University. Allyson plans to further her studies in zoology to become an ecologist.

Welcome aboard, Allyson!

Spotlight on IslandFit


IslandFit Physical Therapy and Wellness opened December, 2014 offering a wide array of services including Physical Therapy, Customized Personal Training, and Orthotics. Their experienced physical therapists work with you individually to build a strength and conditioning plan tailored to your own desired functionality regarding a specific condition.

IslandFit also offers one-on-one sessions with a personal trainer that will help you customize a training program suited to meet your needs and goals. They have a variety of equipment including machines, core equipment, and TRX suspension.

In addition, they also offer customized orthotics designed especially for you and your needs. Don’t wait! Call today and let IslandFit help you live the life you love!

7205 Estero Blvd
Fort Myers Beach, Florida
(239) 314-5118
http://islandfitpt.com/

Spotlight on Interiors Unlimited

Interiors Unlimited is a family owned and operated remodeling company based in Fort Myers Beach. They offer full kitchen and bath design services providing assistance through every step of your remodeling project. Interiors Unlimited offers a wide range of services including custom cabinetry, quartz, granite, and marble countertops, lighting design and installation.

At Interiors Unlimited, they set themselves apart from the competition by using superior products, teamed with their expert craftsmanship. With their all-star reviews and outstanding design team they are a great choice for your next remodeling project!

Call now and get started on planning to make your beach home beautiful!

7205 Estero Blvd.
Santini Marina Plaza Ste #702
Fort Myers Beach FL 33931
(239) 463-5320
http://www.interiorsfmb.com/

2018 Calendars still available!



Features:
  • Important dates and information about special park events
  • One FREE State Park entry pass ($8.00 value)
  • Special messages from select local businesses and more!
Calendars may be purchased at the Ranger Station, FOLKS merchandise table at the Tram Stop, Gift Shop, on our website, the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce, and at Dennis Goodman’s gallery where you can meet the photographer.

Proceeds from the purchase of the FOLKS Calendar will be used to fund the highly anticipated Environmental Learning Center!
www.friendsofloverskey.org

FOLKS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit Citizen Support Organization (CSO) established to protect, preserve and support Lovers Key State Park.

Volunteer Opportunities Available!

FOLKS is growing and as we enter a new season, we are currently looking to expand our volunteer base.  The following FOLKS volunteer positions are available:
•    Event Planners
•    Volunteer Coordinator
•    Lecture Coordinator
•    Bookkeeper
•    Merchandise Sales
•    Community Relations
•    Communications and Media Relations

For more information contact Rich Donnelly at: president@friendsofloverskey.org

FOLKS would like to thank the following Business Sponsors for their support as we fund raise for the future Environmental Learning Center. Please consider visiting their businesses and supporting them as well. Business Partners help support the environmental education mission of the Park.


Add your business to the list!
Contact Shelley-Sue Williams at (516) 381-3518.

 
The Friends of Lovers Key, Inc. is a non-profit organization formed by the citizens of the community to support Lovers Key State Park and is registered as a non-profit, tax-exempt corporation under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. As such, your Membership and Donations are tax-deductible.
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