Tue, October 20, 2009

English country dance lessons

Learn the social dances of the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries during English country dance lessons at Wa-Ke Hatchee Rec Center (16355 Summerlin Road) every Tuesday, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dress is casual, and be sure to wear flat shoes with non-slip soles. Partners are not necessary – and beginners are welcome to join in. This is also a family-friendly event, so feel free to bring the kids. Lessons are free after a one-time payment of $10, which covers a lifetime membership to the rec center. For more information or for directions, contact Gillian Carney, 332-4846 Ext. 3319, or email fortmyersdancers@hotmail.com, or visit LeeParks.org.

Free Ding Darling bird tram rides

Spy upon and learn about the birds of Bunche Beach aboard the “Ding” Darling Days birding tram. Because of the popularity of the Bunche Beach birding tram, “Ding” Darling Days will offer two more free excursions during its week of festivities, Oct. 18 to 24. Times and dates for the two trips coordinate with low tides: 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, Oct. 22, and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23. The tours meet at the flagpole at Sanibel Island’s J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge and are limited to 29 participants each. Tarpon Bay Explorers provides the complimentary transportation to Bunche Beach. Reservations and deposit are required; call Tarpon Bay Explorers at 472-8900. Protected Bunche Beach Preserve, a stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail, teems with shorebirds, wading birds, ospreys, bald eagles, and other feathered friends. Join local birding experts for a tram excursion to this natural beach habitat at low tide. For more information on other birding tours and eco-events during the 20th Annual “Ding” Darling Days, visit DingDarlingDays.com.