FMBCF up and running full speed ahead
The Fort Myers Beach Community Foundation is operating in full swing. Formerly the Pilot Club of Fort Myers Beach, the new Community Foundation (a 501 ( c) (3) organization) will draw on Pilot traditions of friendship and service to the community as the mission of the newly formed club.
Reorganization occurred over the summer, with the new club officially opening in October with the installation of officers, all residents of Fort Myers Beach: President, Kate Duffy; Vise President, Anita Cereceda; Secretary, Dr. Nicole Bennett; Treasurer, Nancy Mulholland; and Directors, Jeanne Butzer, Alicia Steinhagen and Judy Kilburg.
The first major community event of the season was coordinating, in conjunction with KLCB, the annual marine cleanup program “Monofilament Madness” in November. The Pilot club has coordinated beach cleanup programs for the past 25 years, and these activities will continue to be a priority for the new club. Keep Lee county Beautiful recently honored the FMBCF at a luncheon at the Fiddlesticks Country Club for their continued work and donations in making these become annual events.
The Foundation will hold two major fund raisers this year, a Casino Night in March, and a spring fashion show and luncheon. Plans for a Mardi Gras Casino Night are underway. The date is Saturday March 5, from 6:30PM to 10:00PM at Bay Oaks Recreation Center. Blackjack, roulette, craps, wheel of fortune, horse racing and Texas hold’em will all be available. Authentic equipment, tables, and a professional staff of “croupiers” (dealers) and “pit bosses” will create a very exciting atmosphere. Croupiers will be eager to answer questions and assist inexperienced players.
General admission tickets are $40 before January 19th, and $45 after that date. The admission ticket includes play money, unlimited fool, and prizes. A cash bar will be available. Prize packages worth hundreds of dollars may include such things as charter fishing, golf outings, a spa package, sunset cruises, restaurant package, family entertainment package, theatre package, and much more. Tickets are available by calling Kate Duffy at 218 9742.