by Randy Kambic
Reel In Some Fun for a Great Cause
As this is such a popular area for world-class fishermen, why not tap into the immense expertise of residents and visitors to help support environmental protection and preservation? That’s what propels the Red Snook Catch & Release Tournament with its seventeenth edition set for October 1–3. Last year, more than $70,000 was raised for the Conservancy of Southwest Florida in Naples.
Dozens of individuals and teams of male and female anglers compete for prizes in various skill and age categories. Participants in the event, certified by the International Game Fish Association, pre-register their various launch and return sites along the gulf and inland waterways for each of the three days of competition. Many experienced guides are available if newcomers need assistance in deciding on routes. Kickoff and post-event parties are held as well.
The Conservancy is a grassroots organization focused on the critical environmental issues of the Southwest Florida region. Partnering with like-minded organizations, it not only works to manage growth and protect area waters, land, and wildlife but also promotes sound environmental policies and practices based on solid scientific research, while providing environmental education to residents and visitors. The Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic treats more than 2,400 injured, sick, and orphaned animals each year and releases about half back into their native habitats. For more info on the event, call 239-403-4200 or visit www.conservancy.org.
Walk the Plank…for Fun
It’s like Halloween but with a swashbuckling focus. You’ll see plenty of eyepatches and hear “rrrrrrr” grunted repeatedly from menacing-looking-yet-friendly sword-wielders (made of plastic, thankfully) and their bawdy wenches at the Fort Myers Beach Pirate Fest. The fifth annual affair will celebrate and offer the entire family a fun way to learn more about our rich pirate folklore, near the bridge on Old San Carlos Boulevard, October 8–10.
Many attest that unfortunate folks held captive many years ago by pirate José Gaspar for ransom were kept on one of our islands; hence, the names of both Captiva and Gasparilla islands. Also, legend has it that pirate Black Augustus hid on Black Island in present-day Lovers Key State Park to evade authorities, and left buried treasure. You’re sure to hear more tales of plunder and other skull-and-crossbone adventures at the event.
There’ll be live music, treasure hunts, costume and tattoo contests, merchandise vendors, pirate-inspired art, a simulated battle off the beach, and local establishments dueling it out (peacefully) for pirate décor awards. And who knows…maybe Johnny Depp will show up in movie-character garb! For more info, visit www.fortmyersbeachpiratefest.com.
One of the Best Bavarian Bashes Around
There’s a silver anniversary approaching for one of our sliver of paradise’s most joyful traditions. One of the largest, most authentic Oktoberfests around will mark its twenty-fifth edition, thanks to the German-American Social Club of Cape Coral, over two consecutive weekends, October 22–24 and October 29–31.
A host of special entertainers will perform on two stages in the customary huge tent and in the Bavarian Gardens. The featured band will be Blaskapelle Peng from Germany, whose accordion, percussion, brass, horns, and woodwind music from its seventeen members is sure to get you onto the spacious floor to do the perennial crowd-pleasing chicken and other dances. Other musicians slated to perform include Manni Dahm and son Jason, Hafenkapelle Fest Band, Alpeh Diamanten, and Klaus Mühlhauser. Another annual highlight is honoring Miss Oktoberfest, who is traditionally crowned a couple of months before the event.
Besides enjoying the rousing tunes, thousands will flock to the fest to get a taste (make that multiple) of Germany’s finest food and, of course, beer. It all takes place at the club’s grounds at 2101 Pine Island Road. Call 239-283-1400 or visit www.gasc-capecoral.com for more info.
Paddling for a Purpose
In only four years, the Calusa Blueway Paddling Festival, the fastest-growing event of its kind according to Canoe & Kayak magazine, has become a major splash in increasing awareness of the recreation opportunities and preserving the environment in our area. The next edition, from October 29 through November 7, was chosen one of the Southeast Tourism Society’s Top 20 Events for 2010. It celebrates the 190 miles of the Great Calusa Blueway, which includes Charlotte Harbor, Estero Bay, and the eastern banks of Sanibel and Pine Island to Bonita Springs with the Caloosahatchee, Estero, and Imperial Rivers plus tributaries in between.
Festivities include competitive canoe/kayak races, a kayak fishing tournament, paddling clinics and demonstrations, seminars, family activities, archaeological and environmental events, guided tours, and more celebrations at public parks and archeological sites, resorts, restaurants, and campgrounds along the Calusa Blueway.
Last year’s affair involved more than three thousand paddlers and on-land event attendees?a thirty-five percent increase from 2008?from eighteen states, Canada, and Germany. People can ply the waters, watch the crafts from along shorelines, attend events, or volunteer via the Lee County Parks and Recreation. For more info, call 239-433-3855 or visit www.calusabluewaypaddlingfestival.com or www.leeparks.org.