December 2023 Newsletter
The Mission of the Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation is to enhance the beauty and experience of Lakes Park.
December, 2023
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT:
Dear Friends of Lakes Park,
The holidays are here, and everyone is busy preparing. Remember, during this stressful season, a walk in the park is just what we all need to clear our heads. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and Lakes Park has just what you need.
First and foremost, the "Holiday Express" is up and running. Take a ride through the park and thrill at the thousands of lights lovingly strung by our dedicated volunteers. The Gardens are looking fantastic and decorated for the holidays. Bird Walks and Garden Tours are scheduled, and don't forget to get all your fresh veggies at the Farmers Market.
If you are looking for a special gift, what better way than to buy an engraved brick! The perfect gift for someone who has everything or for a special occasion or your grandchildren! Through December, the bricks are reduced to $90.
Oh, and don't forget us when you are making those end-of-year donations. The Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation is a 501(c)(3) Charitable Organization, and all donations are tax-deductible. It's easy; just go to our website at lapespark.org and click on donate. Or write us a check. Many of you have supported us over the years with very generous end-of-year donations. Remember, all donations go back to the park to make it the place we all love.
Thanks to all of you, and may you have a happy holiday season and a very healthy and happy 2024.
Enjoy,
Barbara Manzo
President LPEF
Thank you to The Sunshine Rotary Club!
President Barbara Manzo received the check from our long-time partners, The Sunshine Rotary Club, for the Scarecrows in the Park event. The Sunshine Rotary has been collecting entrance fees for the Fall Festival and splitting the proceeds with the LPEF for the past ten years. We extend our gratitude to all the volunteers who worked tirelessly to make this family event a huge success!
The perfect gift for someone who has everything or for a special occasion or your grandchildren! Through December, the bricks are reduced to $90. Purchase here.
The Community Garden is in the holiday spirit!
The gardens are thriving, providing an enjoyable stroll as one discovers the unique expressions in each bed, mirroring the distinct visions of their respective owners. Amidst this flourishing beauty, our community has contributed over 200 pounds of fresh produce and food items to the CCMI food pantry and soup kitchen! Looking forward to a successful 2024.
Holiday Express is in full swing!
Volunteers and Lee County staff have joined forces to warmly welcome the latest addition to the Lakes Park train fleet, the Florida Central (FCEN) 55. This newly acquired train is now stationed in the train yard and is undergoing commissioning to ensure a delightful experience for our guests during the upcoming holiday season.
Embark on a festive journey by visiting the Lakes Park and Gulf Railroad in Fort Myers for a ride on the Holiday Express! Operating from December 15th to December 31st (Closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Eve), the Train Village route transforms into a dazzling display with holiday decorations and lighting for our enchanting nighttime rides. Our dedicated volunteers have invested countless hours in adorning the entire route with tens of thousands of lights and decorations, featuring our renowned "Dancing Lights" synchronized to music, creating a truly spectacular and one-of-a-kind display in Southwest Florida.
The train operates on weekdays from 10 am to 2 pm and 6 pm to 9 pm, and on weekends from 10 am to 9 pm. Admission is free for ages 1-5 and $6 for ages 6 and above.
All Aboard for a magical holiday experience!
Field Trip to Naples Botanical Gardens
Garden volunteers temporarily stepped away from the task of weeding and embarked on a field trip to Naples Botanical Gardens. The enriching experience inspired us with numerous ideas for enhancing and expanding our own gardens.
Senor Frog has been installed!
Presented here is a photograph featuring Ross Becker and Kyle Katzenmeyer standing alongside Senor Frog. Notably, they relocated this whimsical feature from the Children's Garden to the Koi pond in the Fragrance Garden, ensuring its functionality as originally intended—a delightful water fountain.
Story Time is back in the Children's Garden!
Garden Tours Will Resume
The strolling garden tours will resume on Saturday, November 11th with Dr Wesley Higgins and Paula Novander.
Meet at the entrance to the Children’s Garden to learn about the plants in the botanic garden.
Tours are scheduled for the second Saturday of each month at 9:00 AM.
Bird Patrol Led Nature Walks
1st Saturday of every month!
Next walk is January, 6th
Tour is FREE with PAID PARKING. Parking is $1/hour or $5/all day.
WHEN: 8 A.M. the FIRST Saturday of every month. Please arrive a few minutes before 8 A.M.
Walks start promptly at 8 A.M.
WHERE: LAKES REGIONAL PARK, 7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers, Fl. 33908
Please meet at Shelter A7. Enter Lakes Park gate from Gladiolus. Turn right. Drive to end of road, continue through the parking lot. Shelter A7 is located near the Train Station.
INFORMATION: Call (239)533-7275
Please wear comfortable shoes and dress to be outside. Bring water, sunscreen and binoculars.
All are welcome.
Hope to see you there!
Follow this link for a brick donation and this link for a general donation. Thank you for your support!
Copyright © 2023 Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation, All rights reserved.
Donations
PLEASE MAIL DONATIONS TO:
Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation
P.O. Box 61076
Fort Myers, Fl. 33906-1076
A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION oF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE. Registration #CH31520