Now You Know: Archaeology of Bonita Springs; Dave Keller performs

The Southwest Florida Archaeological Society presents The Archaeology of Bonita Springs at 7 p.m., Nov. 15, at the Collier Museum at Government Center, 3331 Tamiami Trail East, Naples. This is a free public program.

Avocational archaeologist and historian Charlie Strader will discuss the prehistory of Bonita Springs. His PowerPoint presentation will cover back to the earliest evidence of man in our area and sites documenting over 6,000 of Native American life in the area. He will highlight the Calusa’s culture, technologies, and built environment including their capital at Mound Key in Estero Bay, contact with Spanish starting in 1513, and their demise. Bonita Springs has a rich archaeology including some of Florida’s first mound building and earliest mortuary sites. Time will be available for questions and answers.

Avocational archaeologist and historian Charlie Strader.
Avocational archaeologist and historian Charlie Strader.

Strader has a 45-year residency in Bonita Springs, including over a decade living on a Native American archaeological site located on the Imperial River. He received a B.A. Degree in Applied Anthropology from the University of South Florida. He is current Treasurer of the Southwest Florida Archaeology Society and former three term president.

Soul singer and guitarist Dave Keller at Arts Bonita

Dave Keller, hailed as a “magnificent soul singer” by Elmore Magazine, is set to take the stage at Arts Bonita Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 10.

Over the past decade, Keller has carved a niche for himself, earning accolades such as a "stellar" guitarist (AXS.com) and a "songwriting genius" (Living Blues). His prowess has been recognized with three Blues Music Award nominations for Best Soul Blues Album. Audiences across the U.S. and Europe have been captivated by Keller's livewire shows, establishing a loyal legion of fans.

Dave Keller is set to take the stage at Arts Bonita Performing Arts Center
Dave Keller is set to take the stage at Arts Bonita Performing Arts Center

A three-time Blues Music Award nominee and winner of the International Blues Challenge's Best Self-Produced Album Award, Keller's love for Memphis Soul is evident, and his journey includes collaborations with luminaries like Mighty Sam McClain, Ronnie Earl, and Robert Ward. Noteworthy experiences include backing up Fontella Bass, recording with Al Green's original Hi Rhythm Section, and studio sessions with Bobby "Blue" Bland.

Tickets: artsbonita.org or call 239-495-8989

Bayside Park Concert Series

Fort Myers Beach is kicking off the fall and winter seasons with the announcement of the Bayside Park Concert Series at Bayside Park, Fort Myers Beach.

The first ever concert series to be held at Bayside Park on Fort Myers Beach is presented by the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Fort Myers Beach. Each week the concert series will presentattendees with a different local band, giving the community a chance to sit back, relax and end their weekend with a beautiful sunset concert on the back bay.

Kicking off the series on Nov. 12 will be The Echo.

The Nov. 19 show will showcase the band Guilty Pleasure, followed by King's Chambers on Nov. 26 and Riverside on Dec. 3, and  Jacob's Ladder on Dec. 10.

Concerts will begin each Sunday at 4 p.m. and run until 7. Lawn chairs and well-behaved pets on a 6’ or less leash are encouraged. Outside food and beverages are not permitted. Events are weather permitting and are free.

For more information, visit Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce.

Leadership Collier Foundation’s Volunteer Expo returns

Leadership Collier Foundation (LCF), of Greater Naples Chamber, is returning to Coastland Center Mall for its 9th Annual Get Involved Collier! Volunteer Expo.

Happening on Wednesday, Nov. 8, from 3-6 p.m., the event is aimed at connecting the  community with organizational volunteer opportunities.

The Get Involved Collier! Volunteer Expo is a free event that introduces organizations with volunteer needs to interested community members that are looking to serve in Collier County. It is designed to promote meaningful connections that foster strong ongoing relationships needed for community betterment.

“Through the Volunteer Expo, Pace Center for Girls was able to connect with volunteers to support our mission and even some of our events,” said Sharon Tonai, development manager at Pace Center for Girls. “I would highly recommend all local nonprofits and government agencies consider how to best utilize this opportunity to further their missions by engaging with volunteers and community leaders.”

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Now You Know: Archaeology of Bonita Springs; Dave Keller performs