Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral Events Newswire

Florida Child in Need of Extremely Rare Blood- OneBlood Leading Worldwide Search to Locate Donors 12/3/2018 8:00 AM - 12/3/2119

Wed, 05 Dec 2018 14:19:23 GMT

(Orlando, Florida December 3, 2018) OneBlood, the local not-for-profit blood center serving Florida and other parts of the southeast, is leading a worldwide search to find some of the rarest blood in the world. It’s needed to help save two-year-old Zainab, a South Florida girl who is battling neuroblastoma, a very aggressive form of cancer. Zainab’s blood is extremely rare because she is missing a common antigen that most people carry on their red blood cells. The antigen is called “Indian B” (Inb). For a person to be a possible match for Zainab, they must also be missing the Indian B antigen, or the little girl's body will reject the blood. Locating people who are missing the Indian B antigen comes down to genetics. • Statistically, the only people who are likely to be a match for Zainab are people of Pakistani, Indian or Iranian descent. Of these populations, less than 4% of the people are actually missing the Indian B antigen. To be a match for Zainab a donor must meet the following criteria: • Must be exclusively Pakistani, Indian or Iranian descent – meaning the donor’s birth parents are both 100% Pakistani, Indian or Iranian • Must be blood type “O” or “A” • All donations for Zainab must be coordinated with OneBlood in advance to ensure the additional compatibility testing is performed. Visit https://www.oneblood.org/zainab/ for donation information. OneBlood is working closely with other blood centers and the American Rare Donor Program (ARDP), an organization that searches the world for rare blood donors. So far, three matching donors have been located, including a donor that ARDP located in the United Kingdom, near London. It’s the first time OneBlood has ever received an international donor for a local patient. The other two matching donors are from the United States. While it’s promising the three donors have been located, additional donors are needed. Zainab will need blood transfusions for the foreseeable future. To support her long-term blood needs, the search is on to find at least seven to ten compatible donors. OneBlood is sharing Zainab’s story in the hopes more people who meet the specific donor criteria will come forward to donate for the little girl. OneBlood is conducting all compatibility testing of potential donors. So far, more than 1,000 local donations, as well as donations from other parts of the country have been tested and no additional matches have been identified. Media Tool Kit Available • To view OneBlood’s online show about the search for Zainab’s donors, and for details on how to donate and/or host a blood drive for Zainab, please visit https://www.oneblood.org/zainab/. • A media tool kit with video and interviews is available by visiting https://www.dropbox.com/sh/4yrbbtu13mdglv6/AADToakWh9ixj9e4rBKiXYjca?dl=0. ## OneBlood is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) community asset responsible for providing safe, available and affordable blood to more than 200 hospital partners and their patients throughout most of Florida, parts of Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina. Generally healthy people age 16 or older who weigh at least 110 pounds can donate blood. To learn more about OneBlood visit www.oneblood.org.

The Birds of Southwest Florida Exhibit 9/1/2026 9:00 AM - 12/6/2026 5:30 PM

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 16:03:44 GMT

On September 1, The Birds of Southwest Florida exhibit will open in the Edison Caretaker's House at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. The exhibit features multiple panels containing detailed illustrations from John James Audubon, along with quotes from the Edison and Ford families. Antique spy glasses, books on birds, and other bird-related items that had belonged to Mina Edison will also be featured. The exhibit is included with admission to the site and will run through December 6.

Homeschool Classes at Edison Ford 11/4/2026 10:00 AM - 11/4/2026 12:00 Noon

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 11:37:06 GMT

Geology, Geography and Paleontology

Learn about Earth’s 4.54-billion-year geological history which covers its formation from a solar nebula, the evolution of its crust, oceans, and atmosphere, and the development of life! Learn about stratigraphy and rock cycles. Through simple hands-on activities, students use science process skills to conduct the Moh’s scale of identifying rocks and create crayon rock cycles to take home!

November 4 (grades 1-3), 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

November 5 (grades 4-6), 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Join us and explore the “living laboratory” of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Our Wild Wizards will challenge your mind and foster collaboration in this homeschool science and engineering series. Classes take place in an outdoor classroom environment (weather permitting). Homeschool classes at Edison Ford are aligned with Next Generation Science and Florida State Standards. Classes are a combination of instruction and hands on activities that are designed to facilitate homeschool or virtual science education.

Registration required; pricing and details available online at EdisonFord.org.

Believing in Girls Luncheon 11/4/2026 11:00 AM - 11/4/2026 2:00 PM

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 07:11:45 GMT

Join us for an afternoon of connection and an opportunity to hear directly from the girls at the heart of Pace.

Chaired by Lorri Field and Laurie Moore, this year’s Believing in Girls Luncheon will shine a light on the potential of girls and the impact our community can have when we invest in their futures. One of the highlights of the afternoon will be a panel of Pace girls sharing their own stories, including the challenges they have overcome, what they have accomplished, and where they hope to go next.

Whether you have supported Pace for years or are just beginning to learn about our work, we invite you to join us for a meaningful afternoon and discover what it truly means to believe in girls. Sponsorship and tickets can be found here: Believing in Girls Luncheon.

PreK – Dinosaur Explorers 11/6/2026 10:00 AM - 11/6/2026 11:30 AM

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 11:37:43 GMT

November 6, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Preschoolers learn about enormous ancient animals on Earth called Dinosaurs! Introduction to Paleontology and Geology, kids create their own dinosaurs with play doh! Students interact with different kinds of rocks and learn to organize them! Pre-schoolers learn to sort, follow a routine, follow instructions and stay with tasks in fun play activities.

The Pre-School Program is a 90-minute class with hands-on STEAM activities, learning through play! The class helps introduce educational readiness for kids 18 months to 5 years of age. The series supports developing social and behavioral skills with their classmates and teacher. It is structured with an hour of activities, and half an hour of independent play and snack time. 1 or 2 parents/guardians/family members can accompany the student in class.

Registration required; pricing and details available online at EdisonFord.org.

Kids Class - Etiquette 11/7/2026 11:00 AM - 11/7/2026 1:00 PM

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 11:37:38 GMT

November 7, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Etiquette classes are two-hour sessions in good manners and teach proper introduction, handshakes and dining etiquette during a three-course meal. Each student will receive a workbook. All classes run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For the 6-12 group and the teen group, parents should plan to drop children off. The FAMILY option allows parents to attend with the children.

Registration required; pricing and details available online at EdisonFord.org.

Cape Coral Farmers' Market - Club Square 11/7/2026 8:00 AM - 11/7/2026 1:00 PM

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 01:19:43 GMT

The Cape Coral Farmers Market has been a favorite Saturday morning destination for 37 years. Over the years, we have grown to over 125 plus vendors. We are confident that we have all the delicious foods and local crafts that you love to shop for.

Fresh, local & healthy fruits and veggies, including Certified Organic produce, are the core of the market along with homemade and handmade foods and crafts. Fresh baked breads & pastries, homemade pickles, jams & jellies, Gulf fresh seafood, homemade pet treats, handcrafted soaps, essential oils, local honey, made-on-site guacamole & native plants & trees are just some of the fantastic products available.

Since shopping and eating seem to go so well together, the market has endless options. A food truck court and tent vendors offer Crepes, Empanadas, Mexican food, German street food, Pierogis, Pizza, Paninis, Italian food and healthy options like, health smoothies, Acai bowls and salads.

Each season we do our best to give back to the community by offering spaces for non-profits, schools and community groups. Another way we give back is by offering the ability for our EBT/SNAP customers to shop for healthy and affordable food options. We are proud to say that 13 years ago, we were the first market in Lee County to offer ease of shopping for our neighbors.

We are also proud that we were the first market in Lee County to offer Fresh Access Bucks to our EBT/SNAP customers. This program gives $40.00 extra to purchase Florida grown fruits & veggies at the market. A healthy community is a great outcome.

The market also entertains with great musicians performing all year.

We hope that you choose to make the Cape Coral Farmers Market your Saturday Morning Destination!

For more information, call Claudia St Onge at (239) 549-6900 x101, cso@capecoralchamber.com (or) visit the Farmers' Market site at www.capecoralfarmersmarket.com

AMERICA’S LARGEST NUTCRACKER TOUR RETURNS — NUTCRACKER! MAGICAL CHRISTMAS BALLET ON SALE NOW 11/7/2026 3:00 PM - 11/7/2026 5:00 PM

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 07:47:44 GMT

Celebrate the season with NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet, the largest touring production of its kind in North America. Coming to Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW. FT Myers, FL on DECEMBER 30, 2026, this unforgettable performance features an international cast of dancers, dazzling acrobatics, elaborate costumes, and larger-than-life puppetry.

Set to the timeless music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, the production transforms the stage into a magical holiday experience. A highlight of the show is the “Dove of Peace” adagio, a powerful and visually stunning moment that captivates audiences of all ages.

Now in its 34th year, the production continues to delight families across more than 80 cities annually.

Membership Development Committee Meeting 11/10/2026 7:45 AM - 11/10/2026 8:45 AM

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 17:08:16 GMT

The Membership Development Committee has the opportunity to be the first to know about new members with the chamber. Ambassadors attend Ribbon Cuttings and also take part in being a mentor to new members. This is a great way to meet new prospects and welcome them to the chamber.

Every month the Ambassadors should attend one of the many Chamber events. They network with new members and expose their own business during the process. There is an average of ten ribbon cuttings per month. We encourage all Ambassadors to attend as many ribbon cuttings as their time allows. The time investment for this committee can be as high as 10 hours per month depending on your level of involvement.

For more information about the Membership Development Committee, please contact Lisa Barrella, Membership Sales Director at (239) 549-6900 x103 or lisa@capecoralchamber.com

Welcome Center and Chamber Offices Closed 11/11/2026

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 18:39:44 GMT

The Chamber Offices and Welcome Center will be closed on Wednesday, November 11th in observation of Veterans Day. Our offices will reopen on Thursday at 8:00am.

If you need immediate assistance during this time, please visit our website at www.capecoralchamber.com or email info@capecoralchamber.com

Education Committee Meeting 11/12/2026 7:30 AM - 11/12/2026 8:30 AM

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:16:39 GMT

The goal of the Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral Education Committee is to assist our local students, teachers and schools as they prepare for the future. This is done in a number of ways that include but are not limited to; raising funds, providing needed supplies, recognizing achievements and connecting local businesses with local schools. The goal is to help provide a well-rounded, prepared work force for our local businesses in the near future.

The Education Committee consists of local business leaders committed to achieving the committee goals. Annual events include a fund-raiser for scholarship monies and the prestigious Excellence in Education Awards Banquet. This annual event honors one educator and one student from each of our local schools with a special evening where they are presented a plaque and gifts provided by local businesses. Family members are invited to accompany the recipients as local business leaders, school district officials and our government officials honor then for their achievements.

The Education Committee meetings are held on a monthly basis, the second Thursday of every month at 7:30am. This group is always in need of enthusiastic chamber members to serve on this committee.

For more information about the Education Committee, please contact the Donna Germain at (239) 549-6900 x107 or donna@capecoralchamber.com

Rhythm on the River: Almighty Queen (Queen Tribute) 11/13/2026 6:30 PM - 11/13/2026 8:30 PM

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 11:37:51 GMT

November 13, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Get ready for a night of epic rock anthems and unforgettable showmanship as Almighty Queen takes the stage! This powerhouse tribute act brings Queen’s legendary music to life with stunning precision, capturing the sound, spirit, and spectacle that made Freddie Mercury and Queen rock royalty. From the operatic highs of Bohemian Rhapsody to the thunderous beat of We Will Rock You, Almighty Queen delivers hit after hit in a high-energy performance that thrills audiences of all ages. Featuring world-class musicians with credits that include performances with Brian Howe of Bad Company, Carmine Appice, Rod Stewart, and Nicko McBrain of Iron Maiden, plus a lead vocalist trained at Cuba’s renowned Vocal Academy, this band brings unmatched talent and passion to every note. Almighty Queen isn’t just a tribute — it’s a full-scale celebration of Queen’s timeless legacy.

Gates open at 6 p.m.; early access is given to VIP table ticket holders. Guests should bring a folding lawn chair (unless they have a VIP table ticket), and a sweater or blanket if the weather is chilly.

Tickets available at EdisonFord.org.

$30 for Edison Ford members

$35 for non-members

VIP seating: $275 per table (includes table and chairs for up to 5 people and early entry).

Rhythm on the River: Almighty Queen (Queen Tribute) 11/13/2026 6:30 PM - 11/13/2026 8:30 PM

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 11:37:55 GMT

November 13, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Tickets available at EdisonFord.org.

$30 for Edison Ford members

$35 for non-members

VIP seating: $275 per table (includes table and chairs for up to 5 people and early entry).

Cape Coral Farmers' Market - Club Square 11/14/2026 8:00 AM - 11/14/2026 1:00 PM

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 01:19:51 GMT

The market also entertains with great musicians performing all year.

We hope that you choose to make the Cape Coral Farmers Market your Saturday Morning Destination!

For more information, call Claudia St Onge at (239) 549-6900 x101, cso@capecoralchamber.com (or) visit the Farmers' Market site at www.capecoralfarmersmarket.com

Fall Floral Workshop with Anita Singh 11/15/2026 10:00 AM - 11/15/2026 12:00 Noon

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 11:37:34 GMT

November 15, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Learn how to use a professional steelpix stemming machine and create a stunning fall silk floral centerpiece perfect as a Thanksgiving table focal point or a thoughtful hostess gift that last season after season all premium silk floral materials and supplies provided take whom you’re finish arrangement.

Registration required; pricing and details available online at EdisonFord.org.

Members: $75, non-members: $85

Business After Hours hosted by FOS Furniture 11/19/2026 5:30 PM - 11/19/2026 7:30 PM

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 14:09:08 GMT

Join your fellow Chamber members the third Thursday of each month from 5:30pm - 7:30pm at the Business After Hours Networking Event. Enjoy the opportunity to network with 60+ members. We always have networking activities, great giveaways and sponsorship opportunities to expose your business.

Join us for this after work networking event and bring plenty of business cards and be ready to network!

A RESERVATION IS REQUIRED! This is a FREE networking event for Chamber Members and a $35 fee for Non-Chamber Member.

Autumn Garden Festival 11/21/2026 9:00 AM - 11/21/2026 4:00 PM

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 11:37:30 GMT

November 21-22, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Our annual Autumn Garden Festival will feature garden vendors with exotic and native plants and trees for sale, in addition to food trucks and live music.

Vendors will have many types of plants and trees, including air plants, bromeliads, butterfly plants, cacti, fruit trees, herbs, hibiscus, orchids, palms, succulents, and many hard-to-find species. The Garden Shoppe will be open and have unusual tropical and Florida native plants that thrive in Southwest Florida. Ceramic flowerpots, vegetable and flower seeds, garden art, and gardening gift items will also be available for purchase.

A limited number of garden carts will be available, so guests are encouraged to bring a cart or wagon for transporting plants. Parking and admission to the festival is free (tours, museum and lab are not included).

Cape Coral Farmers' Market - Club Square 11/21/2026 8:00 AM - 11/21/2026 1:00 PM

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 01:20:00 GMT

The market also entertains with great musicians performing all year.

We hope that you choose to make the Cape Coral Farmers Market your Saturday Morning Destination!

For more information, call Claudia St Onge at (239) 549-6900 x101, cso@capecoralchamber.com (or) visit the Farmers' Market site at www.capecoralfarmersmarket.com

Autumn Garden Festival 11/22/2026 9:00 AM - 11/22/2026 4:00 PM

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 11:37:26 GMT

November 21-22, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Our annual Autumn Garden Festival will feature garden vendors with exotic and native plants and trees for sale, in addition to food trucks and live music.

Animation in Action School Break Camp 11/23/2026 9:00 AM - 11/23/2026 4:00 PM

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 11:37:22 GMT

November 23-25, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This animation camp mixes hand drawn animation with digital artwork. Campers learn how to use editing software to make their artistic creations come to life.

Join us as science and history come alive in our “living laboratory!” No experience is necessary to participate in these fun and fast-moving S.T.E.A.M. (science technology, engineering, art, and math) camps. For students currently in grades K-5, unless otherwise noted. Campers must bring lunches, and snacks if desired.

Registration required; pricing and details available online at EdisonFord.org.

Board of Directors Meeting & Annual Retreat 11/24/2026 7:30 AM - 11/24/2026 12:00 Noon

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 16:51:26 GMT

The Board of Directors is made up of 24 chamber members who have been elected to serve 3-year terms and up to 15 trustees serving a 1-year term. The Board of Directors are the member representative who have the fiduciary responsibility and are the policy makers that direct the organization. Duties include making sure the organization has the financial resources to operation. They are also responsible for creation of the annual business plan to meet the current and future needs of the business community.

This committee creates the policies, positions, and direction for the organization often with advisement of other committees and task forces. Board members are encouraged to participate in one or more chamber committees so that they can report committee activities to the Board of Directors monthly. Board members are also encouraged to attend membership functions and further the communication of chamber issues. Time investment for Board of Directors is usually 4 - 5 hours monthly.

This monthly meeting is for the Board of Directors and Trustees. If you would like more information about being a part of the Board of Directors or attending a monthly meeting, please contact Donna Germain, President/CEO at (239) 549-6900 x107.

Live Mollusk Count 11/25/2026 7:00 AM - 11/25/2026 10:00 AM

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 20:18:39 GMT

Walk Sanibel’s beaches at some of the lowest tides of the year to observe and document sightings of living mollusks. Data collected is used to benchmark local mollusk populations.

There is no cost to participate, but pre-registration is required. Please contact Jorden Falker at jfalker@shellmuseum.org with questions or to register.

Welcome Center and Chamber Offices Closed 11/25/2026 - 11/29/2026

Sun, 06 Sep 2026 18:40:52 GMT

The Chamber Offices and Welcome Center will be closed on Wednesday, November 25th and remain closed until November 29th in observation of the Thanksgiving holiday. Our offices will reopen on Monday at 8:00am.

We wish you a blessed holiday season with your family and friends!

If you need immediate assistance during this time, please visit our website at www.capecoralchamber.com or email info@capecoralchamber.com

Cape Coral Farmers' Market - Club Square 11/28/2026 8:00 AM - 11/28/2026 1:00 PM

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 01:20:10 GMT

The market also entertains with great musicians performing all year.

We hope that you choose to make the Cape Coral Farmers Market your Saturday Morning Destination!

For more information, call Claudia St Onge at (239) 549-6900 x101, cso@capecoralchamber.com (or) visit the Farmers' Market site at www.capecoralfarmersmarket.com

Chamber Business Expo at the Cape Coral Farmers' Market - Club Square 11/28/2026 8:00 AM - 11/28/2026 1:00 PM

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 18:18:35 GMT

Showcase your business at the Cape Coral Farmers' Market!

Join us for the business expo last Saturday of each month at the Cape Coral Farmers' Market. Space is limited, so contact us ASAP to reserve your spot.
Chamber Member Price - $100
Non Chamber Member Price - $150

Call Claudia St Onge at (239) 549-6900 x101 or email cso@capecoralchamber.com

The Cape Coral Farmers Market has been a favorite Saturday morning destination for 26 years. Over the years, we have grown to over 125 vendors. We are confident that we have all the delicious foods and local crafts that you love to shop for.

Fresh, local & healthy fruits and veggies, including Certified Organic produce, are the core of the market along with homemade and handmade foods and crafts. Fresh baked breads & pastries, homemade pickles, jams & jellies, Gulf fresh seafood, fresh meats, homemade pet treats, handcrafted soaps, essential oils, local honey, made-on-site guacamole, fresh, cut flowers, native plants & trees are just some of the fantastic products available.

Since shopping and eating seem to go so well together, the market has endless options. A food truck court and tent vendors offer BBQ, Crepes, Empanadas, Mexican food, German street food and healthy options like Kombucha, health smoothies, Acai bowls and salads.

Each season we do our best to give back to the community by offering spaces for non-profits, schools and community groups. Another way we give back is by offering the ability for our EBT/SNAP customers to shop for healthy and affordable food options. We are proud to say that 7 years ago, we were the first market in Lee County to offer ease of shopping for our neighbors.

The market can also be very entertaining with great musicians perform during the season.

We hope that you choose to make the Cape Coral Farmers Market your Saturday Morning Destination!

For more information, call Claudia St Onge at (239) 549-6900 x101, cso@capecoralchamber.com (or) visit the Farmers' Market site at www.capecoralfarmersmarket.com

Silk Scarf Painting Class with Artist Marie Dyer 11/29/2026 9:00 AM - 11/29/2026 2:30 PM

Tue, 22 Sep 2026 11:37:18 GMT

November 29, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Join artist Marie Dyer for an inspirational and educational workshop surrounded by the gardens of the Edison and Ford Winter Estates. In this workshop, you will learn techniques to create your own one of a kind 14″ by 72″ silk scarf. No experience is required and all materials and inspiration are supplied.

Registration required; pricing and details available online at EdisonFord.org.