Be under the stars on the beach at Island Inn for “Under the Sea.” an annual benefit for the Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum. Sponsored by the Sanibel-Captiva Trust Co., Under the Sea will be a fun-filled evening with a Polynesian luau, authentic fire dancers and live music by a beach bonfire and a delicious meal catered by Traditions and Bailey’s General Store.
“The great thing about Sanibel and Captiva is there are always treasures to be discovered,” said San-Cap Trust president Terry Igo about why the company is a grand sponsor of the event. “Many islands don’t realize The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum is a one-of-a kind, internationally-known museum, with one of the most extensive collections anywhere.”
As original host of the event, Under the Sea will return to Island Inn’s beachfront property. The Gulf front inn, built in 1895, is the oldest inn on the islands. It has recently been modernized to accommodate a relaxing stay in a charming, historical atmosphere with modern comforts and amenities. All 49 spacious cottages feature screened porches with views of the Gulf. Island Inn also features a heated swimming pool, tennis courts, Florida room, fireplace, newly renovated bar and award-winning restaurant Traditions on the Beach.
“Contributing towards the support of the shell museum is something the Inn’s founders, the Matthews family, felt very strongly about,” said Island Inn General Manager Chris Davison. “We’re happy to continue that tradition and proud to be hosting such a wonderful event.”
The even has been sold out the last three years, according to the museum board vice president Evelyn Stewart, which prompted the change in venue from the museum to the Island Inn. Even with plenty of space, the even would not be possible without its grand sponsor.
“There will be a special twist to the silent auction, which will be revealed that night,” added Stewart, “And the auction will be second to none.”
The event will help the museum continue its education program designed for fourth graders in Lee County and support the exhibits.
“It’s a great educational experience right in our backyard,” Igo said of the museum. “It brings us recognition, visitors, and it’s a wonderful community asset.”
Under the Sea festivities will begin at 4 p.m. Jan. 29 at Island Inn, 3111 W. Gulf Drive, Sanibel. Tickets are $125 per person and reservations can be made on the events page at www.shell-museum.org.
“There will be a lot of energy,” noted Stewart. “Come ready to have fun.”
Sanibel-Captiva Island, Shannen Hayes January 20, 2012
No comments:
Post a Comment