LISTEN IN: Gulf Coast Life on WGCU Features Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium
- eraddatz7
- 7 days ago
- 4 min read
On April 8, the Gulf Coast Life program on WGCU aired a special segment featuring the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium. Hosted by Mike Kiniry, the program highlighted a fascinating conversation with Executive Director Eric Raddatz and Board Member Kaitlin Danks. They discussed the incredible work being done at the center, its history of inspiring visitors, and its exciting future plans to connect people with nature through innovative educational programs.
If you missed the live broadcast, you can now catch up and listen to the full interview here.
Other News: Eric Raddatz Addresses Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce
Recently, Eric Raddatz addressed the Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce, encouraging members of the community to actively participate in preserving and nurturing nature. He spoke passionately about the importance of environmental education and the role the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium plays in fostering a deeper connection to the natural world. He also emphasized the value of community engagement in ensuring the center’s ongoing success, urging all to come together to protect and celebrate the unique natural resources of Southwest Florida.
Eric Raddatz Featured in Ft. Myers Magazine
In a recent feature in Ft. Myers Magazine, Executive Director Eric Raddatz discussed the exciting opportunities ahead for Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium. For the first time ever, the center will host the latest in independent planetarium dome shows, offering visitors a chance to experience some of the freshest, cutting-edge cinematic experiences available today. Set to take place on May 15th and 16th, these 360-degree immersive films promise to transport audiences into new worlds, with themes ranging from the beauty of the natural world to the wonders of space. Raddatz emphasized that this marks a significant milestone for the center as it expands its offerings, bringing global, high-tech content to Southwest Florida. Tickets for these unique dome shows will be announced next week, and the center looks forward to welcoming attendees to this inaugural event.
Earth Day Celebration – April 19th, 10 AM to 4 PM
Join us for an exciting Earth Day celebration at Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium. Enjoy guided hikes, live animal shows, arts and crafts, local vendors, and more, all while exploring the beauty of our 105-acre preserve. Together, we can learn how to make a positive environmental impact.
Experience the Magic of Dome Films at the Fort Myers Film Festival
For the first time ever, Calusa Planetarium will showcase immersive full-dome films during the 15th Annual Fort Myers Film Festival (May 14-18, 2025). These 360-degree cinematic experiences, including films like Butterfly Journey and Sounds of the Ocean, will transport you into nature like never before. The dome films will be shown only on May 15th and 16th, with tickets available soon.
Arts and Crafts Fair – May 10th, 10 AM to 4 PM
Mark your calendars for the inaugural Arts and Crafts Fair on May 10th! Explore works from local artisans, all inspired by nature, animals, and space.
Summer Camp Registration Now Open
Registration is now open for our Summer Camp program! Children ages 5-11 will have the opportunity to explore the outdoors, engage in hands-on activities, and experience live animal encounters in a fun and educational environment.
Nurture Nature Campaign
Support our "Nurture Nature" campaign to preserve our 105-acre sanctuary and enhance educational outreach. Your generosity will help ensure that future generations can connect with nature and continue to experience this important community resource.
Upcoming Events
Nature Speaker Series: Estuaries – April 9th, 7 PM
Planetarium Premiere: Fragile Planet – April 16th, 7 PM
Music Under The Stars – May 1st, 7 PM
Venue Rentals Available
Looking for a unique venue? Host your next event at Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium. We offer both indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for weddings, parties, meetings, and more.
For more information and to get involved, visit calusanature.org.
About Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium:
Founded in 1969, the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium has served as Southwest Florida's premier environmental education destination for over 50 years. CNCP is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, and donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Sponsorship and partnership opportunities are also available for those interested in making a significant impact together with us. The 105-acre sanctuary houses butterfly gardens, bird aviaries, nature trails, and the only public planetarium in the region. CNCP provides educational experiences that promote environmental awareness, scientific discovery, and a lifelong love of nature, inspiring future generations of environmental stewards and advocates.
• A Special Thank You: We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ace Hardware, the place with the helpful hardware folks, as well as continuing supporters, including Vulcan Materials, R4 Roofing, Aux Delicies, Famous Dave’s, The City of Fort Myers, HERC, SWFL PRODUCE, Sanibel Captiva Community Bank, The Fred and Jean Allegretti Foundation, Heitman House, Babcock Ranch and the Fort Myers Film Festival.
• Stay Connected Cozy at home?
Experience the Calusa Nature Center virtually. Visit our YouTube channel for fun videos! ! Enjoy our FREE T360 tour from your couch: #HomeBoundAdventures #NatureAtHome. Immerse yourself in our fresh interactive education videos here. Make your event unforgettable with one of Florida's unique venues! From weddings and showers to meetings and parties, we offer stunning indoor and outdoor spaces. Reach out now to reserve your date!
Media Contact:
Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.calusanature.org or contact Eric Raddatz, Executive Director, at eraddatz@calusanature.org.
Phone: (239) 275-3435
Website: calusanature.org
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