Lots to do at Edison & Ford Winter Estates this month

COURTESY PHOTO Artist Leoma Lovegrove will hold an inspiring painting workshop in the beautiful Estates Moonlight Garden on Saturday, April 12. The Edison & Ford Winter Estates will offer a variety of children and adult programs, special exhibits, and events throughout the month of April. The April schedule of programs and events include: Estates Curator Choice Academic Series - "Sunshine in the Dark: Florida in the Movies"

• Sunday, April 6, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Images of Florida, Floridians, and tourists that have appeared in major studio and independent films have helped shape opinions of the state and its people. Susan Fernandez and Bob Ingalls authors of "Sunshine in the Dark: Florida in the Movies," will present an overview of 100 years of film-making about films with Florida plots, characters, and settings using film clips, stills, and publicity posters from more than 300 films. This presentation will also contribute to the knowledge of Thomas Edison's impact on the movie industry.

Estates Members FREE; non-members $12 adults, $6 children. Admission includes Lab & Museum.

Architecture and Restoration Behind the Scenes of the Estates

Presented by the Estates and Elderhostel

• Thursday, April 10 or 24, 9 a.m.

Participants will discover the history of the Estates, a glimpse of the private lives of the Edisons and Fords and explore the newly restored Edison buildings and much more. Estates restoration experts will lead participants on a behind the scenes tour of the nearly $10 million restoration of the Edison buildings, while "Mr. Edison" and "Mrs. Ford" will take visitors on a tour of the homes. Lectures, tours, lunch, and refreshments, as well as individual exploration of the grounds are included. Cost is $89. Call 877-426-8056 to register or the Estates at 239-334-7419 for more information.

"Thomas Edison Black Maria Film Festival" returns to Southwest Florida

• Friday, April 11, 7:30 p.m. - Ford Estate Lawn and Saturday, April 12, 7:30 p.m. - Rauschenberg Gallery at Edison College

The Edison & Ford Winter Estates and Edison College will host the "Thomas Edison Black Maria Film Festival" for a second season since the Festival began its national tour in 1981. The Festival will be shown outdoors along the Caloosahatchee River on the Ford Estate as well as the Rauschenberg Gallery at Edison College. Festival Director and Founder, John Columbus, will introduce the films and facilitate discussion afterwards. The Festival is hosted by colleges and museums throughout the country and showcases independent and experimental film and video. The films include a variety of contemporary works drawn from the annual collection of 50 award winning films and videos. The Black Maria is recognized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as an Academy Awards qualifying festival for short films. The Black Maria Film Festival is sponsored by Chico's Charities.

Tickets: April 11 - Estates Members free; General Admission $10. April 12 - Edison College Students free; General Admission $10

Etiquette at the Estates

The Estates is expanding its educational programs for children and teenagers to include a unique series of workshops combining history with some of the Edison family traditions. The classes will be taught by etiquette expert Suzanne Willis who has been teaching similar classes throughout the nation.

"Mimi's & Mina's Manners at the Estates"

• Saturday, April 12, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

This workshop provides children ages 6 - 12 the opportunity to practice proper introductions, handshakes, and dining etiquette during a three course meal. Each student will receive a workbook and certificate of completion.

Estates Members $40; non-members $50. Registration is required.

Painting in the Estates Moonlight Garden with Leoma Lovegrove

• Saturday, April 12, 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Join acclaimed artist Leoma Lovegrove for an inspiring painting workshop in the beautiful Estates Moonlight Garden. Lovegrove will be using an impressionist palette; as inspired by Monet's paintings at Giverny Gardens. This full day workshop at the Estates includes classroom instruction in the historic Edison Caretaker's House and painting in the beautiful Estates Moonlight Garden, full of brilliant flowers and a reflecting pool. Instruction in acrylics; all levels welcome! Supply list will be provided upon registration.

Estates Members $135; non-members $150.