LARC (Lee Association of Remarkable Citizens) held a glorious evening filled with delicious food, fine wines, fun and intrigue on March 12, 2020 at the historic riverfront home of Fran Fenning in Fort Myers.  Guests stepped back in time to the 1920s where an elaborate party was hosted by the famous silent film actor Eric Jewett.  Thomas and Mina Edison, Henry and Clara Ford, Sidney and Berne Davis are all attended along with other famous residents of Southwest Florida of the era.

But one of the famous guests had something to hide.  Highly-trained improv actors set the scene for the evening and guests had two hours to unravel the secret.   The guest who solved the mystery won a custom piece of jewelry designed for the event by Mark Loren Designs.

The event was co-chaired by philanthropist Marc Collins and Dwayne Bergmann, principal of Dwayne Bergmann Interiors.  Fran Fenning was the honorary event chair.

Fenning’s home, also known as the Jewett-Thompson house, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Built in 1926, during the land boom period, the home is one of the most elaborate constructed in Southwest Florida during that time.  The home is an excellent example of Mediterranean Revival style and includes beautiful gardens.

Attendees were encouraged to dress to match the 1920s era.

“We are so grateful to Fran Fenning for opening her home for our fundraiser.  It is a magnificent property,” said Angela Katz, LARC Development Director.  “Guests had the opportunity to roam the 3+ acres while partaking in the plot and proceeds from the event benefitted LARC’s programs that empower individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential.”

The event was sponsored by FineMark National Bank & Trust, Gulf Star Marina, RDF Painting, Norman Love Confections, Mark Loren Designs, Sam Galloway Ford, La Trattoria Café Napoli, G3 Catering, Harold’s, Bubba’s Roadhouse & Saloon, Florida Weekly, Susan & Phil Bennett, Elly Hagen Marketing & Public Relations, Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre, Leading Edge Financial, Eunice and Alex Bremner, Aloia, Roland, Lubell & Morgan, Motto Mortgage Infinity, Florida Plumbers, Planned Perfection, Commercial Property Specialists, Something Borrowed Event Rentals, Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery, Trico Shrimp Co., Bonefish Grill Fort Myers, Bastos Pavers, Enclosure Rescue, BKS Partners, Lee Health, Strayhorn & Persons, Lee Health, Pulse Technology Solutions, Maggie Ives, Todd Swaney, Troy Sowers, Jason’s Deli, Wicked Dolphin, Stilwell Enterprises and Fort Myers Brewery.

We are looking forward to our next mystery event in 2021 so be sure to check back to learn more!

For sponsorship information call Angela Katz at (239) 334-6285 x 210 or email [email protected]