City of Bonita Springs Honors Shangri-La Springs' 100 Year Anniversary

Shangri-La Springs will mark a significant milestone in its history on September 9th as the City of Bonita Springs honors the historic property’s 100th anniversary with an official proclamation presentation by the mayor and members of the Bonita Springs City Council.

The proclamation ceremony will take place on the grounds of Shangri-La Springs and will commemorate the establishment of the hotel in 1926 by developer Gilmer McCrary Heitman, Sr. whose vision helped shape the early development of Bonita Springs. Joining the celebration will be Gilmer McCrary Heitman, IV ("Mike"), Gilmer Heitman Sr’s great-grandson, along with his wife Melanie and children representing the family whose legacy remains closely tied to the history of the hotel and community. Also in attendance will be Wendy Cheatham Newman whose father R.J. Cheatham owned the property from 1965 to 1993. R.J. Cheatham renamed the hotel as the Shangri-La Health Resort and made it a nationally recognized wellness destination.

Following the proclamation ceremony, Shangri-La Springs will host “A Little Summer Soul,” a free community gathering from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. that invites visitors to experience the property's unique blend of history, culture and hospitality.

The event will feature:

• Live music and entertainment
• An artisan market featuring local artists, craftspeople and vendors
• Organic dining options from Harvest & Wisdom (reservations required)
• A cash bar offering beer, wine and soft drinks
• Complimentary valet parking