News Archive

Remembering Glenn Charles Griffin: A Naples Life Well-Lived Naples, Florida, is more than just stunning beaches and luxurious golf courses. It’s a community, a tapestry woven with the lives and stories of the people who call this place home. And when a thread of that tapestry is broken, the whole community feels it. Today, we’re remembering one such thread, a life well-lived right here in our beautiful corner of Southwest Florida: Glenn Charles Griffin. While the brief news notice marks his passing, we want to take the opportunity to delve deeper, exploring the potential impact he had on N…

Remembering Bonnie Stephens: A Naples Neighbor’s Life and Legacy Naples, Florida, is a city known for its sun-kissed beaches, vibrant arts scene, and warm, welcoming community. It’s a place where lives intertwine, stories are shared, and the impact of individuals resonates long after they’re gone. Today, we remember one such individual: Bonnie Stephens (1949-2025), a beloved member of not only the Naples community, but also Danville and Rockingham County. While her obituary provides the basic facts, we want to delve deeper, celebrating her life, exploring her connections to Naples, and refle…

Swashbuckling in Southwest Florida: Revisiting the Timeless Tale of Robin Hood at Paragon Pavilion Hey fellow Neapolitans! Ever feel like the Sheriff of Nottingham is taxing you dry? Maybe not with actual gold, but with the ever-increasing cost of waterfront property and those pesky HOA fees? Okay, maybe I’m exaggerating a bit, but who among us hasn’t fantasized about a little righteous rebellion every now and then? Well, get ready to dust off your imaginary longbows and feathered caps, because “The Adventures of Robin Hood” is gracing the silver screen at Paragon Pavilion, and it’s the pe…

Remembering Thomas Gleason: A Naples Icon (1936-2025) Naples, Florida, lost one of its own on August 6, 2025, with the passing of Thomas Gleason. While an obituary notice may briefly summarize a life, it rarely captures the essence of a person, the ripples they create in a community, the stories that weave their legacy. This blog post aims to do just that – to paint a portrait of Thomas, not just through dates and facts, but through the lens of his Naples life, the connections he forged, and the impact he had on those around him. This isn’t just an obituary; it’s a celebration of a life we…

Diving Deep into Rookery Bay: A Naples Nature Lover’s Paradise Hey there, fellow Naples residents! Have you ever felt that pull towards the wild, the untamed beauty that surrounds us here in Southwest Florida? I know I have. And recently, I rediscovered a local gem that perfectly satisfies that craving: the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center. It’s not just an aquarium, it’s a portal to the heart of our local ecosystem, a place where you can explore everything from the microscopic wonders of plankton to the majestic grace of a soaring bald eagle. This isn’t just your average nature wa…

Naples, Florida: Basking in the Sunshine (and Occasional Showers) – A Local’s Guide to Navigating Our Unique Weather Naples, Florida. Just the name conjures images of pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees. And while those images are absolutely accurate, living in paradise also means understanding the nuances of our subtropical climate. We’re not just talking sunshine and warm breezes here, folks. We’ve got humidity, afternoon thunderstorms, and the occasional (and we mean *occasional*) cool front. So, whether you’re a long-time resident or planning a visit to our beauti…

Diving Deep at Rookery Bay: More Than Just Tanks in Naples, Florida Hey there, fellow Naples nature enthusiasts! Have you ever wondered what lurks beneath the tranquil surface of our beautiful bays and estuaries? Or perhaps you’re curious about the rich history of our local ecosystem, the fascinating wildlife that calls it home, and the dedicated folks working tirelessly to protect it? Well, look no further than the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center, a true gem right here in our backyard. And trust me, it’s so much more than just “tough tanks.” Recently, I had the chance to revisit…

Naples Downtown Blues: Why Fewer Tourists Are Strolling Fifth Avenue & What It Means for Us Naples, Florida. The name conjures up images of pristine beaches, luxury yachts bobbing gently in turquoise waters, and a vibrant downtown buzzing with activity. But lately, a different picture has been emerging, one of quieter sidewalks and emptier storefronts. The whisper around town, confirmed by recent reports, is that downtown Naples is experiencing a significant decline in tourism. This isn’t just a concern for business owners; it affects all of us who call Naples home. So, let’s dive into why…

Remembering Bonnie Stephens: A Life Touched by Naples Sunshine Bonnie Stephens, a beloved member of both the Danville, Virginia and Naples, Florida communities, passed away in 2025 (assuming the obituary date is a typo and meant 2023 or 2024). While her obituary mentions ties to Virginia, it’s clear from the linked source that Naples held a special place in her heart. This post serves as a tribute to Bonnie, celebrating her life and exploring the unique connection many snowbirds and transplants like her forge with our beautiful Southwest Florida haven. Naples: A Magnet for Souls Like Bonnie N…