News Archive

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…

Big Ideas Blooming in the Naples Sunshine: A Look at Local Innovation Naples, Florida. A haven of pristine beaches, upscale shopping, and world-class dining. But beneath the shimmering surface of luxury lies a vibrant ecosystem of innovation, a bubbling cauldron of “big ideas” constantly reshaping the landscape of our beloved city. From groundbreaking technological advancements to creative solutions for community challenges, Naples is proving to be much more than just a beautiful place to retire. It’s a place where ideas take root, grow, and blossom into something truly special. This isn’t y…

Remembering Glenn Charles Griffin: A Naples Life Well-Lived Naples, Florida, lost one of its own recently with the passing of Glenn Charles Griffin. While obituaries often offer a snapshot of a life, we wanted to take a moment to delve deeper, to paint a richer picture of this individual and celebrate his connection to our vibrant community. This isn’t just a recounting of dates and achievements; it’s a reflection on a life intertwined with the fabric of Naples, a place where sunshine, warm breezes, and a close-knit community spirit define the rhythm of life. Early Life and Roots: A Naples…

Beyond the Torch: How Special Olympics Florida Ignites Inclusion and Athleticism Year-Round in Naples Naples, Florida, is known for its pristine beaches, luxurious lifestyle, and vibrant community. But beyond the shimmering Gulf waters and manicured golf courses lies a powerful movement dedicated to fostering inclusion and celebrating the extraordinary abilities of athletes with intellectual disabilities: Special Olympics Florida. While the global spotlight shines brightly on the Special Olympics every two years, here in Naples, the spirit of these games burns bright all year long, transfor…

Murder, Mayhem, and Matrimony: A Naples Twist Let’s face it, Naples, Florida, is known for its pristine beaches, upscale shopping, and luxurious lifestyle. We’re the place where people come to escape the hustle and bustle, to relax and rejuvenate. But beneath the veneer of paradise, there’s always a current, sometimes a riptide, of human drama. And just like any other community, Naples has its share of secrets, scandals, and, yes, even a touch of mayhem. This week, we’re diving into the fascinating intersection of “Murder, Mayhem, and Matrimony” – with a distinctly Naples flavor. Paradise Lo…

Big Ideas Brewing in Naples: A Look at the Future of Paradise Naples, Florida, a city synonymous with pristine beaches, upscale living, and breathtaking sunsets, is more than just a postcard-perfect destination. It’s a vibrant community constantly evolving, brimming with innovative ideas and a spirit of progress. Recent buzz suggests big changes are on the horizon, prompting us to delve deeper into what’s brewing in our beloved paradise. From whispers of sustainable development to the tangible impact of technological advancements, let’s explore the forces shaping the future of Naples. Beyond…

Remembering Bonnie Stephens: A Life Lived Fully in Naples and Beyond (1949-2025) Naples, Florida, is a city known for its breathtaking sunsets, pristine beaches, and vibrant community. It’s a place where people come to live out their dreams, build lasting connections, and enjoy the sweet life. And for those who knew her, Bonnie Stephens embodied the spirit of Naples, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone she touched. With heavy hearts, we remember and celebrate the life of Bonnie Stephens, who passed away in 2025. While her obituary mentions ties to Danville and Rockingham Coun…

Diving Deep in Naples: Exploring the Resilient Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center Hey there, fellow Naples nature enthusiasts! Ever wondered what lurks beneath the tranquil surface of our beautiful backwaters? Or perhaps you’re curious about the rich history etched into our mangroves and shorelines? Then you absolutely *have* to check out the Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center. It’s not just a building; it’s a portal into the heart and soul of Southwest Florida’s ecosystem, right here in our Naples backyard. I recently had the chance to spend a day exploring the center, and le…