Summertime… When the Living is Easy

Well, here it is, Summer! The time of year that many locals lean back and relax, go on vacations with the kids, go up north to see family, go on a cruise or road trip, and lean back and enjoy the quietness of a summer in Florida…but WAIT! This year many people didn’t leave! Many people spent more time this year and decided to move here. Heck let’s face it, that’s what many of us did years ago. And we’re still here! In 1974, as we were visiting and I was packing to go back home to Cleveland, Ohio, my husband said NO! I’m leaving you here to find a house. I’m going back to Cleveland, sell the house, sell the business, we’re MOVING. And that’s IT! He left us here. We found a house in Lakewood, bought it, then I flew back to Cleveland to pack up and move down. No decisions, he just said “we’re moving.” And that was it. We’ve been here ever since. And I love it! Actually, I’ve never been unhappy we moved down, although there was a period of adjustment for sure. I actually had my last child over a year after we moved down. Back then, the City of Naples had quite a few nightclubs, really nice-looking places, music, dancing, and men had to wear suits to one of the best restaurants in Naples, St. George and The Dragon! It was REALLY upscale nice. I’m sure some of you still hear about that place. People talk about it so fondly. Ahhh, what a place it was. There were many other places here that were also exceptional. But now, I don’t think we even have a nightclub left! 

I’ve mentioned the traffic lights that were installed at the entrance to Treviso Bay. The yellow caution lights are blinking, so they’ve got to come on pretty soon! 

* Oh yeah, one of my doctors had an office on Marco Island but has moved a little closer to East Naples so more people off Island could use his services. That’s Doctor Carlos Portu, a General Practice doctor. He just moved recently so I thought I’d let you know in case he’s a doctor to you or your family or your neighbor. He’s a great doctor and a really nice family man too. While I was there it was like old home week! I saw so many friends, probably like me, just making sure all is well after the busy winter (well not winter, but nice weather season). It’s always good to get your yearly checkup. And who did I see? Sitting in the parking lot I saw a man I always admired: Joe Batte! He looked great, and we talked for a while. I think I also saw him in the newspaper at a Veteran’s event. Then I saw Steve Gober, Stan’s son from the long-lasting fun place with music and food, “Stan’s on Goodland,” and Steve is almost like a son to me! He was so wonderful to his Dad, and he was there for him whenever he needed him. Then, of course, there is Shirlee Barcic, who introduced me to Dr. Portu, so when I see him, I think of Shirlee. When I need some woman’s facial stuff I call Tammy Miloro. I’ve been hoping to see Joe and Maria Granda but haven’t run into them yet. Then there is Bryan and Rondi, my long-loved friends who I get to talk to when we call each other. 

While I’m mentioning wonderful people who I’ve sought knowledge from here and there, or who call me or we eat together, let me say Vern and Sharon Bennet are new friends who are so knowledgeable, and Vern loves to watch the car races! You know, we have a wonderful community here. People I’ve met for the most part are friendly and interesting to talk to. Like my neighbor Joy! Have a terrific week folks and enjoy your family!