So, here it is—spring has come already to the Paradise Coast. Where has the time gone? I must admit that this is the time of year when my most favorite place in all the world is our condo, especially when I do not have to venture out for the entire day. I think some would refer to it as hiding, which is probably true. It seems to me that there are more people in Naples now than there ever have been at this time of year. There is so much traffic everywhere I go—whether just traveling on U.S. 41, or in the parking lots of Publix, Whole Foods and the rest of Mercato, Waterside Shops … the list goes on. The businesses and restaurants around town must be thrilled with all of the activity …. and with all the new venues in town this year, we are excited for all that are doing well.
There are a few destinations that definitely have drawn me out of hiding during the last couple of weeks. One is the Naples Town Hall Distinguished Speakers Series, which was held at a new venue this year, The Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples. The series started with former FOX News TV personality Glenn Beck, and continued with Dr. Andrew Weil, FOX anchor Bret Baier, and magician David Blaine. The finale March 20 was the best of the entire season, I think—former Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice (below).
She spoke to an audience of more than 1,200 attendees and kept us all riveted with her knowledge and interesting perspectives on U.S. and world affairs. Rick Borman has done a wonderful job bringing such a variety of guests to this Naples forum. Next year will mark the Town Hall’s thirtieth anniversary and, with that, we will look forward to more educational and entertaining events.
Below: James Judy, Eric Hoffman, Carol Halstead in Fox on the Fairway. (Photo: Pete Zepeda)
On the other side of town in Old Naples at the Norris Center, Gulfshore Playhouse’s production of Ken Ludwig’s farce, Fox on the Fairway, was another terrific excuse to brave all the crowds and traffic. Bob and I were pleased to be present on opening night of this delightful show—and we loved it. So did a large portion of folks who live in Southwest Florida. New matinees and evening performances were added to the schedule in order to accommodate all who wanted to see this “hilarious romp.” Daily we encounter others who saw the show and loved it as much as we did. Kudos to founder and Producing Artistic Director Kristen Coury once again for bringing wonderful talent and theater expertise to Naples. Next up for Gulfshore Playhouse is A Streetcar Named Desire. Opening night is April 6—definitely not one to miss, as we know Coury will make this classic her own.
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