a message from your publisher… New Year 2018

Reg Buxton

As I look forward to 2018 it is with a great deal of excitement. Our beloved City of Naples is a wonderful place to be whether it’s year round or during our famous Season. We are looking forward to the start of Baker Park, a new state of the art Central Fire Station built to withstand the strongest hurricane. The restaurant scene has many new choices in which to indulge along with everyone’s longtime favorites.

New artistic venues are very close to fruition in Naples. The need for more performing art space has been acknowledged for some time and they will be a welcome addition. The new City Dock should be operational by the time you read this. This is a new first-class structure with improvements which were long overdue. These changes will be a breath of fresh air for the area around the dock and our charter fishing industry.

As you walk the streets of our shopping districts you hear accents from many countries around the world, adding a true
International flavor to the Naples experience. The damage from Hurricane Irma which was quite extensive has largely been resolved and believe me it was a monumental undertaking. Our local Government led the way with countless hours spent returning our City back to normal as soon as possible. Hundreds of behind the scene people made this possible, thanks to all of you.

This is also the time of year that families get together enjoying each other’s company, reminiscing and sharing what they anticipate in the coming year. It’s a joy to watch excited youngsters who still believe in Santa Claus and his merry troupe. I remember the many years that I put out a plate with cookies and milk only to find an empty plate in the morning replaced by gifts around the tree. Also, I still vividly remember the year I found out that the Jolly Fellow was not real. I think back to years gone by, pause to think of those times and the joy and warmth they brought to a very small boy.

In short, we are fortunate to have everything we need right here in Naples. Great food, beautiful environment,
contemporary and classical entertainment, safe streets, friends some of which have become our family of choice, beaches and most of all loved ones. Wishing everyone a prosperous and enjoyable New Year.

Reg Buxton
Publisher