Rain on our parade

Yes, it did absolutely pour for the entire parade (luckily not before the Naples Zumba Dancers executed a fantastic Flashmob to the crowd’s delight in front of Rick’s to Katy Perry’s Firework song.) It was also the best parade I have ever been to. The “show must go on” mentality was amazing. Soggy candy and all, everyone I saw had an oversized grin on their face. Truly, it was a parade to remember.

Speaking of memories, no one will forget that amazing fireworks display put on by the town of Naples and supporting businesses. Squeals of delight were aplenty on our boat as we watched from Long Lake. The show seemed to last longer this year, allowing us all to get lost in the magic of the moment. Thank you to all who made this possible for Naples residents and visitors.

Causeway magic

The Causeway just has a sunnier feeling to it, even in bad weather. The crew continues to chip away at the project, working steadily toward the goal of a new and improved causeway and bridge experience. Resident Project Engineer Craig Hurd reports the progress has been steady. This week they will work on the seawall, and working on the new abutment to the new bridge on the Causeway Side. Boardwalk and sidewalk will also be placed near the Songo Dock and the Town Dock. All work should be mostly taking place from the Songo Dock up to the new bridge.

Magical moments

Creating memories for our children is what it is all about, and the Naples Library is certainly making parents’ jobs a bit easier. The kick-off to the Summer Reading Program this year featured Connie the Magic Man treating the kids to a show of wonder and amazement. What fun it was to watch the kid’s faces as the bunny was pulled out of the box. Thank you to all the powers that be at the library. This year seems to be jam packed with lots of great events and specials for the kids to participate in. One mom told me her kids were excited again to visit the library. Way to go.

The Library Yard Sale held on Saturday, July 9, was also a fun time, but I would suspect for the adults more so. I got there early and scored among other things a new chocolate fountain. Can’t wait ‘til next year.

Sebago Days ?July 15, 16

These summer carnivals are a favorite of all the kids. Head to Sebago on Route 114 and enjoy those hazy days of summer and all they have to offer. Good family fun and the best chicken BBQ and lobster dinner around, provided by the Sebago Lions. For a complete schedule, visit www.townofsebago.org.

New chef, new food

I love how the whole food scene is exploding in Naples right now. We have many excellent choices for cuisine. Black Bear Cafe? has always enjoyed good word of mouth, but now we have some new menu options by highly acclaimed chef Rick Morey. He is bringing his enthusiasm for creating fresh, local and creative foods to the Irish pub. For more information about the Black Bear visit www.theblackbearcafe.com or call 693-4770 or visit at 215 Roosevelt Trail.

Summer concerts

On Sunday, July 17, head on down to the Naples Village Green for the sweet sounds of the 60’s Plus Band at 6 p.m. Each week, there is a new band for your enjoyment.

Naples Food Pantry

The Community Resource Council announces that the Naples Food Pantry will be open Tuesdays from 5-7 p.m. starting Tuesday, July 12, in addition to the hours of 10 a.m. noon on the same day of the week. Thanks to the generosity of many local businesses, the organization is able to offer additional service to Naples residents. Please call 838-9045 or visit Yahoo.com at naplesfoodpantry.stophunger. The pantry is located in the United Methodist Church of Good Fellowship on the Village Green.