Marco Eagle

Full gallery »May After Five, Marco Island Chamber

  • Guests load up their plates in the buffet line. The Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce held their Barbecue on the Bay Wednesday afternoon at CJ's, and presented scholarships to five high school seniors. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Karen Urbanik, from left, Sandy Boy, Kathleen Reynolds, and Mancy Boyer enjoy their food and each other's company. The Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce held their Barbecue on the Bay Wednesday afternoon at CJ's, and presented scholarships to five high school seniors. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Megan and Matthew Calabrese use game equipment for their own ends. The Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce held their Barbecue on the Bay Wednesday afternoon at CJ's, and presented scholarships to five high school seniors. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Lesa Saffen of Water Walkers Paddlesports enjoys the evening and the view. The Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce held their Barbecue on the Bay Wednesday afternoon at CJ's, and presented scholarships to five high school seniors. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • CJ's on the Bay co-owner Curt Koon keeps the buffet stocked. The Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce held their Barbecue on the Bay Wednesday afternoon at CJ's, and presented scholarships to five high school seniors. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • CJ's on the Bay's 'Chef Laura' Owen takes a break after the guests have been fed. The Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce held their Barbecue on the Bay Wednesday afternoon at CJ's, and presented scholarships to five high school seniors. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent

he Barbecue on the Bay, held annually as the Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce’s May “After Five” social gathering, serves as the quasi-official end of season marker on the island. Area businesspeople and merchants have been going flat out for months, and with the snowbirds largely flown to their northern coops, this is the chance for locals to relax and unwind. So on Wednesday afternoon, Chamber members and supporters gathered at CJ’s on the Bay to catch up with their counterparts, and enjoy picnic food, perhaps along with an adult beverage. But the highlight of the affair focused on the younger generation.



Full gallery »Debate over proposed community center for Mackle Park

  • Bud Palmer, president of the Marco Island Sunrise Rotary Club, presents a representative “big flag” to Tim Pinter, public works director, at Monday’s city council meeting. The actual first “big flag” will be retired and replaced with a new one on Memorial Day. Representatives of the Big Flag Committee to the left are Keith Dameron, in back, Bonnie Garrett and Leo Sutera. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Council Chuck Kiester, left, listens as Councilor Larry Honig makes a motion Monday to approve in concept Mackle Park’s Community Center, subject to approval of financing and ratification of a contract. The motion was voted down. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Laura Brock of Mayer, Hoffman, McCann delivers results on the city’s Fiscal Year 2012 audit Monday during Marco Island’s City Council meeting. Brock’s report disclosed two concerns uncovered during the audit. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Public speaker Richard McGuiness asks representatives of Royal Concrete Concepts about construction of two new buildings at Mackle Park. The community center was discussed Monday during Marco Island’s City Council meeting. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent


Full gallery »Realtor lunch features Marco Island city manager as speaker

  • Michael Hilton, right, Rachel Dehanas and Brett Brown wait in line for the brunch buffet during the general membership meeting held at Hideaway Beach on Tuesday. Brown is an RPAC Trustee, an organization for politics and advocacy for real estate agents. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Marco Island City Manager Jim Riviere listens to questions after speaking at the general membership brunch for Marco Island real estate agents on Tuesday. Riviere was guest speaker at the event held by Marco Island’s Area Association of Realtors. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Bette McGilvray, incoming 2014 president of the Marco Island Area Association of Realtors, holds a drawing for two iPads given away during the general meeting brunch for area real estate agents. Drawing a winning ticket is Marco Island City Manager Jim Riviere. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Recognized by Gary Verwilt, right, Bill Filbin in the center and Gerry Rosenbloom are distinguished in the 2012 Florida Realtors Honor Society. The honor was given at the Marco Island Area Association of Realtors general membership brunch held at Hideaway Beach on Tuesday. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent


Full gallery »Marco Art Center gets a facelift

  • Art League president Rosemary Wick looks chic as she lends moral support, despite having to come by wheelchair. Supporters of the Marco Island Center for the Arts gave the group's headquarters on Winterberry Drive a bright new look at a paint party Saturday morning. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Executive director Lynn Holley takes on the tricky bit around the sign. Supporters of the Marco Island Center for the Arts gave the group's headquarters on Winterberry Drive a bright new look at a paint party Saturday morning. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Organizer Dave Rice clowns with the eagle sculpture in front of the gallery. Supporters of the Marco Island Center for the Arts gave the group's headquarters on Winterberry Drive a bright new look at a paint party Saturday morning. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Cheryl Coffin creates a composition in red, white and blue. Supporters of the Marco Island Center for the Arts gave the group's headquarters on Winterberry Drive a bright new look at a paint party Saturday morning. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Supporters of the Marco Island Center for the Arts gave the group's headquarters on Winterberry Drive a bright new look at a paint party Saturday morning. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Joan Geberding rolls on the front of the building. Supporters of the Marco Island Center for the Arts gave the group's headquarters on Winterberry Drive a bright new look at a paint party Saturday morning. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent

The art scene on Marco Island got a lot brighter this weekend. Specifically, the headquarters building of the Marco Island Center for the Arts received a makeover Saturday, with volunteers applying a splashy multi-colored paint job on the formerly white building. Over two dozen volunteers came out to lend their support, their brushes and rollers, transforming the plain vanilla gallery on Winterberry Drive to a tutti frutti palette of colors reminiscent of Italian ceramics.



Full gallery »Hilton earns Diamond Award, 2013

  • Kate Hendricks and Christina Maselli, both five years old, enjoy the pool at the Marco Hilton. The hotel was honored with the AAA Four Diamonds award in a ceremony Wednesday at the hotel. Lance Shearer/Special to the Daily News
  • Marco Hilton General Manager Mac Chaudhry presents awards and gifts to Gloria Trevino, left, and Maria Garxa of the hotel's housekeeping staff. The Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort & Spa was honored with the AAA Four Diamonds award in a ceremony Wednesday at the hotel. Lance Shearer/Special to the Daily News
  • AAA Motor Club Manager Doug Harper, left, presents a plaque to Marco Hilton General Manager Mac Chaudhry. The Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort & Spa was honored with the AAA Four Diamonds award in a ceremony Wednesday at the hotel. Lance Shearer/Special to the Daily News
  • The Marco Hilton was honored with the AAA Four Diamonds award in a ceremony Wednesday at the hotel. Lance Shearer/Special to the Daily News
  • AAA Motor Club Manager Doug Harper, center left, presents a plaque to Marco Hilton General Manager Mac Chaudhry. The Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort & Spa was honored with the AAA Four Diamonds award in a ceremony Wednesday at the hotel. Lance Shearer/Special to the Daily News
  • AAA Motor Club Manager Doug Harper, center left, presents a plaque to Marco Hilton General Manager Mac Chaudhry. The Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort & Spa was honored with the AAA Four Diamonds award in a ceremony Wednesday at the hotel. Lance Shearer/Special to the Daily News

The Four Diamonds that the “Three A’s” awarded to the Marco Hilton made Mac Chaudhry one happy manager. AAA, the American Automobile Association, presented a plaque to Chaudhry and the senior staff of the Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort & Spa on Wednesday afternoon, recognizing the hotel for earning, once again, the coveted “Four Diamond” status in the annual AAA ratings. In a ceremony at the hotel attended by almost two dozen of the Hilton’s managers, from white-toqued chefs to spa director Rachel Coleman, Chaudhry credited his employees with the win.



Full gallery »Capri Fire Advisory Committee pushes to proceed with hiring of full-time chief

  • City of Marco Island Assistant Fire Chief Chris Byrne speaks to the group. The Isles of Capri Fire-Rescue Advisory Committee met Friday at the firehouse to consider hiring a new chief, in case they do not consolidate with another department. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Former advisory committee chairman Joe Langkawel follows the discussion. The Isles of Capri Fire-Rescue Advisory Committee met Friday at the firehouse to consider hiring a new chief, in case they do not consolidate with another department. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Collier County Bureau of Emergency Serivces Director Dan Summers speaks to the assemblage. The Isles of Capri Fire-Rescue Advisory Committee met Friday at the firehouse to consider hiring a new chief, in case they do not consolidate with another department. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Ochopee Fire Chief Alan McLaughlin, who splits his time with the Capri department, weighs in during the meeting. The Isles of Capri Fire-Rescue Advisory Committee met Friday at the firehouse to consider hiring a new chief, in case they do not consolidate with another department. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Chairman Jim Hughes, left, and members Dan Sansevieri and Ben Hilbun participate in the discussion. The Isles of Capri Fire-Rescue Advisory Committee met Friday at the firehouse to consider hiring a new chief, in case they do not consolidate with another department. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent


Full gallery »Marco Island Code Compliance Board

  • Anadenia Liy asks Marco Island’s Code Compliance Board for a time extension on connecting to the city’s sewer system. Liy asked for the extension Tuesday, citing financial problems. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Five members of Marco Island’s Code Compliance board listen to testimony by respondents who violated city codes. Seated from left at Tuesday’s meeting are Phil Kostelnik, Dawn Henderson, Rony Joel, Chairman Lou Prigge and Dick Adams. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Willard Giansanti, a local builder, explains repairs needed for 815 Rose Court to come into compliance and make the house livable. Giansanti spoke before Marco Island’s Code Compliance Board on Tuesday. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Multiple problems with this gravel parking area caused enough frustration that City Councilor Larry Sacher spoke for neighbors Tuesday and asked Marco Island’s Code Compliance Board to fine the property’s owner to the fullest extent. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent


Full gallery »Mad Hatter Mother/Daughter Tea Party

  • May 11, 2013 Mother/Daughter Mad Hatter Tea Party: Marco Parks & Rec Teen Recreation Leader Lola Dial as the Mad Hatter. The event is held annually the Saturday before Mother's Day. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Marco Eagle-Daily News.
  • May 11, 2013 Mother/Daughter Mad Hatter Tea Party: It didn't take long for young Caitlin Raymond to give her cupcake the taste test. The event is held annually the Saturday before Mother's Day. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Marco Eagle-Daily News.
  • May 11, 2013 Mother/Daughter Mad Hatter Tea Party: Celina Alber, 7 attends her first tea party and readies for her first sip. Her Mom & sisters were at the party too. The event is held annually the Saturday before Mother's Day. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Marco Eagle-Daily News.
  • May 11, 2013 Mother/Daughter Mad Hatter Tea Party: Elizabeth Hobbs dressed perfectly for the occasion glances towards her Mom. The event is held annually the Saturday before Mother's Day. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Marco Eagle-Daily News.
  • May 11, 2013 Mother/Daughter Mad Hatter Tea Party: Jennifer Raymond, center lines up for baked treats by Marco Park & Rec's Lola Dial to accompany her tea. The event is held annually the Saturday before Mother's Day. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Marco Eagle-Daily News.
  • May 11, 2013 Mother/Daughter Mad Hatter Tea Party: Mindy Gordon, Recreation Manager Marco Parks & Rec impersonates the Red Queen here with Alexis Malloy. The event is held annually the Saturday before Mother's Day. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Marco Eagle-Daily News.

As is traditional on the Saturday before Mother’s Day Mackle Park was decked out for a mother/daughter social. With a Mad Hatter theme the kids enjoyed everything from arts and crafts, dances, costumes, staff and volunteers in character plus a formal tea party complete with home made finger sandwiches and treats. Lots of the girls were decked out in fancy dresses and hats and it looked like a great day out for those in attendance.



Full gallery »MIA does Shakespeare

  • From left, Jessica Lang, Josiah Hurtley, and Maxine Cox share a moment of revelry. The Marco Island Shakespeare Festival debuts their inaugural production, 'Twelfth Night,' over the next two weekends at Marco Lutheran Church, with a cast of students. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Annmarie Grossi as Viola ponders her situation. The Marco Island Shakespeare Festival debuts their inaugural production, 'Twelfth Night,' over the next two weekends at Marco Lutheran Church, with a cast of students. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Director Jacquielynn Wolff works with the actors on improvisational games. The Marco Island Shakespeare Festival debuts their inaugural production, 'Twelfth Night,' over the next two weekends at Marco Lutheran Church, with a cast of students. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Jessica Lang is tipsy as Sir Toby Belch. The Marco Island Shakespeare Festival debuts their inaugural production, 'Twelfth Night,' over the next two weekends at Marco Lutheran Church, with a cast of students. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Annmarie Grossi as Viola, left, delivers a message to Bianca LaRochelle as Countess Olivia, right. The Marco Island Shakespeare Festival debuts their inaugural production, 'Twelfth Night,' over the next two weekends at Marco Lutheran Church, with a cast of students. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Director Jacquielynn Wolff works with the actors. The Marco Island Shakespeare Festival debuts their inaugural production, 'Twelfth Night,' over the next two weekends at Marco Lutheran Church, with a cast of students. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent

In partnership with Marco Island Academy, with a cast made up of students largely drawn from the Island’s new high school, MISF opens “Twelfth Night” tonight (Friday) at Marco Lutheran Church, with a schedule of performances over the next two weekends. Director Wolff has been working with English classes at MIA, doing readings of the play, and bringing it to the stage allows the students, as well as the audience, to hear Shakespeare in the format for which it was written.



Full gallery »GoShots: Talk Derby To Me

  • Upon a Star co-founder Michelle Jordan sports an extravagant hat. The Upon a Star Foundation held their seventh 'Talk Derby to Me' fundraiser Saturday at the Marco Island Brewery, partnering for the first time with the Marco Island Academy. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Dale Danek's hat is mauve chiffon with purple ribbons. The Upon a Star Foundation held their seventh 'Talk Derby to Me' fundraiser Saturday at the Marco Island Brewery, partnering for the first time with the Marco Island Academy. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • As George Domenech shows, it's not just the ladies wearing hats for the Kentucky Derby. The Upon a Star Foundation held their seventh 'Talk Derby to Me' fundraiser Saturday at the Marco Island Brewery, partnering for the first time with the Marco Island Academy. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Foundation co-founder Howard Jordan tends to business in the packed restaurant. The Upon a Star Foundation held their seventh 'Talk Derby to Me' fundraiser Saturday at the Marco Island Brewery, partnering for the first time with the Marco Island Academy. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Frank LaCava, from right, with Lynette, Jamie, John and Lucy LaCava get a moment's break after the race. The Upon a Star Foundation held their seventh 'Talk Derby to Me' fundraiser Saturday at the Marco Island Brewery, partnering for the first time with the Marco Island Academy. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Angie Tobiason, left, and Laura Frazer show off their shared winnings. The Upon a Star Foundation held their seventh 'Talk Derby to Me' fundraiser Saturday at the Marco Island Brewery, partnering for the first time with the Marco Island Academy. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent

The Marco Island Brewery was packed Saturday afternoon for “Talk Derby to Me,” with enough extravagant hats to make it difficult to see around the restaurant, let alone move around freely. The occasion was the annual fundraiser for Marco’s Upon A Star Foundation, their seventh year holding the Kentucky Derby-themed party. This year, “Talk Derby” featured a new wrinkle, with two causes for the price of one. Proceeds from the afternoon were split between Upon A Star and the Marco Island Academy, the island’s new charter high school. Adding the school’s backers and fund-raising prowess to the established local Upon A Star, which helps local children and families in need, generated a daily double of giving, making all involved winners, regardless of what happened up at that horse race. With 260 attending, the event raised over $40,000 for the two local groups.



Full gallery »Marco Island Planning Board

  • Herb Savage, local architect and long-time resident, asks Marco Island’s Planning Board on Friday to consider an exception in zoning for Progressive Auto’s storage facility. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Business owners in Marco Island’s C-5 zone and interested residents attend Friday’s Planning Board meeting on Marco Island. The board determined on second reading not to grant a request to change C-4 zoning for self-storage. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Mike Bosi, director of planning and zoning for Collier County, gives an overview Friday to Marco Island’s Planning Board on pending development in East Naples along Collier Boulevard and U.S. 41. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • City Attorney Burt Saunders, right, explains Friday to Marco Island’s Planning Board that a second hearing requesting changes to C-4 zoning could be held even without the petitioner present. Seated next to Saunders is Bryan Milk, community affairs director. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent


Full gallery »Isles of Capri Fire Board meeting

  • Marco Island’s Deputy Chief Chris Byrne, right, listens as Jeff Page, left, explains the need for negotiations on a proposal to consolidate the East Naples and Isles of Capri fire districts. Seated beside Page are East Naples Chief Kingman Schuldt and Tara Bishop, director of East Naples administration. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Collier County Commissioner Donna Fiala weighs in on the road ahead for Isles of Capri Fire District Thursday as it considers a vote on consolidation with East Naples’ district. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Fiddlers’ Creek resident Phil Brougham speaks in favor of consolidation of Isles of Capri Fire District with East Naples at Thursday’s meeting. Brougham is a Fiddler’s Creek resident who will be affected by the decision. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • More than 50 residents and fire personnel attend Thursday’s Isles of Capri Fire Advisory Board to learn the fate of a proposal to consolidate their fire department with the East Naples district. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Isles of Capri resident Beau Middlebrook discusses his thoughts regarding a proposal for consolidation with Capri Fire Advisory Board Chairman Jim Hughes before Thursday’s meeting. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent


Full gallery »MIAAOR After 5

  • May 2, 2013 Board of Realtors After 5: Don Williams of Always There Home Services, right along with Marv Needles, ERA Flagship Realty, center & Deborah Needles, Island Title Star Agency. The Cinco de Mayo themed networking event took place at Margarita's on Marco. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Marco Eagle-Daily News.
  • May 2, 2013 Board of Realtors After 5: Island Title's Carol Matteson & Jenny Bohaychyk. The Cinco de Mayo themed networking event took place at Margarita's on Marco. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Marco Eagle-Daily News.
  • May 2, 2013 Board of Realtors After 5: Peter Huy of the Kramer law firm & Susan Ackerson of Anchor Real Estate talk shop. The Cinco de Mayo themed networking event took place at Margarita's on Marco. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Marco Eagle-Daily News.
  • May 2, 2013 Board of Realtors After 5: Wendy Atkinson of Fifth Third enjoys the evening with husband Jim of Prudential Realty. The Cinco de Mayo themed networking event took place at Margarita's on Marco. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Marco Eagle-Daily News.
  • May 2, 2013 Board of Realtors After 5: Jerry Knight of Divco drew Helen Donaghy's card and presented her prize. She's with Engel & Voelker Real Estate. The Cinco de Mayo themed networking event took place at Margarita's on Marco. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Marco Eagle-Daily News.
  • May 2, 2013 Board of Realtors After 5: Mary Quiton of the Naples Daily News, left and Kandy Sweeney, Communications Director Marco Island Associated Realtors. The Cinco de Mayo themed networking event took place at Margarita's on Marco. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Marco Eagle-Daily News.

A Cinco de Mayo-themed networking event held at Margarita's on Marco Island on Thursday brought area realtors, related business owners and generous sponsors together for an After 5 get together.



Full gallery »Trey Radel on Marco Island

  • Congressman Trey Radel shows a budget breakdown chart to the group. He spoke to the Caxambas Republican Club at Bistro Soleil on Marco Island Wednesday evening. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Congressman Trey Radel, right, talks to Carole and Steven Roberts before the meeting. Radel spoke to the Caxambas Republican Club at Bistro Soleil on Marco Island Wednesday evening. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Congressman Trey Radel spoke to the Caxambas Republican Club at Bistro Soleil on Marco Island Wednesday evening. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Congressman Trey Radel talks politics. Radel spoke to the Caxambas Republican Club at Bistro Soleil on Marco Island Wednesday evening. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Donald Read, bottom, addresses a question/comment to Congressman Trey Radel, who spoke to the Caxambas Republican Club at Bistro Soleil on Marco Island Wednesday evening. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Club president Litha Berger gets a hug from Congressman Trey Radel after his talk. Radel spoke to the Caxambas Republican Club at Bistro Soleil on Marco Island Wednesday evening. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent

Marco Island’s, and Southwest Florida’s, freshman U.S. Congressman came to the island Wednesday evening, spending an hour with the Caxambas Republican Club. This was a homecoming of sorts for Trey Radel, who was preaching to the choir on Marco, comfortable among a group of folks who share his conservative views and helped elect him.



Full gallery »'Miss Dottie' honored

  • Gordon Campbell/Eagle Correspondent April 27, 2013 Miss Dottie Pool Dedication Ceremony: Friends Carol & Dick Polinkski pose with Miss Dottie as she cradles the new sign dedicated to the Ms Dottie Weiner Aquatic Center. Dottie was New York City’s first female lifeguard and initiated the construction of Marco’s first public pool. A life long instructor & guard she’s taught over 10,000 people to swim and directly saved 10 lives.
  • Gordon Campbell/Eagle Correspondent April 27, 2013 Miss Dottie Pool dedication: Cindy Love, CEO Greater Marco Family YMCA kicks off the ceremony. Dottie was New York City’s first female lifeguard and initiated the construction of Marco’s first public pool. A life long instructor & guard she’s taught over 10,000 people to swim and directly saved 10 lives.
  • Gordon Campbell/Eagle Correspondent April 27, 2013 Miss Dottie Pool Dedication Ceremony: With a tiki hut and pavillion in her name at the Greater Marco Family YMCA, the pool dedication made for an emotional day full of great memories for Miss Dottie and the many present with whom she’s had contact with over the years. Dottie was New York City’s first female lifeguard and initiated the construction of Marco’s first public pool. A life long instructor & guard she’s taught over 10,000 people to swim and directly saved 10 lives.
  • Gordon Campbell/Eagle Correspondent April 27, 2013 Miss Dottie Pool Dedication Ceremony: Seated under the Dottie Weinere tiki hut and pavillion she was surrounded by an appreciative crowd of Marco friends. Dottie was New York City’s first female lifeguard and initiated the construction of Marco’s first public pool. A life long instructor & guard she’s taught over 10,000 people to swim and directly saved 10 lives.
  • Gordon Campbell/Eagle Correspondent April 27, 2013 Miss Dottie Pool Dedication Ceremony: It was an emotional day full of great memories for Miss Dottie and the many present with whom she’s had contact with over the years. Dottie was New York City’s first female lifeguard and initiated the construction of Marco’s first public pool. A life long instructor & guard she’s taught over 10,000 people to swim and directly saved 10 lives.
  • Gordon Campbell/Eagle Correspondent April 27, 2013 Miss Dottie Pool Dedication Ceremony: It was an emotional day full of great memories for Miss Dottie and the many present with whom she’s had contact with over the years. Dottie was New York City’s first female lifeguard and initiated the construction of Marco’s first public pool. A life long instructor & guard she’s taught over 10,000 people to swim and directly saved 10 lives.

It was tearful and joyful for “Miss Dottie” Weiner as the Greater Marco Family YMCA Aquatics Center was dedicated to her. Ceremonies were held Saturday next to the pool she helped design and raise the money to build. Age didn’t matter, young and older praised Dottie. “I have had many memorable experiences, but coming to Marco was the greatest of them all,” she said to an overflow crowd in and out of the spacious pavilion constructed in Weiner’s honor.



Full gallery »Ace wins $10,000; Record score tops 40th annual Eagle Open

  • Roger LaLonde Staff The team of Bob Dugan, left, Pat Bennett, Dave Stonier and Rob Pentico, not shown, shot a record scramble score of 55, with 17 birdies, at the 40th annual Eagle Open on Saturday at the Rookery at Marco. .
  • Roger LaLonde Staff Doug Edgar of Naples kisses his ball after scoring a hole-in-one on the money hole, winning $10,000, at the 40th annual Eagle Open on Saturday at The Rookery at Marco.
  • Roger LaLonde Staff The top women's foursome at the 40th annual Eagle Open on Saturday, from left, are Bette McGilvray, Helen Donaghy. Lorraine Keen and Roe Tamagni.
  • Roger LaLonde Staff The foursome of Justin Hanna, left, Ruth Bee, Tom Dizio and Bud Palmer won the mixed foursome prize at the 40th annual Eagle Open on Saturday at The Rookery at Marco.
  • Roger LaLonde Staff The 40th annual Eagle Open on Saturday at The Rookery at Marco saw, from left, Josh Boyden and Vickie Carter win longest drive and Jacquie Koon and Jamie Sullivan win closest to the pin.
  • Roger LaLonde Staff Peter Morris follows his shot after hitting out of a sand trap at the 40th annual Eagle Open on Saturday at The Rookery at Marco.

Ace wins Doug Edgar of Naples $10,000 at 40th annual Eagle Open. Record score of 17 under par wins event.



Full gallery »Marco Island Fire/Rescue Pancake Breakfast, April 2013

  • Police officers Bob Sims, from left, Sgt. Frank Steiger, Matt Gordon, George Guyer, and Sgt. Nick Ojanovac share a table with EMS Lt. Isabel Favier. Hundreds enjoyed a hot meal at the Marco Island Fire-Rescue Foundation's annual pancake breakfast Sunday morning, at the fire station on San Marco Road. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Sammie Signorini (aka mom) poses with Junior Firefighters Gianni Signorini, 5, left, and Francesco Signorini, 3. Hundreds enjoyed a hot meal at the Marco Island Fire-Rescue Foundation's annual pancake breakfast Sunday morning, at the fire station on San Marco Road. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Steve Stefanides flips his cakes, under close supervision. Hundreds enjoyed a hot meal at the Marco Island Fire-Rescue Foundation's annual pancake breakfast Sunday morning, at the fire station on San Marco Road. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Pete Guerin rustles up some grub for Kate Murray. Hundreds enjoyed a hot meal at the Marco Island Fire-Rescue Foundation's annual pancake breakfast Sunday morning, at the fire station on San Marco Road. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Server Pete Guerin shows off his technique with the tongs. Hundreds enjoyed a hot meal at the Marco Island Fire-Rescue Foundation's annual pancake breakfast Sunday morning, at the fire station on San Marco Road. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Jim Curran staffs the menswear counter at the Fire Foundation Store. Hundreds enjoyed a hot meal at the Marco Island Fire-Rescue Foundation's annual pancake breakfast Sunday morning, at the fire station on San Marco Road. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent

They get such a turnout, said Dianna Dohm, they can’t put on the event at the height of the season. The Marco Island Fire-Rescue Foundation held their pancake breakfast on Sunday, inside the fire station on San Marco Road, and business was brisk. For six dollars, patrons get “all you can eat” pancakes, sausages, scrambled eggs, coffee and orange juice. Breakfast is an even better deal for police officers and emergency responders, who eat free. A tableful of MIPD officers shared breakfast and conversation with EMT Lt. Isabel Favier.



Full gallery »Marco Island’s Waterways Advisory Committee

  • Ben Farnsworth, manager of Villa de Marco West, explains to Marco Island’s Waterways Advisory Committee Thursday that boaters in Collier Creek have done damage to the condominium’s dock. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Officers Mark Mahoney, left, and David Barrett of Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission tell Marco Island’s Waterways Advisory Committee Thursday that they are the lead agency in responding to incidents on the water. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Harold Lee, vice commodore of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 95, offers education courses as one solution to boater problems in Collier Creek. Lee spoke before Marco Island’s Waterways Advisory Committee Thursday. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Members of Marco Island’s Waterways Advisory Committee discuss additional signage to warn boaters of turbulent waters in Collier Creek. Seated from left are William Bott, Peter Class and Brian Gilmore. Cheryl Ferra/Eagle Correspondent


Full gallery »Remax Awards Banquet

  • April 17, 2013 Remax Annual Awards Banquet: Remax agent Rick Hanscom celebrates under warm light with Mercedes Baez at the annual Remax awards banquet where lifelong & top producers are honored. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Daily News.
  • April 17, 2013 Remax Annual Awards Banquet: To conclude the awards ceremony, Larry Causo (Lifetime Achievement award winner) and his team pose along with Rocky Farhat, Debra Meredith Peters Broker/Owner, Vince Colace, Alicia Cushner & other team members at the annual Remax awards banquet where lifelong & top producers are honored. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Daily News.
  • Chris Sullivan, left, received the Hall of Fame, Lifetime Achievement and Florida top producer award at the annual Remax awards banquet. She's with Remax Broker & Owner Debra Meredith Peters Gordon Campbell/Eagle Correspondent
  • April 17, 2013 Remax Annual Awards Banquet: Mike Boland and Mike O'Rourke sales agents for Remax Affinity Plus at the annual Remax awards banquet where lifelong & top producers are honored. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Daily News.
  • April 17, 2013 Remax Annual Awards Banquet: Kay Hayes, Remax Affinity Plus of Marco Island acts as General Manager. She's seen here at the annual Remax awards banquet where lifelong & top producers are honored. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Daily News.
  • Local Marco Island Remax agents were amongst the top in the sate and honored at the annual Remax awards banquet Wednesday the the MArco Island Marriott. Gordon Campbell/Eagle Correspodnent

The Remax Affinity Plus group held their annual awards ceremony on Wednesday.



Full gallery »Marco Island Academy ribbon cutting

  • In a case of turnabout, Rick Medwedeff of the Marriott presents an award to Jane Watt. Marco Island Academy, the island's new charter high school, held an open house to celebrate their new campus on San Marco Road on Tuesday afternoon. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Marco Island Academy founder Jane Watt stands in front of the school's back door. The island's new charter high school held an open house to celebrate their new campus on San Marco Road on Tuesday afternoon. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Jane Watt holds the ceremonial scissors for the 'ribbon cutting.' Marco Island Academy, the island's new charter high school, held an open house to celebrate their new campus on San Marco Road on Tuesday afternoon. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • School founder Jane Watt, looking around for an honoree, generally looks forward, not back. Marco Island Academy, the island's new charter high school, held an open house to celebrate their new campus on San Marco Road on Tuesday afternoon. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Visionary: Marco Island Academy founder Jane Watt seems to gaze into the future as she hands out awards to those instrumental in helping the school take shape. The island's new charter high school held an open house to celebrate their new campus on San Marco Road on Tuesday afternoon. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Rene and Teresa Champagne, from left, Rick Medwedeff, Timothy Truesdell and Terry McCreanor receive plaques from school founder Jane Watt. Marco Island Academy, the island's new charter high school, held an open house to celebrate their new campus on San Marco Road on Tuesday afternoon. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent

Marco Island Academy threw an open house to dedicate their new campus Tuesday, and in the bright sunshine, the shadow of Jane Watt loomed large. She is the visionary who imagined a high school for the island, and went out and made it happen. Tuesday afternoon, MIA threw a party, an open house and grand opening to celebrate their new campus on San Marco Road. About 250 wellwishers came out to tour the facilities, congratulate the school’s creators, and in some cases, do a little school shopping for their own children’s education.




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