Marco Eagle

Full gallery »Leadership Marco: Souper Bowl 2013

  • Sophia and Jamie Shea work together on a bid for bowls painted by local artists. Hundreds came out to the 'Souper Bowl' fundraiser Saturday at Mackle Park, to benefit the Leadership Marco Scholarship Fund. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Fernando Vasquez, left, and Peter Dannemann dish out conch chowder from the Marriott's kitchen. Hundreds came out to the 'Souper Bowl' fundraiser Saturday at Mackle Park, to benefit the Leadership Marco Scholarship Fund. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Chef Denis Meurgue dishes out his golden mushroom soup. Hundreds came out to the 'Souper Bowl' fundraiser Saturday at Mackle Park, to benefit the Leadership Marco Scholarship Fund. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Mary Locicero tries the wild mushroom soup from Bistro Soleil. Hundreds came out to the 'Souper Bowl' fundraiser Saturday at Mackle Park, to benefit the Leadership Marco Scholarship Fund. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Hundreds came out to the 'Souper Bowl' fundraiser Saturday at Mackle Park, to benefit the Leadership Marco Scholarship Fund. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Phyllis Wallen works on selecting her soup bowl. Hundreds came out to the 'Souper Bowl' fundraiser Saturday at Mackle Park, to benefit the Leadership Marco Scholarship Fund. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent


Full gallery »Police Foundation Luncheon, 2013

  • Officer Al Schettino, Marco Islandís Police Officer of the Year, smiles emotionally while receiving his award. The glass statue in his hands was given to him by the Marco Island Police Foundation in ceremonies Thursday at the Hideaway Beach Club. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Marco Island Fire Chief Mike Murphy receives congratulations from Joe Granda, president of the Marco Island Police Foundation. Granda honored Murphy with the Presidentís Awards at ceremonies Thursday at the Hideaway Beach Club. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Marco Island Police Foundation President Joe Granda shakes the hand of retiring Detective Ed Stenzel. He received a plaque from Police Chief Don Hunter, center, and the foundation, honoring his 37 years of service to police departments on Marco Island and in Milwaukee. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Bill Morris steps up to receive an award for serving as president of the Marco Island Police Foundation for the past two-and-a-half years. He was honored during the ceremonies Thursday at the Hideaway Beach Club. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Lynette and Frank LaCave, owners of the Marco Island Brewery, receive special honors as a corporate sponsor of the Marco Island Police Foundation during ceremonies at the Hideaway Beach Club on Thursday. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Jose Carrillo, acting sergeant of Collier Countyís Special Response Bureau, gives a presentation on the tragedy of mass shootings in school, theaters and public places. Carrillo spoke at the Marco Island Police Foundation luncheon Thursday at the Hideaway Beach Club. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent

It's easy to see why Police Officer Al Schettino works well with small folks. When he smiles, children love him. His teddy bear friendliness wrapped in a blue uniform with badges, multiple two-way radios, a taser and gun are endless fascination and inspiration for Marco Island's school children. Schettino is the island's School Resource Officer; and on Thursday, he became Marco Island's Police Officer of the Year. He smiled all the way to the podium to collect his award.



Full gallery »Marco Fire Rescue Foundation Luncheon, 2013

  • Division Chief Don Jones, the 2012 Firefighter of the Year recipient, stands between Bryan Koon, director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, and Dianna Dohm, president of the Marco Island Fire Rescue Foundation. Jones received the award Wednesday during a luncheon at the Island County Club. Koon was keynote speaker. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Chelsea Lund places a badge on the shirt of her husband, Matt, during a pinning ceremony Wednesday for first year Marco Island firefighters. The ceremony was held during the Marco Island Fire Rescue Foundation luncheon at the Island Country Club. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Firefighter/EMT Brad Underwood receives his first year pin from Division Chief Don Jones during a ceremony Wednesday at the Island Country Club. The ceremony was sponsored by the Marco Island Fire Rescue Foundation. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Dianna Dohm, president of the Marco Island Fire Rescue Foundation, congratulates Division Chief Don Jones Wednesday for his selection as the 2012 Firefighter of the Year. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Deputy Chief Chris Byrne hands out plaques to Marco Island firefighters whose unit was awarded a special citation Wednesday. From left are Captain Tom Bogan, Captain Chris Crossan and Firefighter EMT Sergio DeLeon. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Marco Island Fire Chief Mike Murphy explains the Royal Seafarer condominium incident that led to awarding one unit of the fire department the Unit Citation. The award was given in ceremonies during the Marco Island Fire Rescue Foundationís luncheon on Wednesday. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent

Division Chief Don Jones said he just does his job, but fellow Marco Island firefighters didn't agree with him. What they saw was a member of their crew that went far beyond daily requirements. Those actions spoke louder than words, and on Wednesday, the department chose Jones to receive the 2012 Firefighter of the Year award from the Marco Island Fire Rescue Foundation. The award was given during the foundation's annual meeting at the Island Country Club.



Full gallery »Stan Gober Memorial Bridge

  • County Commissioner Donna Fiala is watched over by a portrait of Stan. The Goodland Bridge over the Marco River officially became the Stan Gober Memorial Bridge during a brief ceremony held Tuesday morning at the foot of the bridge. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Stan's son Steve Gober, left, and two of his sons, Mike, 22, and Dylan, 20, celebrate the new bridge after the official event. The Goodland Bridge over the Marco River officially became the Stan Gober Memorial Bridge during a brief ceremony held Tuesday morning at the foot of the bridge. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Longtime Stan's fixture 'Queen Mary' Martin listens as the dignitaries speak. The Goodland Bridge over the Marco River officially became the Stan Gober Memorial Bridge during a brief ceremony held Tuesday morning at the foot of the bridge. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • From left, County Commissioner Donna Fiala, Goodland Civic Association president Joanie Fuller and Steve Gober pledge allegiance. The Goodland Bridge over the Marco River officially became the Stan Gober Memorial Bridge during a brief ceremony held Tuesday morning at the foot of the bridge. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Steve Gober, Stan's son who now runs Stan's Idle Hour, speaks to the attendees. The Goodland Bridge over the Marco River officially became the Stan Gober Memorial Bridge during a brief ceremony held Tuesday morning at the foot of the bridge. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Walter Kane, who spearheaded the renaming drive, speaks to the attendees. The Goodland Bridge over the Marco River officially became the Stan Gober Memorial Bridge during a brief ceremony held Tuesday morning at the foot of the bridge. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent

Under a canopy set up at the northern end of the County Road 92 bridge, a crowd assembled to rechristen the span, formerly called the Goodland Bridge, as the Stan Gober Memorial Bridge. Stan, the larger-than-life founder and owner of Stan's Idle Hour in Goodland, was honored for his impact on his community, and all the effort he put into a myriad of worthwhile causes.



Full gallery »Goodland Mullet Festival 2013

  • Jingles Gronotte celebrates her victory in the queen contest. The 29th annual Mullet Festival at Stan's took over Goodland this weekend, with throngs of revelers enjoying music, adult beverages, and the crowning of the 2013 Buzzard Lope Queen. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Special to the Daily News/Jason Easterly John and Kathleen Del Monte of Naples dance to the music of Hot Damn during the 29th Annual Mullet Festival held at Stan's Idle Hour in Goodland on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013.
  • Special to the Daily News/Jason Easterly Debbie Pelletier and her husband Norm play in their band Hot Damn for patrons of the 29th Annual Mullet Festival held at Stan's Idle Hour in Goodland on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013.
  • The usual suspects - Susie Walsh, Cindy Crain, Ed Crain and Dave Walsh showed up as the Super Bowl. The 29th annual Mullet Festival at Stan's took over Goodland this weekend, with throngs of revelers enjoying music, adult beverages, and the crowning of the 2013 Buzzard Lope Queen. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Special to the Daily News/Jason Easterly Debbie Pelletier and her husband Norm play in their band Hot Damn for patrons of the 29th Annual Mullet Festival held at Stan's Idle Hour in Goodland on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013.
  • Special to the Daily News/Jason Easterly Moe Preroff of Baltimore gets a message from friends to loosen his muscles before competing in the Mullet cleaning contest during the 29th Annual Mullet Festival held at Stan's Idle Hour in Goodland on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013.


Full gallery »Y Seaside Celebration 2013

  • Honored as the Humanitarian of the Year, Bill Laimbeer, Sr., receives a plaque from Dick Shanahan during the Greater Marco Family YMCA Seaside Celebration on Sunday at Kurrents restaurant in the Marco Marriott. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • An emotional Dottie Weiner learns Sunday that the Greater Marco Family YMCA will name its pool in her honor. Behind her is Cindy Love, chief executive of the Y. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Outgoing Greater Marco Family YMCA president Ashley Lupo honors Allyson Richards, in green, as the Golden Warrior for the Y. Richards completed her first year as special events coordinator and will continue in the position on the 2013 board. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • New Y president, Tiffany Homuth, center, repeats the oath of office with Joe Granda, treasurer, and Gladyvette Benarroch, secretary. The installation of officers and board members for the Greater Marco Family YMCA was held at a Seaside Celebration in Kurrents restaurant. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Paul Heuerman and Ashley Lupo of the law firm Roetzel & Andress enjoy social hour Sunday prior to dinner, awards and installation of officers for the Greater Marco Family YMCA. Lupo is immediate past president of the Y board. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent
  • Rows of plaques are in line waiting distribution Sunday during the Greater Marco Family YMCAís Seaside Celebration, awards presentations and induction of 2013 officers. Cheryl Ferrara/Eagle Correspondent

As part of the Seaside Celebration, the Y honored a number of volunteers and installed the 2013 board of directors. Mel Ollman, architect of the Y's main building and long-time board member, was named a life trustee. He is the sixth trustee to be named in the past 20 years.



Full gallery »Marco Island Historical Museum Pirate Day 2013

  • Special to the Daily News/Jason Easterly Cindy Crane helps kids make hooks to wear on their hands during Pirate Day presented by the Collier County Museum and held at the Marco Island Historical Museum on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013.
  • Special to the Daily News/Jason Easterly Robert Rivera, 5, of Marco Island looks to his neighbor as he makes arts and crafts during Pirate Day presented by the Collier County Museum and held at the Marco Island Historical Museum on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013.
  • Special to the Daily News/Jason Easterly Mayra Ortega of Naples helps kids make parrots during Pirate Day presented by the Collier County Museum and held at the Marco Island Historical Museum on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013.
  • Special to the Daily News/Jason Easterly The Marco Island Historical Museum hosted Pirate Day presented by the Collier County Museum on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013.
  • Special to the Daily News/Jason Easterly Young pirates completed craft activities to receive stamps for each stations completed during Pirate Day presented by the Collier County Museum and held at the Marco Island Historical Museum on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013.
  • Special to the Daily News/Jason Easterly Brielle Ramirez, 4, of Marco Island takes the opportunity to pet Polly the Python during Pirate Day presented by the Collier County Museum and held at the Marco Island Historical Museum on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013.

The Marco Island Historical Museum hosted Pirate Day presented by the Collier County Museum on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013.



Full gallery »City of Marco Island 15th Anniversary Party

  • Alessandra Alber, 4, concentrates on her cotton candy. Mackle Park was swarmed by families for the 15th Anniversary of the City of Marco Island on Friday, January 25. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Isabella Delgado makes a good faith effort at catching a ball. Mackle Park was swarmed by families for the 15th Anniversary of the City of Marco Island on Friday, January 25. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Caitlin Fox, 2, can't contain her joy at living. Mackle Park was swarmed by families for the 15th Anniversary of the City of Marco Island on Friday, January 25. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Caitlin Fox, 2, can't contain her joy at living. Mackle Park was swarmed by families for the 15th Anniversary of the City of Marco Island on Friday, January 25. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Armando Anaya, 9, spins two hula hoops. Mackle Park was swarmed by families for the 15th Anniversary of the City of Marco Island on Friday, January 25. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Mary Courtemanche channels the Cat in the Hat. Mackle Park was swarmed by families for the 15th Anniversary of the City of Marco Island on Friday, January 25. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent


Full gallery »Construction of miniature golf course on Marco

  • Roger LaLonde Staff A miniature golf course is under construction at 981 Winterfberry Drive on Marco Island. The course is the object of a lawsuit, filed by the Marco Island Civic Association. The suit claims that the owner of the course did not get approval from a homeowners association for the consturction.
  • Roger LaLonde Staff Construction continues on a miniature golf course at 981 Winterberry Drive on Marco Island. The Marco Island Civic Association filed the lawsuit claiming that the golf course owner did not get prior approval from a homeowners association for the construction.
  • Roger LaLonde Staff Workers continue to construct a miniature golf course at 981 Winterberry Drive on Marco Island, the object of a lawsuit filed by the Marco Island Civic Association. The suit claims the golf course owner did not get approval from a homeowners association near the course before construction.


Full gallery »Marco Center for the Arts Second Tuesday: January 2013

  • Rosemary Wick, left, Dr Ron Doiron, Lansing McLoskey and Lynn Holley during "Art of Music/The Music of Art" presented by Marco Island Center for the Arts during their 2nd Tuesday Gallery Opening, January 8, 2013. Dozens of art enthusiasts filled the galleries to view recent masterpieces of local artists ranging from oil, water color, photography and sculpture. Most were in awe over the new exhibition titled "Blur", by internationally renowned artist Rita Blitt. Blitts inspiration for this recent collection is inspired by the music of Lancing McLoskey, who was present at this evenings showing. McLoskey is an award-winning composer from the American Academy of Arts and Letters in New York City where he recently was awarded the prestigious 2011 Goddard Lieberson Fellowship among many other accomplishments. John M. Wissocki / Daily News Correspondent.
  • An exquisite array of hors d'oeuvres was served during "Art of Music/The Music of Art" presented by Marco Island Center for the Arts during their 2nd Tuesday Gallery Opening, January 8, 2013. Dozens of art enthusiasts filled the galleries to view recent masterpieces of local artists ranging from oil, water color, photography and sculpture. Most were in awe over the new exhibition titled "Blur", by internationally renowned artist Rita Blitt. Blitts inspiration for this recent collection is inspired by the music of Lancing McLoskey, who was present at this evenings showing. McLoskey is an award-winning composer from the American Academy of Arts and Letters in New York City where he recently was awarded the prestigious 2011 Goddard Lieberson Fellowship among many other accomplishments. John M. Wissocki / Daily News Correspondent.
  • Dozens of art enthusiasts filled the galleries to view recent masterpieces of local artists ranging from oil, water color, photography and sculpture during "Art of Music/The Music of Art" presented by Marco Island Center for the Arts during their 2nd Tuesday Gallery Opening, January 8, 2013. Art lovers of all types were in awe over the new exhibition titled "Blur", by internationally renowned artist Rita Blitt. Blitts inspiration for this recent collection is inspired by the music of Lancing McLoskey, who was present at this evenings showing. McLoskey is an award-winning composer from the American Academy of Arts and Letters in New York City where he recently was awarded the prestigious 2011 Goddard Lieberson Fellowship among many other accomplishments. John M. Wissocki / Daily News Correspondent.
  • Dozens of art enthusiasts filled the galleries to view recent masterpieces of local artists ranging from oil, water color, photography and sculpture during "Art of Music/The Music of Art" presented by Marco Island Center for the Arts during their 2nd Tuesday Gallery Opening, January 8, 2013. Art lovers of all types were in awe over the new exhibition titled "Blur", by internationally renowned artist Rita Blitt. Blitts inspiration for this recent collection is inspired by the music of Lancing McLoskey, who was present at this evenings showing. McLoskey is an award-winning composer from the American Academy of Arts and Letters in New York City where he recently was awarded the prestigious 2011 Goddard Lieberson Fellowship among many other accomplishments. John M. Wissocki / Daily News Correspondent.
  • Dozens of art enthusiasts were in awe over the new exhibition titled "Blur" on display at the Marco Island Center for the Arts during their 2nd Tuesday Gallery Opening, January 8. The masterpieces were created by internationally renowned artist Rita Blitt. Blitts inspiration for this recent collection is inspired by the music of Lancing McLoskey, who was present at this evenings showing. McLoskey is an award-winning composer from the American Academy of Arts and Letters in New York City where he recently was awarded the prestigious 2011 Goddard Lieberson Fellowship among many other accomplishments. John M. Wissocki / Daily News Correspondent.
  • Singer and composer Hera Lynn, 15, entertained guests during "Art of Music/The Music of Art" presented by Marco Island Center for the Arts during their 2nd Tuesday Gallery Opening, January 8, 2013. Dozens of art enthusiasts filled the galleries to view recent masterpieces of local artists ranging from oil, water color, photography and sculpture. Most were in awe over the new exhibition titled "Blur", by internationally renowned artist Rita Blitt. Blitts inspiration for this recent collection is inspired by the music of Lancing McLoskey, who was present at this evenings showing. McLoskey is an award-winning composer from the American Academy of Arts and Letters in New York City where he recently was awarded the prestigious 2011 Goddard Lieberson Fellowship among many other accomplishments. John M. Wissocki / Daily News Correspondent.

Dozens of art enthusiasts filled the galleries to view recent masterpieces of local artists ranging from oil, water color, photography and sculpture during “Art of Music/The Music of Art” presented by Marco Island Center for the Arts during their 2nd Tuesday Gallery Opening, January 8, 2013. Art lovers of all types were in awe over the new exhibition titled “Blur”, by internationally renowned artist Rita Blitt. Blitts inspiration for this recent collection is inspired by the music of Lancing McLoskey, who was present at this evenings showing. McLoskey is an award-winning composer from the American Academy of Arts and Letters in New York City where he recently was awarded the prestigious 2011 Goddard Lieberson Fellowship among many other accomplishments.



Full gallery »Your Photos: Pets on Third 2013

  • Sunday, Jan 20, the friends of Naples Dog Park hosted their 4th Annual Petfest benefiting the Naples Dog Park. The event included a Pet Costume Contest with a Pets Around the World theme & Pet Parade on Third Street South at noon. Photo by Wendy Arsenault - Share your photos and videos at http://participate.naplesnews.com/ or on our Facebook page.
  • Sunday, Jan 20, the friends of Naples Dog Park hosted their 4th Annual Petfest benefiting the Naples Dog Park. The event included a Pet Costume Contest with a Pets Around the World theme & Pet Parade on Third Street South at noon. Photo by Stephen Wright - Share your photos and videos at http://participate.naplesnews.com/ or on our Facebook page.
  • Sunday, Jan 20, the friends of Naples Dog Park hosted their 4th Annual Petfest benefiting the Naples Dog Park. The event included a Pet Costume Contest with a Pets Around the World theme & Pet Parade on Third Street South at noon. Photo by Stephen Wright - Share your photos and videos at http://participate.naplesnews.com/ or on our Facebook page.
  • Sunday, Jan 20, the friends of Naples Dog Park hosted their 4th Annual Petfest benefiting the Naples Dog Park. The event included a Pet Costume Contest with a Pets Around the World theme & Pet Parade on Third Street South at noon. Photo by Stephen Wright - Share your photos and videos at http://participate.naplesnews.com/ or on our Facebook page.
  • Sunday, Jan 20, the friends of Naples Dog Park hosted their 4th Annual Petfest benefiting the Naples Dog Park. The event included a Pet Costume Contest with a Pets Around the World theme & Pet Parade on Third Street South at noon. Photo by Stephen Wright - Share your photos and videos at http://participate.naplesnews.com/ or on our Facebook page.
  • Sunday, Jan 20, the friends of Naples Dog Park hosted their 4th Annual Petfest benefiting the Naples Dog Park. The event included a Pet Costume Contest with a Pets Around the World theme & Pet Parade on Third Street South at noon. Photo by Wendy Arsenault - Share your photos and videos at http://participate.naplesnews.com/ or on our Facebook page.


Full gallery »MIYC Change of Watch, 2013

  • Sandy Wallen raises her glass to a toast proposed by outgoing Commodore Stuart Curtis. The Marco Island Yacht Club held their annual Commodore's Ball and Change of Watch ceremony Saturday in their clubhouse. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • The Marco Island Yacht Club held their annual Commodore's Ball and Change of Watch ceremony Saturday in their clubhouse. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Incoming Commodore Jim Marr, Vice Commodore Bob DeFeo, Rear Commodore Dick Irwin, Sailing Fleet Captain Lois Dixon, Day Cruise Capt. Jim Ferry, Extended Cruise Capt. Lee Harkness, and Chairman of the Board Gary Riss. The Marco Island Yacht Club held their annual Commodore's Ball and Change of Watch ceremony Saturday in their clubhouse. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Incoming Commodore Jim Marr, Vice Commodore Bob DeFeo, Rear Commodore Dick Irwin, Sailing Fleet Captain Lois Dixon, Day Cruise Capt. Jim Ferry, Extended Cruise Capt. Lee Harkness, and Chairman of the Board Gary Riss. The Marco Island Yacht Club held their annual Commodore's Ball and Change of Watch ceremony Saturday in their clubhouse. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Jim Ferry and Doug Johnson discuss a point of seamanship. The Marco Island Yacht Club held their annual Commodore's Ball and Change of Watch ceremony Saturday in their clubhouse. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Incoming Commodore Jim Marr gets a congratulatory kiss from the First Lady of the Fleet, his wife Linda. The Marco Island Yacht Club held their annual Commodore's Ball and Change of Watch ceremony Saturday in their clubhouse. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent

After a turbulent period in the club's history, coinciding with the national economic downturn, the MIYC installed a new bridge, or slate of commanding officers, in a ceremony Saturday evening. The installation, which took place in conjunction with the annual Commodore's Ball, was held upstairs in the club's dining room, overlooking the yacht basin, the Marco River, and the "other Marco bridge," the Jolley Bridge spanning the river.



Full gallery »Rookery Bay Nature Festival

  • January 18, 2013 Rookery Bay Nature Festival: Jane Nerney, left listens to Renee Wilson Rookery Bay's Communications Manager, right about native wax myrtle. 5 gallons of the berries could be boiled down for enough wax to fashion a baybery scented votive sized candle. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Daily News.
  • January 18, 2013 Rookery Bay Nature Festival: Participants also learned about trade going on pre 1600s by Calusas here with tribes from the East coast. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Daily News.
  • January 18, 2013 Rookery Bay Nature Festival: Map in hand Renee Wilson shows participants how even slight changes in elevation influence plant life, water levels and other key variables important to all living entities within the ecosystem. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Daily News.
  • January 18, 2013 Rookery Bay Nature Festival: Renee Wilson poses with Friday & Saturday's evening keynote speaker Elam Stoltzfus a documentary film producer. Last year he participated in and filmed a 1000 mile South-North trek in 100 days through an important Florida wildlife corridor being organized and preserved via help from landowners, public agencies and more. To hear his talk and participate in the weekend event contact http://www.rookerybay.org/ for availability, details and options. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Daily News.
  • January 18, 2013 Rookery Bay Nature Festival: Ancient Calusa shell mounds dating back 3000 years are marked by tons of shells some of which show holes and other signs of being turned into tools. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Daily News.
  • January 18, 2013 Rookery Bay Nature Festival: Areas around ancient Calusa shell mounds dating back 3000 years occasionally contain shards of pottery fashioned and adorned prior to the 1600s. Photo by Gordon Campbell/Special to the Daily News.

Friday was the kickoff for the 2013 Rookery Bay Nature Festival. The weekend will be highlighted by about 40 guided field activities including bird watching and kayaking. There's also a guided trek around the Shell Island Preserve area where participants will get an insight into native Calusa and post-Civil War settler lifestyles. Film maker Elam Stoltzfus will discuss his adventures in filming the Florida Wildlife Corridor Expedition ("1000 miles in 100 days") on Saturday. Go to www.rookerybay.org for more information.



Full gallery »Girls Soccer: Lely falls to Naples in playoffs

  • Roger LaLonde/Staff Lely's Morgan Burke stops the ball to move it down field in the Lady Trojans 5-2 win over Lehigh in Class 3A-District 12 playoff action.
  • Roger LaLonde/Staff Lely's Lauren Hanscom battles for the ball while teammate Beatrice Reza watches the play. Lely downed Lehigh, 5-2, in Class 3A-Disrtict 12 playoff action on Monday.
  • Roger LaLonde/Staff (5) A Lehigh defender turns her back on a blistering shot for a goal by Lely's Jenna Lundquist, who completed the hat trick in the Lady Trojans 5-2 win in Class 3A-District 12 play action on Monday night.
  • Roger LaLonde/Staff Lely goalie Dani Marroquin explains how she gave up a goal in a Class 3A-Dsirtict 12 playoff game on Monday night. The Lady Trojans won, 5-2.
  • Lely's Christy Thorstenson outbattles a Lehigh player in the Lady Trjoans 5-2 win in a Class 3A-District 12 playoff match.
  • Roger LaLonde/Staff Lely's Lexie Lundquist (white outfit) takes control of the ball from a Lehigh defender in the Lady Trojans 5-2 Class 3A-District 12 playoff win. Lexie assisted her sister, Jenna, on a goal.


Full gallery »Charter soccer team goes to soccer finals

  • The Marco Island Charter Middle Scxhool boys soccer team advanced to the semifinals in the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Soccier Championship, playing at Oasis Charter School in Cape Coral on Thursday night. Seated, from left are: Kayhan Peksen, Oliver Wasson, Williams Ramos, Jacoib Wagner, Kole Bartos, Santi Ruiz, Cody DeMalavez, Daniel Fireman, Ben Lopez and Chris Nyhuus. Back row, coach Tarik Ayasun, Josh Wagner, Johan Hernandez, Kyle Bartos, Matt DeSantis, Connor McClain, Josh Dacruz and Victor Hernandez. Not shown, coach Rocco Morelli.
  • Defender Ben Lopez flies over goalie Daniel Fireman as an Evangelical Christian player looks on in case the ball comes loose. The Marco Island Charter Middle School boys knocked off Evangelical Christian School of Fort Myers, 5-3, in the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference playoffs to advance to the finals against Oasis Charter Middle School in Cape Coral on Thursday night.
  • Marco Charter School's Jacob Wagner booms the ball down field in the Eagles 5-3 win over Evangelical Christian in a Gulf Coast Athletic Conference soccer playoff game.
  • Roger LaLonde/Staff (6) Marco Charter Middle School's Josh Dacruz heads the ball forward in the Eagles 5-3 win over Evangelical Christian School of Fort Myers in a Gulf Coast Athletic Conference playoff game.
  • Roger LaLonde/StaffMarco Charter School's Kyle Bartos slides as he watches his shot go past the Evangelical Christian goalie Justin McDaniel in the Eagles 5-3 win in the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference soccer playoffs.
  • Marco Charter School soccer coach Tarik Ayasun talks with his team at half time.


Full gallery »Marco Island Property Owners forum

  • Councilman Larry Honig speaks. The Marco Island Property Owners held a forum for new city council members to interact with their members Thursday morning at Mackle Park. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • The gathering listens to City Councilor Ken Honecker. The Marco Island Property Owners held a forum for new city council members to interact with their members Thursday morning at Mackle Park. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Councilman Ken Honecker speaks. The Marco Island Property Owners held a forum for new city council members to interact with their members Thursday morning at Mackle Park. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Alan Epstein asks Ken Honecker a question about utilities. The Marco Island Property Owners held a forum for new city council members to interact with their members Thursday morning at Mackle Park. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Councilman Amadeo Petricca speaks. The Marco Island Property Owners held a forum for new city council members to interact with their members Thursday morning at Mackle Park. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Councilman Larry Sacher speaks. The Marco Island Property Owners held a forum for new city council members to interact with their members Thursday morning at Mackle Park. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent


Full gallery »Marco Islander sets sail for round-the-world voyage

  • Marco Islander Ken Bardon at the helm. He departed Sunday on a round-the-world voyage in his sloop Moonbeam. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent (5) Marco Islander Ken Bardon makes final preparations.
  • Nancy checks a weather readout at the nav station. Marco Islander Ken Bardon departed Sunday on a round-the-world voyage in his sloop Moonbeam. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Marco Islander Ken Bardon kisses Lil, his wife in their kitchen Saturday.
  • The four crew members Saturday (before a last-minute addition) - Nancy DeVries, Mike Cain, Ken Bardon, Lee Henderson. Marco Islander Bardon departed Sunday on a round-the-world voyage in his sloop Moonbeam.
  • Nancy DeVries and Ken Bardon in the cabin. Marco Islander Bardon departed Sunday with his crew on a round-the-world voyage in his sloop Moonbeam


Full gallery »Police Foundation Rib Cookoff

  • Mike Newell and Denise Garneau inspect their entry during the grilling process. The Marco Police Foundation held their second annual Rib Cook-Off Saturday afternoon at the Marco Island Brewery. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Judge Jerry Gibson allows the flavors to permeate his tastebuds. The Marco Police Foundation held their second annual Rib Cook-Off Saturday afternoon at the Marco Island Brewery. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Daryl Clute probably didn't drink all these himself. The Marco Police Foundation held their second annual Rib Cook-Off Saturday afternoon at the Marco Island Brewery. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Judges, left to right, Monte Lazarus, Kevin Donlan, Jerry Gibson, Tim Navin, and Joe Granda. The Marco Police Foundation held their second annual Rib Cook-Off Saturday afternoon at the Marco Island Brewery. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Dave and Camille Morrison watch football and entertainer Jeff Hilt. The Marco Police Foundation held their second annual Rib Cook-Off Saturday afternoon at the Marco Island Brewery. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • The Marco Police Foundation held their second annual Rib Cook-Off Saturday afternoon at the Marco Island Brewery. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent

The scene bore a faint resemblance to Da Vinci's "The Last Supper," appropriate for Father Tim, from San Marco Catholic Church, and the judges approached the contest entries with lip-smacking reverence.



Full gallery »Muttville Comix

  • The Muttville Comix performing dog squad came to Marco Lutheran Church for two shows Saturday in a benefit for the Kiwanis. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Ringmaster Johnny Peers helps one of his cast members do a trick. The Muttville Comix performing dog squad came to Marco Lutheran Church for two shows Saturday in a benefit for the Kiwanis. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • The cast members await their turn to shine. The Muttville Comix performing dog squad came to Marco Lutheran Church for two shows Saturday in a benefit for the Kiwanis. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • A cast member stands with ringmaster Johnny Peers. The Muttville Comix performing dog squad came to Marco Lutheran Church for two shows Saturday in a benefit for the Kiwanis. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Piper, an audience volunteer, holds one of the dogs. The Muttville Comix performing dog squad came to Marco Lutheran Church for two shows Saturday in a benefit for the Kiwanis. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Kids vie to volunteer to help with the act on stage. The Muttville Comix performing dog squad came to Marco Lutheran Church for two shows Saturday in a benefit for the Kiwanis. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent

All the jokes were of the shaggy dog variety. Johnny Peers, who seemed to fill the function of ringmaster as well as dog trainer and Borscht-Belt comedian, brought his Muttville Comix show to Marco Lutheran Church on Saturday. In two shows benefitting the local Kiwanis Club, the "17 and a half" dogs – Baby, the smallest, only counts as half, said Peers, the troupe performed tricks and won the hearts of hundreds of children, and quite a few of their elders, with a high-energy performance heavy on the shtick.



Full gallery »Art In The Glades, 2013

  • Wyatt Sylvest tries to make up his mind how to spend the five dollars he has to invest. The 'Art in the Glades' art and crafts fair returned to Everglades City on Saturday. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Mitch Mitchell and 'Snooker Joe' Stem entertain with country, folk, and easy listening favorites and originals. The 'Art in the Glades' art and crafts fair returned to Everglades City on Saturday. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Olivia Sanz shows off the felt flower she has been creating. The 'Art in the Glades' art and crafts fair returned to Everglades City on Saturday. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Ben Zahn offers a trayful of temptation from the Sweet Disposition Bakery he runs with his wife. The 'Art in the Glades' art and crafts fair returned to Everglades City on Saturday. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Local resident Adela Butler looks over the merchandise offered for sale. The 'Art in the Glades' art and crafts fair returned to Everglades City on Saturday. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent
  • Peg Black and her husband Gordon turn old wine bottles into useful, decorative objects. The 'Art in the Glades' art and crafts fair returned to Everglades City on Saturday. Lance Shearer/Eagle Correspondent

There are juried art shows in Southwest Florida this time of year, with national rankings, high-dollar price tags, and hotshot artists with their slick brochures and professionally crafted booths.</p> And then there&#39;s Art in the Glades. This down-home festival, put on largely by locals for locals, with a critical mass of visitors as well as most of the exhibitors coming from Everglades City and its environs, returned to McLeod Park in downtown Everglades City Saturday. It is a distinctly low-key, not to say lowbrow, cultural event, with most artists&#39; booths consisting of little more than a card table set up under the low wooden roof of the community center next to the old Collier County courthouse.




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