In The Swamps

Ever since I moved to this area, there have been many different people, cultures, and events that I have gotten to experience. This weekend, the swamp buggy races was a new experience that I was lucky enough to be a part of. Everything surrounding the races is immersed in tradition. I met Tom Engel whose son, Tom, "Tom Cat," Engel Jr., was racing for the first time. Their family and friends have been doing these races for nearly 35 years and were great people. It's not just about the races either. The party and community surrounding it runs deep as well. Dan Hoolihan has had the same spot for nearly 40 years and he and his buddies make some great BBQ.

One of the best parts is that this happens three times a year and I can't wait for the next one.

Veterans Day

Scenes from Veterans Day events in Naples. First, I was at a special mass at St. Peter The Apostle and then a Veterans Day ceremony in Downtown Naples. Here are some of my favorites from today.

Happy Veterans Day and thanks for everything you all have done.

A New Life and A New Family

Late at night on June 22, the Battles family was handed an infant baby girl by a child welfare worker. Justin and Magdalena Battles are acting as the baby's foster parents while the baby's mother is in jail for child neglect. When the Battles' received the infant girl, she was thin and not too responsive and now she's a healthy baby.

Victoria Macchi I spent an evening with the Battles while they had a couple of other foster parents over for a play date with their foster children. It was a pretty eye opening experience to hear their stories about being foster parents. Below are a couple of my favorite photos from our time there. Also, you can read the story by following the link below.

http://tinyurl.com/cxmgf7o

All Hallow's Eve

Halloween in Naples Park...