Southwest Florida Holiday Boat Parades

Southwest Florida are you ready for the holidays and enjoying these wonderful cool days? For your enjoyment and to get you into the holiday spirit, there are some outstanding holiday boat parades around Southwest Florida.



Tonight at 6pm, at the Village on Venetian Bay, 4200 Gulf Shore Boulevard North, in Naples is holding their Holiday Boat Parade. On Saturday December 11, Bonita Springs holds their Christmas Boat Parade at 6pm. It starts and ends on Little Hickory Bay, 5025 Bonita Beach Road. The Naples Christmas Boat Parade is on December 11 at 6pm. It starts at the Naples City Dock, 880 12th Avenue South. Marco's Christmas Island Style Boat Parade is on December 18 at 6pm. It starts in Factory Bay and will travel upriver to the Marco Island Yacht Club. The Punta Gorda Boat Parade is on December 18 at 6pm.

Take time with family and friends to experience and have fun watching these parades of light.

photo by Emilo

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

2010 Hurricane Season Closes

Southwest Florida is thankful that the 2010 Hurricane Season has ended, without directly experiencing the effects of a hurricane. The 2010 season produced 19 named storms of which 12 became hurricanes with five of those storms achieving the status of a Category Three or higher on
The Saffir–Simpson Hurricane Scale, according to NOAA. The Islands in the Caribbean were not as fortunate as we were and experienced loss of life and extensive property damage. Our prayers and support have gone out to help those rebuild and recover from this tragedy.


As we move into the off-season for hurricanes we can be thankful that communities along the coast of the US were minimally impacted. Hopefully, future hurricanes will not be as active and cause as much damage. The key take away is to be prepared and have a plan of action in case you are required to evacuate. Remember your personal safety, that of your loved ones and your family is the most important.

photo by CoreBurn

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Collier County Adult Education

Southwest Florida are you interested in learning a new skill, taking your hobby to the next level, or wanting to sharpen your computer skills? Have you considered taking a serious look at your local Adult and Community Education Program? The Collier County Adult Education Program offers a number of outstanding classes and instructors on a variety of topics, for a reasonable fee.

Over the last year, I have taken the following courses: Blogging 101, Blogging 102, Social Networking, Marketing & Sales Strategies For Small & Medium Businesses, Finance - Charting Stocks, Finance - Options, Health - Natural Therapies, Square Foot Gardening and Real Estate. I have enjoyed these classes immensely, learned a lot and have met some great people.

If you interested in pursuing a new endeavor, want additional instruction or want to turn your hobby in a business do yourself a favor, and look into your local Adult and Community Education Program.

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Swamp Buggy Races

Southwest Florida, come on out ye hear and enjoy the "World Famous Swamp Buggy Races." The weekend gets off to a great start with the Swamp Buggy Parade this Saturday at 10:00 am in Naples. The parade starts just North of the Coastland Mall, and precedes down US 41/Tamiami Trail to 5th Avenue South, in Downtown Naples. Come early, bring your chairs, find a great spot, see the Swamp Buggies that will be racing, and enjoy a mighty fine parade.



Saturday afternoon at the Florida Sports Park, home of the Swamp Buggy Races, features the time trials for Sundays Main Event, "The Budweiser Fall Classic." Kick off your shoes and enjoy a evening of fun with the Swamp Buggy Dance Saturday Night.

Sunday is the big race at the Florida Sports Park. Do yourselves a favor, and come out to see a Southwest Florida Tradition, of Swamp Buggy Racing, that has been taking place for over 60 years. See if your favorite swamp buggy and driver can make it through the famous "Sippy Hole," on their way to victory lane. Watch as the winning driving gets to take a plunge into the murky, muddy water, with the Swamp Buggy Queen.

photo by naplesrealestate

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Conservation Of Water

Water is our most precious resource and we can all take steps in an effort to practice water conservation. Here are some tips that will help us in our conservation efforts and extend our water supply.



1. Limit your time in the shower, take a shorter one rather than a longer one.

2. Run the dishwasher only when full.

3. Invest in a front loading washing machine, as it uses less water.

4. Invest in a water saving or high efficiency toilet.

5. Collect rainwater for watering plants and garden.

6. Save the water that is left after cooking vegetables for watering your plants as it contains lots of nutrients for healthier plants.

7. When brushing your teeth, do not run the water while your are brushing your teeth.

8. Make sure there are no dripping faucets inside your house, outside water leaks or hoses that have not been turned off completely, as this can waste a large amount of water.

9. Install water saving or water efficient shower heads.

10. When washing your clothes, do not overfill the washing machine and select the proper water level for the load that you are doing.

It is important not only to practice water conservation, but to make certain that our water supply be kept safe and clean. Our water can become contaminated with pathogens such as Cholera, as it is carried by water. This is why it is important to ensure the safety of our water supply.

Another helpful posting under the topic of conservation, 10 Tips To Lower Your Electric Bill
.
photo by stevendepolo

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Fall Activities In Southwest Florida

Hey, Southwest Florida are you looking for something to do with family and friends over this cool Florida Fall Weekend? Have I got the answer for you! This weekend kicks off the start of CityFest, in Naples with an Octoberfest in downtown Naples, on Saturday October 16, from 3pm-9pm.

In Bonita Springs, at Riverside Park, on Old 41 the Caribbean Music Festival will be held, on Saturday October 16, from 1pm-9pm and on Sunday October 17, from 1pm-6pm.

Just to our North on Sanibel, The J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge will be hosting the "Ding" Darling Days. Sunday October 17, is "Family Fun Day" at "Ding" Darling NWR. "Ding" Darling Days is a week long series of events that continues through the 23rd of October.

Come on out and take part in these Fall Festivities.

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

10 Tips To Lower Your Electric Bill

Hey, who doesn't want to save money and lower their electric bill. In this short post, I will share with you how you can substantially lower your electricity bill by doing a few simple things. Let's make it a priority to save on our electric bill!



1. Contact your local electric company and sign-up for their "On Call" Savings Program. In Florida, FPL, provides the "On Call" Savings Program".

2. Set your thermostat to a set temperature and do not adjust it up or down throughout the day.

3. Purchase a power strip or surge protector to plug your devices into, and when not in use simply toggle the switch that supplies the electrical power to the power strip or surge protector to the off position. This will eliminate any "standby power" that a device draws even when turned off, but still plugged into an electrical outlet.

4. Unplug the washing machine, dryer, lamps, charging devices or counter top appliances that are not used while you are out.

5. Turn off all lights and fans when you leave a room.

6. Replace traditional light bulbs (incandescent bulbs) with CFL Bulbs (compact fluorescent light bulbs) or LED Bulbs as their wattage output is considerably lower.

7. Keep your dryer vent clean and replace your air conditioning filter on a regular basis.

8. Have your air conditioner unit serviced once a year.

9. Turn off the heated dry option on your dishwasher.

10. When replacing old appliances, purchase "Energy Star" rated appliances.

I have personally utilized these tips to substantially lower my own electric bill. These tips will work for anyone who wants to reduce their electric bill.

photo by Velo Steve

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Men, Is Your Lawn Mower Tough Enough?

Come on out with your riding mower and get your freak on for the "Second Annual Lawn Mower Pulls," to see if you have what it takes. The event will showcase who has the most powerful mower.



In addition, the event will feature a car show and car wash from 11am-4pm, activities for the kids including:  a dunk tank, bounce house and a raffle. Money raised from the event will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

The Lawn Mower Pulls takes place from noon-6pm on Saturday, September 25 at Advance Auto Parts, 50 Pine Island Road, North Fort Myers. To register your mower or truck, please call 239-265-6001, entry fee is $10.

photo by slabcity

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

How to Stay Cool in Southwest Florida

With one of the hottest summers on record in 2010, it is always of concern in staying cool and avoiding the effects of excessive temperatures. In this post, I will outline some fun ways to help everyone stay comfortable, and have fun, in Southwest Florida.

First off it is extremely important to drink plenty of fluids when it is very hot, as we tend to become dehydrated easily. Drinking water is best for us as it quickly quenches our thirst and does not add excess calories. There are other fun ways that we can escape the heat and stay cool in Southwest Florida.

Many take advantage of cooling off at the beach by swimming in the Gulf, swimming in their own or community pool, by taking a cold shower or simply remaining in the comfortable quarters of an air-conditioned building.

However you decide to beat the heat in Southwest Florida, it is important that you listen to your body. Do not overexert yourself without first taking the proper precautions by simply making sure you are properly hydrated. By staying cool in Southwest Florida we can all can enjoy a lifestyle of increased energy.

photo by Sting Nygaard

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Naples Do Your Enjoy Jazz?

This evening is the final performance of the 2010 "Summer Jazz on the Gulf" series, at the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club. Relax in a tropical setting with good friends and family listening to the outstanding jazz sounds of "Denise Moore and Then Some," featuring Billy Marcus, from 7-10pm, free. Remember to bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Food and beverage concessions will be available. Coolers are not permitted at the event.

photo by fabbio

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Celebrate National Estuaries Day at Rookery Bay Reserve

Southwest Florida, come out and have fun and take part in Celebrating National Estuaries Day, at Rookery Bay Reserve, in Naples. The event will take place from 10am-3pm, on Saturday, September 25, and admission to the Environmental Learning Center is free. There are a number of activities that will be ongoing throughout the day, that the entire family can enjoy, and participate in. These activities are free and will include boat trips within the estuary, guided trail walks, touch tank, exhibits, restoration efforts of important habitat, and showing of the film "Wild Ocean" in 3D.

Food and beverage concessions will be available. Plan on bringing the entire family out to Rookery Bay Reserve, and learning about the importance of preserving our estuaries.

photo by cletch

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Philharmonic Percussion Clinic and Summit

Southwest Florida come out and enjoy two great Percussion performances at the Philharmonic Center for the Arts, on Saturday, September 11. The first is The Percussion Clinic at 3pm. Here the audience, will be able to experience and be entertained by two amazing percussionists, Danny Seraphine, an original member of the band Chicago, and Jeff Queen, a snare drum soloist, who is an initial cast member of the Broadway hit Blast. The performance will take place in the Daniels Pavilion.

The second performance is the Percussion Summit at 8pm. This performance will feature Danny Seraphine and Jeff Queen. Performing at the Summit will be Percussion Section Members from the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra and percussionists from the Florida Orchestra and Jacksonville Symphony. Come out with family and friends for a spectacular and amazing evening of percussion music at its finest.

Tickets can be purchased by calling The Box Office, 239-597-1900 or visiting us online: Philharmonic Center for the Arts.

photo by vxla

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Labor Day Weekend in Southwest Florida

Southwest Florida get your Holiday Weekend started off in the fast lane, with the Pilot Club of Naples/John Clay 5K Run, at Lowdermilk Park, at the corner of Gulfshore Boulevard North, and Banyan Boulevard in Naples. Race day registration is 6:15-7:15am, with the race starting at 7:30am.

The Labor Day Weekend in Southwest Florida has some other fine outings that the entire family can enjoy. The Village on Venetian Bay, will feature Cathy O playing guitar, and performing from selections that include classic, pop and rock. Also performing and entertaining Southwest Florida will be the Malibu Duo.

What would the holiday weekend be without a great pool party and delicious food to eat? You can join Shula's Steakhouse at the Naples Hilton, for the Labor Day Weekend Pool Party, on September 4 & 5, from 11:00am-4:00pm.

Just to the North of Naples, in Charlotte County, at the Charlotte Harbor Event Center, is the "Big Boy Expo" that will taking place on Saturday September 4, from 10am-6pm, and Sunday September 5, from 10am-5pm. Another fine place to have a great time with the family over the weekend, is at the Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium, in Fort Myers. They have a number of neat events over the Holiday Weekend.

Whatever you decide to do over the weekend, simply enjoy yourselves with family and friends. Finally, with the start of College Football this weekend, I hope everyone's team has a successful and productive season.

photo by Kenc0618

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Clyde Butcher's Annual Muck-About

Are you looking for something unique and different to do over the Labor Day Weekend? How about taking part in Clyde Butcher's Annual Muck-About or swamp walk at The Big Cypress Gallery in Ochopee. Participants can observe the unique habitat of the Everglades, and see wildlife in its native environment. Walks are scheduled on Saturday, September 4-5, from 9am-2pm, and on Monday, September 6, from 9am-noon.

Reservations are required, and can be made online by visiting The Big Cypress Gallery. Cost is $50, and children are free with each paid adult. The correct clothing to wear 1. Long pants, hat, old tennis shoes and bug spray. 2. Bring a change of clothes, because you will get wet on the walk. 3. Waterproof camera to take pictures. 4. You will be supplied with bottled water. 5. Bring your own lunch and snacks in a cooler.

For more information and reservations: please call 888-999-9113.

photo by The_Gut

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Jazz on the Gulf in Southwest Florida

Saturday August 28, is the third concert at the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club, "Summer Jazz on the Gulf" series. Spend an evening and enjoy a free concert in a tropical setting listening to the music of The Mike MacArthur Band, from 7-10pm. Remember to bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Food and beverage concessions will be available. Coolers are not permitted at the event.

photo by DeusXFlorida

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Hey Singles of Southwest Florida!

Are you are single and between the ages of 30 and 50? Come on out for an exciting evening and participate in the Lock & Key Singles Mingle, to be held at Naples Flatbread & Wine Bar (Miromar Outlets), Suite 520, 10801 Corkscrew Road, in Estero from 6:30-9pm. The event will feature live music, food and drink specials, and prize giveaways. To sign-up for the event, please visit Lock and Key Events. Find that special person to enjoy and share what life has to offer.

photo by Urban Mixer

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Partnership For A Drug Free Florida

This Saturday August 21, your local Walgreen's stores will be collecting all unused prescription drugs that you may have in your medicine or kitchen cabinets. By taking part in disposing of your remaining prescription drugs, this can potentially eliminate any dangerous situations that may occur. A listing of the participating Walgreens locations that will be accepting all unused medications is available on the Dug Free Florida Web Site. Please note this is an effective and safe way, to get rid of prescription medications, that may be expired or create a unsafe environment within the home.

photo by Rev. Xanatos

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Boating in Southwest Florida

For those who enjoy boating and being on the water, we can look forward to the opening of The Goodland Boat Park this Friday, August 20. The facility will include a double boat launching ramp, have parking for 75 boat trailers, spaces for 16 regular vehicles, boat slips, boat docks, an observation area, and a fishing pier all for public use. The park also has picnic space, benches, racks for your bike, restrooms and an open deck area. The park is located at the end of Palm Point Drive in Goodland.

There is no entry fee to the park. The launch fee is $5 per boat or $75 for an annual permit. The park closes at sunset.

The Goodland Boat Park will give many the opportunity to utilize this fine facility and enjoy boating, fishing and relaxing among the Ten Thousand Islands.

photo by Elin B

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Back to School in Southwest Florida

With less than 2 weeks before school starts here are a few ways to get a jump start on the upcoming year. At Gulf Coast Town Center off I-75 and Alico Road, there is a Back to School Expo from August 13-15. In Naples the local YMCA off Pine Ridge Road, will be hosting a Back to school Expo from 9am-2pm August 14, with over 75 vendors with the information Collier parents need to get the school year off to a great start.

On Saturday August 21, The Edison Mall's Back to School Blast will be held from 10am-4pm, providing entertainment, raffles, shows and information. The Sun-N-Fun Lagoon in Naples will be host a Back to School Bash on Saturday August 21, from 10am-5pm and provide entertainment and the first 200 school age children to enter will receive a free backpack. Remember that the sales tax free weekend for school starts Friday August 13 and continues through August 15. To all the students and parents in Southwest Florida have a wonderful, exciting and rewarding year.

photo by terren

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

EVP Pro Volleyball on Vanderbilt Beach

Come on out and enjoy a fantastic day in the Florida sun on Vanderbilt Beach watching some amazing volleyball. The event is free and there will be food and beverage concessions available so you will not miss any of the action. Parking is available at the Vanderbilt Beach Parking Garage. Bring the entire family and friends to Vanderbilt Beach on Saturday, August 14 to have a great time on a pristine beach, and be entertained by this outstanding volleyball competition.

photo by jsrcyclist

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Classic Movies at the Collier County Museum

Do you enjoy watching and being entertained by the great classic movies? How about taking an afternoon off and visiting the Collier County Museum on Saturday afternoon through the month of August. The museum will be showing the movies for free and they begin at 1 pm on Saturday. Showing on August 7: "You Can't Take It With You" (1938), August 14: "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" (1939), August 21: "It happened One Night" (1934), and August 28: "Cross Creek" (1983). The museum is located in the Collier County Government Center Complex at US 41 East and Airport Pulling Road. The museum is open from 9am-5pm Monday-Friday and from 9am-4pm on Saturday. Admission is Free. For more information, please call 239-252-8476 or visit the Collier County Museums.

photo by Classic_Movie_Gals

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Running Races in Southwest Florida

Are you ready to compete in a local running race in Southwest Florida? There are two great races coming up this Saturday, July 31st. The second race in the Elite Event Series - The Eagle Lakes Extreme 5K Run and Walk, will be held at Eagle Lakes Community Park (11565 Tamiami Trail East) in Naples, and the Red Ribbon Family 5K Run and Walk, will be held at Cape Harbour (5703 Cape Harbour Drive) in Cape Coral. To register for the Eagle Lakes Extreme 5K Run and Walk, please visit: elite events or visit active to register for the Red Ribbon Family 5K Run and Walk. Participants can still register on race day beginning at 6:30am. Come on out and take part in and support our local road races, and have fun competing and achieving your personal best.

photo by johnynek

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Naples Jazz on the Gulf

Are you looking for a fun evening out with great entertainment and a fun venue? Then look no further than the Naples Beach Hotel's Jazz on the Gulf this coming Saturday, July 24 at 7pm. This evening features "Late Night Brass," a high-energy show band. The performance takes place on the lawn so bring your beach chairs, blanket and be prepared to arrive early to find a great spot. A complimentary shuttle will be available from Lowdermilk Park as parking can be a challenge. Please do not bring your own cooler or food. Concessions will be available selling food and beverages.

Upcoming performances are scheduled for Saturday August 28, "Mike MacArthur," a more traditional jazz saxophonist, Saturday September 18, "Denise Moore," a classic jazz singer. Both of these performances are scheduled to begin at 7pm. Come out an enjoy a great evening of jazz with family and friends.

photo by Charlie

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

2010 FIFA World Cup Final

The 2010 FIFA World Cup has without question had a number of exciting matches that have kept us all wanting more. Today's final Netherlands vs. Spain will be another fantastic match that features two teams that have never won the World Cup.

The Netherlands have been in the final before and it will be Spain's first appearance. These two teams should give everyone watching the match a lot to cheer about. Locally, in Southwest Florida at the Germain Arena, Fiesta Mundial is presented by Univision WUVF-CA 2/WDPX-LP 18, who will be showing the game on a massive screen at the stage end of the arena. The game starts at 2:30pm and tickets are available at the Germain Arena's T.I.B. Bank Box Office. Get ready for an exciting and competitive match between Netherlands and Spain.

photo by jikatu

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Pine Island's Mango Mania

Come out and enjoy the festivities at Mango Mania this weekend, at the German American Social Club, on Pine Island Road in Cape Coral. There will be a mango tasting table, food and recipes, tropical plants and trees for sale, live bands, art and craft vendors and great tasting beverages made from mangoes. If you have not tasted or experienced the smooth and incredible sweet taste of a mango, plan on attending this great family event.

photo by joyosity

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Independence Day in Southwest Florida

Southwest Florida offers a number of ways to take part in and celebrate the Fourth of July. Friday afternoon the Redneck Yacht Club opened for the holiday weekend and will offer entertainment and activities through the weekend. There are a number of Parades that are scheduled for Saturday around Southwest Florida. The City of Naples Parade is at 10am in downtown Naples, Star Spangled Bonita Parade at 9am along Old 41, Everglades City Parade at 10am ending at McLeod Park, San Carlos Park Celebration and Parade beginning at 8:30am at Three Oaks Community Park, Sanibel Parade at 9:30am starting at Tarpon Bay Road and Periwinkle, Ft Myers Beach Parade at 1pm on Sunday that starts at Topps Supermarket and proceeds North on Estero Boulevard to Times Square.

Events and entertainment are also scheduled on Saturday at Miromar Outlets in Estero, in Lehigh Acres, Sanibel, at Fishermen's Village in Punta Gorda and at The Miracle Game Saturday evening at Hammond Stadium-Lee County Sports Complex. Fireworks can be seen Saturday evening at Miromar Outlets in Estero, at the Miracle game when they play the St. Lucie Mets at 7:05pm and at Everglades City in McLeod Park. On Sunday, there are a number of locations that will be hosting fireworks for your Independence Day Celebration. Fireworks can be seen at the Naples City Pier, Cape Coral, Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel, Punta Gorda, and Marco Island.

If you want to get a jump on your holiday celebrations you can take part in two great running races in Southwest Florida over the weekend. Lehigh Acres is hosting a 4 miler and a 1 Mile Kids Fun Run at 7:30am on Saturday at Veterans Memorial Park, 55 Homestead Road, and The Gulf Coast Runners in Naples, is hosting The 32nd Annual Firecracker 5K at 7am on Sunday, sponsored by Moe's Southwest Grill at 13490 9th Street North (US41). To register for the Lehigh Race visit Fort Myers Track Club and to register for the Race in Naples visit Gulf Coast Runners.

To enjoy all the fun events in Southwest Florida, with family and friends remember to visit us on a regular basis. Have an awesome 4th of July weekend!


Photo by gojeffrey

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

2010 Sugden Stride 5K

Runners who participated in the Sugden Stride 5K were treated to a wonderful race course through Sugden Regional Park in Naples. The course took runners around Lake Avalon, along the path next to the beach and back along the trail for a fast and exciting finish. Glass mugs were given as awards to participants who placed from 1st through 5th in their respective age divisions. I was lucky enough to place 4th in my age group, and have christened my mug with a nice cold imported dark beer. I must commend the organizing committee Elite Events, and Collier County Parks and Recreation for putting on a quality event. I look forward to the next event, The Eagle Lakes Extreme 5K Run and Walk, on Saturday July 31st, at Eagle Lakes Community Park in Naples. It is my hope that the next race in the Series will draw more runners to push everyone to strive for their PR.

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Celebrate Father's Day in Style

Show your appreciation and love for your Dad by treating him to a special event in Southwest Florida. Let Dad relax and cool down at Sun Splash Family Water Park in Cape Coral or at Sun-N-Fun Lagoon in Naples, where Dads get in free with one paid admission. The Edison & Ford Winter Estates is a great place to visit with the family and Dads can enjoy the many inventions of these two incredible men. The Naples Zoo is honoring all Dads, by giving them free admission, by having them bring in any left over bottles of cologne. If you would like to entertain your Dad over an evening with a mystery and dinner, how about taking him and the family out on the Murder Mystery Train? These are just a few ideas to help celebrate Father's Day. There will be many family barbecues, watching the World Cup and watching an exciting finish to the US Open Golf Tournament at Pebble Beach.

photo by Ksionic

Wishing all the Dads a very Happy Father's Day!

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

ECHO "Get into Gardening"

The ECHO (Educational Concerns for Hunger Organization) event showcased how one can create their own attractive garden for enjoyment or to supply food for their families. ECHO, provided a number of workshops for the public to learn about container gardening, growing vegetables in the summer, growing herbs and learning about grafting fruit trees. ECHO, is located in North Fort Myers, at 17391 Durrance Road and is definitely worth visiting. Children will enjoy learning about growing various plants and how they can easily grow in a number of different containers. ECHO, provides a valuable resource to the residents and visitors of Southwest Florida. The organization provides "sustainable options to world hunger."

Enjoy Southwest Florida,


Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Cinco de Mayo in Southwest Florida

Are you looking for something fun and entertaining to do today? How about enjoying a Cinco de Mayo celebration with live music, margaritas, dancing, and the colorful flamenco musicians. Around Southwest Florida there are a number of events in honor of Cinco de Mayo. Here are some facts about Cinco de Mayo, that can be shared during conservations throughout the evening.

photo by garlandcannon

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Tropicool 5k Run Naples

The Tropicool 5k Run in Olde Naples on Sunday May 2, was a resounding success. This year's event set a record for the number of runners participating. Runners from around Southwest Florida and from places as distant as Seattle, Washington enjoyed a quality event that was organized and directed by the Gulf Coast Runners. The Club honored the area's youth who have shown their dedication to the sport of running with scholarships to further their education. The club honored these outstanding youth with scholarships totaling $30,500. A special thank you goes out to "The English Group" of Merrill Lynch for sponsoring the race. Please remember to check our events calendar for upcoming races.

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Celebrate Your Special Occasion or Event Aboard The Naples Princess

Have you ever thought about celebrating your special event or occasion in an unique way? The Naples Princess docked at Port-O-Call Marina off US 41 in Naples, offers Lunch, Afternoon Sightseeing, Sunset Sightseeing, Sunset Hors D'oeuvres, and Sunset Dinner Cruises. Taking a relaxing cruise with the Naples Princess is a wonderful way to enjoy an afternoon or evening on the water. The views of Naples from the water are simply awesome. Dolphins can be seen playing in the water, and on evening sunset cruises there are wonderful crimson colored sunsets. If you want a memorable experience that you can share with family and friends, the Naples Princess will not disappoint.



Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Excursions & Day Trips From Southwest Florida

Have you ever wanted to embark on an interesting day trip or excursion from Southwest Florida? Well let me tell you that there are many educational, informative, memorable, thought provoking and family friendly places to visit. Visitors and residents alike can enjoy what Southwest Florida has to offer. I have comprised a brief listing of some unique places to visit that vividly portray the Southwest Florida environment, lifestyle and culture.

1. Corkscrew Swamp Audubon Sanctuary - is located in the Eastern portion of Collier County. Patrons who visit this wonderful facility walk along a 2.25 mile boardwalk that takes you through marsh lands, up-lands, where we can observe native species and local wildlife in a natural setting.

2. Everglades National Park - is in the heart of the Everglades. It is one of the largest National Parks in the country. This park is known to many as "The River of Grass," courtesy of Marjory Stoneman Douglas. A great way to observe this wonderful park, is to take an airboat ride through the park to view it up close.

3. J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge - is located on Sanibel Island and is home to many native Florida bird species and alligators. Educational classes are held here and birdwatching is extremely popular.

4. The Shell Factory - is located in North Ft Myers and is home to one of the largest shell collections.

5. Edison and Ford Winter Estates - are located in downtown Ft Myers. Patrons can learn about all the inventions of Edison and Ford by visiting their laboratory, gardens and museum.

6. ECHO - Educational Concerns For Hunger Organization - is located in North Ft Myers and teaches us about healthy sustainable food practices and how to help solve world hunger.

7. Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park - is located in the Eastern portion of Collier County and home to the famous "Ghost Orchid." This area truly is a treasure and depicts what is special about Southwest Florida.

These are just some ideas on how you can or the entire family can enjoy a day trip within pristine Southwest Florida. An interesting excursion or adventure awaits you.

Photo by jmagnusphoto

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

An Entertaining Way to Enjoy the Tastes of Southwest Florida

There are two outstanding local events taking place today, The Taste of Estero and The Taste of Marco. Patrons are able to enjoy entertainment as they taste the wonderful creations by local chefs. Activities are also provided for children and include bounce house, giant slide and fun and games. Please mark your calendar for Sunday May 2, for the Taste of Collier.
If you enjoy trying new dishes and sampling the latest tastes of Southwest Florida, don't miss one of these events.

Photo by Fast Forward

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Enjoy the Southwest Florida Environment Through an Earth Day Event

Southwest Florida offers many recreational opportunities that showcase our unique and pristine coastal environment. Southwest Florida's local Earth Day Events encourage families, groups and individuals to enjoy kayaking, birdwatching, biking, environmental presentations, and to relax and enjoy nature. Earth Day Events are scheduled today at Koreshan State Historic Site in Estero, at J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island, and EcoFest 2010 at Fishermen's Village in Punta Gorda. Take time to enjoy and appreciate our Southwest Florida environment.

Photo by FlyingSinger

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

3 Ways to Entertain the Family in SWFL

To solve your dilemma of what to do with the kids in SWFL, I am sharing with you 3 simple ways for the family to enjoy and have a memorable time in SWFL.

1. A day at the beach with the family is relaxing, fun, and entertaining.
2. Our State Parks in Florida are ranked amongst the best in the
country and provide for outstanding recreational opportunities.
3. A day on the Gulf of Mexico fishing the backwaters or aboard
one of the local sightseeing boat tours watching the dolphins and
manatees at play.

In addition, to this list there are many other shows, events, attractions, galas, art shows, outdoor concerts, sporting events and festivals that families would enjoy attending.

photo by _cck_

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com

Naples Inaugural Run For Music 10k

This year's race was held on Sunday morning at 7:30am on April 11 at the Naples Philharmonic Center for the Arts. Participants enjoyed a flat fast course that had members of the Philharmonic Orchestra playing music along the race course to encourage and help runners achieve their personal best. The race attracted a large number of runners who enjoyed the music, the course, competing against each other and the clock. Money raised from the race benefits the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra and its Youth Music Education Programs. Many thanks go out to Mitch Norgart and Matthew Sonneborn for organizing a great event and to the Philharmonic Center for the Arts in hosting the race. I look forward to next year's event.

Enjoy Southwest Florida,

Robin Bishop
swflfun.com
southwestflfun@gmail.com