I have just come back from a lovely luncheon with a favorite client. We ate at Jane’s Café, a delightful patio restaurant just east of Third Street that specializes in a variety of fresh, all-organic breakfast and lunch creations that are simply delicious.
When the bill came, I flashed my Resident Club Card and received a nifty 10% discount. Why? Because I am a member of the Old Naples Association, and its membership card gives me discounts to over 100 local restaurants (typically 10% off in-season and 15% to 20% off-season), over 50 shops, nearly 40 health, fitness and beauty establishments, and over 40 other businesses, from car washes and dry cleaners to veterinarians and interior designers. Better yet, every time I use this card, I am supporting local businesses owners, which keeps the money in the community.
More importantly, my $50 annual membership in the Old Naples Association supports its mission to “preserve the character and charm of Old Naples and to promote the best interests of the residents and resident owners who live full-time or part-time within the Old Naples area.” Major initiatives include:
- Maintenance of building height restrictions
- Maintenance of landscaping
- Diligent code enforcement and restriction on variances
- Maintenance of alleys
- Sidewalk build-out where residents support
- Bicycle path construction
- Limiting intrusion of businesses into residential areas
The Old Naples Association is also encouraging the Naples City Council to focus on major improvements to the downtown business district, restoration of the Naples Bay and opposition to the construction of a large private “marina” near the exit to the Gulf of Mexico.
There are also many community events throughout the year. On this Sunday, April 28, there is “Dinner Ride” starting and ending at Barbatella’s Restaurant on Third Street in Old Naples. This “fun ride” starts at 5:30 pm for an hour around “Scenic Old Naples” at 14/16 mph [all types of bikes welcome] and back to Barbatella’s for some great dining and libations! It will be a great way to meet some Old Naples neighbors.
The Old Naples Association is a great group that deserves the support of all us who live in this very special neighborhood. For more information, visit Old Naples Association.
And contact me if you want to buy, sell or learn more about homes in Old Naples and the wonderful Old Naples lifestyle.
Bill Van Arsdale