Calling All Southwest Florida Salt Water Cowboys

Some areas of Florida have traditional cowboys, the kind that ride horses. However, in more areas than not, the Sunshine State has salt water cowboys. This kind loves the water and all things associated with it. They ride waves instead of horses. The Heights Foundation is calling all Southwest Florida salt water cowboys to join a party for a purpose in Fort Myers next week.

It's the second annual Salt Water Cowboy event, taking place under a big tent on the water at MarineMax on McGregor Blvd. in Fort Myers. The charity event raises much needed funds for the Heights Foundation and it's many programs that have changed the landscape of the economically depressed Harlem Heights neighborhood. The primary one being education.

The Heights Foundation built and operates a charter school, provides after school and summer programs as well as music programs and tutoring for the kids. For their families, the foundation provides job training and a host of support services to lift the family unit as a whole in hopes of breaking the cycle of poverty. They have made a huge difference in transforming the entire community as well as helping in the massive Hurricane Ian recovery effort. The Harlem Heights community is found on Gladiolus Drive.

The first annual event featured auction items such as python hunting in the Everglades, getaways and tickets to top rated concerts, wine dinners and lots more. Similar items are on both the silent and live auction block this year. The event features a plated dinner, live music, dancing and a chance to meet some of the smart and talented kids you are helping by attending.

Salt Water Cowboy is October 20th starting at 6pm. Get more information and purchase tickets here. Advance ticket sales only.

Labor Day Weekend is traditionally big for boaters. However, in Southwest Florida, almost every weekend is good for boating. Small spaces, wide open water, boaters often have to be creative when it comes to making sure passengers are comfortable. Boating is not a one size fits all kind of activity. In addition, it is not always glamorous. However, it is almost always fun. Here are some wild videos for Southwest Florida boaters for TikTok Tuesday.

I don't have a boat but am fortunate to have friends that do. I'm always amazed at the tricks and hacks they come up with to accommodate  passengers. Some of them are here. There is also a funny video that all boat owners understand regardless of how many vessels you have owned over the years. The videos also show a couple of really cool accessories and super cool upgraded for those who like to get in the water, not just on in.

Over the weekend, thousands of beach and boating photos and videos crossed my social media feed. I pulled five of the most interesting ones involving boats and boating to share here. You do not need a TikTok account to watch these videos. We'll use mine. All you have to do is scroll down and then hit play. They are all office friendly and also kid friendly. If you have a boat or have been a passenger on one, you will relate.

The idea of owning a boat is dreamy for many. It looks like so much fun, and it is. However, it's not always glamorous as this video shows. Can you relate?
https://www.tiktok.com/@alexxxabrooklee/video/7103552989910158635?_r=1&_t=8fDKBKvxvos

Meeting up with friends on the water is always fun. But trying to tie-up to them can be a nightmare. This little accessory looks easy and when not inflated does not take up valuable space onboard.
https://www.tiktok.com/@missionoutdoor_mo/video/7228993591518039338?_r=1&_t=8fDKHawmllj

If I could have an over the top, yet functional feature on my boat/yacht, this would be high up on the list. Especially if you have passengers who want to go into the water but are afraid of sharks. How cool is this pool.
https://www.tiktok.com/@florianjeffroy/video/7192291917864946950?_t=8fDKRY3rWyQ&_r=1

This is what I mean about the creativity of boat people. I know, you're on a boat and bound to get wet. But sometimes that rain comes down with a vengeance and it hurts when it hits your skin. If you are claustrophobic, this might not work. However....
https://www.tiktok.com/@imaginemichele/video/7097989773813353774?_r=1&_t=8fDKVw4hsnD

This one is going so fast, it gives new meaning to the word flying. It really is flying across the water. Incredible video.
https://www.tiktok.com/@partsvu/video/7229494585888722218?_r=1&_t=8fDKb6x5gte