Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 28th of February.
Good morning, Naples.
A rare planet parade featuring six planets is set to light the Florida sky tonight—stargazers are advised to view the alignment away from city lights at dark sky sites like Groveland, Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, and Big Cypress National Preserve, with binoculars needed for some planets.
On Tuesday, March 3, a rare blood moon will occur as the full worm moon coincides with a total lunar eclipse + Florida residents may see Earth's shadow begin at 3:44 a.m. with totality at 6:33 a.m. before sunrise.
Florida officials announced the early end to the 1% insurance surcharge that will begin October 1, potentially saving homeowners up to $650 million over two years.
The measure follows a quiet 2025 hurricane season, fewer insurer failures, and legislative reforms (roughly $31 saved annually per policy).
A natural fire burning over 25,000 acres in Big Cypress National Preserve is part of its ecosystem renewal and lies about 20 miles east of Naples south of I-75 (the preserve covers 730,000 acres and was established in 1974).
Florida residents will see a rare blood moon when a total lunar eclipse coincides with the worm moon on Tuesday, March 3 at 6:38 a.m. ET (early forecasts predict clear skies) as the moon appears red just before sunrise.
Invasive Nile monitor lizards have been seen across South Florida, including areas near Naples (according to FWC).
The commission urges residents to report sightings (by calling 888-483-4681 or using the IveGot1 app) and to follow local firearm laws on private property.
More than 25,000 acres of Big Cypress National Preserve, located 20 miles east of Naples along I-75, caught fire on Feb.
22 and remains unchecked. Fire naturally clears dry brush & recycles nutrients, a process vital for the preserve’s diverse ecosystem amid local development pressures.
55,000 acres in Collier County were restored as part of the Picayune Strand Restoration Project, which improved natural water flow, lowered fire risk and helped local wildlife.
Officials say the work turns a failed real estate venture into a healthier habitat.
Construction crews began demolishing the damaged Naples Pier yesterday after Hurricane Ian (2022) struck; demolition is set to take about six months, and new construction will finish in 18 months.
On Friday, Feb. 27, Seacrest won 62-40 over Keswick Christian and ECS defeated St. John Neumann 69-31 in girls basketball regional finals, earning both teams spots in state semifinals.
They will compete in Jacksonville later this week.
Il Divo Concert
7-10 p.m. — Artis—Naples — Last-minute tickets available — Experience the captivating harmonies of Il Divo live in concert.
Monday Trivia Naples
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Midnight Tavern — Free to play — Test your knowledge and compete for great prizes at team trivia night.
Rock Republic Stadium Rock Anthems
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Giuseppe and the Lion — Ticketed event — Experience a night of electrifying rock with vibrant lights and powerful music.
Medal Madness 5K, 10K & Half Marathon
8:00 a.m. — Naples, FL — Registration fee required — Experience a thrilling race atmosphere while tackling distances of 5K, 10K, or a half marathon in scenic Naples.
W.O.N.D.E.R. Family Program
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Families can explore the garden with imaginative lessons and activities.
W.O.N.D.E.R Program for Families
10 a.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Engage in educational activities for children to Walk, Observe, Navigate, Draw, Explore, and Read.
A Culinary Journey
5:30-9 p.m. — The Maddox Naples — Ticketed event — Delight in exquisite tastings while supporting a cause for survivors of human trafficking.
Kiss Me, I Do Pilates
7:45-9:45 a.m. — Bayshore Bodega — Food and coffee available — Enjoy a St. Patrick's Day themed outdoor Pilates session with raffles and music.
Sunritual at The Maddox
3:15-10:00 p.m. — 2955 Bayshore Dr, Naples, FL — $20+ — Immerse yourself in a curated day of wellness, music, and brunch festivities under the sun.
Thursday Night Trivia
7-8:30 p.m. — K.C.‘s Parrot 41 — Free to play — Compete in team trivia for prizes every Thursday night.
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