Naples
Today
Thursday, March 5th, 2026
Good morning, Naples. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 5th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Everglades City Lions Club Turkey Shoot will take place March 21-22 at Mayberry’s Cypress Tower Camp in Ochopee, where contestants shoot paper targets — no birds are hurt and winners are chosen by judges using calipers. Raffle tickets will be available with door prizes offered in a 50-50 drawing under strict safety guidelines. Coastal Breeze News
- ➤ Naples Zoo announced on March 4 at 10:27 a.m. that Shani, the 20-year-old African lioness, was humanely euthanized after receiving year-long specialized geriatric care. The animal arrived in 2013 via the Species Survival Plan and leaves behind three sons now at Brevard Zoo in Melbourne. Naples Daily News
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ On March 4, a SpaceX Falcon 9 launched from Cape Canaveral and delivered 29 Starlink satellites while creating a vibrant space jellyfish effect in the predawn sky. The booster landed safely + more launches are scheduled from the Space Coast. News-Press
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Opera Naples is hosting its annual outdoor festival Under the Stars through April 7 at several Naples venues. Artistic director Ramón Tebar leads the Naples Festival Orchestra, which features musicians from leading groups — the festival is the only outdoor winter opera event in the United States. ABC7
- ➤ Beyond the Runway, a signature fashion showcase by Elsie Mendez, will take place March 29 at The Perry Hotel Naples — an event that will bring style and philanthropy to the local social season. Florida Weekly
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Industry experts warn that regular gas prices in Florida may soon exceed $3 a gallon after the Feb. 27 attack on Iran. On Monday, March 2, stations averaged $2.88 (a price that could raise costs for drivers statewide). News-Press
- ➤ Gas prices in Florida increased to $3.19 per gallon early on March 4, raising concerns that spring break travel plans may be adjusted. AAA reported 26% of residents planned trips, which could lead to more cautious budgeting amid ongoing global tensions. News-Press
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Naples City Council will approve revised design plans for the landside entrance of the Pier today. The update removes the concession area and adds a Naples Police Department substation (with ADA-accessible restroom and turtle-safe glass) to enhance flow and security. ABC7
- ➤ Florida Army Reserve Captain Cody A. Khork from Winter Haven was killed in an unmanned aircraft attack on March 1 at Port Shuaiba in Kuwait during U.S. military operations. Military officials expressed condolences for his family while investigations into the attack continue. Naples Daily News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Dr. William Smaller opens Northside Animal Hospital in North Naples today, offering $49 exam fees to keep pet care affordable. A veteran of vet relief work across Southwest Florida and overseas, he plans to treat both common and exotic pets. Florida Weekly
- ➤ Retired first responders and 9/11 advocates gathered in Naples to celebrate a new law that fully funds the World Trade Center Health Program for 15 years. The legislation ensures ongoing access to care for many local families affected by the attacks. WINK News
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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Friday After 5
5-8 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Check website for entry costs — Celebrate spring with live music and explore the Garden after-hours.
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Stand-Up Comedy with Kevin Nealon
6-9:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Two-item minimum purchase required — Experience the dry wit and humor of Emmy-nominated comedian Kevin Nealon on stage.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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