Good morning, Naples.

Developer and wine fest co-founder Scott Lutgert, a longtime Naples resident known for luxury projects like Park Shore, was named the 2026 Naples Daily News Outstanding Citizen of the Year; he will be honored at a gala on April 16 at The Club at Olde Cypress.

A State Library and Archives article (Florida Memory) shows that Punta Rassa served as a bustling port for cattle shipments in the 1850s and later became a sport fishing spot until early 20th century fires ended its hotel era.

Today, it is a quiet roadway linking Sanibel Island with greater Fort Myers.

The 50th Naples St. Patrick’s Day Parade is underway today in downtown, starting at Third Street South and 10th Avenue South, turning onto Fifth Avenue South, and finishing at City Hall.

A generous donation ended funding concerns, allowing organizers to support local high school bands and scholarships.

On Friday, Naples gas prices eased slightly to *$3.800 a gallon* amid slowing increases after a historic release of 400 million barrels from oil reserves.

AAA reported declines in most metros while some areas saw small increases.

The Collier County School Board rejected a proposed settlement with the Florida Citizens Alliance that would have transferred thousands of parents' email addresses without notifying them.

The decision now awaits a court ruling.

Environment reporter Amy Williams explained today how she faced delays on John Morris Road and parking app glitches at Bunche Beach, noting local beach parking challenges affect many SW Florida beachgoers; her firsthand details help verify county parking rates + bring consumer impact into focus.

Millions of shorebirds nest on Gulf beaches from February to August and local volunteers with posted signs protect fragile nests that are hard to see; beachgoers in Collier and Lee counties are urged to watch their step (avoid marked areas) because a misstep can harm breeding birds.

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.

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.

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.

Diana Ross Concert

7-10 p.m. — Artis—Naples — Tickets starting at $1867 — Experience an unforgettable evening with the legendary Diana Ross performing live.

Monday Trivia Night

7-8:30 p.m. — Midnight Tavern — Free to play — Compete in a fun-filled trivia night with friends and great prizes.

Hammock Sound Bath Experience

7-8 p.m. — Omaya Studio — Free parking — Immerse yourself in a tranquil journey of yoga and sound for an energy restoration.

Comedian Troy Bond Live

6:00-9:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Admission fees apply — Experience sharp crowdwork and hilarious sketches from rising comedian Troy Bond.

Jamie Lissow Stand-Up Comedy Show

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Jamie Lissow, known for his witty performances and television appearances.

Friday After 5

5-8 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Full menu available — Experience a vibrant evening with live music and explore the Garden after-hours.

Great Inflatable 5K

8 AM – 12 PM — Naples Classical Academy — Entry Fee Required — Bounce, climb, and sprint through the most hilarious inflatable obstacle course experience.