Naples
Today
Thursday, April 9th, 2026
Good morning, Naples. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 9th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Bonita Springs Utilities will install a 1.5-megawatt floating solar array at its East Water Reclamation Facility pond, with completion this fall — and the Suncoast Signature Cup charity golf tournament will support YMCA swim lessons on Friday, May 15 at Quarry Golf Club in North Naples to prevent drownings. Naples Daily News
- ➤ Naples resident Scott Lutgert was named the Naples Daily News Outstanding Citizen of the Year when a photo was taken at his residence on Thursday, March 19. Naples Daily News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Sanibel Island was named No. 19 in Southern Living’s top 20 small towns based on a readers’ survey from the 10th annual South’s Best awards released April 8. Four other Florida towns made the list — with St. Augustine ranked first — showing a strong regional presence. Naples Daily News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ At the Invader Aquarium at IMAG, Kate and Christian explained how invasive lionfish — with 18 venomous spines — threaten local coral reefs, and summer camps for kids will begin on June 2 to teach marine science. ABC7
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Alligator mating season has begun as warmer weather makes outdoor activities common; Naples residents should keep pets and themselves away from water (especially lakes and canals) through early September to avoid encounters with more active gators. Naples Daily News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Health officials announced on April 8 that Gulf waters at Lowdermilk Park tested high for Enterococcus bacteria, an indication of fecal contamination, so residents are advised to avoid water activities to prevent illness. News-Press
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Local poll results named Chick-Fil-A as the top marriage proposal spot, while restaurants like Sails, Sale e Pepe, Tigress, Baleen, The Turtle Club and Brambles offer romantic dining settings. A new Chick-Fil-A on Collier Boulevard will open soon for those planning a unique proposal setting. Naples Daily News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Aubrey Rogers boys lacrosse team — now 14-1 in its third season entering district play — is having its best year as key transfers boost offense under coach Sean Stadtlander. The program has improved each year and now aims to reach the postseason for the first time. Naples Daily News
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W.O.N.D.E.R in the Garden
10 a.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Families explore, create, and learn with fun activities in a beautiful garden setting.
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US Open Pickleball Championships
8 a.m. – 8 p.m. — East Naples Community Park — Check the website for pricing — Celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the most prestigious pickleball tournament in the world.
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Darren Fleet Live Show
6-9 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience the comedic genius of Darren Fleet with a performance filled with laughter and inspiration.
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W.O.N.D.E.R in the Garden
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — An engaging family program for creativity and exploration in the garden.
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Tending Your Inner Garden Book Launch Celebration
6-8:30 p.m. — Bayshore Inn & Docks — RSVP required — Celebrate the launch of a transformative book while enjoying waterfront views and meaningful connections.
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Mahjong Night at Books on Third
5:30-8 p.m. — Books on Third — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of Mahjong with lessons available for newcomers.
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Ms. Jen’s Toddler & Preschool Storytime
10:30-11:00 a.m. — Vanderbilt Beach Library — No registration required — Enjoy engaging stories, songs, and fun activities for toddlers and preschoolers.
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W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden
10 AM - 12 PM — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Family-friendly fun with imaginative garden exploration and activities.
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W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden
10 AM – 12 PM — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Families explore creativity and nature through fun activities.
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Ben Bankas Live Comedy Show
6-9 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Admission requires two item minimum — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Ben Bankas at a popular local venue.
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