Good morning, Naples.

Vincent A. Keeys was honored with the 2025 GNL Distinguished Leadership Award for his work with civic and charitable organizations in Collier and Lee counties—he received the award at the GNL Annual Meeting on March 24 at Sugden Community Theatre.

He coordinated storm relief during Hurricane Ian as president of the Collier County NAACP since 2016 and will become president of the Naples-on-the-Gulf Kiwanis chapter in 2026.

Naples Zoo started a new program on April 7th that lets visitors train Poppy—its rescued Galapagos tortoise who reacts to a red ball and fresh veggies.

Guests, including the Budd family from Toronto, learned that tortoises can feel through their shells during their behind-the-scenes visit.

Two major sit-down restaurants, Rodizio Grill Brazilian steakhouse and Oar and Iron Raw Bar and Grill, will open within the next year at Coastland Center mall in Naples, plus one will use the former space of Aurelio’s Pizza while the other will be built in a new lot in Macy’s parking lot.

SWFL seasonal residents are packing to return north and FPL spokesperson Francine Frietas said homeowners can save on electric bills by securing their properties with simple steps—like turning off appliances—while they are away.

Naples golfer Noah Kent, 20, will compete today at Augusta National as one of five amateurs at the 2025 Masters—he earned his spot with a runner-up finish at the U.S. Amateur Championship last summer and will tee off with top competitors.

Johnny Ruggiero was named the Naples Daily News Athlete of the Week for March 24-29 after he won the 400-meter dash in 50.02 seconds at the North Port Invitational — he also came in fourth in the 4x800 relay.

He said his coaches, teammates and family helped him run well this season.

The Naples Daily News and The News-Press announced the 2025 SWFL All-Region Boys Basketball Team, naming six local high school athletes, and a live awards show is scheduled for May 29 at Suncoast Credit Union Arena—voters will cast ballots for the Player of the Year during the event.

Early Spring Tasting Experience

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Old Vines Supper Club — Reservations recommended — Experience a reimagined seasonal tasting menu in a charming setting.

IMCP Eggs-travaganza

10 AM - 12 PM — Collier Museum at Government Center — Registration required — Enjoy an egg hunt and activities with the Easter Bunny for ages 1-12.

Street Wars Car Show in Naples

12-7 p.m. — Fernweh Ice Cream — $20 registration fee — Celebrate car culture with show awards, vendors, and a fun contest atmosphere.

Comedian Dave Burleigh Live

6:45-8:15 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Minimum purchase required — Enjoy an evening of laughter with impressionist Dave Burleigh showcasing his talents and comedic style.

Naples Into the Light Support Group

7-8 p.m. — Emanuel Lutheran Church — Free entry — A welcoming group for those seeking community support and connection every Tuesday evening.

Skin & Hair Reimagined: A REnew-YU Experience

11 AM – 1 PM — The Maddox Naples — Cost of lunch and refreshments not included — Discover revolutionary skin and hair rejuvenation techniques without downtime.

Rock the Block Festival

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Mercato — Free entry — Enjoy live music by TreeHause and fun activities for the whole family at this vibrant block party.

ELCP No School Day

7:30 AM - 6:00 PM — Donna Fiala Eagle Lakes Community Park — Pre-registration required — A safe space for children of working parents on school closure days.

Artifact Excavators Family Day

11 AM – 2 PM — Collier Museum at Government Center — Free entry — Dive into archaeology with interactive excavations and delicious edible dirt cups.

Cars and Coffee 239

5-7 a.m. — Mercato — Free entry — A vibrant gathering of automotive enthusiasts showcasing an array of stunning vehicles.