Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 10th of April.
Good morning, Naples.
🏘️ Community
Brent Batten, a longtime columnist known for his wit and clear coverage of local news, died April 8 after a long battle with cancer.
A celebration of life is planned, and colleagues say his work left a lasting impact on the community.
USA TODAY Network-Florida journalists won 58 awards at the Florida Society of News Editors contest as Naples Daily News reporter Amy Bennett Williams received the Paul Hansell award for excellence — highlighting achievements in investigative, feature, and sports reporting.
🌲 Environment
With nearly the entire state in drought, Florida officials warn residents that wildfire season starting this April through June could be very active.
They urge homeowners to clear 30 feet of vegetation around their homes + follow burn restrictions to reduce risks.
Officials declared the final La Niña advisory on Thursday, and forecast models show a 61% chance that El Niño will emerge between May and July (indicating potentially stronger warming than the previous event that brought hurricanes to the region).
Calusa Waterkeeper is hosting a talk today with a scientist (from the University of Miami) who will explain algal blooms, toxins and health risks affecting dolphins in Naples.
Colorado State University forecasts 13 named storms this season starting June 1, with six hurricanes and a 21% chance of a major hit along Florida’s coast (74% chance a storm passes within 50 miles).
Emerging El Niño trends may alter storm strength.
🏥 Health
Health officials say not to swim in Lowdermilk Park today because water tests found high bacteria levels that can make people sick.
They will update the community when the water is safe.
📰 Lifestyle
Naples Daily News food reporter Kendall Little highlighted five local brunch spots (The Rooster favored by Guy Fieri, EJ's Meridian Cafe, Three Sixteen, Jane's Cafe on 3rd and Nana's Diner) to guide diners seeking diverse breakfast classics.
These spots offer French toast, croissants, and Southern country breakfasts.
🏈 Sports
North Fort Myers senior Kenlee Dominguez was named SW Florida's Girls Soccer Player of the Year for the 2025-26 season, and residents can vote on the All-Area Girls Soccer Team until Monday, April 13 at 9:00 a.m. (Review candidate achievements before voting.)
Southwest Florida baseball and softball rankings have been updated ahead of district play starting next week & teams like Canterbury and Bishop Verot are set to chase postseason spots as they finish the regular season.
Anglers will join the annual South Seas Tarpon Tournament on May 22 at the South Seas resort at the north tip of Captiva.
Sponsored by the Lee County Bar Association, the tournament will showcase Florida's prized gamefish + boost local fishing excitement during peak migratory season.
🎉 Naples Events
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Botanical Printmaking Workshop
5-7 p.m. — TWiST Gallery and Art Studios — $35 Admission — Explore the beauty of nature through the art of printmaking.
🏠 Naples Real Estate
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💼 Naples Job Board
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📣 Naples Announcements
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