Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 21st of April.
Good morning, Naples.
📰 Economy
On April 20, AAA reported Florida’s average regular gas price fell to $3.990 while the national average held above $4.
Some counties, including Monroe County (at $4.275), still face higher costs.
🌲 Environment
Officials said the wildfire in Picayune Strand State Forest is 95% contained after burning more than 1,700 acres, and evacuation orders have been lifted.
Firefighters will monitor the area today as windy, dry weather may pose further risks.
The National Weather Service has issued a red flag warning today for 31 counties plus a fire weather watch extending from Daytona Beach to Bonita Springs, indicating heightened wildfire risk.
Residents are urged to follow local burn bans and safety guidelines.
Wildfires burned nearly 12,000 acres statewide at 8 a.m. April 20, with 103 active blazes reported.
A fire near I-75 (mile marker 98) led to a road closure close to Naples and officials are monitoring worsening conditions.
The National Weather Service issued a red flag warning for 31 counties yesterday as low humidity and strong winds raised wildfire risks; burn bans took effect— and a fire weather watch applies today in areas farther south like Bonita Springs.
🏛️ Government
Florida lawmakers announced new rules that remove soda, energy drinks, candy, and ultra-processed desserts from SNAP benefits to promote a healthier diet while still allowing fruits, vegetables, proteins, dairy, and essential items.
The changes aim to better align SNAP with its purpose of supporting low-income households.
🏈 Sports
Mark Palm, a pickleball pro who beat cancer, competed on Sunday, April 12 at the US Open championships in Naples and later introduced the sport to a remote Papua New Guinea village through his nonprofit Samaritan Aviation (which supports emergency medical flights).
The Florida Everblades retired John McCarron’s No. 25 jersey on Saturday, Apr.
18 before a 3 to 2 win over the Reading Royals. The two-time Kelly Cup champion set team records with 464 games played, 179 goals and four seasons as captain.
Naples High graduate Devin Moore is expected to be drafted this weekend after a standout season with the Gators; he is praised for his athletic ability + leadership.
Moore will remain in town to discover his next chapter and honor his hometown legacy.
Ten high school girls are nominated for the SW FL Girls Athlete of the Week award sponsored by MY Shower Door; voters have until 10 a.m. Thursday (voting online) to choose the standout performer from among the nominees in softball, lacrosse, and track.
🎉 Naples Events
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Botanical Printmaking Workshop
5-7 p.m. — TWiST Gallery and Art Studios — $35 Admission — Explore the beauty of nature through the art of printmaking.
Bellatrix Candle Making Workshop
6-8 p.m. — TWiST Gallery and Art Studios — $65 — Create your own candles in a fun and artistic environment at this engaging workshop.
Friday After 5
5-8 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Cost varies — Experience a vibrant after-hours party with live music and garden exploration.
Entrepreneur’s Business Summit
8:30 AM - 3:30 PM — FGCU Kapnick Center — $55.00 — Get inspired and elevate your business journey with expert insights and networking opportunities.
W.O.N.D.E.R in the Garden
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — A family-friendly exploration with creative activities in the beautiful garden setting.
W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden
10 AM – 12 PM — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Explore and create together as families enjoy interactive lessons and activities in a beautiful garden setting.
Florida's Funniest Comedian
7-10 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Check for ticket prices — Witness local talent compete for the title of Florida’s Funniest Comedian.
MindTravel Silent Piano Concert
7-9 p.m. — Baker Park — Limited tickets — Experience a mindful musical journey with pianist Murray Hidary in a serene outdoor setting.
W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Families can create, explore, and engage with fun lessons and activities in the beautiful garden setting.
Chris Andrade Stand-Up Comedy Show
10 PM - 1 AM — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Minimum purchase required — Enjoy a night of laughs with Chris Andrade and insights from Escuela de Nada.
🏠 Naples Real Estate
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💼 Naples Job Board
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📣 Naples Announcements
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