Good morning, Naples.

Artis—Naples hosted the Friends of Artis—Naples Gala on March 21, raising $2 million for youth education programs; the event featured a cocktail hour in Norris Garden, dinner on Hayes Hall stage, performance from Mandy Gonzalez and Naples Philharmonic Youth Chorus, plus a live auction and after-party in Daniels Pavilion.

Grace Place for Children & Families hosted its third annual Young Authors Festival on Wednesday, April 15, where students (grades 3–5) shared original stories with live improv actors and joined an interactive read-aloud featuring local authors.

The event celebrated creativity and literacy within the community.

Yesterday, the Florida Forest Service reported 108 active wildfires (burning over 15,000 acres) across Florida amid severe drought, and burn bans were in effect in 44 counties.

Former Collier County Commissioner Donna Fiala (the people's commissioner) died April 23 at 88.

She served five terms in East Naples and left a legacy honored by the renaming of a local park.

Hotels and resorts in Southwest Florida now offer upscale dining experiences with gourmet dishes such as porcini truffle risotto at the Sunseeker Resort’s Stretto Italian Chophouse and tamarind-glazed pork chop at the Four Season’s Merchant Room, replacing familiar buffets.

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.

Ariel Elias Comedy Show

6-9 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — 2 item minimum purchase per person — Enjoy a night of laughter with New York City's rising star comedian, Ariel Elias.

W.O.N.D.E.R at Naples Botanical Garden

10 a.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Engage in educational activities designed to inspire kids to walk, observe, navigate, draw, explore, and read.

Mario Salazar Live Comedy Show

7-8:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of high-energy comedy from Mario 'Superstar' Salazar.

Preschool Storytime at Estates Library

10:30-11:00 a.m. — Estates Library — Free entry — Storytime and art activities for children ages 3 to 5 involving paints, glitter, and creativity.

NOC NOC: Birdwatching Introduction

6-8 p.m. — Naples Outfitters & Kayak Company — Free entry — Enjoy an engaging introduction to binoculars followed by a delightful monthly bird count in a nearby park.

W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden

10 AM - 12 PM — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Explore, create, and enjoy family-friendly activities at the garden.