Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 7th of May.
Good morning, Naples.
In an initiative, The Naples Players will launch an Inclusive Workforce Apprenticeship Program today with a multi-year grant from the Golisano Foundation to offer apprenticeships in theatre operations for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Summer Pliskow will lead the program that aims to serve 30 apprentices in three years.
On May 6, the Collier Children's Advocacy Center launched phase one of its Lifting Up, Building Strength campaign to rebuild its Hurricane Ian-damaged family center in Naples; the new facility will unite essential services (forensic interviews, therapy, and parent education) so families no longer have to visit multiple locations.
The annual Stamp Out Hunger food drive will take place Saturday, May 9 in Lee County + residents should leave nonperishable food in marked bags at their mailboxes to support the Harry Chapin Food Bank network.
Publix updated its store policy by posting new signs that request only law enforcement to openly carry firearms in its locations (a reversal from last fall's approach) and a customer service representative confirmed the change on May 6.
At Fun Time Early Childhood Academy in Naples, Cester Williams has inspired young learners and mentored teachers for 40 years.
The school, serving over 300 children across four campuses (celebrating 65 years of service), helps families access quality preschool care.
Lovebugs are swarming parking lots today as car owners in the area are urged to clean their vehicles within 24 hours to prevent paint damage+ experts explain that these harmless insects usually appear in pairs for about two weeks each spring.
Today, during Hurricane Preparedness Week (May 3-9), NOAA advises residents to secure windows, move vehicles, and pack a go-bag when a storm threatens; these steps aim to keep homes and families safe amid potential weather hazards.
As hurricane season nears, local homeowners are advised to check their insurance coverage and add separate flood insurance when needed — especially if they live near water.
This step can help prevent delays in processing claims after severe weather.
Duke Energy Florida customers will see an automatic refund on their bills from June through September as the Public Service Commission approved a $90.5M reduction in hurricane restoration costs — saving about $5.62 monthly with no sign-up required.
During National Nurses Week from May 6 to May 12, several Florida businesses honor healthcare workers with free deals and discounts.
In Naples, a Chick-fil-A location will offer complementary items for nurses with a valid work ID from May 11 to 16.
The Revs Institute is set to break ground this fall on the Revs Reserve Naples expansion, which will add over 110,000 sqft including 63,800 sqft of climate-controlled car storage and new hospitality lounges (off Horseshoe Drive near the airport).
Plans include permit submission by August and an opening in 2027.
Slovenian pro golfer Ana Belac won the U.S. Women’s Open Qualifier at Wilderness Country Club on May 6, finishing six strokes ahead to earn a spot at next month’s championship at Riviera Country Club.
Southwest Florida tuned in on May 2 to NBC’s broadcast of the 152nd Kentucky Derby where Cherie DeVaux from Englewood became the first female trainer to win and Golden Tempo triumphed.
Fort Myers ranked as the nation’s second-highest TV market with a 20.1 rating and 55 share during the race.
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.
Jourdain Fisher Live Comedy Show
6:30-8:00 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Cost info varies — Enjoy laughs and engaging performances from comedian Jourdain Fisher.
W.O.N.D.E.R Program at Naples Botanical Garden
10 a.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Engage in fun, educational activities for families exploring nature indoors.
W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden
10 AM – 12 PM — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — A family-friendly program to imagine, create, and explore together in a beautiful setting.
Comedy Night with Erica Rhodes
6-9 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy an evening of laughs with Erica Rhodes, a standout comic from America's Got Talent.
Chelo Chelo Comedy Show
7-8:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Cost varies — Experience high-energy comedy from rising star Chelo Chelo blending cultural humor and storytelling.
Comedian Andy Haynes Live in Naples
7 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Tickets available — Enjoy an evening of laughter with comedian Andy Haynes.
Breathwork Reset Workshop
6:30-8 p.m. — Omaya Studio — $ — Experience a 90-min breathwork journey to release stress and reconnect with your inner balance.
Comedian David Lucas Live Performance
May 22-23 — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a night of laughter with stand-up from a rising comedy star.
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