Naples
Today
Saturday, May 17th, 2025
Good morning, Naples. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 17th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Jay Baker surprised his wife, Patty, with a $5 million gift for Humane Society Naples — he had worried the news would leak before it was announced at the gala in March. The Naples Press
- ➤ Florida law lets someone break a car window to rescue an overheated dog if the owner is not nearby and law enforcement has been contacted—this applies when a dog is in imminent danger from quickly rising inside temperatures that can cause heatstroke. The law also requires using only the force needed until help arrives. Naples Daily News
- ➤ At its Volunteer Appreciation event on May 13, United Way of Lee, Hendry and Glades announced that it met its $11.3 million campaign goal for the 32nd consecutive year. Fifty-two percent of donations came from 154 United Way Pacesetters businesses and the funds will support local services—like food banks and youth programs—in the community. Naples Daily News
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ On May 5, 89-year-old Collier County resident Robert Markel and his dog were fatally mauled by a Florida black bear, marking the first recorded instance of a bear killing a person in the state—leaving the community in shock. The Naples Press
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ A Naples permit and design plan firm accused of fraud contended that using a 91-year-old retired architect’s seal was a misunderstanding (the firm said the mistake was unintentional) rather than deliberate fraud. The Naples Press
- ➤ Home Depot cleared land on its narrow property bordering Marco Naples RV Resort as earthmovers removed trees near Lely to prepare for a new store. Residents have complained about loud noises and dust—concerns that may impact the project as it moves forward. The Naples Press
- ➤ 239 Naples at Mercato in North Naples will be featured on Food Network's 'Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives' episode 'Barbecue, Beignets and Barbacoa'—the sixth Naples restaurant on the show this year, which will first air at 9 p.m. Friday, May 23. The Naples Press
- ➤ KC American Bistro has rebranded as Amber Cove after more than 15 years in North Naples—now operating at The Pavilion shopping center at 885 Vanderbilt Beach Road under new ownership. The Naples Press
FINANCE NEWS
- ➤ In Collier County, rising living costs and longer life spans are making traditional retirement plans fall short for many women. Local advisors say that those facing caregiving duties, career breaks and wage gaps (factors that challenge their financial security) must seek tailored guidance to secure their futures. The Naples Press
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Naples City Council held a two-hour closed session and unanimously voted to appeal a federal judge’s injunction that allowed an outdoor drag show at Cambier Park—Naples Pride had sued over an indoor permit that they said restricted free speech. Opinions remain divided as the court’s decision may not come in time for the event scheduled for June 7. ABC7
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Grand Opening of Local Financial Branch
7-8 p.m. — 5003 Tamiami Trl E, Naples, FL — Free entry — Celebrate with music, games, and financial education at this community-focused event.
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GGCC After School Program Week 19
3-6 p.m. — Golden Gate Community Center — N/A — A safe and fun environment for kids ages 5-12 featuring sports, arts, crafts, and homework time.
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100 Layer Lasagna Night
10 a.m. – 9 p.m. — Barbatella — Check with restaurant for pricing — Indulge in Chef Jason Goddard's legendary 100 Layer Lasagna during a special Tuesday dinner service.
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Spring Bourbon Dinner Featuring Buffalo Trace
6-8 p.m. — Old Vines Naples at Mercato — Ticketed event — Experience a four-course meal paired with Buffalo Trace bourbon in a celebration of one of America's finest distilleries.
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Brain Boost: Stroke Prevention and Cognitive Health
8-9:30 a.m. — Terracina Grand — Free entry — Enhance your knowledge on preventing strokes and improving cognitive health with expert insights from a neurology specialist.
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The Funniest Stand-Up in the Country - Women On!!!
8 PM — Opera Naples — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughs with Alejandra Añez and special guest Maisa Roca.
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The Richmonds Live Music Event
6-9 p.m. — Celebration Park Naples — Free entry — Enjoy a family-friendly evening with live music, delicious food trucks, and a stunning view of the bay.
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Comedian Carlos Mencia Live
6:00-7:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — $67-$100 — Experience the laughs with comedian Carlos Mencia at this vibrant comedy venue.
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Naples Into the Light Support Group
7-8 p.m. — Emanuel Lutheran Church — Free entry — A supportive group gathering to connect and share every Tuesday evening.
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Late Spring Tasting Experience
5:30-8:30 p.m. — Old Vines Supper Club — Reservations required — Discover unique flavors at the reimagined tasting experience for late spring.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The only way out is through.
~ Robert Frost
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