Naples
Today
Saturday, May 23rd, 2026
Good morning, Naples. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 23rd of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Veteran Brent Barents revisits a letter at his Vi at Bentley Village home to recall his June 21, 1969 combat experience and pay tribute to his fallen comrades. Shot down four times and earning a Silver Star from 700 missions, he hopes we never forget their sacrifice. ABC7
- ➤ Youth Haven received a $30,000 grant from The League Club to boost food services + youth programs on its therapeutic campus. The funds will expand nutritious meals and culinary classes to help local youths build essential life skills. The Naples Press
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Barron Collier High School’s 396 seniors earned their diplomas on May 21 after stormy weather delayed the ceremony. Families cheered as the event resumed at the school’s stadium (located on Cougar Drive off Osceola Trail) in Naples. News-Press
- ➤ Naples High School held its graduation ceremony on Friday, May 22 at the school gymnasium as about 364 seniors received their diplomas. Naples Daily News
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission launched the 2026 Lionfish Challenge Friday to remove invasive lionfish from local waters + competitors vie for prizes in categories such as Lionfish King, Lionfish Queen, Commercial Champion, Junior Harvester, and Veteran Champion. NBC2
- ➤ Lee County officials and local scientists say the US Army Corps of Engineers and South Florida Water Management District have not increased flows to the Caloosahatchee River despite calls for more water (as scientists warn), forcing residents into stricter weekly restrictions compared with other areas. News-Press
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ A federal judge blocked special permits designed to extend Atlantic red snapper fishing beyond usual days, leaving anglers and officials racing to adjust plans. Florida authorities are keeping current state fishing limits (with controlled bag and size rules) while they fight the order and clarify regulations. News-Press
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ The Collier County Planning Commission approved an expansion plan for Ave Maria, adding over 2,000 acres and nearly 6,800 homes, with future retail, medical space and a senior living community planned (construction details pending). The Naples Press
- ➤ Although rents are falling due to a pandemic-era supply boom, Naples remains the nation’s least affordable rental market as average rents exceed 100% of local wages, a recent report shows. Experts say residents continue to struggle with steep cost burdens & slow wage growth. News-Press
- ➤ JW Marriott Marco Island sold for $835 million marks Southwest Florida’s most lucrative real estate deal, reflecting growing institutional investor interest in the luxury market & regional growth. The Naples Press
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ More than 160 racers joined the Great Canoe Races on the Gordon River, competing in canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and a creative Build Your Vessel race inspired by Legends of the Gulf. The Naples Press
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W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Families can explore and engage in creative activities together in a vibrant garden setting.
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W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Families create, explore, and enjoy interactive lessons in a beautiful garden setting.
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Family Storytime
10:30-11:15 a.m. — Estates Library — Free event — Engage your child’s imagination with stories, activities, and a creative art project.
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Shapel Lacey Live Stand-Up Comedy
7-10 PM — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unique comedic voice of Shapel Lacey as he takes the stage with his punk rock mentality and diverse life experiences.
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W.O.N.D.E.R in the Garden
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Families can explore and create with fun activities amidst beautiful landscapes.
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Plant Swap Event
9-11 a.m. — Bean To Cup Coffee Lounge — Free entry — Bring your plants to swap and grow your green family with fellow enthusiasts.
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La Chupitos Comedy Tour 2026
6:45-8:15 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Tickets required — Enjoy laughs with the beloved La Chupitos on her exciting new tour.
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W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden
10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Families engage in imaginative exploring and creative activities among the gardens.
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Comedy Magician Jack Grady Live
7-8:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket purchase required — Experience the chaotic and hilarious magic performance of Jack Grady, blending humor and unforgettable tricks.
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Irene Tu Live
6:45-10:45 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — VIP admission requires a minimum purchase — Enjoy an evening of laughter with Irene Tu, a rising star in comedy.
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
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