Good morning, Naples.

Drone images captured June 24 show the ongoing construction of the new Naples Pier — a project drawing local attention.

Southwest Florida restaurants received Wine Spectator recognition for excellence in wine service when the awards were announced on June 25, with Naples' Bleu Provence earning the prestigious Grand Award — a rare honor among more than 4,000 global winners.

Other spots in Fort Myers, Bonita Springs and Marco Island were also recognized.

Social Security and SSI payments remain on schedule in July, with SSI checks arriving Wednesday, July 1 and benefits paid based on birthdates.

The agency announced it will move paper check recipients to electronic payments by year’s end and switch Direct Express banking from Comerica to Fifth Third Bank.

Collier County remains under a burn ban—stopping fireworks, campfires, and bonfires—as wildfire risk continues, even though a statewide fireworks ban was avoided.

Residents should check local rules to plan safe July 4 celebrations.

Eight counties, including Charlotte and Sarasota, remain under burn bans as of June 24, limiting fireworks and open fires for Fourth of July plans; state officials allow fireworks in counties without bans and urge residents to check local rules amid ongoing drought conditions.

Community Blood Center, an affiliate of Naples Comprehensive Health, reported critically low supplies of platelets and type O blood yesterday and is urging donors to visit its location at 1100 Immokalee Road, where drop-in donations are welcome to help save local lives.

The CDC warns that Florida is facing one of its worst tick seasons in decades in grassy and open areas—residents should follow proper tick-removal steps after outdoor activities to reduce illness risk.

Health experts urge careful prevention to help keep family and pets safe.

The SW Florida Grocery Shopping Chronicles offers money-saving tips for shoppers, urging locals to use loyalty programs and lists while inviting them to vote on which July 4 food item shocked their wallets.

Readers are encouraged to share their grocery tales via email.

A drone captured aerial views on Wednesday, June 25 of the new Naples Pier under construction; the images show progress on a waterfront project expected to enhance community recreation.

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

10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Explore the garden through fun family activities and lessons.

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

10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Explore, create, and learn at this engaging family-friendly program in a beautiful setting.

Comedy Night with Vince August

7-11 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket required — Experience the hilarious storytelling of Vince August, known for his improvisational wit and commentary on everything funny.

Comedian Kevin Eudy Live in Naples

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a night of laughter with social media sensation Kevin Eudy.

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

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Families explore and create in the garden with fun activities and lessons.

Luis Vega Live

7-11 p.m. — Dimension Event Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the electrifying beats of Luis Vega in a vibrant setting.

Naples Youth Quarterback Training

11 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Community School of Naples — Cost varies — Elevate your quarterback skills with focused training in mechanics and situational football.

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

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Explore, create, and enjoy fun family activities amidst beautiful gardens.

94th Annual Meeting

July 7-9 — The Ritz-Carlton, Naples Spa — Registration fees apply — Engage in important discussions and networking opportunities at this esteemed annual gathering.

Pedro Gonzalez Live Comedy Performance

7-10 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Minimum two item purchase per person — Enjoy a night of laughter with rising star Pedro Gonzalez, sharing his comedic tales of life as an immigrant.