Good morning, Naples.

Collier County will review plans for a new Costco to build a store and gas station at the corner of Collier Boulevard and Rattlesnake Hammock Road north of Physicians Regional Hospital — residents worry the project will add traffic and create safety issues, especially with the fueling station only 130 feet from a 7-Eleven. A Collier County Commissioners meeting on Thursday will give locals a chance to share their concerns.

Invest 93L, a low-pressure system off Florida’s east coast, is moving west today — it will cross over the warm Gulf waters tonight.

The National Hurricane Center raised odds to 40% for it becoming a tropical depression within 2 days and 1 to 3 inches of rain is expected by week’s end if it develops.

Florida changed its laws this year so that gun and ammo sales can occur during local emergencies and law enforcement, corrections, and military personnel can now skip the three-day waiting period—most other proposals, including additional background checks and bans, did not pass.

Open carry for most civilians remains largely prohibited and red flag laws continue to offer a legal pathway when there is a threat during mental health crises.

Collier County officials said a new Florida State Veterans Home will be built on the former Golden Gate Golf Course to serve Gulf Coast veterans with long-term care services—such as a sports bar, barber shop, coffee shop, community center, and adult day health care facility.

Commissioner Burt Saunders noted that funding from a one-cent sales tax and legislative support set aside 30 million dollars for the project, which will have 120 private beds and break ground in summer 2026 with completion by mid-to-late 2028.

EA Sports released College Football 26 last week with updated graphics, new players and adjusted physics.

The game included 27 former Southwest Florida high school players with several top-rated Naples High players and more locals will be added in a future update before the season starts.

Opening Reception of Local Dining Experience

5:30-7 p.m. — Collier Museum at Government Center — Not specified — Celebrate Naples' culinary heritage from beloved dive bars to haute cuisine.

Rafi Bastos Stand-Up Comedy

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — VIP and General Admission options — Experience hilarious and thought-provoking comedy from renowned Brazilian comic Rafi Bastos.

Early Summer Tasting Experience

5-8:30 p.m. — Old Vines Supper Club — Menu & Reservations Available — Experience a signature tasting menu curated for the season at a highly-rated venue.

Artists in Bloom Exhibition

July 19 - October 26 — Naples Botanical Garden — Regular admission — Discover artistic interpretations inspired by the botanical beauty of Naples.

Artists in Bloom

10 a.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with admission — Explore diverse artistic interpretations inspired by the vibrant landscapes of the garden.

Artists in Bloom

July 19 - October 26 — Naples Botanical Garden — Free with admission — Explore diverse artistic interpretations inspired by the garden's vibrant landscapes.

Artists in Bloom Exhibition

July 19 – October 26 — Naples Botanical Garden — Entry fee required — Explore diverse artistic interpretations inspired by the lush landscapes of the garden.

Artists in Bloom Exhibition

All day — Naples Botanical Garden — Admission fee applies — Discover the artistic interpretations of nature's beauty in a vibrant display of creativity.

Artists in Bloom Exhibition

July 19 – October 26 — Naples Botanical Garden — Free with admission — Explore vibrant art inspired by the natural beauty of the botanical landscapes.

Creative Re-boot Workshop

5-8 p.m. — Artist's Studio — Reserve your spot — Explore new problem solving skills and artistic voice through collage and printmaking.