Friday, August 15th, 2025
Good morning, Naples. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 15th of August.
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Taylor Stanberry, a Naples native and skilled python hunter, captured 60 invasive Burmese pythons during the annual Florida Python Challenge held in July, winning a $10,000 prize. She is the first woman to earn the top honor — the funds will support expansion of her exotic animal sanctuary. WINK News
- ➤ Tropical Storm Erin is strengthening and will become a hurricane today before turning into a strong Category 3 storm with 125-mph winds within five days, according to the National Hurricane Center. Officials advise residents to monitor the storm for dangerous surf and rip currents—although Erin is expected to stay away from Florida—and to prepare for any unexpected changes. News-Press
- ➤ Tropical Storm Erin is moving west at 17 mph and is expected to reach hurricane strength early today—forecasts show it may become the first major hurricane of 2025 as it intensifies through the weekend. Forecast models predict it will turn north before reaching the Bahamas, keeping any direct threat from Florida at bay. NBC2
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ More than $11 million was awarded to Naples Airport, Lee County Utilities and Fort Myers under the Resilient Florida Program to improve defenses against flooding and hurricanes—Fort Myers received $5.1 million for a wellfield expansion, Lee County Utilities got $3.5 million to restore a water reclamation facility, and Naples Airport Authority was granted about $2.8 million for electrical resilience improvements. WGCU
- ➤ The Naples City Council is weighing a lawsuit to challenge a law that stops local governments from adding strict rules after disasters like hurricanes. The council will vote on August 20 to join the challenge if 10 other cities sign on — city attorney Matthew McConnell and local community members say the law’s vague language could lead to disputes. Fox 4
- ➤ Naples Airport Authority finished training on a new Tiger Dam flood barrier system that uses 3,000 feet of water-filled tubing to protect key buildings and equipment from storm surge—this system will be rapidly deployed when heavy weather is predicted. The $259,370 investment was made with airport funds to replace sandbags with a more effective, quick-response solution. WGCU
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Joe Machi Stand-Up Comedy Show
6:00-7:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Tickets required — Enjoy an evening of laughs with comedian Joe Machi, known for his sharp wit and engaging performances.
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Grafted: Passport to Burgundy
5:30-7 p.m. — Old Vines Supper Club — $55 per person — Explore the elegance of Burgundy wines with a guided tasting experience and light bites.
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Matt Bergman Stand-Up Show
7:00-8:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket required — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Matt Bergman.
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EMBELLISHED Wearable Art Show
7-11 p.m. — Bayshore Arts District Naples FL — Free entry — Experience the fusion of nature and creativity in Naples' vibrant arts district featuring wearable art and local design studios.
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ENCP Space Exploration for Kids
6-8 p.m. — East Naples Community Park — Pre-registration required — Kids will explore space through drawing, learning constellations, and using a telescope.
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Felipe Esparza Stand-Up Comedy Show
6-7:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a night of laughs with the talented comedian and actor, Felipe Esparza, known for his Netflix specials and engaging podcast.
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Shop for a Cause Pop-Up Shop
3-6 p.m. — AC Hotel Naples 5th Avenue — Free entry — An afternoon of fashion, fun, and philanthropy with unique local vendors and tasty bites.
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Omakase Wine Dinner Series
6:30-9 p.m. — Old Vines Supper Club — $150 per person — Savor a unique multi-course dish paired with exquisite wines guided by expert chefs and sommeliers.
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Pop-Up Activities
11-11:15 a.m. — Golisano Childrens Museum of Naples — Free with admission — Enjoy engaging dance parties and STEAM challenges designed for young children.
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Comedy Night with Kevin Farley
6:30-8 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Requires 2-item minimum purchase — Enjoy an evening with the comedic talents of Kevin Farley, known for his upbeat performances and entertaining storytelling.
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
You will never be able to escape from your heart. So it's better to listen to what it has to say.
~ Paulo Coelho
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