Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 18th of November.
Good morning, Naples.
🏘️ Community
A Collier County family celebrated the safe return of 68-year-old Matthew Bailey, who went missing on November 7 due to a wandering condition, after searchers found him alive in thick brush behind a home in The Isles.
He is now recovering at a hospital as his neighbors and family express deep relief after a nine-day search.
More than 200 volunteers helped thousands of families receive meal boxes with frozen turkey, sides and desserts on Nov 17 at First Naples Church.
The effort was led by St. Matthew's House + Capital Wealth Advisors and supported low-income families, persons with disabilities, older adults and veterans.
🎭 Culture
Elizabeth Rountree, the Director of Development at The Naples Players, announced her retirement later this year after a 25-year career that built a strong donor network — her leadership secured key community programs.
She will lead the Front & Center Gala on February 10 and a later celebration will honor her work while a national search for her replacement begins — keeping the theater a vital cultural hub.
United Arts Collier held a gala at Seagate Beach to mark its 45th anniversary and honor its journey from the Naples Fine Arts Society—co-founder Debi Clementi and CEO Elysia Dawn shared the stage.
The event also paid tribute to artist Mally Khoransantchi and showcased arts-in-health programs that bring live music to local hospitals and senior centers—strengthening community well-being.
Swamp buggy racing began in Naples in 1949 and has long been a local tradition kept alive by families like the McCandless — who saw driver Roger pioneer the original Rat On buggy before his death from leukemia in October.
His son Scotty now builds the updated Rat On for races and a documentary will air in January — showing how this family tradition endures.
🏛️ Government
Tarpon Bay resident Lavonna Beers faces costly condo repairs as her 20-year-old windows leak and rattle with the end of hurricane season near.
She applied for the My Safe Florida Home program that offers up to $10,000 but does not qualify because it covers only single-family homes and townhomes—she now awaits guidance on alternative aid.
🏥 Health
Research shows many older drivers may outlive their safe driving years by 7 to 10 years, and Florida now lets citizens anonymously report drivers whose skills are in decline, which starts a DMV review that can lead to license suspension.
The state is also expanding rideshare services and planning for driverless taxis to give safer transportation options for seniors + help keep roads safe.
🎉 Naples Events
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Little Women: The Musical
7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Naples Players at Sugden Community Theatre — $42-$57 — Celebrate the holiday season with the heartwarming musical adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's classic tale.
Little Women: The Musical
7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Naples Players at Sugden Community Theatre — $55-$57 individual tickets — Celebrate the holidays with the heartwarming magic of this timeless tale of love, family, and resilience.
Jazz Night at Opera Naples
7-10 p.m. — Opera Naples — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of delightful jazz in a vibrant setting perfect for all ages.
Storytime at the Children's Museum of Naples
10 a.m. — Golisano Children's Museum of Naples — Free with admission — Engage your preschooler in fun stories and activities to promote literacy and early learning skills.
W.O.N.D.E.R. Program
10 a.m. — Naples Botanical Garden — Included with Garden admission — Engage families in fun activities to Walk, Observe, Navigate, Draw, Explore, and Read.
Bob Zany Live
7-8:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — 2 item minimum purchase required — Enjoy a night of laughs with veteran comedian Bob Zany, known for his endless bag of jokes.
Comedy Night with Bob Zany
7-8:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — 2 item minimum purchase — Enjoy a night of laughter with renowned comedian Bob Zany.
Irving Berlin's White Christmas
7:30-10:00 p.m. — Gulfshore Playhouse — Enjoy a musical journey filled with iconic holiday tunes and a heartwarming story.
Miss Jen's Family Storytime Yoga
10:00-10:30 a.m. — Collier County Library - Headquarters Branch — Free entry — Engage in stories and movement with simple yoga activities for little ones.
Kevin Herrera Live
6-7:30 p.m. — Off The Hook Comedy Club — Ticket prices vary — Experience Kevin's unfiltered comedy inspired by life's challenges and humor found in everyday moments.
🏠 Naples Real Estate
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💼 Naples Job Board
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📣 Naples Announcements
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