Root and vote for Marco Island’s own.
Damian Manfre, chef at JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, is currently competing in the “Favorite Chef” contest, and your support is needed.
Manfre is representing Marco Island’s hospitality scene in this national competition that celebrates chefs while also supporting the James Beard Foundation. Voting is free, and supporters can also purchase additional votes as donations benefiting the foundation.
There’s also a meaningful prize on the line. The winner will be featured in “Taste of Home” magazine, cook with Carla Hall, and receive $25,000.
Currently, Manfre is in first place, and there are just a few days left to vote as the contest ends at 7 p.m., July 23. You can do so at jwmarriottmarcoisland.qrd.by/fave-chef.
Manfre says that winning would be an incredible step toward bringing his culinary dreams to life, while also creating exposure, momentum and the chance to inspire others through his story. He says the opportunity would mean more than recognition; it would be fuel for the next chapter of culinary excellence here in Marco Island.
Voter registration and party change deadline nears
The deadline to update your party affiliation or register to vote for the 2026 Primary Election is July 20.
Florida is a closed primary state. This means that only voters who are registered members of a political party may vote for their respective party’s candidate in a primary election.
You can register to vote or update their voter information at CollierVotes.gov, or may do so in person at one of the Supervisor of Elections office locations: 3750 Enterprise Ave., Naples (8 a.m. until 5 p.m.), 2335 Orange Blossom Dr., Naples (9 a.m. until 6 p.m.), 15450 Collier Blvd., Naples (9 a.m. until 6 p.m.).
For more information, visit CollierVotes.gov or call 239-252-VOTE (8683).
Young ‘ACTors’ will perform at Arts Center Theatre
After two weeks of “creativity, collaboration and hard work,” the young performers of Marco Island Center for the Arts’ Children’s Summer Program are ready to take the stage with “Seussical KIDS,” a 30-minute adaptation of the Broadway musical.
Directed by Chris Dayett, this production showcases the accomplishments of 14 dedicated young “ACTors” who have immersed themselves in every aspect of theatrical production.
The two-week intensive theatre workshop is one of the many programs offered through the Marco Island Center for the Arts’ Every Child Deserves Art initiative.
Over the course of 10 six-hour days, students receive an authentic behind-the-scenes theatre experience. They not only learn music, acting, and choreography, but also design and create the sets, costumes, and props that bring the production to life.
“Seussical KIDS is much more than putting on a show,” said Dayett. “The students experience the entire creative process — from the first introduction to theatre through auditions, rehearsals, design, construction, and finally performance. Watching their confidence, creativity, and teamwork grow over just two weeks is one of the most rewarding parts of this program.”
This year’s cast includes Lilah Barhoum, Sophia Bellini, Ava Craig, Meghan Dolan, Imogen Goodman-Williams, Madelyn Goodman-Williams, Addie Grachus, Arina Ignashkin, Finn Kolosso, Cassie Rianna, Jackie Smid, Kim Tran, Ali Traver and Landon Westlund.
Family, friends and members of the community are invited to celebrate the accomplishments of these talented young ACTors as they bring the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss to life in this fun-filled production.
“Seussical KIDS” will have performances at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., Saturday, July 18, at the Arts Center Theatre, 1089 N. Collier Blvd., Suite 432, Marco Town Center (look for the red door next to Marco Brewery). Admission is $10.
Tickets are available online at marcoislandart.org/arts-center-theatre/ or by calling the Arts Center Theatre Box Office at 239-784-1186.
FC Naples names Zak Gordon interim head coach
FC Naples has named Zak Gordon as interim head coach for the remainder of the 2026 season. Gordon has served as the First Assistant Coach since February 2025.
“Zak Gordon has been on the field with FC Naples’ First Team since our first season, helping the team achieve its historic 2025 USL League One campaign. We’re confident in his leadership as the team moves forward,” said Roberto Moreno, CEO of FC Naples.
FC Naples has parted ways with Matt Poland, the club’s inaugural head coach and sporting director. Under his leadership, the expansion side enjoyed a historic 2025 USL League One campaign, securing a fourth-place regular-season finish and advancing to the playoff semifinals. The club says it’s grateful for the vital role that Poland played as a foundational part of the team.
Live, work or play on Marco Island, South Naples or Everglades City? If so and you have something you’d like featured in Now You Know, send your information to mail@marconews.com.
This article originally appeared on Marco Eagle: Now You Know: Marco chef in national competition needs your help
Reporting by Will Watts, Special to the Eagle / Marco Eagle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Will Watts, Special to the Eagle | USA TODAY Network
