Good morning, Fort Myers.

Lee County Domestic Animal Services will hold its annual Flip This Kennel event in April—adoption fees drop to $30 with an approved application.

On Saturday, April 12th, visitors can vote between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. for their favorite cartoon-themed kennel flip and winners will be posted on Facebook on Monday, April 14th.

Residents of Suncoast Estates in North Fort Myers say their neighborhood feels forgotten and unsafe because of rising crime and missing sidewalks + poor street lighting.

Some locals are gathering petition signatures to ask the Lee County Commission for safety upgrades and a better quality of life.

Two days ago, Island Breeze Kayak owner Joey Nelson saw wildlife officials working on a manatee that died from a boat strike on Big Hickory Island, and today kayakers Pippy and Hadley saw the rotting animal in Estero Bay as officials warn boaters to slow down.

Owners Keith and Mashelle Towles said Voodoo Brewing Co.—a downtown Fort Myers gastropub that opened on April 6—will close on March 30 due to road closures, hurricanes, and low foot traffic.

Three other Florida locations in Jacksonville, St. Pete and Valrico remain open while details for a final closing sale will be announced.

Brightwater Lagoon in North Fort Myers announced it will start hiring hospitality-driven workers today with interviews set on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1-7 p.m. Job seekers may visit the hiring office at 8630 Sunny Page Lane or apply online for positions including lifeguards, cooks, bartenders, and guest services—lifeguard candidates must pass a swimming test and complete American Red Cross training.

Gov. Ron DeSantis earmarked $25 million for water quality improvements in the Caloosahatchee River watershed—focusing on upgrades at Fort Myers treatment plants and converting septic systems in nearby areas.

The taxpayer-funded grants aim to reduce nutrient pollution and protect water quality as part of a larger $389 million state effort.

The Town and Fire District are implementing an emergency measure to handle delays caused by the construction zone at Matanzas Pass Bridge and Times Square.

During daytime hours, code enforcement will assist and rangers will stop outbound traffic at Estero Blvd. to clear the bridge for emergency vehicles — responders coordinate via two-way radios to minimize delays.

This weekend, Ted Neeley will lead a film screening of Jesus Christ Superstar on Monday, March 31 at Alliance for the Arts (10091 McGregor Blvd.) while Fort Myers hosts its 14th-annual BBQ, Bands & Brew on Sunday, March 30 at Centennial Park (2101 Edwards Drive), where local bands and vendors will perform. Other events include a Gulf Coast Symphony 30th anniversary concert on Sunday, March 30, an Alva Country Days Festival on Saturday, March 29, and a world-premiere PBS documentary screening on Thursday, April 3.

Ben Allen Band Live

6-10 p.m. | Miromar Lakes Golf Club | Ticket price not specified | Enjoy a night of country music from the talented Ben Allen, a Voice semifinalist.

Time to Paddy 5k/10k and Lucky 13.1 Half Marathon

9 AM – 1 PM | South County Regional Park | Registration required | Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a family-friendly run featuring themed swag and a festive atmosphere.

BBQ, Bands & Brew Festival

11 a.m.-6 p.m. | Caloosa Sound Amphitheater | Entry fee varies | Enjoy the best BBQ in town while supporting Lee Builder's Care with live music and fun activities for all ages.

Diane Macklin – Mining Story Gems

6-7:30 p.m. — Florida Gulf Coast University Art Galleries — Free entry — Experience dynamic storytelling as a transformative and healing art form for the community.

Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap

7:30 p.m. | Fort Myers Theatre | Ticket prices vary | Experience the suspense of Agatha Christie’s classic murder mystery with its twist ending.

Billy The Kid & The Regulators Live

7-11 p.m. — Danny's Saloon — Check venue for cost — Experience the electrifying rhythm and blues of Billy the Kid and The Regulators.

34th Annual India Fest 2025

11 a.m. - 5 p.m. — JetBlue Park — $10 adults, $5 children 5-12, under 5 free — Experience a vibrant celebration of Indian culture with food, dance, and music.

Charlie's Epic Con

10 AM – 5 PM — DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers — Entry details not specified — A vibrant celebration of geek culture with cosplayers, panels, and unique merchandise.

Happy Hour Gathering for Golf Enthusiasts

5-7 p.m. — The Center Bar — RSVP recommended — Connect with local golfers and learn about singles golf opportunities in a relaxed atmosphere.

Friday Music & Food Trucks

2-11 p.m. — Fort Myers Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy award-winning craft beer and local food trucks while jamming out to live music.