Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 3rd of April.
Good morning, Fort Myers.
🏘️ Community
A record-breaking food drive in Pelican Bay collected over 20,000 pounds of food for St. Matthew's House last week, with donations +5,000 pounds above last year's total that filled a record 25+ bins at the food warehouse.
Organizers said the drive was crucial amid federal cutbacks that reduced food donations nationwide.
💼 Business
Swamp Cat Brewing Company opened in downtown Fort Myers on March 26 in a renovated 1953 church that now houses a 5,000-square-foot beer garden called The Refuge with 12 beers on tap and three food vendors.
The owners preserved original church trusses and added modern touches—such as umbrella-covered picnic tables and a stage for live music—as they plan more events to build on a strong debut.
Southwest Airlines announced 12 winter and holiday routes and will resume its flight from Chicago O'Hare to Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers, giving travelers new options this season.
The airline also introduced several routes from Nashville and other hubs to boost travel choices.
🚨 Crime
Timothy Deaton, a 74-year-old man, faces 22 felony charges for allegedly pretending to be a pastor to scam elderly residents and neighbors across Southwest Florida since 2016 — state authorities say he stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from assisted living homes and personal estates and the investigation is still going.
🏛️ Government
The City of Cape Coral terminated its agreement with food vendor The Reef LLC after it missed a $1.3 million payment deadline—records show the vendor accrued 15 days of late fees before the termination.
Construction at the renovated Jaycee Park continues today while council approval is awaited for new concession plans.
Income-eligible Lee County homeowners whose properties were damaged by hurricanes Helene or Milton in 2024 can now pre-apply for housing recovery aid through the LeeCares program – those needing assistance may visit the LeeCares Intake Center at 9400 Gladiolus Drive in south Fort Myers or call 239-382-5453 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Motorists on Saw Palmetto Parkway will face temporary eastbound lane closures from Babcock Ranch Road to Amethyst Boulevard at the TerraWalk entrance from April 9 to April 20, and westbound lane closures from April 21 to May 4 as part of an $85 million SR 31 project that began in August 2024. The project is set to finish in spring 2027 (adding three roundabouts, new traffic signals, and multi-use trails) and aims to improve traffic flow.
Longtime Fort Myers city attorney Grant Alley may lose his job over controversy regarding police immigration enforcement training.
Councilmember Darla Bonk says he did not guide the council well during votes on March 17 and March 21 and will sponsor a motion to fire him at the council meeting on April 7 — a move that came after state leaders sharply criticized the training decision.
FDOT held a public meeting at 6 p.m. (April 2) at Cape Coral Technical College to discuss safety improvements on Pine Island Road after many crashes raised concerns among local residents.
The agency reviewed ideas (traffic signals, lights, and pedestrian crosswalks) to help make the road safer.
🎉 Fort Myers Events
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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.
Open House at Fort Myers Residence
11 a.m. - 2 p.m. — 840 S Town and River Dr — Free entry — Explore a beautiful single-family home with swimming pool and ample amenities in a scenic locale.
Hot Rod Ranch Gathering
7-8 p.m. — 9690 Bayshore Rd, North Fort Myers, FL — Free entry — Engage in an open outdoor discussion at this community campfire meeting.
Les Miserables Musical
8 PM – 8 PM — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of one of the greatest musicals of all time on its North American tour.
Les Miserables
7:30 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a breathtaking new production of the beloved musical classic.
FGCU Student Showcase: Storytelling as Healing
5-7 p.m. — Veteran's Pavilion — Free admission — Witness FGCU students' spoken stories that foster community and healing through storytelling.
🏠 Fort Myers Real Estate
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💼 Fort Myers Job Board
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📣 Fort Myers Announcements
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