Good morning, Fort Myers.

A Fort Myers pizza shop won third place for World’s Best Cheese Slice in the Southeast US at the 2025 Pizza Expo in Las Vegas.

Uncle Rico's Pizza—located at 2960 Cleveland Ave and owned by Enrico Aguila—earned the award as Aguila thanked his mentors and wife for their support.

On Wednesday, Deputy Will May—responding to a trespassing call at a Dollar General store—was fatally shot in a shootout with a suspect in Walton County and later died at hospital despite returning fire, leaving behind his wife and two teenage children.

A boating incident near Punta Gorda saw charter captain Brock Horner jump onto a young fisherman's boat on April 1 after shouting about a missing light, and Horner—owner of Tarpon Coast Fishing Charters—has now apologized and taken down his website as local authorities and the Coast Guard investigate.

A former sheriff’s office commander alleged that his superiors pressured him to alter his report about an off-duty deputy’s DUI arrest in 2023 — his whistleblower letter dated October 27th detailed his account and the sheriff’s office did not comment.

Canterbury senior Sophia Brook earned a full tuition scholarship to New York University Tisch School of the Arts after performing in 33 shows and films.

She said she will visit New York in two weeks (she will learn which studio program fits her talents) as she prepares for a career in film.

Misty Bruckner of Elite DNA Behavioral Health joined Gulf Coast News to explain how to spot burnout during National Stress Awareness Month—she said signs like trouble sleeping, headaches, and irritability may mean it’s time to find more balance between work and home life.

Florida Gulf Coast University women’s basketball team has hired Raina Harmon as its new head coach—she spent eight years as an assistant at Iowa where she helped post a 208 to 63 record with five Big10 titles—and will be introduced at an invitation-only event on April 8.

FGCU announced on Friday that it hired Iowa assistant coach Raina Harmon to replace Chelsea Lyles as the new head coach for its women's basketball team—Harmon brings eight years of winning experience and will rebuild the program with a mostly new roster.

Her hiring marks a swift change as FGCU prepares for the next season.

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.

Family Fun Night at Bell Tower

5-7 p.m. — Bell Tower — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of music, food, and activities while supporting young entrepreneurs at their own market.

Kids Easter Egg Hunt

10-11 a.m. — Sun Retreats Fort Myers Beach — Free entry — A delightful morning adventure for kids filled with egg hunting excitement.