Good morning, Fort Myers.

A family visiting Fort Myers Beach from Iowa saw an alligator swimming near the shore Saturday — a rare sight for many though wildlife officials note that alligators naturally swim in the Gulf.

Officials advised visitors to keep their distance when encountering these animals.

Youth Theatre at Alliance for the Arts announces Dreamland, a musical comedy that reimagines Shakespeare’s Midsummer with high school performers.

The show runs from April 30 to May 3 at the Foulds Theatre (tickets are $20, $15 for students/kids).

Drivers in Fort Myers can cut gas costs by comparing prices with mobile apps + joining loyalty programs at local retailers and clubs as prices remain high and vary nearby.

Three high-achieving seniors from local high schools are nominated for Lee County Student of the Week for their academic excellence, leadership and community involvement.

Community voting is open online until 5 p.m. on Thursday, and the winner will be announced on Friday, April 24.

Firefighters contained the Newman Fire after it burned over 1,700 acres near east Naples, reaching 95% containment by the weekend + drought and watering restrictions continue as local officials prepare for a more active wildfire season.

Lee County deputy Chris Lacy was named Officer of the Year at the Law and Order Ball hosted by the Rotary Club of South Fort Myers — officials said his dedication builds trust and touches lives in the community.

Florida will enforce new SNAP rules in Lee County starting Monday, banning soda, candy, and processed desserts (aiming to boost nutrition) while critics say the change may cut choice.

Sound Garden Kava Bar on McGregor Blvd. offers a nonalcoholic venue with live music, art and community gatherings.

Open daily from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., the space provides a safe, welcoming alternative where guests connect over conversation — music.

Three Fort Myers restaurants now offer inviting, fresh meals for casual dining.

Bimini Basin Seafood and Cocktails on Tudor Drive, Ford’s Garage downtown, and Oar and Iron on Dani Drive serve colorful salads, ahi tuna bowls, craft beers and allergy-friendly dishes.

FGCU's men's basketball team lost key players to the transfer portal this season as star players Isaiah Malone, Jordan Ellerbee and Rahmir Barno left, and the program will rebuild with returning players and new recruits for next season.

Local flag football districts prepare for postseason play this week, with undefeated Bonita Springs meeting Bishop Verot in Class 2A-District 13 and Mariner plus Gateway Charter competing in Classes 3A-District 11 and 12, respectively (standout players include top passers and defenders).

The Everblades retired former captain John McCarron's No. 25 jersey Saturday night at Hertz Arena, recognizing his lasting contributions—fans praised his dedication ahead of the team's home playoffs opener Friday at 7:00 p.m. against the Savannah Ghost Pirates.

Greatest American Earth Day Cleanup

8:30-11:30 a.m. — Wild Turkey Strand Preserve — Free entry — Make a real impact in Lee County’s beautiful wilderness by participating in an Earth Day cleanup event.

Jack Willhite's Rock and Roll Comedy Show

7-9 p.m. — Fort Myers Theatre — Limited seating — Experience a hilarious fusion of rock music and comedy with Jack Willhite.

Touch-a-Truck Event

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Pediatric Dentistry of Florida — Free admission — Interactive fun where kids learn about trucks and meet the professionals who drive them.

Theresa Caputo Live! The Experience

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — Tickets starting at $64.98 — Embrace messages of healing from the renowned Long Island Medium in an unforgettable live experience.

2nd Annual Fort Myers Blueberry Fest

10 AM – 5 PM — Mike Greenwell Regional Park — Admission details not specified — Celebrate blueberries with food, fun, and community activities.

Candlelight: Tribute to Bad Bunny

8:30-9:30 p.m. — Music & Arts Community Center - Gulf Coast Symphony — Tickets available — Experience the magic of Bad Bunny's music in a one-of-a-kind candlelight concert.

Phil Hogan Comedy Show

7-10 p.m. — Snappers Comedy Club — Free entry — Enjoy a night of Southern flavored comedy and music with the talented Phil Hogan.

Phil Hogan Live Comedy Show

6-10 p.m. — Snappers Comedy Club Fort Myers — Tickets from $80 — Experience Phil Hogan's unforgettable comedy at a top-rated venue.

Forever Motown Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — Tickets from $92 — Enjoy an unforgettable live Motown experience in Fort Myers.

Jason Mraz Live Concert

7-9 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy live music from the two-time GRAMMY® Award-winning singer-songwriter known for his uplifting pop hits.