Good morning, Fort Myers.

The Southwest Florida Symphony said it will close on June 30 after more than 64 years of playing music.

The group, the area's only professional orchestra, faced money troubles and lost key staff.

Crews at the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers are replacing Thomas Edison's wooden roof after 20 years—using historically accurate materials with Crowther Roofing to protect the structure from salt air, humidity and hurricanes.

The main house is closed for safety while the museum, guest house and Ford's home remain open—visitors enjoy a $5 discount on admission tickets during the project.

Teacher Appreciation Week will run from May 5 through May 9 with Teacher Appreciation Day on May 6 — local teachers suggest gift cards, gas cards, and handwritten notes as meaningful gifts while nearby businesses offer discounts to honor educators.

Sargassum, a brown seaweed that supports marine life but smells when it rots, has been spotted on Fort Myers beaches since March and experts say record amounts will reach the shore by summer as increased flow from the Amazon boosts its growth—prompting caution among beachgoers.

A new park and ride facility will open for service tomorrow on Village Lakes Boulevard in Lehigh Acres to ease traffic for residents commuting to Fort Myers; the center features four bus bays, a covered seating area, restrooms and phone charging stations + a ribbon-cutting ceremony is set for 10:30 a.m.

Residents of Fort Myers Beach must set out their trash, recycling, and yard waste by 5:30 a.m. starting May 1 & the seasonal change is designed to help haulers complete their routes before the summer heat arrives.

Town of Fort Myers Beach officials said FEMA confirmed the town will have its probation lifted on November 18—ending the $50 flood insurance surcharge and a lost 25% discount on policies, with property owners affected since April 1.

Town leaders will meet FEMA for a Community Assistance Visit by August 31 and aim for reinstatement into the Community Rating System no earlier than April 1, 2026.

Kids’ Minds Matter is helping break down barriers to teen mental health by providing behavioral health professionals and linking families with local services; it will host its annual event Normal is Overrated on May 3—where students, advocates, and community partners will share personal stories to raise awareness.

Jay Legend Live Stand-Up Comedy

May 1-3 — Snappers Comedy Club Fort Myers — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughter with the rising star of stand-up comedy, Jay Legend.

Buckler's Craft Fairs - Fort Myers 2025

May 3-4 — Lee Civic Center — Entry fee varies — Explore over 300 vendors showcasing unique handmade crafts and gifts.

Florida Gulf Coast Eagles vs. North Florida Ospreys

1 p.m. — Swanson Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a college baseball showdown while supporting your chosen cause.

Candles & Corks

6:00-8:30 p.m. — Azaleas On The Corner — Enjoy wine tasting and candle making — Create your own soy scented candle for Mother's Day while savoring delightful wines.

Jimmy Shubert Comedy Show

4:00 – 5:30 PM — Snappers Comedy Club Fort Myers — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate Mother's Day with laughter from comedian Jimmy Shubert.

Tiger Blue Band Live

7-10 p.m. — Anthony's on the BLVD — No cover charge — Experience an energizing rock performance by Tiger Blue, a local band with spirit.

Comedy Night with Danielle Mathis and Friends

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Fort Myers Theatre — Limited tickets available — Enjoy an evening of laughter with a talented lineup of comedians.

Pour Your Own Epoxy Workshop and $10 Flight Night

2-8 p.m. — Fort Myers Brewing Company — Ticket includes drink and $10 beer flights — Craft a unique epoxy charcuterie board while enjoying delicious food and drinks.

Tuesday Food Trucks

2-10 p.m. — Fort Myers Brewing Company — Free entry — Enjoy local food trucks and live music while sipping award-winning craft beer.

Happy Sea Turtle Painting Night

7-9 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $40 per person — Create unique art while enjoying a fun night out with friends.