Good morning, Fort Myers.

On Thursday morning, May 21, the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket launched from Cape Canaveral shortly after 6 a.m., and residents from Punagorda, Fort Myers, and Naples captured its ascent as it lit up Gulf Coast skies (local views were shared via community channels).

Blinking Owl Books in Fort Myers rescued hundreds of school books from being thrown away by the Lee County School District and will give them out free to local residents — a move that helps ensure kids have more books.

Florida gas prices jumped to an average of $4.511 a gallon this week, up 30 cents since last weekend, as experts warn summer driving costs may rise if the Strait of Hormuz stays closed — Memorial Day travelers face higher fuel prices.

Rents in Fort Myers dropped by 8% to $1,169 a month as new apartments add supply - incomes have not kept up with lower prices, leaving many residents struggling with living costs.

The Lee County School District is cutting 457 positions, including 275 teacher roles, to address lower enrollment and rising costs.

District officials said fewer students during the first semester have forced these changes, prompting parents to seek more clarity on education quality.

The state announced the 2026 Florida Python Challenge will run for 10 days starting July 10 in parts of the Everglades, offering $25K in prizes to hunters who help remove invasive pythons.

Florida Fish and Wildlife officials say the event will boost efforts to protect local wildlife.

Lee County officials will release never-before-seen footage today at 9:30 a.m. at the school district headquarters at the corner of Colonial Boulevard and Metro Parkway — the press conference will include school leaders and the grandparents of a student involved in a recent incident urging safer driving.

Lee County is using new Hohonu flood sensors to track water levels during storms and share data with NOAA and the National Weather Service in preparation for hurricane season.

Lee County Electric Cooperative will station extra crews near critical facilities — officials say the measures will enhance storm readiness.

Southwest Florida Proton opened yesterday in Estero and now offers advanced proton therapy & photon radiation therapy to treat pediatric cancers while easing travel burdens for local families.

Lee Health began building a $133 million outpatient complex offering cardiac & oncology, imaging & surgical care at 2514 S.W.

2nd Court in Cape Coral on May 18; it is set to complete in 2027 to support the area's rapid growth.

Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park in Naples was named among the top 10 best U.S. beaches by Dr. Beach on May 21 & two other Florida beaches ranked, while Hawaii’s Poipu Beach took first place after evaluating 650 beaches.

The Florida Everblades will open the Eastern Conference Finals today at Hertz Arena against the Wheeling Nailers at 7:30 p.m., bolstered by the return of defenseman Cole Moberg who re-signed after a brief stint away.

Moberg’s comeback adds to a defense that set an ECHL record for the fewest goals allowed per game.

Protoje & The Indiggnation with Jesse Royal

7-10 p.m. — The Ranch Concert Hall & Saloon — Ticket prices vary — Experience the reggae invasion featuring Protoje's greatest hits live in Fort Myers.

Weird Al Yankovic Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Hertz Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the hilarious and iconic musical comedy of Weird Al Yankovic in an unforgettable multimedia show.

Cape Coral / Fort Myers Speed Dating for Singles Aged 35-49

8:15-10:15 p.m. — Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center — Ticketed event — Connect with local singles through engaging mini-dates at a vibrant art venue.

Brincos Dieras

8-11 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — Tickets start at $117 — Enjoy an engaging theatrical experience in Fort Myers.

FGCU Storytelling Conference

Jun 5-7 — Florida Gulf Coast University — Free entry — Explore the healing power of storytelling with workshops and performances from renowned storytellers.

Fleet Feet Big Run

8:00 – 10:30 AM — Bell Tower — Free entry — A welcoming event for walkers and runners of all levels at a key Fort Myers destination.

K-PopKon Fest

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers — $20 — Experience Florida's premier K-Pop convention with diverse fandoms and collectibles.

LA Hardy Comedy Show

7:30-9 p.m. — Snappers Comedy Club Fort Myers — Comedy show — Enjoy a night filled with laughter from La Hardy at one of Fort Myers' favorite venues.

Bell Tower Yappy Hour

6-8 p.m. — Bell Tower — Free entry — Enjoy happy hour with your furry friends at this local landmark.

Candlelight Concert: Coldplay and Imagine Dragons

8:30-9:30 p.m. — Music & Arts Community Center - Gulf Coast Symphony — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons performed by a string quartet under candlelight.