Good morning, Fort Myers.

Local hardware stores are offering deals on hurricane items such as batteries and flashlights even though no sales tax holiday has been set, and Sunshine Ace Hardware is raffling a generator as hurricane season now begins.

Shopper Diane Sylvester said she has stocked her hurricane closet for extra safety and experts advise buying tools like power drills—helping residents avoid long lines during storms.

Ostego Bay Foundation has released its 2025 summer camp schedule running from June 9 to August 1 at 700 Fisherman’s Wharf on San Carlos Island — each camp runs Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at a cost of $275 per child.

Parents must arrange transportation and supply lunch and drinks, and a graduation luncheon will be held on the final day.

Fort Myers Beach Elementary School, founded in 1949 and once cherished by local families, is now threatened with closure as declining enrollments and rising costs put pressure on the school board.

Local parents and council members are rallying to support improvements—hoping to keep the school open for future students.

Lee County began a fertilizer blackout on Sunday in unincorporated areas to protect waterways from runoff by limiting nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers that can cause harmful algal blooms—residents are urged to keep a 10-foot buffer from water and clean up spills.

A News-Press poll found snakes are the most feared wildlife in Southwest Florida with 42% of the votes—alligators received 15% while spiders, mosquitoes, and sharks got fewer votes.

Florida House Bill 913 is awaiting the governor’s signature and will take effect on July 1st if signed, changing rules for condo and community associations.

The bill updates requirements for CAM licensing, video meeting recordings, reserve study deadlines, and email voting—changes that aim to modernize board procedures.

The Sanibel Causeway spans San Carlos Bay by connecting Sanibel Island and Punta Rassa with three separate bridge spans and two man-made islands.

Since its opening in 1963 the causeway has seen repairs following protests, lawsuits and storms including Hurricane Ian in 2022, and its islands park reopened in May as part of ongoing improvements.

Florida passed two new laws to protect pets during hurricanes—Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Trooper’s Law after a viral rescue near Tampa made headlines, making it a felony to abandon or restrain pets during emergencies with penalties up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

A second law, Dexter’s Law, set up a registry of animal abusers to impose tougher penalties while urging pet owners to prepare their animals for storms.

The Fort Myers Police Department’s proposed FY2026 budget—submitted by Chief Jason Fields—will increase by 3.9% to $61.8 million, with over $2 million allocated for new equipment and plans to fill 29 vacancies.

The request addresses rising traffic enforcement needs and growing crash investigations — key issues prompting further discussion with City Council — and aims to bolster public safety.

On-Site Tour of Senior Living Community

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — The Rose Garden Of Fort Myers — Free entry — Explore award-winning senior living options and delicious dining experiences.

Tommy D Stand-Up Comedy Show

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Snappers Comedy Club Fort Myers — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with rising star Tommy D as he shares his humorous take on life experiences.

Leanne Morgan Comedy Show

7-9 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW — Ticketed event — Enjoy a night of relatable humor and Southern charm with celebrated comedian Leanne Morgan.

SWFL SpaceCon - ComicCon & Sci-fi Convention

10 AM – 6 PM — German American Social Club of Cape Coral — $15 General Admission ($12 in costume) — Experience a cosmic collision of comics, sci-fi, anime, and gaming with special guests and non-stop entertainment.

Magnified! Kids Camp

9 AM – 12 PM — Laurel Estates — Refer to event page for cost — A fun and educational kids camp exploring the wonders of God's world.

Fort Myers Paint Party: Fabulous Flocking Flamingo

6-9 p.m. — Sea-Craft Waterfront Tiki — Tickets required — Unleash your creativity at a fun paint party featuring flamingos and tropical vibes.

Grouper Fest 2025

12-11 PM — Fort Myers Brewing Company — Free entry — Dive into a summer fest with live music and over 30 delicious food trucks.

Grouper Fest 2025

12-8 p.m. — Fort Myers Brewing Company — Free entry — Dive into three weekends of live music, food trucks, and FMBrew beer at the ultimate summer celebration.

Networking Event & Business Card Exchange

6-8 p.m. — El Estadio Latin Sports Bar & Grill — Free entry — Network with professionals while enjoying complimentary appetizers and a free drink.

Candlelight: The Best of The Beatles

6:00-6:59 p.m. — Music & Arts Community Center — Ticketed event — Experience a magical tribute to The Beatles with a string quartet surrounded by candles.