Good morning, Fort Myers.

Southwest Florida will celebrate America's 250th birthday on the Fourth of July with events across the region.

In Fort Myers, a downtown celebration is set for July 3 at 5 p.m. and July 4 at 10 a.m. + festivities will also take place in Cape Coral, Naples, and Punta Gorda.

West Marine filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and will close its Bonita Springs store at 28520 Bonita Crossings Blvd (one of eight Florida locations set to shut) as it restructures amid supply chain and weather challenges.

The Lee County Black History Society is organizing Juneteenth celebrations this weekend in Fort Myers—Saturday, June 20 features a free documentary screening and Q&A at Florida Rep’s Bunch Performance Hall to honor local history.

Hector A. Cafferata Jr. Elementary in Cape was named the 2025–2026 Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Rising Star School for its focus on relationship-building.

Principal Dr. Jason Kurtz said the recognition honors the team’s hard work and commitment to making every student feel valued.

Mariner High School graduate Elyssa Vazquez earned a $10,000 scholarship from the 2026 ScienceSaves Video Scholarship Contest after submitting a 30-second video that blended her family story with medical science.

She will attend Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the fall.

Invest 90L could become Tropical Storm Arthur later today as the National Hurricane Center monitors its progress in the Gulf — forecasts show that the storm might form from clusters of thunderstorms.

Local residents are advised to review hurricane preparations as rain may bring changing conditions.

WINK Smart advises Fort Myers residents to test their water before purchasing expensive filtration systems — EWG’s report for zip code 33901 shows three contaminants exceeding guidelines and recommends a reverse osmosis system.

County leaders are considering a nearly $4 million project to restore Bowditch Point Park after Hurricane Ian damaged the 17-acre beachfront destination in Fort Myers Beach.

The plan will repair buildings, boardwalks, and a boat dock — improving safety and accessibility for visitors.

Florida has launched the Arrive Alive campaign to remind drivers to avoid texting and impaired driving during the busy summer travel season + the two-month effort runs from June 1 to July 31 to keep roads safe for locals and visitors.

The Lee County Board approved a $1.4 million consulting contract with Hanover Construction Services LLC to oversee the new Fort Myers Beach Pier project as the county awaits Army Corps of Engineers permits.

Work will begin once the permits are received.

Grilling season is here and registered dietitian Jamie Lee McIntyre offers ways for backyard cooks to enjoy healthier meals today.

She advises using lean proteins (chicken, fish, or plant-based options) and colorful vegetables while keeping foods safe in Florida heat.

Greg Morton Stand-Up Comedy

Evening performance — Snappers Comedy Club Fort Myers — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an entertaining night with the comedic talent of Greg Morton.

The Legends - Live Merengue Performance

9:00 p.m. — Luxury Lounge Fort Myers — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant energy of live merengue typical music from The Legends.

Vince Gill's 50 Years from Home Tour

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night with one of country music's legends as he celebrates five decades in the industry.

PokeKon Fest

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers — $20, Kids under 11 free — Celebrate all things Pokémon at this family-friendly festival.

Celtic Throne II: Psalter of Ireland

7:00-10:30 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW — Ticket prices vary — Experience a dazzling fusion of Irish dance, music, and cinematic storytelling exploring ancient Ireland.

The Princess Concert

3:30-6:30 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — Starting at $41.95 — Experience a magical concert featuring unforgettable songs from beloved animated films.

Tiger Blue Band Performance

2-5 p.m. — Ragged Ass Saloon — Enjoy great rock and roll vibes with Tiger Blue as they light up the afternoon.

Made In America 250 Tribute Concert

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Fort Myers Theatre — $20.00-$30.00 — Celebrate America's 250th with a musical tribute to legends like Sinatra and Elvis.

R&B Sip and Paint Experience

4-8 p.m. — Elite Lounge — Drinks and food available — Immerse in soulful R&B vibes while unleashing your creativity on canvas.

Explorers Summer Camp at Bell Tower

10 a.m. — Bell Tower — Registration required — A fun-filled summer adventure for young explorers featuring activities and creative learning.