Good morning, Fort Myers.

Nonprofits in Southwest Florida face increased demand for food pantry services this summer as rising household expenses and the absence of free school lunches leave more families at risk—local groups are raising awareness and adjusting service methods to meet the need while protecting dignity.

The Fort Myers Police Department said one bicyclist died in a car crash just after 7 a.m. Tuesday in front of Trailhead Park on Veronica Shoemaker Boulevard—drivers were told to avoid the southbound lanes between Hanson Street and Winkler Avenue, which were closed for about 2 hours.

On Day 2 of Christopher Davis's trial, more witnesses are set to testify about the details of Barry Schmalbach's disappearance in summer 2023—Davis maintains his not guilty plea.

Michael Pape, a first-year social studies teacher at North Fort Myers Academy of the Arts, received the Dr. James A.

Adams Teacher of the Year for Law Related Education award from the Lee County Bar Association during its annual Law Week Awards and Luncheon at the Riverside Community Center in Fort Myers + his principal Andrew Miller and board member Debbie Jordan congratulated him on his dedication to his students.

Tuesday morning, an Eagle Alert warned that bears had been seen foraging near North Lake Village on the FGCU campus as police searched the area for signs of an adult bear and cubs — campus officials reminded residents to use trash compactors and FGCU President Aysegul Timur was seen inspecting building improvements.

A new water quality monitoring station was installed at the Mound House through a grant by the Chamber Water Foundation and is now operated by the town and Mound House at 451 Connecticut Street on Fort Myers Beach.

Florida Gulf Coast University provides a year of tech support — the station is the only live sensor in Estero Bay and the project raised $32,081.64 in funds.

Town of Fort Myers Beach Councilmember Karen Woodson responded to a recall petition by denying that she accepted unreported gifts or violated the Sunshine Law—she said these claims should have been reported if true.

Petitioners must now collect more signatures to force an early election or prompt a resignation.

The Town of Fort Myers Beach Council and Local Planning Agency will hold a joint meeting on Thursday to review community input gathered in public sessions for updates to the town’s comprehensive plan and land development code.

The report shows many residents oppose tall structures and dense development — suggesting a limit of six stories — and want to preserve the town’s small-town identity and infrastructure.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed Senate Bill 1622 — a law that gives local governments the power to set beach use — on Tuesday; the bill will use funds from the 2025-2026 state budget for beach restoration and hurricane recovery efforts.

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.

Red, White & Boom!

5-10 p.m. — Cape Coral Bridge — Community event — Celebrate Independence Day with fun, community vibes and a spectacular fireworks view.

Priority Business Solutions Freedom 5K & Kid's Fun Run

7-10 a.m. — Chamber of Commerce of Cape Coral — $20 entry — Participate in a festive 5K run and kids' fun run benefiting local initiatives.

Kids Fishing Event

10 a.m. - 1 p.m. — Bass Pro Shops — Free entry — Equip your little anglers with rods and bait for some catch and release fun on the back lake!

The Bowl Grand Opening! FREE family event!

GRAND OPENING celebration at The Bowl - Daniel's Pkwy! Bring the fam and feel the vibes - it's a fun-filled, family friendly event you won't want to miss! -Organic & dairy free acai bowls, smoothies, matcha, espresso drinks, cold brew coffee, kava/elixirs and more! -Face painting -Giveaways All Day - including free food, drinks and merch! -25% off your Entire Order when you follow us on IG! -Music and more! Come celebrate our newest location with good food, good vibes and great company. Location in the Whole Foods plaza - 6881 Daniels Pkwy, Fort Myers!

Open House in Verdana Village

12-3 p.m. — 18651 Ives Dr, Estero, FL — Free entry — Explore a stunning custom saltwater pool home featuring numerous upgrades and community amenities.

Women Veteran Warriors Monthly Meeting

6-8 p.m. — MISSION BBQ — Free entry — Connect with fellow women veterans and share stories over delicious BBQ.

Elvis Costello & The Imposters with Charlie Sexton

7-10 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience a showcase of classic hits from Elvis Costello’s illustrious career alongside Charlie Sexton in a dynamic rock performance.

El Blachy Live Concert

9 PM — Luxury Lounge Fort Myers — Ticket prices apply — Enjoy an unforgettable night with merengue music by the talented El Blachy.

Florida Grade School State Championships

8 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Estero Recreation Center — $ — Witness young basketball talents compete in this prestigious state championship event.

Valvoline Instant Oil Change School Supply Drive

Join Valvoline Instant Oil Change® for our annual #DriveForSuccess School Supply Drive to support students in Lee and Collier County. Donate new school supplies and receive 20% off your total purchase as a thank-you for giving back from July 14th - August 3rd!