Good morning, Fort Myers.

Roots House of Kava is holding its grand opening today at 6 p.m. in Cape Coral at 1242 SW Pine Island Rd, Unit 19—featuring live music by Free Your Mind and DJ Embe while offering kava, kratom, teas, protein shakes, and smoothies in a family-friendly, alcohol-free setting.

Co-owners Jessica and Daniel Sloan said the new bar fills a local need by providing a healthy beverage option on the north side of Cape Coral.

The School District of Lee County announced on Thursday morning that it now has a fully staffed bus driver fleet with 555 drivers for 554 routes—reversing last week's driver shortage.

School starts next Monday, ensuring the district is ready for the new school year.

Fort Myers Beach will raise its millage rate by 26% for fiscal year 2026 to cover a $1.2 million budget gap as three town facilities face a combined $2 million deficit—Bay Oaks at $1.1 million, The Mound House at $645,000, and marine operations at $359,000.

The town says lower tax revenue and fewer residents after past storms have led to these losses and more cost for property owners until spending is balanced by about 2028.

State officials are reviewing government spending in local agencies in Lee County, Cape Coral, & Fort Myers after the Department of Government Efficiency requested financial records to boost transparency.

Lee County officials say they have already saved nearly a million dollars through efficiency efforts & promise full cooperation with further inquiries.

Squatters were found living on the second floor of the long-vacant Fort Myers Beach theater—planned to become an entertainment center with upscale dining and casual spaces—and the owner secured the building with a new lock while preparing to apply for permits to begin work in the next few months.

Ekos on Evans broke ground on Thursday at 3501 Evans Ave in Fort Myers as part of Lee County’s recovery from Hurricane Ian—this affordable housing project, with 144 units for families earning 70% or less of the area median income and backed by $17 million in federal funds, is set to complete construction by the end of 2026.

SWFL Anime-Fest Summer 2025

10 AM – 5 PM — DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops — Ticket details TBD — Celebrate all things anime in a vibrant collectors' paradise.

Estero Paint Night – Coastal Seashell Serenity

6-9 PM — Tony Sacco's Coal Oven Pizza — Ticket price varies — Create a beach-inspired painting with expert guidance and enjoy delicious pizza and drinks.

Monthly Music Walk

6:00-9:30 p.m. — Cigar Bar Live — Free entry — Enjoy a diverse lineup of local musicians from jazz to rock in downtown Fort Myers.

Comedy Night featuring Rodney Norman & Larry Venturino

7:30 p.m. — Fort Myers Theatre — Limited tickets — Enjoy a hilarious night of stand-up comedy with Rodney Norman and friends.

Freshman Football Game: Bishop Verot vs. Lemon Bay

6-8 p.m. — Bishop Verot Catholic High School — Free entry — Watch the Bishop Verot freshman football team take on Lemon Bay in a spirited home game.

Financial Power Panel: Plans for Success

11:30 a.m. — Monarcas Authentic Mexican Cuisine Bar & Grill — Admission Info TBA — Gain insights on financial planning for personal and business success from local experts.

Candlelight Concert: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons

8 p.m. — Florida Repertory Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a spectacular pop rock blend under candlelight featuring iconic hits.

Bravo to Broadway

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — On Sale Now — Experience show-stopping hits from beloved musicals performed by Broadway veterans.

North Fort Myers Paint Party: Lilac Moon

6-9 p.m. — Seacraft Waterfront Tiki Bar — Pricing per person — Unleash your creativity while sipping tropical drinks and painting a vibrant Lilac Moon masterpiece.

Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk - Fort Myers

7:45-11:00 a.m. — Florida SouthWestern State College — Registration fee applies — Honor the legacy of a hero while participating in a meaningful community run.