Good morning, Fort Myers.

Charlie's Cards and Collectibles is hosting a free event with cards, collectibles and vendors at Edison Mall on Saturday, Oct.

17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will gather families + collectors from Fort Myers and nearby areas.

Lee County is accepting diaper donations for local families until Friday, Oct.

23. Drop-offs are available at recreation centers, libraries, and Healthy Start Southwest Florida offices.

Southwest Florida’s first Buc-ee's has been approved for construction — it is set to open on Labor Day 2029.

Officials say the massive convenience store will bring a new retail landmark to the area.

The Lee County High School Student of the Week poll is open from Oct.

5 to Oct. 8 — nominees from local schools can be voted on until 5 p.m. Thursday with a winner announced Friday.

Southwest Florida school districts protect students with seatbelt-equipped buses, twice-daily drills, and parent apps, while the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration School Bus Safety Week begins in two weeks + drivers are urged to watch for students near buses.

A tropical disturbance in the Gulf is expected to develop into a tropical depression or storm later this week, and Florida will see heavy rain and gusty winds from Friday through the weekend.

Today, the National Hurricane Center is tracking a low-pressure system in the southwestern Gulf with a 70% chance of forming into a tropical depression later this week.

Experts warn that further rains may impact the Gulf Coast & record-warm waters could boost the system.

Federal forecasters say a very strong El Niño is underway today, raising heavy rain chances and storm potential in the south including Fort Myers as shifting weather patterns may bring flood risks + while also easing drought in the Southwest.

Fort Myers Beach pier project begins with safety measures as snowbirds and tourists arrive this season.

Lee County says residents should avoid fenced areas while crews soon install concrete piles and set up a 150-foot safety zone around active work.

More than 20 million Medicare Part B enrollees will receive a one-time $90 payment to help cover premiums, including nearly 1.4 million seniors statewide.

Local beneficiaries can expect direct deposits & mailed checks beginning early October and should check with Medicare for payment status.