HISTORY COLUMN: A ‘whooping’ Christmas in old Punta Gorda
Good Day to all, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and Happy Holidays!
Now You Know: Collier, Lee merge Relay For Life events, more
The American Cancer Society recently announced that the Relay For Life events of in Lee and Collier counties have merged, “uniting communities for an even stronger and more impactful movement in the fight against cancer.” The combined Relay For Life of Southwest Florida will take place from 6 until 9 p.m., Saturday,...
In 2026, at least 3 SW FL endeavors emerge with Mercato-like ambitions
With seemingly everyone wanting their own Mercato, similar versions of the popular Naples entertainment destination will be coming together in 2026 to transform various Southwest Florida corridors. That, all while the original looks to make improvements of its own. It's as though Lee and Collier county residents are...
Newsweek Names SanCap Community Bank to ‘America’s Best 2025’ List
Sanibel Captiva Community Bank is honored to announce that it has been selected as one of the top regional financial institutions in the United States, earning a place on the 2025 list of “America’s Best Regional Banks & Credit Unions” by Newsweek and Plant‑A Insights Group.
Fort Myers Beach regains 25% flood insurance discount after FEMA rating rebound post-Ian
FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. — The town of Fort Myers Beach announced that it has regained its Class 5 Federal Emergency Management Agency rating, unlocking a 25% flood insurance discount. For residents, the town says, this means that most flood insurance policies will receive a 25% discount. They add...
Fort Myers police pull over car with no windshield, bumper and airbags blown; Driver...
FORT MYERS, Fla. — The Fort Myers Police Department is reminding drivers to make sure that their vehicles are roadworthy before hitting the road. Officers stopped a vehicle on the Edison Bridge with no front bumper, no windshield, and multiple deployed airbags. They say that due to serious safety hazards, the vehicle...
Restaurants open on Christmas Day in Southwest Florida
FORT MYERS, Fla. — If you're out and about on Christmas Day or want to enjoy a nice meal instead of spending half of Christmas in the kitchen, multiple restaurants across Southwest Florida are open on Christmas Day. While there are plenty of options, here are 15 restaurants across...
One Injured, One Arrested After Argument at Port Charlotte Homeless Camp
PORT CHARLOTTE — December 22, 2025 — A woman was arrested after a man was injured during an argument at a homeless camp in Port Charlotte, according to the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded just after noon on December 21 to the area of Kenesaw Street...
Wood storks flourishing at Joe Coviello Park
Joe Coviello Park has become a sanctuary for the protected Wood Stork, a species that has seen a remarkable resurgence in recent years. Named after the late Cape Coral Mayor Joe Coviello—who was a strong advocate for expanding green spaces and preserving the city’s natural environment—this 50.4-acre nature preserve...
Our Mother’s Home marks 25 years
Our Mother’s Home of Southwest Florida proudly presents its third annual “A Seat at the Table,” a uniquely immersive fundraising experience and the signature event marking the organization’s 25th anniversary. The celebration will take place on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, under the oak canopies at the historic Burroughs...

















