In the news
FSW launches two new academic schools to advance health education
Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) has restructured its School of Health Professions into two new academic schools: the School of Nursing and the School of Allied Health. This strategic move strengthens FSW’s health education programs to better serve students and meet workforce needs across Southwest Florida. The School of Nursing (SoN) will focus solely on…
Read MoreLee Commissioners vote to request using some BP/Deepwater Horizon recovery funds for pier
The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted to submit a request to use $7 million awarded following BP/Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill in 2010 for the planned restoration and expansion of the Fort Myers Beach Pier. The Fort Myers Beach Pier, an iconic tourist destination and recreational fishing asset, was destroyed by Hurricane Ian in 2022.…
Read MoreCRA announces storm mitigation and resiliency grants
Applications are now open for the Fort Myers Community Redevelopment Agency’s (CRA) Storm Mitigation and Resiliency Grants for downtown Fort Myers businesses. The new program is designed to strengthen the economic heartbeat of Downtown Fort Myers by equipping local businesses with tools and strategies to withstand and recover from severe weather events. The grant will…
Read MoreFort Myers Beach reminds property owners of deadline for permit extensions
Temporary Placement Permits (TPPs), originally issued in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, are set to expire on Sept. 23, 2025. Recognizing that recovery timelines differ for each household, the Fort Myers Beach Town Council adopted Resolution 25-251 on Aug. 18, creating a pathway for property owners facing certain hardship situations to apply for a permit…
Read MoreNaples Players Academy receives $1 million gift from Patty & Jay Baker
The Naples Players Academy of Dramatic Arts (TNPA) officially welcomed its first class of full-time students on Sept. 2, marking a milestone moment for arts education in Southwest Florida. The innovative full-time performing arts school began its inaugural year with 28 middle and high school students enrolled, blending academic studies with intensive theatre training in…
Read MoreLee County Tourist Development Council welcomes new members
The Lee Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) recently appointed John Lai and Lori Fayhee to the Lee County Tourist Development Council (TDC). Lai will serve as a nonvoting member of the TDC representing the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) and Fayhee will serve as a nonvoting member of the TDC representing the Village of…
Read MoreState releases Hurricane Milton & Helene recovery update
Highlights: As of Sept. 15, more than 500 FEMA staff are on the ground in Florida to help survivors recover from Hurricanes Milton and Helene. FEMA continues to process applications, receive and manage appeals, conduct inspections and assist applicants and local officials with questions and information about recovery programs. FEMA may call Floridians who applied…
Read MoreHarbour House Naples submits plans to City of Naples Design Review Board
Harbour House Naples, an exclusive new luxury condominium development planned for 1624 Gulf Shore Boulevard North, has officially submitted its architectural and landscape plans to the City of Naples Design Review Board. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the transformation of one of Naples’ most iconic waterfront addresses. The property, formerly part of…
Read MoreOn the Bay at Matanzas to reopen on Fort Myers Beach
On the Bay, formerly known as Matanzas on the Bay, a Fort Myers Beach favorite since the 1970s, is set to reopen soon for the first time since Hurricane Ian. Known for its views of Matanzas Pass and its fresh-from-the-Gulf menu, On the Bay has been a staple for both locals and visitors. Guests can…
Read MoreFinalists announced for 2025 Industry Appreciation Awards
Finalists for the 2025 Industry Appreciation Awards have been announced by the Horizon Foundation, Horizon Council and Lee County Economic Development Office. The Industry Appreciation Awards celebrate Lee County businesses that drive the local economy, employ our workforce and shape their industries. Winners will be announced at an awards luncheon Friday, Oct. 24, at Caloosa…
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