The holiday season brings celebrations, decorations and time with loved ones – but also significant increase in waste. Lee County Solid Waste has some simple tips to help residents reduce their environmental footprint this season. In Lee County, household waste typically increases by about 20% during the holiday season. From wrapping paper and empty bottles […]
Harns Marsh Middle School’s Barbara Rebeor Named 2025–2026 DoD STEM Ambassador
The School District of Lee County is proud to announce that Barbara Rebeor, Science Department Chair and teacher at Harns Marsh Middle School, has been selected as a 2025–2026 Department of Defense (DoD) STEM Ambassador. Rebeor is one of only 30 educators nationwide to receive this prestigious honor for the upcoming year. “I believe strong […]
Exciting Author Lineup Planned for 2026 Southwest Florida Reading Festival
Lee County Library System will welcome more than two dozen authors to its 27th annual Southwest Florida Reading Festival on Saturday, March 7, 2026. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. readers of all ages can meet their favorite writers, hear behind-the-scenes stories and get books signed at this free, outdoor community event hosted at the […]
13th Annual Golisano Children’s Hospital Fashion Show Raises $113,000+
The 13th Annual Golisano Children’s Hospital Fashion Show raised $113,905 to support the SEA STAR Program at Golisano Children’s Hospital, an initiative dedicated to providing specialized care for children with various sensory sensitivities. The event was held on Dec. 5 at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in Bonita Springs. Guests enjoyed a silent […]
DOH-Lee Encourages a Healthy 2025 Holiday Season
The Florida Department of Health in Lee County (DOH-Lee) encourages residents and visitors to enjoy a healthy and safe holiday season by following the tips below. Food Safety Physical Health and Mental Well-Being The holiday season often comes with busier schedules, making it extra important to take care of mental well-being and physical health. Decoration and Travel […]
Lee County Domestic Animal Services Announces New Community Resource to Reunite Lost and Found Pets
Lee County Domestic Animal Services today announced the roll out of the Find My Pet Portal: Community Working Together to Bring Pets Home. The portal is another community engagement tool for residents to “self-help” with stray animals. The portal was launched during a presentation to the Lee Board of County Commissioners at the regularly scheduled […]
Light Up LaBelle Parade & Christmas in the Park Returns December 5th
The City of LaBelle invites the entire community to join in one of the area’s most beloved holiday traditions—the Light Up LaBelle Parade & Christmas in the Park, happening Friday, December 5, 2025, at 6:00 PM. Each year, this family-friendly celebration brings together residents and visitors for an evening filled with twinkling lights, festive floats, […]
Lineworker Who Responded to Southwest Florida Storms Celebrates 90th Birthday
Florida Power and Light Company (FPL) lineworkers reach extraordinary milestones throughout their careers – from enhancing the electric grid during sunny skies to responding on the frontlines after hurricanes and severe weather. One former FPL lineworker recently reached a personal milestone worth celebrating. John “JJ” VanRiel turned 90 years old on Nov. 14. A […]
Lee County Parks & Recreation Offers Holiday Events Countywide Throughout December
Lee County Parks & Recreation is offering holiday events throughout December. Events include: Gather the whole family for a festive Holiday Market featuring delicious food trucks, fun holiday crafts, free photos with Santa, and a selection of unique handmade items for sale. Admission is free. For more information, contact the Wa-Ke Hatchee Recreation Center at […]
Paradise Podiatry: Expert Care for Feet That Keep Southwest Florida Moving
Special to EastLeeNews.com Imagine walking barefoot on a Fort Myers beach, only to be sidelined by nagging heel pain or a stubborn wound that won’t heal in our humid climate. For nearly 20 years, Dr. Duane F. Cumberbatch has seen how undiagnosed nerve problems and preventable complications can rob people of their mobility and joy, […]
