Familiar Fort Myers hangouts close, but downtown spirit stays strong

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK) — Downtown Fort Myers has seen two longtime businesses close their doors in recent weeks, leaving some residents wondering about the future of the area.

The Standard and Seed and Bean have both shut down, marking the end of familiar storefronts that many considered part of the heart of downtown. While business owners say it's tough to see these closures, many remain optimistic about what's ahead.

For 10 years, Andy Spaulding helped bring people through the doors of The Standard. From karaoke to charity bingo, he says, it became a place people counted on.

"We had birthday parties, wedding parties. We had the Ohio State men's chorus come in one time; that was fun. We always had the core group of people who were like just the regulars that we saw all the time," Spalding said.

When he learned the business was closing, he couldn't believe it.

"I was just shocked when I actually found out that it really was closed for good," Spaulding said.

The Standard's closure comes just weeks after Seed and Bean shut its doors. For other business owners downtown, it's a reminder of how tough things can be.

RELATED: After seven years, Downtown Fort Myers says goodbye to Seed & Bean

"It's a sad thing, because a lot of owners put their heart and soul into their businesses, and I know that they did," said Cheryl Schaaf, owner of Spirit of the Earth.

Schaaf says experience has taught her how to prepare for slower times.

"You factor it in, you put savings away, you make sure that you have enough to get through six months of hard times," Schaaf said.

Others see change as part of the natural evolution of downtown.

"I feel like sometimes it's just your time, and it's great for something new and fresh downtown," said Bailey Flinn, co-owner of Charley's Downtown Boutique.

"I just keep telling people support local business," Spaulding said.

While business owners say downtown has always experienced seasonal ups and downs, they believe attracting more events and activities could help keep foot traffic steady year-round.