Good morning, Fort Myers.

Community gardens are thriving across Southwest Florida as local nonprofits help residents grow food and build connections.

Projects like the four-year THRIVEability Garden in Naples (which offers therapeutic and vocational experiences) and Bloomingful at Gulf Coast Medical Center (with plans to expand to a hospital and Lehigh Acres) show the growing impact on the community.

Fort Myers residents worry the new 11 story hotel approved by the Fort Myers Historic Preservation Commission may change the historic district's charm while the City Council must still approve the extra height.

The hotel will be built on a vacant lot across from the Sydney and Berne Davis Art Center and add 35 rooms needed for it to be viable — opinions remain divided.

Lee County officials compiled a list of food assistance sites for local residents in need—this list includes food pantries like Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida, South Fort Myers Food Pantry, and programs such as SNAP, with community members invited to email suggestions to add more resources.

Lee County deputies pulled an elderly couple and their dog from a burning mobile home in North Fort Myers late Tuesday night – two other residents were injured and two dogs died in the fire.

Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers seeks public help identifying a man accused of fraudulently using a credit card during a Feb 2 incident at Home Depot located at 14655 S.

Tamiami Trail in Fort Myers—anonymous tips may lead to a cash reward up to $3,000.

While working at Brooke’s Restaurant in North Fort Myers, Leviticus Haney—who relies on his e-bike for independence due to his brain injury—discovered his bike was stolen Monday night, and local authorities are investigating the theft as coworkers raise funds to help him.

On July 9, Colorado State University updated its forecast for the hurricane season, predicting 16 named storms, 8 hurricanes and 3 major hurricanes with factors like warm Atlantic waters and high Caribbean shear affecting development.

Florida faces a 90% chance of a named storm — residents are urged to prepare since one storm can make it an active season.

The Conservancy of Southwest Florida released data on July 10 showing there were 477 nests — 675 false crawls — eight emerged nests — and 895 hatchlings on Keewaydin Island, offering key details on sea turtle activity.

The 2025 Florida Python Challenge starts today as hunters gather in the Everglades to remove invasive Burmese pythons that threaten native wildlife & protect the ecosystem.

Last year, 857 participants removed 195 snakes, and organizers expect this event to boost public awareness and conservation efforts.

Florida Grade School State Championships

8 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Estero Recreation Center — $ — Witness young basketball talents compete in this prestigious state championship event.

Valvoline Instant Oil Change School Supply Drive

Join Valvoline Instant Oil Change® for our annual #DriveForSuccess School Supply Drive to support students in Lee and Collier County. Donate new school supplies and receive 20% off your total purchase as a thank-you for giving back from July 14th - August 3rd!

LIFCON 2025

All day — Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa — $449.00 – $499.00 — Experience the annual LaBlast® Fitness convention with like-minded fitness enthusiasts.

The Little Mermaid Musical

6:30 PM - 8:30 PM — Fort Myers Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Dive into a magical underwater adventure with Ariel and her enchanting journey.

ABWA Sunset Cruise on the Gulf!

6-9 p.m. — Salty Sam's Marina — Ticket required — Enjoy a picturesque sunset cruise with fellow members and raffle opportunities on the Gulf.

Kids in the Hall: Brain Candy Screening with Kevin McDonald

7-9 p.m. — Fort Myers Theatre — $ — Experience a special screening of the cult classic Brain Candy followed by an engaging Q&A with Kevin McDonald.

Basketball Camp: Point Guard College

July 21-25 — Florida Southwestern State College — $995 — Elevate your basketball skills and become a smarter player on the court at this immersive camp experience.

Fort Myers Art Night: Swimming with Turtles

6-9 p.m. — Sea-Craft Waterfront Tiki — Cost of painting supplies — Get creative with tropical vibes while painting sea turtles and enjoying delicious food and drinks.

Open House for Stunning Villa

1-4 p.m. — 10406 Santiva Way — Free entry — Explore an immaculate 2-bedroom villa with luxury upgrades and a serene preserve view.

Owl Pellet Dissection Workshop

1:30-3:00 p.m. — Collaboratory — Registration required — Discover the fascinating world of owls through hands-on dissection activities.