Good morning, Fort Myers.

Big Bertha is still looking for a loving home + Gulf Coast Humane Society is working with families in Fort Myers to help adopt her.

Fort Myers Beach hired design firm Opulent to draft a new pool rendering at Bay Oaks Recreational Campus after Hurricane Ian damaged the original in 2022.

Council approved a $135,000 contract + the design must match the original footprint to meet federal funding rules before moving to contractor procurement.

A family of four and their dog escaped a Cape Coral house fire early Tuesday morning after smoke alarms alerted them to danger, and firefighters later extinguished flames that spread from a shed into the attic, rendering the home a total loss (cause under investigation).

Local boutique Mainstream Boutique in North Fort Myers will debut fresh fall fashions in early August for back-to-school shoppers, offering versatile styles for students, parents, and teachers (new inventory arrives daily to beat the busy season).

When classrooms reopen next month, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is working with schools and gear manufacturers to form fishing clubs for students.

Teachers, coaches, or parents will organize lessons on ethical angling and conservation, with free gear available (registration begins August 20 at 8 a.m.).

The Florida Python Challenge is underway from 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 10 to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 19 in FWC-managed areas in the Everglades + hunters must humanely remove pythons for a chance to win cash prizes, including a $10,000 grand prize.

Florida's Attorney General James Uthmeier subpoenaed General Mills to review records on potassium bromate use in breads sold on local grocery shelves & the inquiry seeks details on product data and health research to protect consumer safety.

Health officials reported rising cyclosporiasis cases across 31 states—Florida confirmed 50 cases including 9 in Lee county.

They urge residents to practice good hygiene and thoroughly wash fresh produce to help prevent further illness.

When outages occur due to storms or heat waves, Fort Myers homeowners can choose from portable battery banks costing under $100 for short-term needs or portable generators and whole-house systems installed for $5,000 to $20,000 + solar-powered options.

Experts advise matching backup power to household needs and fuel or installation costs.

Mind Over Muscle: A Wellness Party for a Purpose

9 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Backyard Social — $5 — Celebrate wellness with fitness classes, local vendors, and support for mental health scholarships.

Spanish Comedy Night with Francisco Ramos

9:30 PM — Snappers Comedy Club Fort Myers — Ticket prices vary — Experience an evening of laughter with renowned Latino comedians sharing their humorous stories.

Nike Basketball Camp at South Fort Myers High School

9 a.m.-3 p.m. — South Fort Myers High School — $420 — Elevate your basketball skills with expert coaching and fun competitions.

Group Ukulele Lessons

2-3 p.m. — Alliance for the Arts — Free — Strum, sing, and connect through music in a welcoming ukulele class for all skill levels.

The Wizard of Oz

7:30 p.m. — Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Follow the Yellow Brick Road in this beloved musical adventure with memorable songs and characters.