Good morning, Fort Myers.

The historic Rachel at the Well statue in Fort Myers was knocked off its pedestal during Hurricane Ian but is nearly restored in the same spot it has occupied for 94 years.

FEMA covered $125,000 in repairs earlier this year—work continues to complete the restoration as visitors already come to see the landmark.

Authorities arrested a 39-year-old Cape Coral man for DUI manslaughter on July 14 for a 2017 crash on Summerlin Road that killed his passenger Angela Tresenriter—he is set to appear in court on Aug.

18.

Fort Myers Beach Marine and Environmental Resources Task Force member Rob Howell warned that speeding boats in the back bay are injuring local manatees and dolphins—he has seen animal scars from boat strikes and noted that rental boaters often miss the slow-speed rules.

He cautioned that without stricter enforcement, these dangerous speeds could further damage the wildlife and vital seagrass beds.

Babcock Ranch put up 110 solar-powered streetlights from partner Streetleaf along its main parkway and six parks to make the community safer and greener.

The first phase finished in fall 2024 and more lights will be added by the end of 2025—earning the community Shine on Florida recognition.

The Florida Department of Transportation launched its Southern Slow Down campaign on July 16 to urge drivers to obey speed limits and warned that higher speeds increase crash severity and fatalities — local law enforcement is supporting the effort.

Dawn Miller from The Whale & Sandy Bottom and Marcel Chartier from DiamondHead are hosting Mullet Fest 2025 on Fort Myers Beach, where this Saturday at 11 a.m. at Lah De Dah event details and chances to win Margaritaville pool passes will be shared.

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!

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.

After Hours Networking Mixer

4-5 p.m. — Milhous Pub — Free entry — Connect with local entrepreneurs and expand your network in a relaxed setting.

Back to School Bash

10 AM – 1 PM — Bell Tower — Free entry — Celebrate the end of summer with family fun and excitement at a community gathering.

Yappy Hour at Bell Tower

6-8 p.m. — Bell Tower — Free entry — Celebrate happy hour with your furry friends in a fun community atmosphere.