Good morning, Fort Myers.

Harry Chapin Food Bank received a new Peterbilt Model 548 truck following a $250,000 donation from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation—this truck will transport refrigerated and canned food to families and support over 175 agency partners across five local counties.

The new vehicle will help speed up food deliveries to those in need.

Allegiant Air announced it will add six new nonstop routes from Florida airports starting in November—three from Fort Myers to Allentown, Appleton and Des Moines and three linking Sarasota, Fort Lauderdale and Punta Gorda—offering fares as low as $49 for select flights.

Allegiant Air announced that Southwest Florida International Airport will see seven new nonstop routes launching this fall, including flights to Allentown, Appleton, and Des Moines—offering one-way fares as low as $69 and providing more travel options for Fort Myers travelers.

Alliance for the Arts in Fort Myers will close its main building from Sept.

1 to Oct. 3 for a major refresh to mark its 50th anniversary — the upgrades include new flooring, an upgraded kitchen and repairs while the Edwards Building stays open for classes; contractors must submit proposals by Aug. 1 as the project also calls for volunteers and donations.

IMAG History & Science Center received a generous grant from Lee County Industrial Development Authority + FutureMakers Coalition to launch a new STEM after-school program for K-5 students at its Fort Myers center and the STEMLab in Estero.

The program runs from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and will offer training in robotics, coding, technology, and engineering along with transportation, scholarships, and a career-focused intake process for families.

Kevin Karnes and Matt Caldwell will lead a free class on property assessments and disputes on Aug 7 from 2—3 p.m. at the Cape Coral-Lee County Public Library on SW 39th Terrace; they will explain how property values are determined and how residents can contest an assessment while answering questions after the session.

Fort Myers City Council directed city staff to move forward with plans to demolish City of Palms Park after several redevelopment proposals failed, and staff will calculate demolition costs—estimated at about $1 million—while looking at ways to preserve parts like the stadium offices & locker room. Some council members expressed hesitation to fully demolish the facility because of its community ties and the land’s redevelopment value.

Lee County first responders and utility companies will host a storm preparedness expo on Tuesday to gear up for the peak of hurricane season and ensure quick power restoration.

Commissioner Brian Hamman said the Department of Public Safety building now fits 250 agency staff—FPL will use drones and a mobile command unit while LCEC has upgraded its transmission structures.

Florida lawmakers made a permanent sales tax holiday for hurricane supplies by making key items tax-free, including batteries, generators, tarps, ground anchors & tie-down kits.

The tax break will start Friday, Aug. 1 to help residents lower costs ahead of hurricane season.

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!

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.

SWFL Anime-Fest Summer 2025

10 AM – 5 PM — DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops — Ticket details TBD — Celebrate all things anime in a vibrant collectors' paradise.

Estero Paint Night – Coastal Seashell Serenity

6-9 PM — Tony Sacco's Coal Oven Pizza — Ticket price varies — Create a beach-inspired painting with expert guidance and enjoy delicious pizza and drinks.

Monthly Music Walk

6:00-9:30 p.m. — Cigar Bar Live — Free entry — Enjoy a diverse lineup of local musicians from jazz to rock in downtown Fort Myers.

Comedy Night featuring Rodney Norman & Larry Venturino

7:30 p.m. — Fort Myers Theatre — Limited tickets — Enjoy a hilarious night of stand-up comedy with Rodney Norman and friends.

Freshman Football Game: Bishop Verot vs. Lemon Bay

6-8 p.m. — Bishop Verot Catholic High School — Free entry — Watch the Bishop Verot freshman football team take on Lemon Bay in a spirited home game.

Financial Power Panel: Plans for Success

11:30 a.m. — Monarcas Authentic Mexican Cuisine Bar & Grill — Admission Info TBA — Gain insights on financial planning for personal and business success from local experts.

Candlelight Concert: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons

8 p.m. — Florida Repertory Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a spectacular pop rock blend under candlelight featuring iconic hits.