Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 21st of August.
Good morning, Fort Myers.
RSW in Fort Myers saw 720,973 passengers in July — the second-busiest month in its 43-year history with a 6.5% rise over last July — while Delta Air Lines led with 173,395 passengers even as year-to-date traffic fell 0.8%.
Chefs Ryan Kida and Krissy Giltner opened Echo Restaurant on Old McGregor Boulevard in south Fort Myers, serving pasta, pizza, steak and seafood in a friendly space that blends old favorites with new menu plans—live music will fill a special seating area soon.
At least 76 manatees have died from boat strikes this year — almost one in seven of all deaths — marking the highest count in five years for this time of year.
Fort Myers Beach voted to extend temporary trailer permits until June 1 for residents and businesses who prove hardship from delays with insurance, contractors, or finding new spaces.
Applications open Sept 2 and town leaders say the rule will help those rebuilding after Hurricane Ian and local businesses like Buffalo Grill—providing a key lifeline in a challenging recovery.
Since Wednesday, RSW closed the ground level of Crosswalk Number Five between 8 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.—affecting access to the rental car facility, long-term parking shuttles and taxis—and officials say the closure will last until next Friday, Aug.
29. Travelers are being directed to detour to the parking garage and ground transportation routes.
Cape Coral is expected to repair three bridges damaged by Hurricane Ian — the ones on Sands Boulevard over Eternity Canal and Surfside Boulevard over Maxine Canal.
The city is working with a consultant to complete the design and safety checks, and the council will review the plan at 4 p.m. Wednesday.
FDOT said today during a meeting with Town Councilman John King and Town Manager Will McKannay that there are no plans to change the lane setup on the Matanzas Pass Bridge—citing cost concerns and risks of extra fender benders.
Some town officials and residents expect other traffic improvements, including a new roundabout and traffic lights, will help ease congestion next season.
Lee Health opened a new surgery center in Fort Myers near Metro Parkway yesterday.
The center offers general surgical services and minimally invasive procedures that do not require overnight stays—helping ease wait times for residents and visitors.
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.
Bravo to Broadway
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — On Sale Now — Experience show-stopping hits from beloved musicals performed by Broadway veterans.
North Fort Myers Paint Party: Lilac Moon
6-9 p.m. — Seacraft Waterfront Tiki Bar — Pricing per person — Unleash your creativity while sipping tropical drinks and painting a vibrant Lilac Moon masterpiece.
Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk - Fort Myers
7:45-11:00 a.m. — Florida SouthWestern State College — Registration fee applies — Honor the legacy of a hero while participating in a meaningful community run.
Estero Art Experience: Sea Turtle Painting
6-9 p.m. — Tony Sacco's Coal Oven Pizza — Pricing per person — Unleash your creativity with an evening of painting and delicious pizza in a vibrant seaside atmosphere.
The Magic of Motown
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — Starting at $54.73 — Experience power vocalists and a live band performing timeless Motown classics.
Christian Singles Bowling Night
6:30-8:30 p.m. — HeadPinz Fort Myers — $24.50 for Hub Members, $44.50 for Non Members — Enjoy an evening of bowling, games, and fun with local Christian singles.
Marvilla Marzan Concert
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Fort Myers Theatre — General Admission and Special Package tickets available — Experience nostalgic American classics with Marvilla's enchanting vocals.
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