Tuesday, August 26th, 2025

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Good morning, Fort Myers. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 26th of August.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Lee County Domestic Animal Services said the Clear the Shelters event held Saturday, Aug. 23 was a major success—64 cats and dogs found new homes during the one-day adoption special at the shelter on Banner Drive in Fort Myers. The department continues to receive new stray pets and encourages residents to adopt year-round. Cape Coral Breeze
- ➤ A recent analysis by the Community Redevelopment Agency finds that fixing up historic McCollum Hall with spaces for co-working and dining will help bring new life and culture to the area. The plan—using a phased approach and a potential private partnership with federal tax credits—will be shared at a meeting on Wednesday at City Hall. WGCU
- ➤ The Punta Rassa boat ramp in Fort Myers reopened yesterday after nearly three years of closure due to Hurricane Ian—repair work continues to be done for safe use. The News-Press
- ➤ North Fort Myers residents are pushing back against Horizon Tamiami’s plan for a 468 unit apartment complex on land at Brooks Road and US 41—neighbors worry about property values, rising insurance costs, and higher population density, even though the development will use only 20 of 28 acres to spare the wetlands. Lee County Local Planning Agency will review the proposal on Monday at 9 a.m. in Room 118 at the Administration East Building. ABC7
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Whataburger will open its first Southwest Florida location in south Fort Myers next fall at a vacant restaurant space on South Cleveland Avenue at 12916 S. Cleveland Ave.—a site that has hosted chains like Boston Market and Aussie Grill—and the chain will bring its 24/7 service to the local area. WINK News
CRIME NEWS
- ➤ Authorities are looking for Mike Borrell, 43, who violated his probation after a violent armed burglary in which his group broke into a home and demanded drugs and cash while he pistol-whipped a victim — he tested positive for cocaine after serving two years in Lee County jail. ABC7
- ➤ Authorities are searching for Anthony Widzins—40 years old with 113 prior arrests on charges of drugs, theft, DUI, and burglary—after he violated his probation following a DUI arrest and truck burglary; he will be held without bond once apprehended. ABC7
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Residents in North Fort Myers are concerned about a rainbow-colored oily sheen on the Caloosahatchee River from abandoned boats left since hurricane 2022, and the Coast Guard is investigating — experts warn that even small leaks could harm tourism and river wildlife including sawfish pups during their peak pupping season. WINK News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Fort Myers Beach now offers application forms for emergency temporary placement permits that let trailer owners seek an extension past Sept. 23 due to hardships from Hurricane Ian recovery. The town will assess delays in financing, construction, or permits and may grant extensions up to 2027—requiring an action plan and evacuation plan. Beach Observer and Beach Bulletin
SEASONAL NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR One of our top fall decor picks is this true-to-life fall foliage garland. It’s perfect for staircases, mantles, door frames, and more. The Buy
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Fort Myers.
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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.
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Descemer Bueno with Lenier, Dany Ome, Kevincito El 13
4:00–10:00 p.m. — Lee Civic Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of vibrant music featuring hip-hop and rap artists.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.

Falling for Fall: Our Favorite Early Autumn Decor Picks
Psst. Is it too soon to say…boo? Look away, summer fans. If you’re ready for fall, read on for our top decor picks:
- This true-to-life fall foliage garland is perfect for staircases, mantles, door frames, and more.
- Add these pumpkin-shaped “Hello Fall” coasters to your dinner table or coffee bar.
- Pet + autumn lovers, this embroidered ”Happy Pawtumn” hand towel may be your favorite find of the season.
- Sprinkle these cute ceramic ghosts around the house for an understated nod to Halloween.
- Create a beautiful autumnal tablescape with this burlap runner + best-selling set of assorted mini pumpkins, leaves, and acorns.
Supporting our sponsors is one of the best ways to support Daily Fort Myers.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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~ Unknown
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