Good morning, Fort Myers.

Captain Kevin Koprash of Six Chuter Charters turned a fishing trip on Saturday afternoon into a rescue — he and his crew noticed a capsized boat 35 miles off Marco Island and helped two men stranded on a radio tower until the Coast Guard arrived.

Fort Myers residents get hurricane information from different sources—27% from national TV, 38% from local TV, and 35% from social media—while meteorologists warn that sharing long-range forecast models can cause confusion; experts advise residents to focus on official storm watches and warnings to prepare safely.

Meteorologist Jim Dickey said a disturbance in the far eastern Atlantic is expected to develop into Tropical Storm Gabrielle before the week is out—models show rising chances for the system to gain strength as it drifts slowly westward.

The Gulf Coast Storm Team is tracking the forecast closely to update residents as hurricane season gathers momentum.

Lee County Commissioners approved two measures to improve water monitoring—one is a joint-funding agreement with the US Geological Survey to collect water data from 12 sites starting October 1 and the other increases reimbursement for monitoring equipment on Telegraph and Popash creeks. The data will help calibrate water models for flood response and assess pollutant loads from local development.

Fort Myers approved a plan to build an 11-story hotel—raised from nine stories—on a downtown vacant lot across from the Sydney and Berne Davis Center.

City officials and residents expressed split opinions, with some saying the extra floors will boost local activity while others worry they may affect the historic charm.

Lee County accepted an extra $1.2 million in grant funds Tuesday to fix beach and dune erosion at Lovers Key State Park and Bonita Beach caused by hurricanes Ian and Nicole—raising total recovery funds to more than $21.8 million; Weeks Marine Inc. placed Gulf-sourced sand in March to nourish the shorelines.

Lee County approved the purchase of a vacant lot on San Carlos Island to build a new public boat ramp using federal, state, and local funds.

Commissioner Mulicka said the project will not affect local fisheries—some residents worry it may price out locals while Salty Sam’s Marina expects more boaters.

A WalletHub study ranked 180 U.S. cities for retiree-friendliness—Orlando was the top-ranked city while Cape Coral came in highest in Southwest Florida at number 20 based on affordability and quality of life.

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.

Tom Segura Live

5-7 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of laughter with one of comedy's biggest stars on his Come Together tour.

Fort Myers Paint Party – Fresh Mojito

6-9 p.m. — Sea-Craft Waterfront Tiki — Pricing per person — Create a refreshing masterpiece while enjoying tropical drinks and waterfront views.

Fort Myers Oktoberfest Celebration

4-10 p.m. — The Standard Restaurant Downtown — Ticket required — Celebrate Oktoberfest with beer, food, and live music at multiple venues.

Florida Horror-Fest 2025

10 AM – 5 PM — DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers — $20 — A true mecca for horror fans in beautiful Fort Myers, featuring collectibles and fandoms from multiple genres.

Greens of Honor Golf Scramble

12-6 p.m. — The Plantation Golf & Country Club — $150 per player — Enjoy a day of golf while supporting veterans in need.