Good morning, Fort Myers.

The Whale, a beloved establishment on Fort Myers Beach, is set to reopen nearly three years after Hurricane Ian caused major damage, marking an important step in the island’s recovery.

Owners Mike and Don Miller have planned a grand opening on Nov. 1—accompanied by job fairs to fill nearly 80 positions—showcasing their commitment to rebuilding better.

A Cape Coral woman reported water flooded her yard and swallowed her friend’s car on Thursday near Everest Parkway — crews labored for hours to recover the vehicle after underground work hit an irrigation line, and neighbors are urging the city to repair the issue as the flooding worsens.

James Stephens Elementary School had a heavy rain on Friday that led teachers to help students during dismissal, and the school is now asking local businesses to donate large umbrellas + these donors will help keep everyone dry during Florida's sudden downpours.

This request follows a Facebook post that showed how much assistance was needed during the recent rain.

Federal and state programs today recruit local python hunters to capture Burmese pythons from the Everglades to help protect native wildlife.

The program offers free training and pays hunters hourly rates up to $30 with extra bonuses for snake length and verified active nests—using performance-based measures to reduce the invasive threat.

Florida’s new Boater Freedom Act went into effect on July 1 — it now limits law enforcement from doing random boat safety checks and could change how boating safety is managed near Fort Myers.

Reporters used both official numbers and family stories, including one from a boating incident victim’s daughter, to explain the law’s impact.

Lee County officials approved a $3 billion budget with no increase in the millage rate and a 5% pay raise for county employees so that property owners will not see higher taxes.

Commissioners noted that conservation funds will continue to support land purchases—despite concerns raised at recent public hearings—and they will hold a workshop to plan for Conservation 2020.

Crews in Sanibel are working on the Periwinkle Way milling and resurfacing project that covers the road from 500 feet west of Casa Ybel Road to about one-third of a mile east of Donax Street—repairing drainage with swale and concrete pipes along Main, Fitzhugh, Palm and Center Streets from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Milling and paving will begin at night in the coming weeks with residents notified before that phase begins.

Child Passenger Safety Week offers free car seat inspections by local fire departments and sheriff's offices to ensure seats are installed correctly—Cape Coral Fire Station will host an event from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Saturday while Port Charlotte's Family Services Center will offer checks from 10:00 to 12:00 p.m.

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.

Purple Color Run

8-10 a.m. — Centennial Park — Participation fee applies — Get splashed in purple while supporting the Epilepsy Alliance in this vibrant 5K run/walk.

Blues Rock Double Shot: Alex Lopez & Doug Deming

7-9 p.m. — Fort Myers Theatre — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy a high-energy blues rock concert featuring Billboard-charting artist Alex Lopez and acclaimed roots rock musician Doug Deming.

Rehab Modalities & Exercises Seminar

8 a.m. – 8 p.m. — Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fort Myers Airport — $0 for Doctor Program Members, $289 for Non-Member DCs — Enhance your rehabilitation skills with hands-on training and evidence-based techniques led by Dr. Carter.

Air Supply Concert

7-9 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW — Tickets available — Experience the iconic 80s duo Air Supply performing their beloved hits live.

Trevor Wallace: The Alpha Beta Male Tour

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW — Check local listings for ticket pricing — Trevor Wallace brings his witty stand-up to Fort Myers.

Christian Singles Gathering in Fort Myers

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Bay Street Yard — $20 for non-members, free for Hub members — Enjoy food and friendly competition while connecting with local Christian singles.