Good morning, Fort Myers.

After being canceled last year because of Hurricane Milton, the Englewood Beach Waterfest restarted its block party Friday and continues today with boat races expected to draw over 30,000 spectators—tickets cost $40 for adults while kids under 12 get in free.

Races run from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. today as the event also raises money for charities focused on water conservation.

On Sept 10th, reporter Mickenzie Hannon found that pet shelters in Lee and Collier Counties face overcrowding due to weak rules & unregulated breeding, with an estimated 250,000 stray cats in Lee and 50,000 in Collier.

Her report showed that unpaid fines and cuts to spay/neuter programs worsen the crisis & advocates call for policy reform.

The Koreshan State Historic Site in Estero displays remnants of a group that left Chicago in the late 1800s to build their dream of New Jerusalem—preserved buildings and archives show their ambitious vision and lasting mark on the area.

Lee County schools received a $301,600 donation from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation, and the funds will be used to furnish on-site childcare centers and expand enrichment programs in math, reading, science, career and technical education, and JROTC—along with supporting teacher training and a College Night event. This investment aims to boost learning opportunities across the district.

As of 5 a.m. Saturday, Tropical Storm Jerry had winds of 60 mph and was moving north at 16 mph—forecasters said it would turn east early this week to stay well away from Florida.

Rough seas may affect the East Coast, but the storm poses no threat to our state.

Dale McEachern, a boater who unknowingly sped through a manatee zone last week in Cape Coral, apologized and pledged to pay closer attention as he races his boat at Englewood Beach Waterfest this weekend—residents remain concerned about the rise in manatee deaths.

Week 8 of high school football ended in Southwest Florida and fans can vote for the Player of the Week based on standout performances by players like Jayden Petit, who set a career receiving record, along with Maddox Stewart, Rayful Guest, and Lovensky Blanchard; voting closes at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 14 and the winner will be announced at 6 p.m. the same day—voters choose the top local player.

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.

Shrek the Musical

7 PM – 8 PM — Fort Myers Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the beloved story of Shrek brought to life with new songs and laughter on stage.

Let's Sing Taylor - A Celebration of Taylor Swift

8-9:30 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW — Ticket prices vary — Experience an evening of live band performances paying tribute to the iconic music of Taylor Swift.

Ryan Bingham & The Texas Gentlemen Live

7:30-9 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW — Ticket info not specified — Experience the authentic sound of Grammy-winning artist Ryan Bingham and his captivating storytelling through music.

The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW — Check for pricing — Experience a spellbinding fusion of classic rock and metal anthems performed by a captivating orchestra in candlelight.

Rodney Carrington Live

7-9 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience the hilarious and multi-talented comedian known for his chart-topping comedy albums and engaging performances.

Fort Myers Halloween Pub Crawl

4:30-9 p.m. — City Tavern — Tickets available online — Enjoy a spooky night filled with contests, prizes, and ghoulish fun in your best costume.

Awakening Events - Christian Music Concert

7-11 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — Ticketed event — Experience uplifting performances at this exciting Christian music concert.

Fall Festival & Trunk or Treat

6-8:30 p.m. — Fort Myers Stars Complex — Free admission — Celebrate Halloween with activities like Trunk or Treat, games, and family-friendly entertainment.