Saturday, October 18th, 2025
Good morning, Fort Myers. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 18th of October.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Fort Myers residents are raising concerns about pedestrian safety near the John Yarbrough Trail as drivers do not stop at the crosswalk at Crystal Drive and Fordham Street. Local officials note that over 7,000 pedestrian crashes have occurred countywide this year and a memorial now honors 12-year-old Andrew Sullivan who lost his life in a scooter accident. ABC7
- ➤ Braver Angels Southwest Florida will debate whether deportation centers like Alligator Alcatraz are needed at a workshop held at the Southwest Florida Library Conference Room ABCD in Fort Myers later this month. Participants will have 3—4 minutes each to express their views as the event aims to promote civil discourse and mutual understanding. Cape Coral Breeze
- ➤ Record 87,483 meals were sold at Sizzle Dining, a month-long event held at 127 restaurants in Lee and Collier counties that raised funds for Blessings in a Backpack—a nonprofit that helps local children fight hunger. Organizers say the event boosted business and community support, and plans for next year are already underway—local eateries are preparing exclusive menus for a continued impact. North Fort Myers Neighbor
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Motorists are facing emergency lane closures on Pine Island Road at Chiquita Boulevard following a crash that damaged a power pole—FDOT crews are assessing the damage while police direct traffic to alternate routes. Cape Coral Breeze
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Insurance companies in Florida are using AI to process claims — final decisions are made by human adjusters — while lawmakers plan to consider new legislation in 2026 to ensure that AI does not become the sole factor in claim decisions. The technology is seen as essential for efficiency as the industry faces challenges with an aging workforce and fiscal pressures. WINK News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ An art exhibit opened in Fort Myers featuring 100 paintings by Steve Keene to honor Robert Rauschenberg’s 100th birthday and will run until Dec. 6 at Bob Rauschenberg Gallery — the display marks a tribute to his artistic legacy. The News-Press
- ➤ Local officials are marking what would have been artist Robert Rauschenberg's 100th birthday with several events planned around Fort Myers. Mayor Kevin Anderson will declare Oct. 22 as Bob Rauschenberg Day — the schedule includes extended gallery hours at Florida SouthWestern State College, an outdoor music performance starting at 4:33 p.m., and a documentary screening on Nov. 13 at Alliance for the Arts. The News-Press
- ➤ Cast members previewed the wild plot of 'Don't Dress for Dinner' during a backstage interview at Cultural Park Theatre—highlighting its mix of mistaken identities and farce. The comedy show premiered on October 17 and runs until October 26, and opening night offers buy one—get one free tickets with a complimentary wine tasting. ABC7
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Fort Myers Beach Local Planning Agency approved a development agreement for a new three-story building at Times Square that will house Meli’s Ice Cream and a residence for owner Carlos Chavez—pending Town Council approval. The project will replace a mobile trailer and a destroyed site to offer a permanent home for the business. Beach Observer and Beach Bulletin
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Southwest Florida has prime spots for kayaking and canoeing with locations such as Cape Romano, Blackwater River, Clam Pass, Pine Island Sound, Fisheating Creek and Estero River—each offering warm, shallow waterways for wildlife viewing and safe paddling. Paddlers can take advantage of these scenic routes as the season’s weather improves. The News-Press
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Strangelove - Depeche Mode Tribute Band
7:30-9 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — Starting at $43.01 — Experience a pitch-perfect tribute to Depeche Mode that spans their iconic career.
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Child's Anthem - The Music of Toto
7:30-9 p.m. — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW — Starting at $51.54 — Enjoy a captivating tribute to Toto featuring some of Nashville's finest musicians.
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Clay Walker Concert
6-8:30 p.m. — Caloosa Sound Amphitheater — General admission free — Rock out to a night of 90's country revival with Clay Walker and special guest Drake Milligan.
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Monthly Wine Tasting at Farmer Joe's
6-8 p.m. — Farmer Joe's — Wine tasting event — Enjoy a cozy evening sampling various wines in a friendly atmosphere.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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