Good morning, Fort Myers.

The local landmark Batchelor Pad, a 42-foot yacht impaled during Hurricane Ian, was removed in January by new restaurant owners at Fort Myers Beach to address safety concerns + was scrapped soon after, ending its long-standing symbol of the storm's impact.

Sweet Tomatoes will reopen its original Fort Myers location at 14080 S.

Tamiami Trail in 2026 under new ownership, making it the second U.S. site to return after a successful relaunch in Tucson. Management positions are available (general manager and kitchen manager) for those interested.

The Robin Dawn Academy Holiday Showcase filled Barbara B.

Mann Performing Arts Hall (a community venue) in Fort Myers with festive spirit as dancers (ages 3–18) performed a mix of lyrical, hip-hop, and other styles that delighted local audiences.

At East Lee County High School, student engagement is up after the district banned cell phones for the entire school day.

Principal Tony Allen and teacher John Doscher say the new rule reduces distractions and gives teachers more time to focus on lessons.

Fort Myers father Roberto Roman and his 19-year-old son Niccolo are taking classes together at Florida SouthWestern State after Niccolo decided to pursue college, a decision that led Roberto to enroll as well (their journey began when Roberto adopted Niccolo from China).

The Swanson family of four juggles homeschooling and various activities in Fort Myers while finding time for family dinners.

Child psychologist Kristen Bolomey warns overscheduling may affect sleep and alone time + says sharing meals can help maintain balance.

Recurring flooding on First Street near the Edison Bridge has left residents frustrated as storms repeatedly bring water near homes and block traffic.

City officials & FDOT are reviewing drainage options, though no specific fixes have been scheduled yet.

Last Friday, Fort Myers Beach launched its new $100,000 26-foot aluminum boat from the Coast Guard property under the Matanzas Pass Bridge + the vessel, funded by recovered code-enforcement lien money, will replace the aging pontoon to boost marine operations.

Dr. Larry Antonucci, who led Lee Health through major milestones and challenges, announced his retirement plans, prompting the hospital to prepare for a leadership transition.

Dozens of condo owners remain locked out of their units at Seven Lakes Golf and Tennis Community despite holding valid occupancy permits and paying all fees.

They must sign a legal release form waiving claims against the condo association to receive their keys.

The City of Palms Classic in Fort Myers will host a showcase featuring 20 top high school basketball recruits (including several ESPN Top 100 players) set to compete as they vie for attention from major college programs.

Seven high school female athletes competed for the SW FL Girls Athlete of the Week title sponsored by MY Shower Door for Dec.

8-13, and residents voted by email until 10 a.m. Thursday to select a winner who will receive a BSN Sports T-shirt & tote bag.

The Trial Of Ebenezer Scrooge

7 p.m. — Florida Repertory Theatre — Check event website for ticket info — A unique theatrical retelling of a classic Christmas tale in a courtroom setting.

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings

6-9:45 p.m. — Florida Repertory Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the magic of Christmas carols beautifully performed by a string quartet under candlelight.

The Trial Of Ebenezer Scrooge

7 p.m. — Florida Repertory Theatre — Check website for ticket price — Experience a unique twist on a classic tale in this engaging theatrical performance.

Christmas Celebration for Christian Singles

6:30-9 p.m. — Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium — $13 for Holiday Lights ticket — Experience a magical evening filled with Christmas lights, a laser show, and cozy bonfire conversations.

Advice Performance

7 p.m. — Florida Repertory Theatre — Tickets available — Enjoy a captivating night of performing arts in Fort Myers.

Advice

2-3 p.m. — Florida Repertory Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the captivating performance of 'Advice' in a top-rated theatre.

PokeKon Fest - Fort Myers, FL 2025

10 AM – 5 PM — DoubleTree by Hilton Fort Myers at Bell Tower Shops — $20 — Connect with fellow Pokémon collectors and immerse yourself in a day of trading and fandom.

NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet

3:00 – 4:30 PM — Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall — Starting at $43.02 — Celebrate the holiday spirit with a magical performance filled with whimsy and Tchaikovsky's enchanting music.

3rd Annual New Year's Eve 5K

8-10 a.m. — DiamondHead Beach Resort — Registration fee applies — Celebrate New Year's Eve with a scenic 5K run/walk to support the Fort Myers Beach Woman's Club.

Cops n Joggers 5K Family Fun Night

6-12 p.m. — Downtown Jewelry & Watch Company — $30 Adult/$20 Youth — Participate in a family-friendly 5K night race benefiting local heroes with food, music, and activities for all ages.