Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: Which Fort Myers favorites vanished from the dining scene this year?

Also, don't miss Candy Cane Course - Fort Myers on the Fort Myers Patch calendar

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Sunday December 28th Patch AM
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Good morning Fort Myers! We're back again in your inbox, keeping you updated with what's happening in and around town. ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • Which Fort Myers favorites vanished from the dining scene this year?
  • Will your Fort Myers Beach flood insurance bill drop by 25%?
  • Where can you spot the most butterflies around Fort Myers?

Also on today's calendar: Candy Cane Course - Fort Myers and 7 more events.

Find out what's happening in Fort Myersfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: I’m trying to think of a new cloud joke. 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

Find out what's happening in Fort Myersfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Sunday: Sunshine and pleasant, with a high of 77 and low of 58 degrees.
  • Monday: Mostly sunny and pleasant, temps: high: 76, low: 60.
  • Tuesday: Clouds and sun; not as warm, with a high of 68 and low of 40 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Five stunning restaurant closings of 2025 in Cape Coral, Fort Myers (news-press.com) — Several beloved restaurants and bars in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and Fort Myers Beach closed in 2025, from riverfront spots downtown to neighborhood favorites in shopping plazas. The story recaps why these places shut their doors, how leases, redevelopment, hurricanes, and health issues played a role, and where some brands, like Scotty’s beers and La Ola, will still live on for local diners and drinkers.
   

2. Fort Myers Beach earns major FEMA milestone, showcasing town's recovery (flvoicenews.com) — Fort Myers Beach has regained its Class 5 FEMA Community Rating, bringing most National Flood Insurance Program policyholders a 25% discount on flood insurance premiums. Officials say the upgraded status reflects stronger flood mitigation, better storm protection, and growing investor confidence as the town continues rebuilding after Hurricane Ian.
   

3. Where winged wonders flourish (floridaweekly.com) — Fort Myers is part of a butterfly-rich corridor where Monarchs, Zebra Longwings, and other species thrive year-round in local parks and gardens. Volunteers at Cape Coral’s Tom Allen Memorial Butterfly House and other sanctuaries share tips on host and nectar plants, while diagrams in Fort Myers parks help residents spot and identify native butterflies in every season.
   

4. Fort Myers Beach sees bustling crowds, reminiscent of pre-Ian days (winknews.com) — Crowds are returning to Fort Myers Beach, with tourists and local businesses reporting activity levels that feel close to pre-Hurricane Ian days. Visitors say they’re excited to see “old” and “new” Fort Myers coming back, while rebuilt spots like The Whale restaurant are enjoying a strong season and projected tourism numbers look promising through 2026.
   

5. Family Initiative seeks 2026 Autism Acceptance Awards nominations (northfortmyersneighbor.com) — Family Initiative is seeking nominations through March 31 for its 2026 Autism Acceptance Awards, culminating in an April 25 gala at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center in Fort Myers. Residents can nominate local advocates, professionals, and organizations in four award categories or step up as event sponsors to support families and individuals on the autism spectrum.
   

📸 Around Fort Myers

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🗓 Upcoming Events in Fort Myers

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🗓 Events Nearby

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Obituary: Dorothy J. Schreiner —Fred C. Dames Funeral Home Read on Patch
  • Urgent!
    Hi! Does anyone have a dog cone? I am in need of one for my golden retriever tonight before I can make it to an open store tomorrow. Let me know… (Nextdoor Cypress Chase)
  • A cat showed up in our backyard, but he does not seem feral.
    We think he’s someone’s cat because he looks well taken care of. He’s been staying in the preserve (we live at 11236 paddington terrace) behind our… (Nextdoor Arborwood)
  • Burlington Stores posted a job opening for Seasonal Retail Stocking Associate - Part Time in Fort Myers. Apply here.
  • Tractor Supply Company posted a job opening for Team Member (Stocker) in Fort Myers. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Fort Myers here.

Ok Fort Myers! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I haven’t the foggiest.
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Send it to us!

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