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Daily editionThursday, September 17th, 2026

Good morning, Cape Coral.

The 5AM Cape Coral Team

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Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 17th of September.

Community

  1. Cape Coral Animal Shelter received $10,000 from Collaboratory’s Arts and Animals grant program — one of 14 groups awarded a total of $90,000 on Aug. 31 and Sept. 2 in Fort Myers; the funding supports local efforts to boost the arts and animal care.

    Cape Coral BreezeRead more

Economy

  1. Florida's Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday (offering at least a 6% savings on eligible outdoor gear) started Sept. 1 and runs through Dec. 31, letting locals save on tents, firearms, fishing rods, and other camping supplies in stores and online.

    News-PressRead more

Environment

  1. Fake black cat decorations were placed in a Cape Coral lot outside an abandoned owl nest in early August, prompting the FWC to inspect on Aug. 11 and find no violations+ residents remain unsure if the tactic aimed to deter owls from settling near new developments.

    News-PressRead more

  2. Lee County urges residents to protect local waterways by reducing stormwater runoff and pollution as severe heat raises water temperatures that could spur harmful algae blooms.

    Residents must follow the summertime fertilizer ban and proper yard waste cleanup until Sept. 30.

    North Fort Myers NeighborRead more

Health

  1. The 14th Annual Golisano Children’s Hospital Fashion Show will take place Thursday, Dec. 10 at Hyatt Regency Coconut Point Resort and Spa in Bonita Springs to benefit Barbara’s Friends, which funds pediatric cancer support.

    It combines fashion and philanthropy to help over 12,000 local children and families.

    North Fort Myers NeighborRead more

Real Estate

  1. Investors are converting public courses into private clubs as waitlists extend from one to 15 years in Lee County, with some clubs in Naples noting high initiation fees and limited membership; Cape Coral residents may see similar trends in golf communities.

    The News-PressRead more

Sports

  1. High school sports events from Sept. 14 to Sept. 19 showcased local teams competing in volleyball, bowling, golf, cross country, and swimming in Cape Coral and nearby areas.

    Notable results include Seacrest’s impressive volleyball win over CSN and local swimming meets cut short by lightning.

    The News-PressRead more