Beautiful first day of spring after morning rain clears outWhen do Florida polls open and close for the 2024 primary? Key voting hours to know
Beautiful first day of spring after morning rain clears out The Weather Authority is forecasting a damp Tuesday morning with ideal afternoon conditions to kick off the first day of spring. Mega Millions prize hits $875M ahead of Tuesday night drawing The Mega Millions jackpot is nearly approaching $1 billion as the estimated $875 million prize is up for grabs for Tuesday night’s lottery drawing. FORT MYERS City council not happy with developer’s plans for City of Palms Park After months of back and forth, The future of City of Palms Park is still up for debate. CAPE CORAL Friends grieving for 15-year-old shot during attempted robbery She was months away from her sweet 16, getting her driver’s license and going to prom, but on Sunday night, a senseless act of violence took all of that away in an instant. CAPE CORAL Cape Coral man sentenced to 20 years in prison for sexual battery Burton has been registered as a sexual predator. His prison sentence will be followed by ten years of sex offender probation. FORT MYERS 70 years of WINK TV On March 18, 1954, WINK TV debuted, becoming the first television station in Southwest Florida, and the fourth in the state. CBS MIAMI When do Florida polls open and close for the 2024 primary? Key voting hours to know Registered Republican voters cast their ballots Tuesday, March 19th, in Florida’s first primary election of the 2024 campaign. NAPLES Lost wedding ring found by owner through confirmed inscription Around three weeks ago, Arvid and Marlous, a couple from Naples, found a wedding ring in Aldi’s parking lot off Santa Barbara Boulevard and Radio Road. NAPLES Hope for Haiti works to provide relief to those affected in Haiti The devastation happening over in Port Au Prince, Haiti has taken a toll on those there and people in the Southwest Florida community. The CEO of the Hope of Haiti has been a serve to Haiti for about 30 years and says this is the worst condition he’s seen the Caribbean country in. LABELLE Suspect identified in LaBelle police shooting The suspect in the LaBelle deputy shooting has been identified as 19-year-old Brad Bogard. Homeowner sues insurer known for suing its own policyholders Almost a year and a half after Hurricane Ian and insurance lawsuits are still making their way through the courts. One insurance company stands out for suing its own customers but one of its policyholders turned the tables. Flamingo Flourish: How long will Southwest Florida’s pink guests stay post-Hurricane Idalia? Are pink flamingos considering a comeback in Florida? Researchers are trying to determine if the once-native shorebirds blown in by Hurricane Idalia are here to stay. Gulfshore Business View all Hertz names Gil West new CEO, Scherr stepping down The former chief operating officer of Delta Airlines and General Motors’ Cruise self-driving car unit,will start at Hertz on April 1. Rezoning approved for Punta Gorda storage facility The applicant, Scenic View V LLC, received zoning approval last week for two adjoining parcels of land. Private equity company sets Lee County industrial sales record at $92.5M CenterLinks Business Park includes nine industrial warehouse buildings with a combined 453,940 square feet of space on 41 acres at 16770 Oriole Road. American Cruise Lines adds 2nd route that includes Punta Gorda American Cruise Lines’ Florida Gulf Coast & Keys Cruise has been fully booked since the cruise itinerary was added in December 2023. Parade politics: Candidates mixing red, white and blue with green At least a dozen candidates seeking various elected positions ranging from Collier County supervisor of elections to U.S. senator are planning to get their names and faces in front of the thousands of spectators. Charlotte County Planning and Zoning Board approves plans for 1,762 homes Burnt Store Developers purchased a total of 425.96 acres in May 2023 for $21,291,000 to develop the Turnleaf community. Join our Newsletter for the latest news right to your inbox Sign up for e-mail alerts from WINK News Investigations Port Charlotte couple finally gets Ian-damaged power equipment cleaned up Wires dangling low to the ground and damaged power poles leaning over their yard: It’s a scary sight that one Port Charlotte couple had to stare at every day since Hurricane Ian. ‘Man Without a Plan?’ Fort Myers Beach Project Stalls, Leaving Family in Limbo A Fort Myers Beach family was offered a new house to replace the one destroyed by Hurricane Ian. Where does the project stand now? Time-tested technology: Why most SWFL law enforcement trust it for tracking people with cognitive issues For caregivers of loved ones with memory or learning challenges, the constant worry of them wandering off and getting hurt can be agonizing. Do students, faculty feel safe at Lee County Schools? District survey finds mixed results Survey data says students and some faculty members felt unsafe in their learning and teaching environments. Car parts shortage leaves drivers stranded Pandemic-related supply chain shortages have become so normal that we’ve gotten used to them. The good news is the shortages are getting better, but not when it comes to car parts. State News View all Cameras no longer allowed in Airbnb rentals Now, Airbnb has updated their indoor security camera policy. No more cameras anywhere inside a property – period. A Supreme Court ruling in a social media case could set standards for free speech in the digital age The Supreme Court on Monday is taking up a dispute between Republican-led states and the Biden administration. From 4-leaf clovers to some unexpected history, all you need to know about St. Patrick’s Day The day honoring the patron saint of Ireland is a global celebration of Irish heritage. And nowhere is that more so than in the United States, where parades take place in cities around the country and all kinds of foods and drinks are given an emerald hue. Former Vice President Mike Pence says he’s not endorsing Trump Former Vice President Mike Pence says he will not be backing Donald Trump in the 2024 election. Haitian migrants accused of smuggling guns and drugs busted by FWC More than two dozen Haitian migrants on a boat with guns and drugs were stopped by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers during an operation at night. Health & Medical View all Lowered age limits for colonoscopy paying off It’s a topic of concern for doctors. Younger people being diagnosed with colorectal cancers. While researchers try to pinpoint a cause, the next best thing is to start screening at a younger age. Liquid biopsy gives new method of diagnosing brain cancer Malignant brain cancer is aggressive, and biopsies are invasive and painful, but now, some doctors have developed a new method of confirming a diagnosis: a liquid biopsy. Toss the cuff: A new patch to check blood pressure In the Biobeat Skin Patch, light bounces from a sensor to the heart, measuring heart rate, blood oxygen and blood pressure without you even knowing. Ahchoo! High pollen levels are peaking across Southwest Florida If you are sneezing more than usual lately and your car hasn’t been able to stay clean, you are not the only one. High and very high pollen levels are having an impact on the Sunshine State and across other locations across the Southeastern United States. Typically, Southwest Florida sees elevated tree pollen levels from […] New treatment helps kidney cancer patients live longer A decade ago, advanced kidney cancer was a death sentence. Now, new therapies are helping people live longer. Mitigating menopause bone loss and weight gain The change in hormones that go along with the ‘change of life’ brings with it tangible health shifts. We’ve all heard about hot flashes and hair loss, but it also has more serious impacts. The Environment View all 10-foot great white shark hanging out in SWFL waters Southwest Florida’s newest resident may be a 10-foot great white shark OCEARCH is tracking. Pregnant Burmese python caught in Everglades by Python Cowboy and hunting dog Otto Invasive Burmese pythons are proliferating in the Everglades, but Python Cowboy and his dog Otto are protecting native wildlife and helping rid the species from Florida. Endangered leatherback sea turtle nesting season begins in Florida Pretty soon, small areas of beaches will be taped off, as nesting season gets underway for an endangered sea turtle species in Florida. WINK Sports View all FGCU hooper heading home for NCAA Tournament Going dancing is special for any hooper, but it’s even more special when your first trip to the big dance is also a homecoming. Former Lehigh star, Commanders DB Quan Martin reflects on his journey to the NFL Washington Commanders defensive back Quan Martin reflects on his NFL journey that started here in Southwest Florida. No. 12 FGCU to face No. 5 Oklahoma in first round of NCAA Tournament The Eagles are headed to Bloomington, Indiana, to face the Big 12 champions, the Oklahoma Sooners, in the first round of March Madness. FGCU women’s basketball wins seventh straight ASUN title The FGCU women’s basketball team defeated Central Arkansas 76-47 to win the ASUN Tournament championship for the seventh year in a row. Former Red Sox director of Florida operations reflects on relocation, St. Patrick’s Day tradition Former Red Sox director of Florida operations Bill MacKay reflects on the team’s relocation to Fort Myers and the birth of the green Red Sox hat. FGCU softball head coach David Deiros celebrates 750 wins FGCU softball head coach David Deiros has built the program to where it is today, which includes reaching 750 wins all-time. Steelers legend Rocky Bleier bringing his show to Naples Pittsburgh Steelers legend Rocky Bleier is bringing his one man show on his life to Naples. Surge in women’s basketball popularity motivates young hoopers Iowa legend Caitlin Clark is sparking a surge in popularity for women’s basketball and it’s motivating high school hoopers in SWFL. Twins third base coach Tommy Watkins returns home for Spring Training Minnesota Twins third base coach and former Riverdale star Tommy Watkins is back home in Fort Myers for Spring Training. Court storming becomes nationwide debate After two high profile players collide with fans as they storm the court, the tradition is now up for debate. Campaign Central View all Prosecutor leaves Georgia election case against Trump after relationship with district attorney A special prosecutor who had a romantic relationship with Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis formally withdrew Friday from the Georgia election interference case against former President Donald Trump after a judge ruled one of them had to leave the case for it to move forward. Dates and times for early voting in SWFL before March 19 election day Early voting has begun in Southwest Florida. Here are each county’s dates, times and locations to get ahead of the March 19 election day and beyond through the General Election. Third-party movement No Labels says it will field a 2024 presidential ticket The third-party presidential movement No Labels decided Friday to field a presidential candidate in the 2024 election after months of weighing the launch of a so-called “unity ticket” and discussions with several prospects.
Beautiful first day of spring after morning rain clears out The Weather Authority is forecasting a damp Tuesday morning with ideal afternoon conditions to kick off the first day of spring.
Mega Millions prize hits $875M ahead of Tuesday night drawing The Mega Millions jackpot is nearly approaching $1 billion as the estimated $875 million prize is up for grabs for Tuesday night’s lottery drawing.
FORT MYERS City council not happy with developer’s plans for City of Palms Park After months of back and forth, The future of City of Palms Park is still up for debate.
CAPE CORAL Friends grieving for 15-year-old shot during attempted robbery She was months away from her sweet 16, getting her driver’s license and going to prom, but on Sunday night, a senseless act of violence took all of that away in an instant.
CAPE CORAL Cape Coral man sentenced to 20 years in prison for sexual battery Burton has been registered as a sexual predator. His prison sentence will be followed by ten years of sex offender probation.
FORT MYERS 70 years of WINK TV On March 18, 1954, WINK TV debuted, becoming the first television station in Southwest Florida, and the fourth in the state.
CBS MIAMI When do Florida polls open and close for the 2024 primary? Key voting hours to know Registered Republican voters cast their ballots Tuesday, March 19th, in Florida’s first primary election of the 2024 campaign.
NAPLES Lost wedding ring found by owner through confirmed inscription Around three weeks ago, Arvid and Marlous, a couple from Naples, found a wedding ring in Aldi’s parking lot off Santa Barbara Boulevard and Radio Road.
NAPLES Hope for Haiti works to provide relief to those affected in Haiti The devastation happening over in Port Au Prince, Haiti has taken a toll on those there and people in the Southwest Florida community. The CEO of the Hope of Haiti has been a serve to Haiti for about 30 years and says this is the worst condition he’s seen the Caribbean country in.
LABELLE Suspect identified in LaBelle police shooting The suspect in the LaBelle deputy shooting has been identified as 19-year-old Brad Bogard.
Homeowner sues insurer known for suing its own policyholders Almost a year and a half after Hurricane Ian and insurance lawsuits are still making their way through the courts. One insurance company stands out for suing its own customers but one of its policyholders turned the tables.
Flamingo Flourish: How long will Southwest Florida’s pink guests stay post-Hurricane Idalia? Are pink flamingos considering a comeback in Florida? Researchers are trying to determine if the once-native shorebirds blown in by Hurricane Idalia are here to stay.
Hertz names Gil West new CEO, Scherr stepping down The former chief operating officer of Delta Airlines and General Motors’ Cruise self-driving car unit,will start at Hertz on April 1.
Rezoning approved for Punta Gorda storage facility The applicant, Scenic View V LLC, received zoning approval last week for two adjoining parcels of land.
Private equity company sets Lee County industrial sales record at $92.5M CenterLinks Business Park includes nine industrial warehouse buildings with a combined 453,940 square feet of space on 41 acres at 16770 Oriole Road.
American Cruise Lines adds 2nd route that includes Punta Gorda American Cruise Lines’ Florida Gulf Coast & Keys Cruise has been fully booked since the cruise itinerary was added in December 2023.
Parade politics: Candidates mixing red, white and blue with green At least a dozen candidates seeking various elected positions ranging from Collier County supervisor of elections to U.S. senator are planning to get their names and faces in front of the thousands of spectators.
Charlotte County Planning and Zoning Board approves plans for 1,762 homes Burnt Store Developers purchased a total of 425.96 acres in May 2023 for $21,291,000 to develop the Turnleaf community.
Port Charlotte couple finally gets Ian-damaged power equipment cleaned up Wires dangling low to the ground and damaged power poles leaning over their yard: It’s a scary sight that one Port Charlotte couple had to stare at every day since Hurricane Ian.
‘Man Without a Plan?’ Fort Myers Beach Project Stalls, Leaving Family in Limbo A Fort Myers Beach family was offered a new house to replace the one destroyed by Hurricane Ian. Where does the project stand now?
Time-tested technology: Why most SWFL law enforcement trust it for tracking people with cognitive issues For caregivers of loved ones with memory or learning challenges, the constant worry of them wandering off and getting hurt can be agonizing.
Do students, faculty feel safe at Lee County Schools? District survey finds mixed results Survey data says students and some faculty members felt unsafe in their learning and teaching environments.
Car parts shortage leaves drivers stranded Pandemic-related supply chain shortages have become so normal that we’ve gotten used to them. The good news is the shortages are getting better, but not when it comes to car parts.
Cameras no longer allowed in Airbnb rentals Now, Airbnb has updated their indoor security camera policy. No more cameras anywhere inside a property – period.
A Supreme Court ruling in a social media case could set standards for free speech in the digital age The Supreme Court on Monday is taking up a dispute between Republican-led states and the Biden administration.
From 4-leaf clovers to some unexpected history, all you need to know about St. Patrick’s Day The day honoring the patron saint of Ireland is a global celebration of Irish heritage. And nowhere is that more so than in the United States, where parades take place in cities around the country and all kinds of foods and drinks are given an emerald hue.
Former Vice President Mike Pence says he’s not endorsing Trump Former Vice President Mike Pence says he will not be backing Donald Trump in the 2024 election.
Haitian migrants accused of smuggling guns and drugs busted by FWC More than two dozen Haitian migrants on a boat with guns and drugs were stopped by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers during an operation at night.
Lowered age limits for colonoscopy paying off It’s a topic of concern for doctors. Younger people being diagnosed with colorectal cancers. While researchers try to pinpoint a cause, the next best thing is to start screening at a younger age.
Liquid biopsy gives new method of diagnosing brain cancer Malignant brain cancer is aggressive, and biopsies are invasive and painful, but now, some doctors have developed a new method of confirming a diagnosis: a liquid biopsy.
Toss the cuff: A new patch to check blood pressure In the Biobeat Skin Patch, light bounces from a sensor to the heart, measuring heart rate, blood oxygen and blood pressure without you even knowing.
Ahchoo! High pollen levels are peaking across Southwest Florida If you are sneezing more than usual lately and your car hasn’t been able to stay clean, you are not the only one. High and very high pollen levels are having an impact on the Sunshine State and across other locations across the Southeastern United States. Typically, Southwest Florida sees elevated tree pollen levels from […]
New treatment helps kidney cancer patients live longer A decade ago, advanced kidney cancer was a death sentence. Now, new therapies are helping people live longer.
Mitigating menopause bone loss and weight gain The change in hormones that go along with the ‘change of life’ brings with it tangible health shifts. We’ve all heard about hot flashes and hair loss, but it also has more serious impacts.
10-foot great white shark hanging out in SWFL waters Southwest Florida’s newest resident may be a 10-foot great white shark OCEARCH is tracking.
Pregnant Burmese python caught in Everglades by Python Cowboy and hunting dog Otto Invasive Burmese pythons are proliferating in the Everglades, but Python Cowboy and his dog Otto are protecting native wildlife and helping rid the species from Florida.
Endangered leatherback sea turtle nesting season begins in Florida Pretty soon, small areas of beaches will be taped off, as nesting season gets underway for an endangered sea turtle species in Florida.
FGCU hooper heading home for NCAA Tournament Going dancing is special for any hooper, but it’s even more special when your first trip to the big dance is also a homecoming.
Former Lehigh star, Commanders DB Quan Martin reflects on his journey to the NFL Washington Commanders defensive back Quan Martin reflects on his NFL journey that started here in Southwest Florida.
No. 12 FGCU to face No. 5 Oklahoma in first round of NCAA Tournament The Eagles are headed to Bloomington, Indiana, to face the Big 12 champions, the Oklahoma Sooners, in the first round of March Madness.
FGCU women’s basketball wins seventh straight ASUN title The FGCU women’s basketball team defeated Central Arkansas 76-47 to win the ASUN Tournament championship for the seventh year in a row.
Former Red Sox director of Florida operations reflects on relocation, St. Patrick’s Day tradition Former Red Sox director of Florida operations Bill MacKay reflects on the team’s relocation to Fort Myers and the birth of the green Red Sox hat.
FGCU softball head coach David Deiros celebrates 750 wins FGCU softball head coach David Deiros has built the program to where it is today, which includes reaching 750 wins all-time.
Steelers legend Rocky Bleier bringing his show to Naples Pittsburgh Steelers legend Rocky Bleier is bringing his one man show on his life to Naples.
Surge in women’s basketball popularity motivates young hoopers Iowa legend Caitlin Clark is sparking a surge in popularity for women’s basketball and it’s motivating high school hoopers in SWFL.
Twins third base coach Tommy Watkins returns home for Spring Training Minnesota Twins third base coach and former Riverdale star Tommy Watkins is back home in Fort Myers for Spring Training.
Court storming becomes nationwide debate After two high profile players collide with fans as they storm the court, the tradition is now up for debate.
Prosecutor leaves Georgia election case against Trump after relationship with district attorney A special prosecutor who had a romantic relationship with Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis formally withdrew Friday from the Georgia election interference case against former President Donald Trump after a judge ruled one of them had to leave the case for it to move forward.
Dates and times for early voting in SWFL before March 19 election day Early voting has begun in Southwest Florida. Here are each county’s dates, times and locations to get ahead of the March 19 election day and beyond through the General Election.
Third-party movement No Labels says it will field a 2024 presidential ticket The third-party presidential movement No Labels decided Friday to field a presidential candidate in the 2024 election after months of weighing the launch of a so-called “unity ticket” and discussions with several prospects.