Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 14th of August.
Good morning, Fort Myers.
Residents of Island Vista Estates in North Fort Myers experienced repeated water shutoffs and water quality issues when construction damaged main water lines.
Equity Lifestyle Properties said the problem occurred seven times this year (as Lee CARES projects continue) and Lee CARES is now investigating further precautions.
SW Florida asked residents if grocery stores should offer lighter and smaller carts for seniors, noting that bigger models can be hard to use.
The poll released on Aug. 13 at 5:01 a.m. ET highlights a key challenge for the local senior community.
The Florida Lottery has launched three new scratch-off games plus a $20 Cash Pop ticket that offers a chance to win prizes up to $2 million and $5,000.
Tickets are now available at local Fort Myers retailers with a promotion running through Sept. 20.
The new documentary 'Decoding Ancient Florida: Mound House' premieres Aug.
25 on WGCUplus.org to explore Calusa artifacts at the oldest structure on Fort Myers Beach built atop a shell mound; local experts say Calusa engineering + resilience helped protect it during Hurricane Ian in 2022.
FPL advises residents to save on energy bills during hot months by setting thermostats between 74 and 78 degrees (each degree above 74 can increase cooling costs by 3-5%), using ceiling fans, closing blinds during peak heat, replacing filters, and lowering water heater temperatures.
Lee County schools and the sheriff's office are taking steps to improve traffic safety during morning drop-offs as drivers ignore stopped school buses.
Extra law enforcement and school staff will direct traffic for the first two weeks and a camera program has reduced violations by 30% since December.
The Florida Department of Health reported 407 cases of cyclosporiasis across 43 counties from May 1 to Aug.
8, with Bay, Palm Beach and Polk counties experiencing the largest increases. Local officials urge residents to wash produce thoroughly to reduce the risk of infection (health guidelines remain in effect).
During the heat wave, experts advise keeping phones out of direct sunlight and away from hot cars to prevent overheating.
They recommend removing phone cases + reducing device brightness to help Floridians avoid unexpected shutdowns in extreme conditions.
Florida health officials reported 15 Vibrio vulnificus cases and two deaths this year; Lee County has two cases.
Residents are advised to avoid raw shellfish and brackish water if they have open wounds (the bacteria can cause severe illness).
All 67 counties remain under a heat advisory with temperatures predicted to reach 105+; health experts warn that those without air conditioning may face heat exhaustion and stroke.
Residents are urged to keep cool and stay hydrated as the intense heat affects the region.
Previews for Southwest Florida high school football games outlined key matchups + standout players as Thursday's contests concluded and today's 7 p.m. games kick off across local fields, highlighting team adjustments and emerging talents.
Kris Fried at Snappers Comedy Club
6:00-7:30 p.m. — Snappers Comedy Club Fort Myers — Tickets from $62 — Kris Fried brings an unforgettable comedy experience to Fort Myers.
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