Political watchers are downgrading Florida Democrat Tim Mahoney’s chances of holding on to his congressional seat. This after revelations of an extramarital affair and allegations that Mahoney misused campaign money. Todd Zwillich reports.

Stories of homeowners walking away from their mortgages are unfortunately common these days in southwest Florida. But thanks to the economy people are also increasingly deserting the possessions they leave in storage facilities – which are then auctioned off by storage facility owners. Buyers usually get a glimpse of what’s inside. But their purchases are basically a crapshoot. Sometimes the storage unit is filled with useless stuff. But every once in a while someone finds a buried treasure. WGCU’s Luis Hernandez reports.

A national non-profit Hispanic group is suing the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles over a new specialty license plate that says "Hispanics Settled Florida". WGCU’s Luis Hernandez has this report.

Amid all the troubling financial news, drivers filling up their tanks will be pleased to find prices plummeting. Michael Hibblen has more.

The two Sarasota candidates for U-S House District 13 squared off with two independent candidates in Wauchula last week. About 50 die-hard political junkies turned out to the Hardee County Chamber of Commerce debate. Republican Congressman Vern Buchanan and Democratic challenger Christine Jennings shared the stage with independents Jan Schneider and Don Baldauf. Alex Newberry reports.

A tight money market and tough times for taxpayers have some questioning if now is the best time to spend more than 1.5 billion dollars to buy U.S. Sugar's land to help restore the Everglades. Bobbie O’Brien reports.

Water from Lake Okeechobee did not quit flowing into the Caloosahatchee River and Indian River Lagoon as planned this weekend. As Jill Roberts tells, water managers say the releases will last as long as necessary.

Mental health advocates held a candlelight vigil atop the state capital yesterday to honor those struggling with mental illness – and the loved ones who support them. Margie Menzel reports.

The “Say No to 2” campaign is launching a media blitz to try and defeat a controversial marriage proposal that looks close to passing. Lynn Hatter filed this report.

October 15th is the deadline for what’s called the “Political Courage Test”. So far only one of southwest Florida’s 28 candidates has completed and returned the questionnaire. WGCU’s Mike Kiniry reports.