If you’re a parent and you’ve looked over a school supply list this year then you know the expenses can add up. Backpack drives and donations have helped many children in Sarasota County begin the year with the supplies they needed, but now three weeks in, even the basics are already running low. 47 percent of the students in the district are on the free or reduced lunch programs so teachers know that parents are having trouble keeping up. Mia McCormick heads into the classroom to find out just how teachers are coping with the problem.

Saturday is what’s called the Fall North American Migration Count. It’s sponsored by the Florida Ornithological Society, and supported by local Audubon Chapters and bird clubs. Charlie Ewell is the count’s Lee County Coordinator. He told WGCU’s Mike Kiniry the goal is to get a snapshot of migratory patterns…in hopes of gaining an understanding of long-term trends.





To Contact Charlie: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it / cell (239) 691-8562



Charlotte County residents can contact Pete Quasius at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Folks in Glades or Hendry Counties should contact Margaret England at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The most decorated American gymnast in history, comes to Fort Myers Friday to open the newest exhibit at The Art of the Olympians. It’s called A Taste of Gymnastics and it includes a historic, modern and cultural look at the sport of gymnastics through uniforms, equipment and Olympic memorabilia. Special guest - seven-time Olympic medalist and nine-time World medalist - Shannon Miller speaks at an opening reception between 5 and 8pm. The exhibit will be on display at the Art of the Olympians in Fort Myers until October 16. WGCU’s Amy Tardif spoke with Shannon Miller. She asked what it was like growing up as an Olympic gymnast.

After serving 14 years on the Sarasota County Commission, Shannon Staub is resigning mid-term. She leaves behind lots of questions like why, and who will fill her seat? Mia McCormick has more.

Veterinarians from the University of Florida and SPCA are examining more than 600 chickens removed from two sites Tuesday in Lee County. Law enforcement officials say many of the birds were used for illegal cockfighting. WGCU’s Valerie Alker has more.

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For many seniors, being retired is not what it used to be.  A new study shows that retirees are returning to the workforce in record numbers.  Some say it's a sign of the times as we work to recovery from a stalled economy, others say sitting idle is just no way to spend your "golden years."  Mia McCormick has more on the study. 

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Work is underway at the Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Ft. Myers to restore the Botanic Research Laboratory. WGCU’s Valerie Alker reports.