PUNTA GORDA, Fla. It started many years ago as an enjoyable way for a group of friends to kick off Independence Day. It’s since grown into one of Southwest Florida’s favorite Fourth of July festivities.
Stories you need to know

Video shows two bears swimming in a Golden Gate Estates home pool
When you’re in Florida, and it’s 90 degrees outside, swimming in a pool is a great way to cool down. Similarly, a mother black bear and her cub had the same great idea, but they had to find a pool.

Punta Gorda firefighters rescue dog who was stuck in a recliner
First responders gave a four-month-old puppy CPR after freeing the stuck pup from a recliner. The dog’s owner said her neck and head were trapped, and she couldn’t breathe.

Punta Gorda man dies after crashing into Charlotte County pond
On Wednesday morning, a 67-year-old Punta Gorda man died after crashing into a Charlotte County pond.

Teaching SWFL kids ‘self-rescue swimming’ before summer break
As summer break approaches, Southwest Florida parents should remember water safety for their children, which could even include teaching them “self-rescue swimming” in a certified program.
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A holiday that saves you money: disaster preparedness week
This year there will be two disaster preparedness sales tax holidays instead of one to help save you cash.

8 months after Hurricane Ian, who picks up the insurance bill?
With hurricane season days away, the president of Day Adjusting and Consulting shares insights on insurance claims.

Cape Coral clock to be replaced after original sold on Facebook Marketplace
Cape Coral is looking to replace the city’s iconic clock after the old one was put up for sale on Facebook Marketplace by the wife of someone who offered to repair it.

2 dead in small plane crash at South Florida airport
Two people died Friday when a small plane crashed at a small South Florida airport, Palm Beach County sheriff’s officials said.