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US Census: SWFL grew in population, diversity over past 10 years

The 2020 census data is out, and it shows Southwest Florida’s population is booming. The new data shows, over the past 10 years, Southwest Florida gained more than 220,000 more residents in the region — between Lee, Charlotte and Collier counties. Lee County gained the most residents with 140,000. “As population grows, we should be […]

Fred: What you need to know

For the latest weather update click here. All Tropical Storm Watches in SWFL have been canceled. Can’t find a copy of the WINK Hurricane Guide? You can download a copy here. LEE COUNTY Southwest Florida International Airport: As Fred approaches, you’ll want to confirm the status of your flight as the weather deteriorates. See the […]

Man faces multiple charges in deadly Alligator Alley crash

Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a deadly three-vehicle crash with serious injuries on northbound Alligator Alley in Collier County Thursday. Three people were injured, with two taken to the hospital as trauma alerts. FHP confirmed Thursday night a 47-year-old woman died from her injuries after being taken to the hospital. FHP confirmed Friday 20-year-old Amari […]

Stormy weather impacting COVID-19 test sites, result times

With the surge in coronavirus cases, there is also a surge in testing, but those swabs are harder to come by. Believe it or not, it’s related to potential impacts from Fred. Collier County sent out a press release Tuesday saying it was expanding testing. But the site is drive-thru only, and if there’s a […]

Parents concerned about crowding in Collier County school cafeterias

Parents are upset over an image being shared online that shows kids crowded together in a school cafeteria. It’s not confirmed it was taken in Southwest Florida, but it’s raising concerns for kids’ health in schools. We learned Wednesday dozens of students have tested positive for the COVID-19 in Collier, Lee and Charlotte counties during […]

Most Wanted Wednesday: We feature some of SWFL’s most wanted suspects; Aug. 11

This weekly WINK News segment features fugitives from justice right here in Southwest Florida. This is your chance to help out the community and give the tip that gets these people off the street. These suspects need to be found – and you can help. If you have seen them, reach out to Crime Stoppers […]

Collier County woman arrested for stealing thousands from employer

A Collier County woman was arrested after investigators said she stole more than $50,000 from her employer. Donna Marie Rothermel, 47, is facing charges of grand theft ($20,000 to $100,000) and obtaining property by fraud (more than $50,000). A sheriff’s office affidavit says Rothermel worked as the office manager for Suncoast Dental Center since 2004. […]

Nonprofit wants more oversight on fishing at Naples Pier, safety for pelicans

New restrictions are proposed for a popular pier in Southwest Florida. You can find people fishing on Naples Pier pretty much any time of the day. It’s one of the few piers open 24/7 in the region. But that’s part of the problem, says Conservancy of Southwest Florida, and it’s trying to find a way […]

To mask or not to mask? Parents make decisions as kids head back to school

As kids headed back to school Tuesday, parents had a decision to make about what’s best for their child and their family. Mask or no mask? Second-grader Harper walked into class happily without a mask. “I keep all the, you know, spare masks in the glove compartment, and I told her, I was at the […]

Helpful apps, health recommendations as students return to school in Collier County

As students head back to school in Collier County Tuesday morning, it can be a confusing time before everyone gets the hang of things and back into a routine. Fortunately, several technological tools are available to help keep things in order. The Collier schools app is a free download from the app store that parents […]